Friday April 25 Ag News

Nebraska Delegation Echoes Governor’s Request for Major Disaster Declaration Following Spring Storms

U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (NE-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) sent a letter to President Donald Trump in support of Governor Jim Pillen’s (R-Neb.) request for a major disaster declaration for areas impacted by severe storms occurring on March 18th and 19th.

During that time period, severe thunderstorms, blizzards, and straight-line winds caused extensive damage across the state. Overall, the storms inflicted over $64.8 million in damages to electrical distribution infrastructure and facilities in impacted counties.

Specifically, Governor Pillen’s request follows storms that affected Boone, Burt, Butler, Cass, Clay, Colfax, Cuming, Dodge, Douglas, Fillmore, Hamilton, Jefferson, Johnson, Lancaster, Nuckolls, Otoe, Platte, Polk, Saline, Sarpy, Saunders, Seward, Thayer, Thurston, Washington, Webster, and York counties.



Registration Opens for 2025 Nebraska Cattlemen Midyear Meeting

Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) Thursday announced registration is now available for the 2025 Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting in Kearney. This year's meeting will take place on Wednesday, June 11 and Thursday, June 12.

Nebraska Cattlemen President Dick Pierce stated, "NC offers cattle producers the opportunity to make a difference and better our industry for future generations, no matter what sector you work in." He continued, "Even when the days are long and the work is hard, we know how vital the beef cattle industry is to our state, nation, and world. We look forward to having our fellow cattlemen join us in Kearney for fellowship and important discussions about the issues impacting our operations."

The full schedule and registration is now available online at www.nebraskacattlemen.org/midyear-meeting. As more details become available they will be added to Nebraska Cattlemen’s website. For questions or inquiries, please contact the Nebraska Cattlemen office at (402) 475-2333.



Nebraska Extension Introductory Level Field Crop Scout Training Offered May 20th at ENREEC

Nebraska Extension brings you hands-on training for crop scouting with 7.5 CCA credits available, and a great line up of speakers/topics.

The training is ideal for new employees or summer interns as well as those needing a refresher.  

Nebraska Extension Introductory Level Field Crop Scout Training
    For summer employees working in the ag industry and corn and soybean growers wanting to learn how to better identify corn and soybean pests
    Ideal for new employees preparing to take the CCA exam.
    Also an excellent refresher course for experienced personnel.
    Provides current, detailed instruction and is specifically designed to furnish employees with the necessary knowledge, expertise and confidence to fulfill the requirements of their employment.
    Taught by University experts.
    7.5 CCA CREDITS applied for and pending (6 Pest Mgmt., 1 Crop Mgmt.,  .5 Fertility/ Nutrient Mgmt.)

Topics
Scouting Tips and Techniques – Where to Start and What Samples to Collect
Understanding Corn & Soybean Growth & Development
Crop Diseases & Quiz
Identifying Weeds - Plant Morphology, Using a Key to Identify Weed Seedlings  
Corn & Soybean Insect Scouting, Identification, Management
Nutrient Deficiencies in Corn & Soybeans
Hands on Practice (Weather permitting)

Cost for the program is $115, which includes lunch, refreshment breaks, workshop materials and a 3-ring binder instruction manual. The take-home instruction manual includes a variety of reference materials that provide resources for crop scouting. For those attending the daylong training that don’t want a copy of the instruction manual, the fee is $75. Registration can be done online at the below link with payment made via credit card online or via check.

Learn about other Nebraska Extension Crop Management Training opportunities:  https://enreec.unl.edu/extension-education-engagement/crop-management-education/
    May 22 – Roller Crimper Field Day @ ENREEC, near Mead
    Jun 25 - Weed Management Field Day @ SCAL, Clay Center – For more details and to register go to https://agronomy.unl.edu/fieldday
    July 9 – 4R’s Field Day @ ENREEC, near Mead
    August 21 and 22 – 3rd Annual Nebraska Agriculture and Spray Drone Conference @Norfolk
    August 28 – Cropping Systems and Soil Health Field Day @ ENREEC, near Mead

For more information, contact Nebraska Extension at anygren2@unl.edu or call (402) 624-8030.



Ritchie selected as Iowa State’s next agronomy department chair

After 14 years working in Texas, Glen Ritchie is heading north to Iowa, where he’ll assume the professor and chair role for Iowa State University’s Department of Agronomy, effective July 15.

Ritchie will take over for Mary Wiedenhoeft, who has been interim department chair since May 2023. Wiedenhoeft will remain with the department as a Morrill Professor of Agronomy.

“We are delighted Dr. Ritchie has agreed to join our great Department of Agronomy. His excellent leadership experience, and background in the study of crops, soils and water, position him to ensure the department continues with excellence preparing students for future careers, making impactful research discoveries, and being highly engaged in production agriculture and its many facets across the college, Iowa and globally,” said Daniel J. Robison, endowed dean’s chair in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “We thank Dr. Wiedenhoeft for stepping up and providing extraordinary leadership these past two years as interim department chair.”

Ritchie is a professor of crop physiology and has served for five years as chair of the Department of Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech University. During his career, he has focused on plant water relations, resource partitioning and plant sensing techniques in cotton and other crops. He currently serves as editor of Crop Science and is a member of the American Society of Agronomy, the Crop Science Society of America and the Soil Science Society of America.

