Thursday January 15 Ag News - Projected Cow Numbers - Radicle Corn Challenge - Renewable Chemicals Act - ICA Sets Priorities - Whole Milk is Back! - and more!

 Projecting cow numbers for 2026
Alfredo DiCostanzo, NE Extension Beef Systems Educator

For the last few weeks, I have been compiling USDA reports to generate projections on beef production and cattle inventory. The official release of the USDA cattle inventory is not until the end of this month. That leaves anyone attempting to put numbers together to rely on weekly slaughter reports for the end of 2025 and perusing the USDA cattle inventory reports for 2025 and previous years.

Using this information, and assuming that there will be errors in any approach, reconstruction of the inventory reports each January is possible. Error in predicting cow (beef and dairy inventory) for the years 2023 to 2024 ranged from 0.1% to 0.8%. Not bad for extremely rough projections.

Regardless, the important figures to concentrate on relate to heifer and cow slaughter and intentions represented in the cattle inventory to retain heifers. The latter is easily assumed to be on target if the figure “Heifers expected to calve” is used.

During each year between 2022 and 2025, 10.3, 10.0, 10.0, and 9.3 million heifers were harvested each year, respectively. During these years, 7, 6.6, 5.6, and 5.0 million cows were harvested each year, respectively. Clearly, harvest counts for 2022 to 2024 led to the lowest cow inventory in 2025.

So, the answer to the question whether we have stopped reducing the cow herd and begun building the herd may be constructed from these calculations.

Starting 2025 with a cow inventory totaling 37.2 million cows, from which 5 million cows were harvested, leads to a carryover of 32.2 million cows. Intentions in early 2025 were for the beef and dairy industry to calve 5.42 million heifers. This projects

37.6 million beef and dairy cows for January of 2026; a modest increase of 350,000 females over 2025.

Predicting the calf crop for 2025 is more difficult. Forage production conditions were generally favorable. Using the weighted average for percentage calf crop obtained between 2022 and 2024 (88.3%) returns a projection of 32.8 million calves expected to have been born in 2025. Relative to 2024, this projection represents a decline in calf crop of 670,000 calves or 2%. Keep in mind that reproductive efficiency of the US cow herd in 2024 was at an all time high (89.8%).

In conclusion, in January of 2026, the US is expected to have at least as many cows as were inventoried in 2025 or up to 350,000 more. This is positive as it represents the potential for beef production in 2026 to remain at levels like that in 2025.

The wild card? Reproductive efficiency!

At average pregnancy rates, we expect to have 670,000 fewer calves born in 2025. The US cow herd would have to have a 90% pregnancy rate (like that in 2024) to produce as many calves as were born in 2024. 



Radicle Growth Launches the Radicle Corn Challenge Sponsored by U.S. Corn Farmers to Drive New Demand for Corn

Radicle Growth has announced the launch of The Radicle Corn Challenge sponsored by U.S. corn farmers, a global call for startups developing technologies that create new, durable demand for corn through innovative products, materials and value chains. The Challenge will invest a total of $1.75 million in selected companies and is supported by twelve leading U.S. corn grower organizations: Colorado Corn Promotion Council, Corn Marketing Program of Michigan, Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Iowa Corn Promotion Board, Kansas Corn Commission, Kentucky Corn Promotion Council, Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, National Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Corn Board, Ohio Corn Marketing Program, South Dakota Corn Utilization Council and Tennessee Corn Promotion Board.

The Radicle Corn Challenge is designed to support startups that are building new uses for corn by helping discover additional sources of demand across industrial, material, chemical and fuel applications. In addition to capital, selected companies will benefit from Radicle’s commercialization expertise, scientific and technical diligence, and connections across the corn and broader bioeconomy ecosystem.

“Corn has long been a foundational feedstock for food, feed and fuel,” said Kirk Haney, managing partner at Radicle Growth. “The next opportunity is expanding how corn is used across new products and markets. Through the Radicle Corn Challenge, we’re looking to support companies that can translate innovation into real-world demand.”

