Beef with the White House
NE Farm Bureau Newsletter
Cattle producers, to say the least, have a “beef” with President Trump’s proposal to reduce beef prices through increased imports. Word from the White House last week suggested the administration would raise the tariff rate quota (TRQ) available to Argentinian beef imports to 80,000 metric tons (MT) from 20,000 MT. Under TRQs, a limited quantity of beef can be imported at a reduced tariff rate. If the quota amount is exceeded, a higher tariff rate, 36.4%, is applied to quantities exceeding the quota (a 26.4% over quota tariff, plus an additional 10% tariff implemented earlier by President Trump). TRQs apply to all countries exporting beef to the U.S. except Mexico and Canada. Raising the quota amount means Argentina could export more beef to the U.S. at a lower tariff rate.
Derrell Peel, livestock economist at Oklahoma State University, says Argentina is the ninth-largest source of beef imports into the U.S., accounting for just over 2% of total imports. Through July, beef imports from Argentina were up 42% compared to the same period last year. Total beef imports through July were up 27%. Strong consumer demand for beef, and lower U.S. supplies, have led to increased imports. Even with the additional imports, though, beef prices continue to rise. Steiner Consulting estimates U.S. beef consumption this year will be 28.6 billion pounds. Meaning the additional quota amount for Argentina would represent 0.8% of total consumption.
State of Steak
Consumer demand for beef remains strong despite high beef prices. Kansas State University’s Monthly Choice Beef Retail Demand Index for July was 102.26, one of the higher monthly readings since the index began in 1988. Consumers’ willingness to continue to buy beef trickles down to higher cattle prices. Relying ultimately on consumer purchases for their livelihood means it’s important for cattle producers to understand consumer expectations.
Cargill—who has a beef processing facility in Schuyler—recently released a report investigating how consumer expectations for steak are evolving in foodservice. The report, State of Steak—Foodservice Edition, explores factors shaping consumers’ steak experiences, i.e. changing consumer preferences, definitions of quality, and the operational challenges restaurants face in delivering consistently exceptional steak. The report says consumers gravitate toward the “Big Four” cuts—ribeye, sirloin, filet, and New York strip—when eating out. It also found that 25% of steak consumers weren’t satisfied with their last steak eaten at a restaurant. Issues with doneness, cut availability, and inconsistent quality were cited as detracting from a satiating experience. Consumers also want clearer grading and flexible sizing to make ordering easier. Finally, the report found consumers have an emotional connection to steak because it is often connected with family gatherings, celebrations, or rewards.
The Cattle Range website says about 60% of annual beef consumed in the U.S. is through foodservice, with restaurants accounting for 70% of the total. Consumers want a satisfying experience when eating steak outside the home. Cattle producers rely on foodservice operators to prepare and present their product in ways which satisfy consumers’ expectations. One slip-up and a customer can be lost for both restaurants and cattle producers.
PSC TEMPORARILY SUSPENDS OMAHA GRAIN DEALER’S LICENSE
The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) at an emergency meeting today, Friday, Oct. 24, issued an Order (GD-2149/GDC-467) temporarily suspending the Grain Dealer license held by Hansen-Mueller Co. of Omaha and opening a department complaint (GD-2149/GDC-467). The Order means the company can no longer do business as a grain dealer in Nebraska, including buying grain from producers/sellers with the intent to sell it.
“While we don’t often hold emergency meetings, the Commission felt it was in the public good to move forward with the temporary suspension of this grain dealer’s license at this time,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram.
The PSC grain department was recently made aware that Hansen-Mueller was not meeting its obligations as a grain dealer. During an Oct. 23 inspection by the PSC Grain Department, the company was alleged to be in violation of Neb. Rev. Stat § 75-903.01(2) and 291 Neb. Admin. Code §8-003.09 for failing to make payment on demand.
With the filing of a formal complaint against Hansen-Mueller, the company will be required to show why its grain dealer license should not be revoked and a civil penalty assessed.
Commissioner Schram said, “We encourage producer/sellers to always be vigilant. It is imperative with harvest season underway that they are well aware of this company and that it cannot act as a grain dealer in Nebraska at this time.”
Producers/sellers who have done business with Hansen-Mueller Co. and have questions are encouraged to contact the PSC Grain Department. Grain department contact information along with a list of licensed Grain Dealers in Nebraska can be found on the Grain Department page of the PSC website.