"The Department of Agronomy at Iowa State University is a world leader in agriculture, unique in its close relationship with Iowa agriculture, world-class research and quality of academic programs and students,” Ritchie said. “My goal is to maintain these attributes while helping our faculty, staff and students expand our state and global footprint."

Ritchie has a doctoral degree in crop physiology from the University of Georgia. His master’s and bachelor’s degrees in crop physiology and crop science, respectively, are from Utah State University. He also has an associate of applied science degree in crop science from Ricks College (now Brigham Young University-Idaho).



Commercial Red Meat Production Up 1 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.42 billion pounds in March, up 1 percent from the 4.38 billion pounds produced in March 2024.

Beef production, at 2.15 billion pounds, was 2 percent above the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.48 million head, down 1 percent from March 2024. The average live weight was up 34 pounds from the previous year, at 1,426 pounds.

Veal production totaled 2.1 million pounds, 42 percent below March a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 10,900 head, down 43 percent from March 2024. The average live weight was up 5 pounds from last year, at 327 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.25 billion pounds, up slightly from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.4 million head, down slightly from March 2024. The average live weight was up 2 pounds from the previous year, at 291 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 12.8 million pounds, was up 4 percent from March 2024. Sheep slaughter totaled 199,200 head, slightly below last year. The average live weight was 127 pounds, up 5 pounds from March a year ago.

by State              (million lbs.  -  % March '24)
Nebraska .......:               626.0            101       
Iowa .............:               725.0             95       
Kansas ..........:               454.4            104       
Texas ............:               361.0            106       

January to March 2025 commercial red meat production was 13.5 billion pounds, down 1 percent from 2024. Accumulated beef production was down slightly from last year, veal was down 40 percent, pork was down 2 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was up 1 percent.



USDA Cold Storage March 2025 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers on March 31, 2025 were down 1 percent from the previous month and down 4 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were down 2 percent from the previous month but up 1 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were down slightly from the previous month and down 9 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were up 14 percent from last month but down 26 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on March 31, 2025 were up 1 percent from the previous month but down 3 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were down 1 percent from the previous month but up 3 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 4 percent from last month but down 15 percent from March 31, 2024.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on March 31, 2025 were up 1 percent from the previous month but down 4 percent from March 31, 2024. Butter stocks were up 6 percent from last month and up 4 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks on March 31, 2025 were down 10 percent from last month but up 3 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were down 8 percent from last month and down 4 percent from a year ago.



NCGA Calls on Farmers to Contact Congress Over Tax Policy Priorities

As Congress prepares for the next steps in the budget reconciliation legislative process, corn grower leaders are highlighting federal tax priorities for the legislation. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is calling on farmers from across the country to contact their policymakers to voice support for several key tax provisions.

“Congress will soon act on important provisions in the federal tax code that must be extended this year,” said Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. “We are working closely with our agriculture and small business allies in Washington to advance our tax priorities, but these policymakers also need to hear from corn farmers they represent.”

As committee legislative markups are on the horizon, NCGA is working to advance the following tax priorities:
    Extending key provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, including the expanded estate and gift tax exemptions, the qualified business income deduction, and renewing the 100% bonus depreciation. NCGA is also working to protect the stepped-up-basis tax provision, which protects family farms that are transferred from generation to generation.
    Supporting tax incentives that boost domestic production and use of biobased products using American feedstocks. NCGA is working with stakeholders to formulate a potential tax credit that would help move renewable chemical and material technologies from research to commercialization.
    Ensuring the sustainable aviation fuel tax credit, referred to as 45Z, will increase domestic demand for corn by helping the biofuels industry make inroads into the aviation sector. Extending the tax credit would help create high-paying jobs and boost farm income across the country.

The budget reconciliation process is a vehicle for expediting legislation on budget issues. If leaders in the Senate and House are in agreement about the budget provisions in the process, the legislation only requires 51 votes in the upper chamber and is veto-proof.



Estate Tax Cliff Threatens Family Farms

The cost of inheriting the family farm will increase dramatically at the end of the year if Congress doesn’t take steps to extend the elevated estate tax exemption. American Farm Bureau economists analyzed the estate tax cliff in a Market Intel this week.

“Just last year, USDA estimated that if the estate tax exemption reverts to its pre-Tax Cuts and Jobs Act level, nearly twice as many farms in every sales class would have to pay estate taxes,” the Market Intel states. “The average net worth of farms subject to the estate tax would be lower under the permanent exemption level—falling from $32.5 million at the higher exemption to just under $20 million, meaning more smaller farms would be impacted. Low sales farms—that have a farmer whose primary job is farming but have an average loss of more than $5,700 a year—would see the sharpest fall in net worth, going from $42.5 million to only $19.5 million.”

While these may seem like big numbers, most of the value of a farm is tied up in land and expensive machinery, which are needed to grow food and raise animals. In fact, more than 80% of an average farm’s assets are in real estate alone. Actual cash on hand is much lower, making payment of such taxes extremely difficult or even impossible.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall said, “For many people, their farms are not just their businesses, but they are a family tradition passed down from generation to generation. If a family is forced to sell off its farm piece by piece just to pay estate taxes, they run the risk of eventually losing the farm altogether. We urge Congress to make the estate tax exemption permanent, to enable farm families to continue growing the food and fiber America’s families rely on.”

U.S. farms are closing and consolidating at an alarming rate. The latest Census of Agriculture shows more than 140,000 farms went out of business between 2017 and 2022. Another 20,000 farms have been lost in the past two years, according to USDA.