The Challenge seeks applications from startups and growth companies worldwide that are working on technologies converting corn and corn-derived streams, such as sugar (glucose), ethanol and other byproducts, into higher-value products. Areas of interest include bioplastics and materials, corn- and ethanol-derived chemicals, valorization of corn byproducts and emerging fuel pathways, including marine fuels and sustainable aviation fuel.

“Advances in chemistry, catalysis, and biological conversion are opening up new, practical pathways for corn-based products,” said Neal Gutterson, partner and chief technology officer at Radicle Growth. “What’s particularly compelling today is how many of these technologies are becoming technically and commercially viable at scale.”

Historically, corn growers have played an active role in building and growing new markets, including the early development of the ethanol industry. The Challenge explores how similar alignment between innovators, investors and growers can help scale the next generation of corn-based technologies.

“As corn production continues to expand, we must develop new and diverse uses for our crop beyond Nebraska’s renowned Golden Triangle, the interconnected system of corn, livestock and ethanol that powers our state’s economy and helps fuel the world,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, Nebraska Corn Board chair and farmer from Giltner, Nebraska. “The Radicle Corn Challenge represents a vital opportunity to uncover innovative, breakthrough solutions that benefit farmers and consumers alike. In 2025, we witnessed exciting advancements in corn utilization, and we look forward to supporting forward-thinking companies that will continue driving new demand for Nebraska and U.S. grown corn.”

Investment decisions will be made following a comprehensive due diligence process, with selected winners announced at the Bio Innovations North America conference on September 9, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska.

For more information about The Radicle Corn Challenge Sponsored by U.S. corn Farmers and to apply, visit radicle.vc/radicle-corn-challenge.



Appointment of Fred Meyer to the Nebraska Legislature
Statement by Mark McHargue, NE Farm Bureau President 

“Nebraska Farm Bureau congratulates Senator Fred Meyer on his appointment to serve as state senator for Legislative District 41, filling the seat vacated by former Sen. Dan McKeon. Sen. Meyer previously served District 41 during the 2024 legislative session after being appointed by Gov. Jim Pillen to replace Tom Briese. He also brings extensive leadership experience from his two elected terms on the Nebraska State Board of Education, where he served as both vice president and president.”

“Fred Meyer was born and raised near West Point, is a lifelong Nebraskan, and a long-time Nebraska Farm Bureau member. He farms near St. Paul and has strong agricultural roots and deep ties to rural communities, bringing valuable perspective to the Nebraska Legislature.”

“Nebraska Farm Bureau looks forward to working with Sen. Meyer as he advocates for policies that strengthen agriculture, rural communities, and Nebraska’s farm and ranch families.”



NDA’S ANNUAL POSTER CONTEST; AGRICULTURE: BUILDING THE FUTURE

Prepare your colored pencils, pull out your crayons and ready your markers, students! It’s time for the Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s (NDA) annual poster contest, open to all Nebraska students in first through sixth grades. This year’s theme is “Nebraska Agriculture: Building the Future,” highlighting Nebraska’s number one industry.

“With advancements in fuel and resources, agriculture truly is building the future,” said NDA Director Sherry Vinton, “and the future of agriculture is the students today. As they learn and grow, they will bring new ideas and innovations to the agricultural field. Our annual poster contest creates an opportunity for students to learn more about where our food comes from.”

NDA will announce the winners during National Agriculture Week, March 15-21, 2026. National Ag Week highlights the diversity of agriculture and celebrates the food, fuel and fiber that farmers and ranchers provide every day. NDA will feature winning entries from this year’s contest on its website and in promotional materials and publications.

NDA’s poster contest is divided into three age categories for judging purposes: first and second grade students; third and fourth grade students; and fifth and sixth grade students, in any Nebraska public, private or home school. All posters must be created exclusively by students and relate to this year’s theme. Entries will be judged on originality, effort and accuracy and must be received at NDA’s office by March 2, 2026.

Poster contest rules and official entry forms are available online at https://nda.nebraska.gov/kids. For more information, contact Christin Kamm at 402-471-6856 or by email at christin.kamm@nebraska.gov.