PSC ORDERS AXTELL COMPANY TO CEASE & DESIST
The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has opened an investigation and ordered Roberts Seed, Inc., of Axtell to immediately cease and desist all operations as a grain dealer and grain warehouse in Nebraska.
The PSC Grain Department was recently informed that the company had purchased grain from a producer. An Oct. 20 inspection by the PSC Grain Department found that the company is purchasing various amounts of commodities from Nebraska producers and is also storing commodities at its facility in Axtell without proper license.
“It is imperative that our producers/sellers who are in the thick of harvest season are aware that this company does not hold a license to conduct grain dealer or grain warehouse activity in the state of Nebraska,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram.
The PSC is investigating Roberts Seed, Inc., for performing actions as a grain dealer in the state of Nebraska without a valid Grain Dealer License issued by the Commission, in violation of Nebraska Revised Statue § 75-903 and 291 Nebraska Administrative Code § 8-003.01; and as a grain warehouse, without a valid Grain Warehouse License, in violation of Nebraska Revised Statute §88-527, and 291 Nebraska Administrative Code § 08-002.01.
In 2018, Roberts Seed, Inc., was fined by the Commission and was prohibited from engaging in grain dealer activities without obtaining a Grain Dealer License.
Commission Vice-Chair Kevin Stocker said, “This company’s apparent blatant disregard for state law leaves us with no option but to order them to immediately cease and desist all activity.”
The PSC will begin the process of filing a formal complaint against Roberts Seed, Inc. Once the company receives the complaint, it will be required to show why it should not be assessed civil penalties for operating as both a grain dealer and a grain warehouse without proper license.
18th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference Wrap-Up
The 18th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference concluded this week at the Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln, marking another milestone in the state’s growing clean-energy conversation. More than 300 participants — including state leaders, utilities, developers, policymakers, professional services providers, ag producers, and educators — came together to explore how Nebraska can meet its unprecedented need for additional electric generation that includes as much home-grown renewable energy as possible.
“This conference continues to show that Nebraska has the wind, sun, land, and people to continue to grow our state’s renewable energy development,” said John Hansen, Conference Chair and President of Nebraska Farmers Union. “Each year, the collaboration among stakeholders grows stronger as we look for ways to meet new demand through innovation and partnership. While renewable energy development faces some speed bumps, it will still be an important part of our energy portfolio moving forward because it is still the lowest cost and fastest to build.”
The two-day event, held October 21–22, featured expert panels and keynote speakers from across the state and nation. Topics included battery energy storage, policy and legislative updates, investor strategy in the post-reconciliation environment, rural economic development, and water management for renewable projects.
Highlights included:
• Keynote Luncheon: JC Sandberg, Chief Advocacy Officer of the American Clean Power Association, discussed “Pragmatism in the States: Building for the Future in Our Communities.”
• Utility CEO Luncheon Featured Tom Kent (NPPD), Javier Fernandez (OPPD), and Emeka Anyanwu (LES), sharing how public power utilities are preparing for Nebraska’s load growth and transmission needs.
• Policy & Legislative Update: State Senators Brandt, Dungan, Quick, and Clouse addressed the policy landscape for renewable generation as well as challenges and opportunities.
• Technology & Innovation Sessions: Experts from Olsson, ISI Solar, and GenPro Energy Development showcased advancements in distributed solar, drone-based operations, and community power acceleration.
The conference also recognized long-time Planning Committee members Kurt Stradley (LES) and David Rich (NPPD) for their many years of service and leadership in advancing Nebraska’s renewable energy initiatives.
Sponsors representing all sectors of the industry — including NextEra Energy Resources, Sandhills Energy, Invenergy, ISI Solar, Mission Clean Energy, Olsson, HDR, and many others — helped make the 2025 event a success. The exhibit hall featured more than two dozen organizations showcasing technologies, financing solutions, and educational programs that support Nebraska’s clean-energy future.
The Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference Planning Committee extends its appreciation to all the speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees who contributed to this year’s success.
Chairman Hansen concluded, “A show of hands told us a few of our participants have attended all 18 of our annual conferences, many have participated in most of the conferences, and a sizeable number were new participants, which is a positive sign for the future. Participant feedback noted that our conference furnished high-quality information, was affordable, ‘Nebraska Nice’, and unique. It was also noted that our annual conference is now one of the longest serving renewable energy conferences in the nation.”
Save the Date: The 19th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference will be held October 20–21, 2026, at the Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln.