USDA Ensures Illegal Aliens Do Not Receive Federal Benefits

At the direction of U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services John Walk Thursday issued guidance to all State agencies directing them to enhance identity and immigration verification practices when determining eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This guidance is one of many steps toward fulfilling President Trump’s Executive Order 14218, which directs USDA and other federal agencies to “enhance eligibility verification systems, to the maximum extent possible, to ensure that taxpayer funded benefits exclude any ineligible alien.”

“President Trump has made it clear that American taxpayers will no longer subsidize illegal aliens,” said Secretary Rollins. “We are stewards of taxpayer dollars, and it is our duty to ensure states confirm the identity and verify the immigration status of SNAP applicants. USDA’s nutrition programs are intended to support the most vulnerable Americans. To allow those who broke our laws by entering the United States illegally to receive these benefits is outrageous.”

On February 25, 2025, Secretary Rollins directed USDA-FNS to review the administration of SNAP benefits to make necessary changes to align with Executive Order 14128. As discussed in a recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, a staggering $10.5 billion in improper SNAP payments were made in FY 2023 alone—about 12% of total SNAP payments that year. The inadequate verification of an applicant’s identity and citizenship by states is specifically highlighted as contributing to the improper payments of SNAP funds.

Today’s guidance requires states to obtain more reliable documents to prove identity, take additional measures to deter fraudulent use of social security numbers, and better use the Department of Homeland Security’s Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system. Important to note that last week, Secretary Noem advised Governors that SAVE is now available to States for free, making it easier to verify immigration status. The guidance also encourages best practices including adoption of an identification proofing process and requiring more in-person interviews.

Thursday April 24 Ag News

Carcass grid pricing tradeoffs
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

Marketing cattle on a carcass grid is an increasingly attractive option for cattle feeders, particularly when fed cattle prices are high and continued interest by consumers for highly marbled beef. Yet, a few fundamentals must be kept in mind when evaluating this marketing strategy.

The simplest one to consider is the dressing percentage. The price basis for all grid marketing arrangements is live price with an expectation that most cattle will dress around 63.5%. The simplest question to ask is what happens if we market cattle on a carcass grid (or simply as grade and yield) that dress lower than 63.5%?

Using publication LM_CT158 from USDA (Nebraska Weekly Direct—Negotiated Purchases) for the week ending on April 12, 2025, the average weight and price of all steers traded live (FOB) or dressed (delivered) were 1,553 lb and $207.88 (dressing 63.1%) or 989 lb and $328.07 (dressing 63.8%). During that week, if a cattle feeder sold a steer weighing 1,553 lb under a negotiated grid arrangement, which dressed out at 62.5%, then that feeder delivered 971 lb of carcass. Using the base negotiated grid price of $328.07 for a reference, the feeder received $3,184 instead of $3,244 expected if their cattle would have dressed as the average of cattle traded on the negotiated grid.

Weight, level of intake, haircoat tag, degree of finish, time between last meal and harvest, and dietary concentration influence dressing percentage. Greater weight, degree of finish, dietary energy concentration and time between last meal and harvest all influence dressing percentage positively while intake and presence and abundance of haircoat tag influence dressing percentage negatively.

Also, for cattle feeders marketing cattle on a carcass grid, most base price quotes are for cattle delivered to the plant. Therefore, the additional cost of hauling cattle to the plant must be absorbed by the seller. This will reduce gross revenue from $0.70 to $2.50/cwt of carcass.

Because of the high cost of purchasing replacement cattle, low feed costs, and attractive fed cattle prices, the incentive to feed cattle to heavier weights is difficult to ignore. In addition to considerations to maintain cattle alive and healthy as they reach weights beyond 1,550 lb, the effects of heavier finishing weights on carcass quality and size must be evaluated.

Simple assumptions were made to arrive at carcass grid pricing tradeoffs that might be used by cattle feeders considering marketing cattle on a carcass grid. The original example selected used cattle weighing 989 lb, for the purpose of easy approximations, the carcass weight used was rounded to 1,000 lb.

Other factors were kept constant to generate meaningful approximations. For example, the proportion of carcasses grading Select was maintained at 10% while the Choice-Select spread was permitted to fluctuate. As carcasses from cattle harvested in the upper Midwest continue to top 85% Choice and Prime grades, setting the proportion of Select-grading carcasses at 10% is not detrimental to the simulation. Under these conditions, a change in Choice-Select spread of $1/cwt represents a change in carcass revenue of $1/head.

Similarly, keeping premiums for carcasses achieving Certified Angus Beef (or similarly rewarded top 2/3 of USDA Choice-grading carcasses) at $6/cwt resulted in $6/head for every 10 points of CAB percentage achieved. Using this same approach and holding Prime premiums at $20/cwt results in $2/head for every point of Prime percentage achieved.

Lastly, discounts of $5/cwt or $15/cwt for carcasses reaching USDA Yield Grade (YG) 4 or USDA YG 5, respectively, resulted in changes of $5/head for each 10-point change in USDA YG 4 or $1.50/head for each 1-point change in USDA YG 5.

The effect of heavy carcass discounts on grid pricing was simulated using $15/cwt for carcasses 1,100 lb or heavier. This discount had a $1.50/head effect for each percentage unit change in the proportion of carcasses weighing 1,100 lb or more.