Ricketts, Coons Lead Bipartisan Bill to Boost Bio-Manufacturing and Expand Markets for Nebraska Ag

U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Renewable Chemicals Act.  The bipartisan legislation would provide a targeted, short-term tax credit for qualifying renewable chemicals or an investment tax credit for renewable chemical production facilities.  Renewable chemicals are produced from biomass such as corn and soybeans.  This would incentivize the development of additional markets for Nebraska farmers.  It would create Nebraska jobs in the chemical industry.

"Nebraska is the global leader in value-added agriculture," said Senator Ricketts.  "This bill opens new markets for Nebraska ag.  It will bring more ag-driven manufacturing to Nebraska.  Bio-based products are common sense.  They’re a win for consumers, the environment, and our farmers and ranchers.  We aren't just growing food in Nebraska.  We are growing the raw materials for America’s future."

Key Provisions of the Renewable Chemicals Act:
    Production Tax Credit: A tax credit equal to 15% of the sales price per pound of renewable chemicals produced from biomass.
    Investment Tax Credit: A 30% tax credit for investments in new renewable chemical production facilities.
    Biobased Standards: Eligible chemicals must be at least 95% biobased content and utilize the USDA Certified Biobased Product label.



Senator Grassley Seeks Answers to Questions Raised by Midwest Attorneys General Regarding  “Irreconcilable Statements” Made by Refiners Seeking RFS Exemptions 

Iowa Senator Charles Grassley, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a letter today to the U.S. EPA and three other federal agencies seeking an update on actions they have taken to respond to serious concerns regarding renewable fuel standard (RFS) refinery exemptions raised by Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird and two of her neighboring colleagues. 

Bird, along with the Attorneys General of South Dakota and Nebraska, sent a joint letter to four federal agencies in October 2025 to request an investigation into whether some refiners could be misleading regulators while seeking exemptions from the RFS. Their letter provided a myriad of examples of refiner statements about their strong fiscal position during the same timeframe in which they were claiming disproportionate economic harm while seeking RFS waivers. 

“Iowa Renewable Fuels Association members thank Senator Grassley for this timely letter, keeping the pressure on EPA to get answers to these very serious questions,” said Monte Shaw, IRFA Executive Director. “As we continue to see RFS waivers granted, it is imperative that the integrity of the RFS stays intact and transparency is returned to the process. The rural economy is depending on a fully and properly enforced RFS.”

"Iowa’s corn growers applaud Senator Grassley, the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, for his letter seeking updated action on the EPA’s investigation into refiners seeking RFS exemptions, ensuring the EPA remains accountable on issues that directly affect Iowa corn farmers," said Iowa Corn Growers Association Vice President Steve Kuiper, a farmer from Knoxville, Iowa. "Protecting the Renewable Fuel Standard is vital to Iowa’s corn industry and we must ensure it is not being taken advantage of.”



Naig Announces 2026 Renewable Fuels Marketing Award Recipients

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that Karde’s Convenience Store and Pilot Travel Centers are the recipients of the 2026 Renewable Fuels Marketing Awards. The annual awards recognize fuel retailers for outstanding leadership in expanding access to renewable fuels, educating consumers, and strengthening Iowa’s ethanol and biodiesel markets. He made the announcement during the annual Fuel Iowa membership breakfast in Des Moines.

“Congratulations to Karde’s Convenience Store and Pilot Travel Centers, and thank you for your leadership in promoting ethanol and biodiesel,” said Secretary Naig. “Renewable fuels are a win for everyone. Consumers gain access to affordable, reliable, homegrown energy, and Iowa farmers benefit from stronger demand for corn and soybeans. Through investments in infrastructure, marketing, and consumer education, retailers like Karde’s and Pilot are expanding access to higher blends, saving consumers money, and helping make everyday life more affordable. We need to see biofuel use continue to expand across the country, including year-round nationwide access to E15 and greater utilization of biodiesel and renewable diesel.”