CAP Webinar: Nebraska and U.S. Farm Income Update and Outlook – Fall 2025
Nov. 6, 2025 - 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
With: Brad Lubben, Extension Associate Professor and Policy Specialist, University of Nebraska-Lincoln; and Alejandro Plastina, Associate Professor of Agricultural Finance and Director of the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center, University of Missouri.
Nebraska’s farm income prospects remain mixed for 2025, with lower crop revenue projections buffered by continued strength in the cattle sector and substantial government assistance. The net result is that farm income for the state is projected higher in 2025 even as financial challenges deepen for some producers.
While the overall outlook remains strong, it can hide the real concerns in some sectors and the high levels of uncertainty over key production, market, and policy developments that could affect agriculture the rest of this year and into the next.
The details are always more complex and highlight the need for a deeper analysis. Join us for a review of the details and the latest farm income situation and outlook for the rest of 2025 and beyond for ag producers.
Register here: https://unl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1A-Md4xcRKOr0zpFd_QoGQ
Presented by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability and the University of Missouri’s Rural and Farm Finance Center.
'Cornhusker Economics: Ag Outlook' Meetings to Highlight Markets, Policy, Finances
Changes and uncertainty in agricultural finances, policy and markets will continue to shape Nebraska’s farm economy in the years ahead. A series of upcoming outlook presentations, hosted by the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, will help producers and agribusiness professionals understand and prepare for the year ahead.
“Cornhusker Economics: Ag Outlook” meetings will feature experts from the university’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., sharing updates on crop and livestock markets, farm finances, ag policy and more. They will provide context and practical takeaways to help producers evaluate their risk management plans, adjust to changing conditions and position their operations for long-term success.
The meetings will also cover key tax provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that affect agricultural operations, deductions and planning for the 2025 tax year. Presenters will also explore historical farm financial trends and what they see for the year ahead. A policy segment will cover farm program updates, including Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) decisions and directions for producers.
Speakers will include financial and tax professionals, commodity marketing experts, an agricultural policy specialist, and other agricultural economists.
“Nebraska agriculture is facing a mix of opportunity and uncertainty,” said Jessica Groskopf, an extension agricultural economist at Nebraska. “With a new farm bill in development, it’s an important time to assess where markets, policy and financial conditions are headed and how they fit into each operation.”
Cornhusker Economics: Ag Outlook Schedule
Dec. 4, 2025, 1-3 p.m., in Kearney (Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E. 34th St.) Register online or at 308-236-1235.
Dec. 5, 2025, 9-11 a.m., in Scottsbluff (Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center, 4502 Ave. I) Register online or at 308-632-1230.
Dec. 10, 2025, 2-4 p.m. in Lincoln (Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County, 444 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A) Register online or at 402-441-7180.
Dec. 11, 2025, 1-3 p.m. in Norfolk (Nebraska Extension in Madison County, 1305 S. 13th St.) Register online or at 402-370-4040.
The meetings are free to attend. Registration is requested by two days prior to each meeting.
Register at https://cap.unl.edu/outlook/.
Funding for this program was provided by the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center: 2024- 2025 2024-70028-43552.
Registration Open for 2025 Integrated Crop Management Conference
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the ISU College of Agriculture and Life Sciences will host the 36th Annual Integrated Crop Management Conference, set for Dec. 10–11 at Prairie Meadows in Altoona. Integrated Crop Management Conference Iowa State University Extension and OutreachThis premier event will provide crop production professionals with the latest information, cutting-edge research updates and tools to prepare for 2026.
“The ICM Conference has always been a great opportunity for farmers, industry, ag retailers, agronomists and educators to network with each other and interact with their university specialists,” said Erin Hodgson, professor and extension entomologist at Iowa State University. “We are excited to offer a great program full of new information to prepare for 2026, including a strong slate of invited speakers. This year we are trying something new and starting each day with a keynote presentation.”
This year’s conference features 33 workshops covering crops, pests, nutrients and soil and water management topics. Hodgson noted that Prairie Meadows offers updated facilitates, an on-site hotel and short distances between sessions, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience for attendees. Attendees can also expect to enjoy time to network, visit with sponsors and view exhibits.
Invited speakers
Ashleigh Faris, assistant professor of entomology and plant pathology at Oklahoma State University, will discuss integrated pest management for corn leafhopper and corn stunt disease.
Laura Lindsey, professor of soybean and small grains at The Ohio State University, will talk about whether to prioritize corn or soybean planting in the spring.