When applying these tradeoffs to carcass weight sold, the effect of each of these factors can be illustrated. For example, if two identical lots of cattle sell to the same packer on a given day, one of the loads delivers 15% of the weight from heavy carcasses while the other one delivers none. Using the tradeoff applicable for carcass weight provided here would suggest that gross revenue of the lot with heavier carcasses will be $22.50/head less than the one with no heavy weight discounts.

Similarly, as Choice-Select spread climbed towards $20/cwt from $15, the effect of this on carcass pricing was a reduction in carcass revenue of $5/head.

Alternatively, one can determine how much better the proportion of a set of premium carcasses should be relative to a set of discounted carcasses. For example, a lot of cattle yielding 20% in Prime carcass premiums ($40/head) is offset by 27% incidence of carcasses weighing 1,100 lb or heavier.

These tradeoffs are by no means complete and applicable to all situations, particularly when considering that a greater proportion of heavyweight carcasses would skew these values negatively. However, these tradeoffs represent a guide to quickly determine what effects feeding cattle to heavier weights would have on carcass revenue when marketing on a grid.



Dr. George Graef Honored with the 2025 Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award

For more than three decades, Dr. George Graef has been a driving force in soybean research, dedicating his career to improving soybean genetics and enhancing the crop’s value for Nebraska farmers. In recognition of his contributions, Graef has been named the recipient of the 2025 Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award by the Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB).

The award, made possible by the family of the late Larry Tonniges, a longtime Nebraska farmer who was dedicated to production research as part of NSB, honors researchers who have made significant contributions to soybean research.

As a professor and the Presidential Chair of Soybean Breeding in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Agronomy and Horticulture Department, Graef has led a research program focused on increasing soybean yields, developing disease-resistant varieties and improving seed composition traits.

Graef’s journey in soybean breeding began with a strong foundation in plant genetics. After earning his B.S. in environmental horticulture from the University of Connecticut in 1982, he pursued graduate studies at Iowa State University, where he obtained his M.S. and Ph.D. in plant breeding and cytogenetics. His deep knowledge and experience have made him a leader in the field, driving important progress in soybean breeding programs in Nebraska and beyond.

His research has consistently focused on three key objectives: increasing soybean yield, protecting that yield from diseases and environmental stressors and improving seed composition for better protein and oil content. By conducting evaluations on farmer-cooperator sites across Nebraska, Graef and his team gather data directly relevant to producers, allowing them to develop soybean varieties specifically suited to the state’s growing conditions.

One of the significant achievements of Graef’s research program has been the development of soybean lines with strong resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN), a persistent pest that can cause substantial yield losses. His work has resulted in elite soybean varieties that maintain high yields and offer enhanced resistance to multiple SCN populations. These advancements provide Nebraska farmers with more effective tools to combat this widespread problem and maintain profitability.

Through strategic breeding and integration of genetic, agronomic and imaging data, the program successfully shared 48 unique soybean lines with companies and research institutions in 2024, contributing to a broad network of variety development.

Additionally, the Winter Nursery Project in Puerto Rico and Chile has been instrumental in accelerating research. By leveraging five additional growing cycles per year, researchers can rapidly advance generations, conduct essential DNA analysis and refine selections for traits critical to Nebraska farmers. The nurseries provide an efficient platform for developing resistant soybean lines, refining seed composition and supporting ongoing research collaborations that benefit producers across the north-central United States.

Graef’s impact extends beyond research plots and laboratory findings. He has also played a crucial role in training the next generation of soybean breeders. Through his courses, he has mentored countless students who have gone on to leadership positions in the seed industry, university research programs and other agricultural sectors. Additionally, Graef’s research has explored soybeans for human food uses, further diversifying the potential applications for the crop.

Nebraska soybean farmers have benefited from Graef’s research in ways that go beyond improved yields. His work has contributed to the development of soybeans with higher protein and oil content, offering increased value for processors and end users. With another new soybean processing facility set to open in Nebraska in the coming months, these advancements will play a crucial role in expanding market opportunities for growers.

Upon receiving the award, Graef expressed his appreciation:

“I am honored to be selected to receive the 2025 Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award from the Nebraska Soybean Board. Thank you for your consideration and your constant, unwavering support. From my first days in Nebraska more than 35 years ago, I felt welcomed by the Board and all the producers I had the good fortune to meet and work with over the years. I could not have asked for a better place to learn and grow both professionally and personally. I continue to learn so much from attending board meetings, and I have tremendous admiration and respect for what you do on your farms and in your service to agriculture here and around the world. That is motivating for me to contribute in some small way from the variety and genetics perspective to help reach our shared goals for a productive and sustainable future.”



Smith, Bipartisan Colleagues Call for E15 Waiver to Provide Fuel Price Relief

Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE), Angie Craig (D-MN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) led 25 members of Congress urging the administration to lower prices at the gas pump by allowing the nationwide sale of E-15 this summer. The bipartisan letter asked President Donald Trump to extend the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver to permit the sale of ethanol blends up to 15 percent from June 1 through September 15, 2025 and engage directly with requests from eight Midwestern states, including Nebraska, to maintain uniform access to ethanol blends.

In the letter the members wrote:

“To safeguard our energy supply, we must preserve the home-grown, affordable option higher ethanol blends provide. The administration’s efforts to unleash American energy independence is a long-term goal but can begin in the short term with preserving flexibility in our domestic energy production and supply through this emergency waiver.”  