The 2026 Renewable Fuels Marketing Award recipients:

Ethanol Award – Karde’s Convenience Store
Karde’s Convenience Store has demonstrated leadership in expanding renewable fuel access and consumer education in Monticello through targeted infrastructure investment and hands-on community engagement. In the summer of 2025, Karde’s installed E15 pumps, bringing the first clearly branded Unleaded 88 fueling options to the community. Building on that investment, Karde’s partnered with the Jones County Corn Growers to host a pump promotion in October 2025, where consumers fueling with Unleaded 88 received gift cards and education about ethanol-blended fuels. Store owner Mike Cox participated as a celebrity pumper, engaging directly with customers to answer questions and highlight fuel choices. The promotion resulted in approximately 900 additional gallons sold above the store’s daily average, underscoring the impact of proactive marketing and consumer outreach. Karde’s plans to continue these efforts with another promotion in spring 2026, reinforcing its commitment to growing consumer fuel choice and celebrating the use of homegrown ethanol at the pump.

Biodiesel Award – Pilot Travel Centers
In 2025, Pilot Travel Centers launched a pioneering B99 biodiesel pump at its Des Moines location, making it one of only a few sites nationwide offering nearly pure biodiesel for commercial trucking fleets. Developed through a collaboration with PepsiCo and Optimus Technologies, the project demonstrated how innovative engine technology and strategic partnerships can enable fleets to operate seamlessly on higher biodiesel blends. The launch generated extensive media interest and helped raise awareness of biodiesel’s performance and emissions-reduction benefits, while highlighting Iowa’s leadership in renewable fuels. The project also underscored the role fuel retailers can play in expanding access to practical, scalable, homegrown energy solutions that support fleet decarbonization and strengthen rural economies.

The Secretary’s Renewable Fuels Marketing Awards annually recognize Iowa fuel retailers and marketers who demonstrate innovation, commitment, and measurable success in promoting renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel. Award recipients showcase how infrastructure investment, strategic partnerships, and consumer outreach can expand renewable fuel use while supporting Iowa farmers, strengthening rural economies, and advancing practical, lower-carbon, homegrown energy solutions.



IOWA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION SETS 2026 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA), the leading grassroots organization supporting Iowa’s beef cattle industry, announces its state policy priorities heading into the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session. These policy priorities focus on protecting private property rights, ensuring fair tax treatment for cattle producers, strengthening foreign animal disease preparedness, and improving livestock transportation efficiency.

“These priorities reflect what Iowa cattle producers need to remain competitive and resilient,” said Craig Moss, ICA President. “We look forward to working closely with the Iowa Legislature and the Governor’s Office to deliver more legislative wins for our members.”

At the core of ICA’s policy initiatives are producers. Following Governor Reynolds’ Condition of the State Address last night, we are grateful for her recognition of the importance of the future of Iowa agriculture, as demonstrated by her introduction of legislation aimed at modernizing the beginning farmer tax credit. As a recurring challenge heard by ICA, we appreciate Governor Reynolds’ commitment to supporting beginning farmers and helping ease the burden of entry into the industry.

ICA will continue to be fierce advocates for the next generation of cattle producers at the State Capitol. ICA’s policy efforts are foundational not only to ensuring a thriving Iowa cattle industry today, but also for the future.

2026 ICA State Policy Priorities

Private Property Rights
ICA opposes the use of eminent domain for private use across all projects and supports reducing landowner impact from new development. The Association is calling for clear, enforceable land restoration standards to ensure farmland can be returned to productive use.

Fair and Competitive Tax Policy
ICA supports a tax environment that does not unfairly burden cattle producers. Priorities include reducing or eliminating the Fruit & Forest Tree Reserve Tax Exemption, creating a sales tax exemption for building materials used in single-use barns, and preserving the livestock capital gains tax deduction.

Foreign Animal Disease Preparedness
Protecting Iowa’s cattle herd remains critical. ICA urges increased investment in foreign animal disease preparedness, including funding for prevention tools such as vaccines, and ensuring the state is equipped to respond swiftly to disease threats.

Interstate Weight Limits
ICA is working with legislators to urge Congress to modernize interstate weight limits for livestock haulers to reflect today’s equipment, improve efficiency, and support animal welfare.