Bill Chism, chair of the Endangered Species Committee of the Weed Science Society of America, will provide information on the label changes occurring as a result of the Endangered Species Act and implications for management.
A panel of experts will discuss and field questions about the Endangered Species Act. Panel members are Bill Chism, WSSA; Mike Kelly, Nationwide Agribusiness; Wesley Everman, Iowa State University; and Gretchen Paluch, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
Certified Crop Advisers can receive up to 14 continuing education credits for attendance. Iowa Commercial Pesticide Applicator can also earn 2025 continuing education in categories 1A, 1B, 1C and 4 at an additional fee.
To register, visit the ICM Conference website (go.iastate.edu/ICM). Early-bird registration is $260 and ends Nov. 16 at 11:59 p.m. Regular registration is $310 and ends Dec. 3. On-site registration will be offered at $350.
For registration-related questions, please contact Registration Services at 515-294-6222 or registrations@iastate.edu. For all other inquiries, email crops@iastate.edu.
Registration open for Iowa Farm Bureau's Annual Meeting and County Leadership Conference
The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) will host its 107th Annual Meeting on Dec. 9-10 at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines.
On Dec. 9, attendees will hear from expert speakers, including Brenda Clark-Hamilton, a workplace trainer specializing in fresh perspectives for leadership, communication and team building. Alan Feirer, founder and CEO of Group Dynamic, will guide attendees through practical approaches to strategic planning, goal setting and development. Amanda Van Steenwyk, IFBF business development manager, and Erin Herbold-Swalwell, IFBF and FBFS senior counsel, will lead a session on an important farm legacy decision—succession planning--and the legal, financial and relational aspects of transitioning a farm.
A celebration luncheon will feature graduates of Iowa Farm Bureau’s Ag Leaders Institute, a year-long program focused on building skills and knowledge in agriculture and communication. County Farm Bureaus and members will be celebrated for their outstanding service to agricultural issues, their communities and their efforts in recruiting new members.
In the afternoon, young farmers, ages 18-35, are encouraged to participate in the Discussion Meet, a cooperative-style dialogue on agricultural issues. The winner, who will represent Iowa at the American Farm Bureau Convention in January, will be announced at the Young Farmer evening reception. Three young farmers will be presented with the Young Farmer Leadership Award for their involvement with their local Farm Bureau, community service and commitment to their family farms.
“Iowa Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting not only provides an opportunity for members to network, socialize and gain insightful information for their farms, it’s also a great time to celebrate our achievements and recognize our member leaders. We’ll recognize our county Farm Bureaus, Ag Leaders graduates and several other young farmer award winners as we celebrate the grassroots and members that make our organization special,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson.
On the morning of Dec. 10, Farm Bureau agencies, community partners and Distinguished Service to Agriculture award recipients will be acknowledged. President Johnson will deliver remarks and attendees will hear from legendary former coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball program, Lisa Bluder. Over an extraordinary 24-year career, Coach Bluder retired as the all-time winningest coach in Big Ten history and redefined what it means to lead with purpose and passion. Her legacy includes 22 postseason appearances, five Big Ten Tournament championships and back-to-back National Championship appearances in her final seasons.
“We are honored to host legendary women’s basketball coach, Lisa Bluder as this year’s keynote speaker,” says Johnson. “After an award-winning career, it’s clear Coach Bluder knows all about leading with purpose and passion and will share her powerful story about building a culture of excellence and resilience, a message that’s sure to resonate with our members.”
The event will close with a final educational session, “Enough is Enough: Turning Plans into Progress,” led by Ron Rabou, President & CEO of Rabou Farms.
For the full agenda and registration details, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com/annualmeeting.
IFBF Hosts Beef Market Study Tour of Texas
Iowa Farm Bureau members are invited to apply for a Market Study Tour, March 9-12, 2026, visiting the heart of Texas cattle country to explore how federal and state agencies are navigating threats to livestock health, trade dynamics and how record prices and low cattle herd numbers impact and shape the cattle supply chain.
“Texas is ground zero for a lot of these issues right now, which makes it a good spot to go see what’s going on in the cattle market and understanding what that means for Iowa cattle feeders and cow-calf owners,” said Zach Brummer, Iowa Farm Bureau farmer education program manager, who is coordinating the trip.
The U.S. cattle inventory is at a historic low, contributing to record-high cattle prices, while Texas feedyards face added strain from biosecurity measures that halted Mexican feeder cattle imports to combat the spread of New World Screwworm from Central America. At the same time, the beef market is feeling impacts from increased tariffs on trading partners that have restricted imports, including the current 50% U.S. tariff on beef imports from Brazil, one of the largest suppliers to the U.S.