“Extending the nationwide sale of E15 can again bolster our nation’s energy resilience by adding billions of gallons of ethanol to the nation’s fuel supply, lowering the cost of gas for American families at a time when prices are already too high. As affirmed when you first allowed for year-round E15 in 2019, and those approved for the summers afterward, the sale of higher blends of biofuels during the summer months supports the domestic fuel supply, reduces consumer costs, and promotes American biofuels and agriculture feedstocks.”



RFA Thanks Lawmakers for Bipartisan Support of Summertime E15 Waiver

The Renewable Fuels Association today thanked 25 members of the House of Representatives who sent a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging his administration to allow unimpeded sales of lower-cost E15 through the summer months. The legislators noted that without an emergency waiver in place soon, E15 won’t be available to drivers beginning June 1.

“We thank this bipartisan group of lawmakers for their efforts to protect consumer access to the lowest-cost fuel available in the marketplace," said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. "We join them in calling on the Trump Administration to take swift action to allow the nationwide sale of E15 through the coming summer. These leaders understand that E15 saves American families money, while also strengthening the rural economy by keeping an important market open for farmers. As geopolitical conflict continues to create uncertainty in global energy markets, it is important that drivers have access to an American-made supply of lower-cost, cleaner fuel.”

The letter was sent by Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Angie Craig (D-MN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Mark Messmer (R-IN), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Mike Flood (R-NE), Ron Estes (R-KS), André Carson (D-IN), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), Mike Bost (R-IL), Sam Graves (R-MO) and Derrick Van Orden (R-WI).

“Extending the nationwide sale of E15 can again bolster our nation’s energy resilience by adding billions of gallons of ethanol to the nation’s fuel supply, lowering the cost of gas for American families at a time when prices are already too high,” they wrote. “As affirmed when you first allowed for year-round E15 in 2019, and those approved for the summers afterward, the sale of higher blends of biofuels during the summer months supports the domestic fuel supply, reduces consumer costs, and promotes American biofuels and agriculture feedstocks.”



 2024 Red Meat Production Up 1 Percent from 2023

Total red meat production for the United States totaled 55.0 billion pounds in 2024, 1 percent higher than the previous year. Red meat includes beef, veal, pork, and lamb and mutton. Red meat production in commercial plants totaled 54.9 billion pounds. On-farm slaughter totaled 91.0 million pounds.

There were 1,089 plants slaughtering under federal inspection on January 1, 2025 compared with 1,012 last year. Of these, 911 plants slaughtered at least one head of cattle during 2024 with the 12 largest plants slaughtering 51 percent of the total cattle killed. Hogs were slaughtered at 763 plants, with the 15 largest plants accounting for 64 percent of the total. For calves, 4 of the 140 plants accounted for 71 percent of the total and 4 of the 664 plants that slaughtered sheep or lambs in 2024 comprised 37 percent of the total head.    

Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Texas accounted for 50 percent of the United States commercial red meat production in 2024, up 1 percent from 2023.
(million lbs.   -    2024   -   2023)
Iowa ..........:   9,164.8  -  8,954.8
Nebraska ...:   7,976.0  -   7,637.2
Kansas .......:   5,805.4  -   5,806.3
Texas ........:   4,474.3   -  4,525.7

Beef production totaled 27.0 billion pounds, up slightly from the previous year. Veal production totaled 45.3 million pounds, down 14 percent from last year. Pork production, at 27.8 billion pounds, was 2 percent above the previous year. Lamb and mutton production totaled 139 million pounds, up 3 percent from 2023.

Commercial cattle slaughter during 2024 totaled 31.8 million head, down 3 percent from 2023, with federal inspection comprising 98.2 percent of the total. The average live weight was 1,399 pounds, up 34 pounds from a year ago. Steers comprised 48.6 percent of the total federally inspected cattle slaughter, heifers 32.0 percent, dairy cows 8.7 percent, other cows 9.1 percent, and bulls 1.6 percent.

Commercial calf slaughter totaled 211,900 head, 28 percent lower than a year ago with 96.0 percent under federal inspection. The average live weight was 323 pounds, up 43 pounds from a year earlier.

Commercial hog slaughter totaled 130 million head, 1 percent higher than 2023 with 99.5 percent of the hogs slaughtered under federal inspection. The average live weight was up 1 pound from last year, at 288 pounds. Barrows and gilts comprised 97.3 percent of the total federally inspected hog slaughter.

Commercial sheep and lamb slaughter, at 2.21 million head, was up 2 percent from the previous year with federal inspection comprising 86.7 percent of the total. The average live weight was unchanged from 2023 at 119 pounds. Lambs and yearlings comprised 93.3 percent of the total federally inspected sheep slaughter.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 4/18/2025

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending April 18, ethanol production rose 2.1% to 1.03 million b/d, equivalent to 43.39 million gallons daily. Output was 8.3% higher than the same week last year and 7.5% above the three-year average for the week. Still, the four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.5% to 1.03 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.86 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks contracted 5.0% to a 14-week low of 25.5 million barrels. Stocks were 1.0% less than the same week last year but 3.3% above the three-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, spiked 11.3% to 9.41 million b/d (144.71 bg annualized) —the highest weekly level since early October 2024. Demand was 11.8% more than a year ago and 5.9% above the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol climbed 2.1% to a 25-week high of 921,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.16 bg annualized. Net inputs were 2.4% more than year-ago levels and 3.0% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports eased 45.3% to an estimated 75,000 b/d (3.2 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



UAN32 Retail Price Up 9%, UAN28 Price Up 7% From Last Month

Average retail prices for all eight major fertilizers continued to be higher than last month during the last full week of April 2025, according to sellers surveyed by DTN.