2025 W.D. Farr Scholarship Recipients Announced 

Shelley Curry of Kennard, Texas, and Sydney Bowman-Schnug of Fort Lupton, Colorado, have each been awarded a $15,000 W.D. Farr Scholarship by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation (NCF). The annual W.D. Farr Scholarship program recognizes outstanding graduate students for their academic achievements, leadership and commitment to the advancement of the beef industry. The scholarship recipients will be recognized during CattleCon 2026, Feb. 3-5, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Shelley Curry is a fourth-generation rancher and PhD candidate at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, studying how heat stress affects livestock performance, welfare and product quality. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science from Texas A&M University. Her commitment to the beef industry is rooted in a lifetime of experience, academic training and professional development. Curry’s professional goal is to become an independent researcher and educator dedicated to advancing the beef industry through innovative, science-based solutions.

“This scholarship will provide critical support to further my education and research and will allow me to share my findings at national scientific conferences, producer meetings and industry workshops.,” Curry said. “Disseminating research in these forums not only advances scientific knowledge but also ensures that producers, students and consumers benefit from timely, research-based information.” 

Sydney Bowman-Schnug is a PhD candidate at Colorado State University, studying ruminant nutrition and effective management strategies to maximize performance while maintaining animal health. She completed her master’s program at Texas Tech University and is a third-generation Colorado cattle producer. Bowman-Schnug plans to pursue a career as a consulting feedlot nutritionist with a goal to incorporate classic feeding strategies with cutting-edge additive technologies in a way that complements cattle type.

“This scholarship is a blessing and will help me encourage the next generation of agricultural leaders in both youth and undergraduate teaching programs,” said Bowman-Schnug. “It will make a monumental difference in my pursuit to further the future of the cattle industry.”

The scholarship, established by NCF in 2007, honors the successful career of the late W.D. Farr. Farr, a third-generation Coloradan, pioneer rancher, statesman and banker was known for his extraordinary vision. His dedication to improving agriculture, livestock and water development resulted in significant changes in farming methods that have influenced the practices of ranchers and farmers throughout the nation. Farr was the first president of the NCF and served as president of the American National Cattlemen’s Association, which later became the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). Farr died at age 97 in August 2007.

The NCF advances the future of the beef industry by assisting in the education of the next generation of beef industry professionals. For more information about NCF and the W.D. Farr Scholarship, visit www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org. 



Weekly Ethanol Production for 1/9/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending January 9, ethanol production skyrocketed by 8.9% to a record high of 1.20 million b/d, equivalent to 50.23 million gallons daily. Output was 9.2% higher than the same week last year and 13.7% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate increased 1.4% to 1.13 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 17.32 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks scaled up 3.5% to 24.5 million barrels. Yet, stocks were 2.1% less than the same week last year and 0.9% below the three-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the Midwest (PADD 2).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, improved 1.6% to 8.30 million b/d (127.65 bg annualized). Demand was 0.3% less than a year ago but 1.1% above the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol rebounded 9.1% to 841,000 b/d, equivalent to 12.93 bg annualized. Net inputs were 1.4% more than year-ago levels and 1.0% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports strengthened by 5.3% to an estimated 119,000 b/d (5.0 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



5 of 8 Major Fertilizers Lower Priced Than Month Ago

We've entered a New Year, but the same fertilizer price movements persist. Two considerably lower-priced fertilizers lead other nutrients in the less-expensive category for the first week of 2026, according to retailers contacted by DTN.

Five fertilizers were less expensive while the remaining three were slightly higher, for the second week in a row. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more. DAP was 7% lower compared to last month and had an average price of $847/ton. MAP fell 5% from a month ago and had an average cost of $877/ton. The remaining three nutrients were slightly lower in price. Potash had an average price of $484/ton, urea $567/ton and UAN28 $410/ton.

Three fertilizers were slightly higher compared to last month. 10-34-0 had an average price of $674/ton, anhydrous $869/ton and UAN32 $465/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.53/lb.N, UAN28 $0.73/lb.N and UAN32 $0.73/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier: MAP up 8%, potash up 9%, 10-34-0 up 10%, DAP up 15%, urea up 16%, anhydrous up 18%, UAN28 up 26% and UAN32 up 27%.