“The risk for cattle producers is the underlying domestic supply tightness, which is a fundamental story that takes time to correct,” said Brummer. “The risk of this market volatility is what drove the focus for this trip. It impacts everybody, but especially Iowans. We have quite a few family farms that are raising cattle either in a cow-calf operation or in feedlots, and they’re feeling these impacts.”
The IFBF Market Study Tour starts in Dallas with a visit to the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Ranchers Association, the oldest and largest cattle organization in Texas. Participants will also engage in meetings with the Texas Farm Bureau headquarters in Waco, the Texas Beef Council, Texas Animal Health Commission and the USDA’s Animal and Plant health Inspection Service in Austin.
The tour will also include visits to several leading cattle ranches in the Waco, San Antonio and Houston areas. Participants will also discuss the potential long-term implications of Mexico expanding its beef processing capacity if the border remains closed for an extended period of time.
Participants for the Texas Market Study Tour will be selected based on potential leadership participation in Farm Bureau and other agricultural organizations, communication skills and a willingness to share the information learned with their local communities.
Applications must be submitted by Dec. 14, 2025, and space is limited. Early applications are encouraged, as only a select group of participants will be chosen.
For more information or to apply, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com/studytour.
Trump Provides Boon for U.S. Pork Exports to Malaysia
In answer to the National Pork Producers Council’s consistent engagement with his administration, President Trump has signed trade deals with Malaysia and Cambodia, with the Malaysia portion having enormous economic potential for America’s 60,000+ pork producers.
“America’s pork producers are grateful to President Trump for increasing market access for U.S. pork to Malaysia, a country that has been importing pork despite limited plants being eligible for export,” said NPPC President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from McComb, Ohio. “More than 25% of U.S. pork production is exported, so producers count on exports to help keep their farms afloat, especially in times of uncertainty.”
The deal with Malaysia will open access to all U.S. facilities included in the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Meat, Poultry and Egg Product Inspection Directory; will not impose additional product or facility registration requirements; and will ensure acceptance of the standard FSIS export certificate. In a separate deal, Cambodia agreed to the same terms. Moreover, Malaysia has agreed to recognize the U.S. protection zone for African Swine Fever within 15 months of signing the deal and complete a regionalization deal.
U.S. pork producers are grateful for the leadership of U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer and Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Agricultural Affairs and Commodity Policy Julie Callahan, as well as assistance from USDA on technical negotiations.
U.S. pork exports to Malaysia hit record levels of over $24.5 million in 2024, a significant amount given that only eight U.S. plants are currently eligible for export. Exports to Malaysia have increased over 1,700% in the last five years.
Here in America, pork production supports rural communities, and exports support over 140,000 American jobs. Exports also account for more than $66 in value from each hog marketed.
American pork producers need certainty and stability – now as much as ever – and NPPC will continue to engage with the administration and international partners to maintain and open new market access for U.S. pork.
NPPC Proposes Fair, Comprehensive Strategy to Define ‘Ultra-processed Foods’
In ongoing discussions with the Trump administration ahead of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans release, the National Pork Producers Council has formally expressed concerns regarding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s forthcoming definition of “ultra-processed foods,” which could be damaging for consumers of pork products.
As FDA formulates a definition of “ultra-processed foods,” the agency should:
Not classify food as ultra-processed simply because it does not fit into one of three categories (out of four) of the problematic NOVA classification system. Such a sorting focuses on the processing of foods rather than the nutritional benefits.
Not categorize food as ultra-processed that contains ingredients that enhance food safety, shelf stability, and nutrient availability. Such ingredients protect public health and allow nutrient dense foods to reach consumers.
Ensure an ultra-processed foods definition does not conflict with FDA’s Standards of Identity regulations, which detail what specific foods must contain, the amount or proportion of ingredients or components, and, sometimes, the method of production or formulation.
As there is no consensus on what constitutes an “ultra-processed food,” FDA should elevate the importance of nutritional composition while also protecting processing and ingredients that promote nutrient bioavailability, food safety, and shelf stability.
Rather than “ultra-processed foods,” NPPC recommends the FDA use a term such as “discretionary foods” for food products characterized by lower nutritional quality. This would put the conversation back on nutrition as the basis for addressing diet-related chronic disease in America.
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