Two fertilizers had a sizable price increase from last month, which DTN designates as anything 5% or more. The average retail price of UAN32 was 9% higher compared to last month at $448 per ton. And UAN28 was 7% more expensive than last month with an average retail price of $380 per ton. The remaining six fertilizers had slightly higher prices. DAP had an average price of $781 per ton, MAP $822/ton, potash $467/ton, urea $577/ton, 10-34-0 $655/ton and anhydrous $781/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.63/lb.N, anhydrous $0.48/lb.N, UAN28 $0.68/lb.N and UAN32 $0.70/lb.N.

Four fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. DAP is 1% higher, 10-34-0 is 2% more expensive, UAN28 is 4% higher and UAN32 is 7% higher looking back to last year. The remaining four fertilizers are lower. Both MAP and urea are 1% less expensive, anhydrous is 2% lower and potash is 9% lower compared to last year.



South Dakota Panel Rejects Permit For $8.9 B Carbon Capture Midwest Pipeline

(AP) -- The massive carbon capture pipeline in the Midwest was thrown into uncertainty Tuesday after South Dakota's Public Utility Commission denied its route permit application.

The commission voted 2-1 to deny the application by Iowa-based Summit Carbon Solutions, with Commissioner Kristie Fiegen saying it was "not ready to go forward" and lacked "the form and content required."

"The PUC's duty is to make a decision based on a route -- one route," said Fiegen, who initiated the motion to deny. "The current route, in my view, is not viable."

South Dakota lawmakers passed an eminent domain ban for carbon capture pipelines in March that made Summit's planned route difficult, commissioners agreed. After Tuesday's decision, Summit said it will refile its application with a reduced route in South Dakota to satisfy landowners and ethanol plant partners.

"While we are disappointed in today's decision, we remain committed to South Dakota as without it the ethanol industry, farmers, and land values in the state will all suffer," the company said in a statement.

South Dakota is a crucial part of the 2,500-mile pipeline, estimated to cost $8.9 billion. The pipeline would transport carbon emissions from ethanol plants in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota to be stored underground permanently in North Dakota. The project already has approvals in Iowa, Minnesota and North Dakota, and Summit has invested more than $150 million into its route in South Dakota.

Landowners rejoiced over the Tuesday decision.

"Today is a victory for South Dakota landowners and local control," Dakota Rural Action board member Ed Fischbach said in a statement. "We are grateful the PUC has made this common-sense decision and freed landowners to get on with their lives and businesses."

Summit had previously requested a timeline extension on its permit application to rework its route in a way that would satisfy landowners.

Questions about the pipeline arose after South Dakota lawmakers approved a ban on eminent domain for carbon capture projects, in which the government can seize private property with compensation. Without that power, Summit would need to secure voluntary agreements with landowners along the South Dakota route.

In its filing for an extension, Summit said it would work with landowners and the state in "good faith" rather than challenge the eminent domain ban. That statement convinced commissioners that there was no path forward for Summit given the amount of landowner opposition along the current route.

Instead of pursuing legal action against the state, Summit said in its filing that additional time would allow it to "roll out new offers to landowners" and identify which branches to ethanol plants it can eliminate that face significant landowner opposition.

The ethanol industry is concentrated in the Midwest, with nearly 40% of the nation's corn used to brew ethanol. By sequestering carbon in North Dakota, Summit's pipeline promises to lower the carbon intensity of ethanol and make it more competitive as a sustainable product.

Wednesday April 23 Ag News

CCPPD Plants Seeds of Caution around Power Lines
 
As farmers make plans to return to their fields for spring planting, Cuming County Public Power District urges farm workers to be particularly alert to the dangers of working near overhead power lines. Electricity is one of the most overlooked, yet deadly hazards of working on a farm. According to the National Safety Council, farmers are at an increased risk for electrocution and electric shock injury compared to non-farmers. In fact, 3.6 percent of youth under the age of 20 who work and/or live around farms are killed each year from electrocution. CCPPD urges workers to evaluate farm activities and work practices and to share that information with others – an activity that doesn’t take a lot of time but can literally save lives. By following a few safety rules, these tragic accidents can be prevented. Start by making sure everyone knows to maintain a minimum 10-foot clearance from the lines.

“The minimum 10-foot distance is a 360-degree rule – below, to the side and above lines,” says Willy Anderson, Safety Director at Cuming County PPD. “Many farm electrical accidents involving power lines happen when loading or preparing to transport equipment to fields, or while performing maintenance or repairs on farm machinery near lines. It can be difficult to estimate distance and sometimes a power line is closer than it looks. A spotter or someone with a broader view can help.”

The most common source of electric shocks come from operating machinery such as large tractors with front loaders, portable grain augers, fold-up cultivators, sprayers with large booms, moving grain elevators and any equipment with an antenna. Handling long items such as irrigation pipe, ladders and rods also pose the risk of contact with power lines. Coming too close to a power line while working is dangerous because electricity can arc, or “jump,” to conducting material or objects.

Be aware of increased height when loading and transporting tractors on trailer beds. Many tractors are now equipped with radios and communications systems that have very tall antennas extending from the cab that could make contact with power lines. Avoid raising the arms of planters, cultivators or truck beds near power lines and never attempt to raise or move a power line to clear a path.