Whole Milk is Back: President Trump Signs Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act

Wednesday, President Donald J. Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act in the Oval Office alongside U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., USDA National Nutrition Advisor Dr. Ben Carson, dairy farmers, moms, and bipartisan members of Congress to restore access to whole milk in schools and strengthen support for American dairy producers.

This legislation advances the Trump Administration’s agenda and aligns with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, released last week, which reintroduced full-fat dairy as part of a healthy dietary pattern.

“Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, whole milk is back – and it’s the right move for kids, for parents, and for America’s dairy farmers,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “This bipartisan solution to school meals alongside the newly released Dietary Guidelines for Americans reinforces what families already know: nutrient dense foods like whole milk are an important part of a healthy diet.”

Secretary Rollins was joined by dairy farmers Thomas French, Kevin Satterwhite, Jamie Pagel, William Thiele, and Tara Vander Dussen, and emphasized that restoring whole milk in schools supports both children’s nutrition and the producers who sustain rural jobs and communities. She also highlighted the Trump Administration’s broader work to rebuild the farm economy through fair trade, lower costs, reliable financing, and strong markets, all while working to make groceries more affordable for families. As a result, between January and December of last year, dairy products became more affordable, including butter (down 3.4%) and cheese (down about 2%).

The law reflects strong bipartisan leadership, including sponsors Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS), Senator Peter Welch (D-VE), Chairman of the U.S House Agriculture Committee Representative Glenn Thompson (R-PA-15) and Representative Kim Schrier (D-WA), with support from Chairman of the U.S Senate Agriculture Committee Senator John Boozman (R-AR).

USDA implementation begins immediately. Following the announcement USDA issued program implementation guidance to school nutrition officials to implement the bill, and a proposed rulemaking will soon commence to ensure schools and nutrition programs can begin offering whole milk as quickly as possible.

USDA will now undergo a rewrite of Child Nutrition Programs to ensure school meals are aligned with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025-2030.

To mark today’s signing, USDA released the following video encouraging Americans to Drink Whole Milk to kick off that the milk mustache is officially back.



NMPF Statement of Signing of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act
NMPF President & CEO Gregg Doud

“Dairy farmers and their cooperatives couldn’t be more thrilled that whole and 2% milk is returning to school meals. Dairy is a nutrition powerhouse that should be used to its fullest potential — and that means making it available in the same varieties families consume at home. We are ready to help schools and USDA in any way we can as this important legislation is implemented, and we thank the Trump administration, our advocates on Capitol Hill, and everyone who has worked to make school meals better through increased access to dairy.”



Registration is Now Open for USDA’s 102nd Agricultural Outlook Forum

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that registration is now open for the 102nd Agricultural Outlook Forum. The event will be held at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott on Feb. 19-20, 2026, and all Forum sessions will be livestreamed on a virtual platform.

The Forum program will feature a presentation on the 2026 outlook for the U.S. agricultural economy and trade by USDA Chief Economist Justin Benavidez, a keynote address by Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, and a plenary panel of distinguished speakers who will discuss Agricultural Trade Under Trump’s Trade Agenda. The program also includes 22 breakout sessions organized by USDA agencies that will explore a wide range of current issues. More than 80 experts from government, industry, and academia will provide insights on key topics such as commodity and food price forecasts, farm income, U.S. and global agricultural trade, the future of biofuels, and AI applications in agriculture. The in-person event will feature exhibit booths hosted by USDA agencies highlighting their missions, recent USDA-funded innovations, and other key programs and activities.

About USDA’s Outlook Forum
The Agricultural Outlook Forum (AOF) is USDA’s oldest and largest annual event. It began in 1923 as a way to disseminate USDA data and analyses to farmers, so they had the tools to understand markets and make informed production decisions. Over time, the event has evolved into a unique platform where key stakeholders from the agricultural sector in the United States and around the world come together every year to discuss current and emerging topics and trends in the sector.

The Agricultural Outlook Forum, organized by USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist together with other USDA agencies, is independent of commercial interests, and aims to facilitate information sharing among stakeholders to enhance transparency and support markets and producers.