Remember, non-metallic materials such as lumber, tree limbs, tires, ropes and hay will conduct electricity depending on dampness, dust and dirt contamination. Do not try to clear storm-damage debris and limbs near power lines or fallen lines.

Overhead electric wires aren't the only electrical contact that can result in a serious incident. Pole guy wires, used to stabilize utility poles, are grounded. However, when one of the guy wires is broken it can cause an electric current disruption. This can make those neutral wires anything but harmless. If you hit a guy wire and break it, call CCPPD to fix it. Don't do it yourself. When dealing with electrical poles and wires, always call CCPPD.

Even the best laid plans often go awry and CCPPD wants farm workers to be prepared if their equipment does come in contact with power lines.

“It’s almost always best to stay in the cab and call for help,” Anderson said. “If the power line is energized and you step outside, your body becomes the path to the ground and electrocution is the result. Even if a line has landed on the ground, there is still potential for the area to be energized. Warn others who may be nearby to stay away and wait until the electric utility arrives to make sure power to the line is cut off.”

Cuming County Public Power District does provide solutions for leaving the cab if necessary, as in the case of fire or electrical fire.

“In that scenario, the proper action is to jump – not step – with both feet hitting the ground at the same time,” Anderson said. “Do not allow any part of your body to touch the equipment and the ground at the same time. Hop to safety, keeping both feet together as you leave the area.”

Once you get away from the equipment, never attempt to get back on or even touch the equipment. Many electrocutions occur when operators try to return to the equipment before the power has been shut off.

Managers should make sure workers are educated on these precautions and danger areas need to be thoroughly identified and labeled. Call CCPPD or your local utility to measure line height-- no one should attempt this on their own without professional assistance. Designate preplanned routes that avoid hazard areas and educate other workers on their location.

Farmers may want to consider moving or burying power lines around buildings or busy pathways where many farm activities take place. If planning a new out-building or farm structure, contact CCPPD for information on minimum safe clearances from overhead and underground power lines. And if you plan to dig beyond normal tilling, activities such as deep-ripping or sub-soiling, call 811 to mark underground utilities first.

For more electrical safety information, visit www.ccppd.com or call the CCPPD office at 402-372-2463.



Nebraska Corn Farmers Poised to Plant 10.6 Million Acres in 2025

According to the March Prospective Plantings report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Nebraska corn farmers are expected to plant 10.6 million acres of corn in 2025. If realized, this would translate to a significant economic investment of nearly $3.1 billion in the state's economy over a two-month period, as calculated by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's crop budgets. This investment includes inputs such as seed, fuel and fertilizer, but excludes land costs, labor and equipment.

"The upcoming planting season represents a substantial investment for Nebraska corn farmers," said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB). "As farmers prepare to plant, they are mindful of the challenges posed by weather conditions and are committed to producing high-quality crops."

Nebraska farmers typically begin planting corn in mid-April and aim to finish by mid-May, weather permitting. The timing and pace of planting can significantly impact crop yields, soil health, and overall farm productivity. The latest Crop Progress report issued by the USDA (released April 15, 2025) showed Nebraska farmers are just starting to plant, with 1% completed with corn planting, typical of the five-year average (1%).

"As we kick off planting season, I encourage everyone to be mindful of farm equipment on our rural roads," said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board and farmer from Giltner. "We want our farmers to come home safe to their families at the end of each day. Let's work together to ensure a safe planting season – farmers, please exercise caution when moving equipment, and drivers, please slow down and pass safely when encountering slow-moving farm vehicles.”



Gov. Pillen Speaks to Passage of Pro-Ag Bills Through Second Round Debate

Tuesday, the Nebraska Legislature voted two pro-agriculture bills through the second round of debate. Both were introduced at the request of Governor Jim Pillen.

LB317 would merge the Department of Natural Resources with the Department of Environment and Energy, forming the Department of Water, Energy and Environment. Sponsored by Senator Tom Brandt, LB317 aims to streamline the operations of both agencies, especially in areas for which they currently have shared interest, like water quality, quantity and management.

The second bill, LB246 sponsored by Senator Barry DeKay, would prohibit the production, sale, promotion or distribution of cell-cultured meat products in the state.

“These are commonsense pieces of legislation that support Nebraska’s number one economic driver – agriculture. And, in the case of LB317, it reduces the scope of state government operations,” said Gov. Pillen. “I look forward to signing both bills once they are voted through final reading.”



Diamond Bar Ranch Receives Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award

Diamond Bar Ranch is the recipient of the 2025 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Robert and Susanne Jones raise beef cattle and own the 22,000-acre Diamond Bar Ranch in Logan County. The Joneses will be presented with $10,000 and a crystal award later this year.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Nebraska, the award is presented with Nebraska Cattlemen, Cargill, and the Nebraska Environmental Trust.

The award, given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, recognizes farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

“Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers help feed the world and save the planet. They are the finest examples of what it means to be responsible and sustainable stewards of our land,” said Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen. “They know the importance of best practices, water conservation, all the things that allow them to maximize their yields and at the same time, enhance and improve the environment. We congratulate Diamond Bar Ranch for being outstanding in this regard and receiving the Leopold Conservation Award.”

Nebraska landowners were encouraged to apply, or be nominated, for the award last year. Nominations were reviewed by an independent panel of Nebraska agriculture and conservation leaders.

ABOUT DIAMOND BAR RANCH
The Nebraska Sandhills is one of the last intact grassland ecosystems in North America, and the largest sand dune formation in the Western Hemisphere.

Formed by glacial meltwater carrying sand and silt from the Rocky Mountains, the Sandhills are defined by rolling grass-covered dunes, fragile soil, and a delicate hydrological system. Prairie grasses stabilize nearly 20,000 square miles of sand dunes in western Nebraska. This rangeland was never tilled on a large scale but makes ideal grazing for livestock when managed responsibly.

Deeply rooted in this region is Robert and Susanne Jones’ Diamond Bar Ranch. For generations the Jones family has understood their success is tied to the health of the Sandhills, and they’ve worked to protect this unique environment. As they ranch with their grown children: Natalie, Shaylee, Grant, and Lance, their conservation ethic is centered around responsible grazing, water stewardship, soil preservation, and wildlife habitat management.

Diamond Bar Ranch’s rotational grazing system follows time-tested Sandhills principles, designed to mimic the natural movement of bison herds that once roamed the region. By resting one-third of the ranch each year from grazing, native grasses like Little Bluestem and Prairie Sandreed are regenerated. While working cattle, horses are utilized rather than motorized vehicles to minimize soil disturbance in the sandy terrain.

The Jones family’s adaptive grazing strategy takes into account rainfall variability, forage availability, and soil conditions. Cross-fencing allows for improved grazing distribution, while GPS tracking and aerial monitoring technology assists in pasture management.

Since 2000, the Jones family has planted more than 31,000 trees and shrubs to reduce wind erosion and improve wildlife habitat. Strategically planted windbreaks offer protection for livestock during windy winters. With assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service and Sandhills Task Force, the Jones family has mechanically removed invasive eastern red cedar trees across their Logan County ranch.  

With access to the Ogallala Aquifer, natural springs, ponds, and the South Loup River, Diamond Bar Ranch employs 56 windmills and solar wells to provide drought-prone water sources for crop irrigation and drinking water for livestock and wildlife. Wet meadows are an ecologically significant part of the ranch. These lush, moisture-rich grasslands remain productive even in dry years, providing a valuable forage source. Wet meadows are also essential habitats for migratory birds, amphibians, and native fish species.

To reduce dependence on external feed sources, the ranch produces its own high-quality forage, including irrigated corn, alfalfa, and wet meadow hay, to produce nutrient-dense beef from its Red and Black Angus cattle.

Diamond Bar Ranch’s pastures support populations of prairie chickens, sharp-tailed grouse, mule deer, white-tailed deer, and antelope, all of which depend on the same healthy grasslands that sustain livestock. The Jones family follows wildlife-friendly haying practices, allowing ground-nesting birds to flush and escape during harvest.

The Jones family shares their conservation knowledge with other ranchers, policymakers, and the public. Their ranch hosted the National Grazing Lands Coalition Tour in 2022 to provide a hands-on opportunity for ranchers and conservationists to learn about sustainable grazing practices. They are longtime supporters of the Nebraska Youth Ranch Camp, where high school students learn about range management and leadership.

As pressure mounts in agriculture to balance production with sustainability, the Diamond Bar Ranch shows how these two priorities can coexist. The Jones family’s conservation-minded land management has produced economic success and ecological resilience.

ACCOLADES
“Diamond Bar Ranch is where over a century of successful environmental stewardship practices meets modern innovation. With five generations of Sandhills cattle producers who work with the land instead of against it to uphold a strong conservation ethic, the Jones family is the perfect example of responsible ranching,” said Laura Field, Nebraska Cattlemen Executive Vice President.

“As a long-time sponsor of this award, we’re proud to partner with an organization so focused on the protection and improvement of agricultural land. This conservation work is aligned with Cargill’s greater purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way,” said Katrina Robertson, general manager of Cargill Food in Schuyler, Nebraska.

“These award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO. “Their dedication to conservation is both an inspiration to their peers as well as a reminder to all how important thoughtful agriculture is to clean water, healthy soil, and wildlife habitat.”

“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of the award recipients,” said John Piotti, AFT President and CEO. “At AFT we believe that exemplary conservation involves the land itself, the practices employed on the land, and the people who steward it. This award recognizes the integral role of all three.”

The 2024 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award recipient was Worth Ranch of Springview. To view profiles of all award recipient since 2006, visit www.sandcountyfoundation.org/Nebraska.

The Leopold Conservation Award Program in Nebraska is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Cargill, Nebraska Environmental Trust, Nebraska Cattlemen, Sand County Foundation, Farm Credit Services of America, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Audubon Great Plains, Green Cover Seed, Lyle Sittler Memorial Fund, Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Nebraska Partners for Fish and Wildlife, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Sandhills Task Force, and World Wildlife Fund-Northern Great Plains.

For more information on the award, visit www.leopoldconservationaward.org.



20 STUDENTS SELECTED FOR SECOND COHORT OF ELITE 11 VETERINARIAN PROGRAM

Twenty students from across Nebraska have been selected for a highly competitive University of Nebraska–Lincoln program aimed at increasing the number of production animal veterinarians in the state.

The students, all high school seniors set to graduate this spring, were selected for the second cohort of the Nebraska Elite 11 Veterinarian Program. The program, a partnership between Gov. Jim Pillen and the university, is aimed at addressing Nebraska’s shortage of food animal veterinarians.

Nebraska’s livestock industry contributes more than $6 billion annually to the state’s economy — an impact that is especially significant in rural counties and communities. Veterinarians play a critical role in keeping livestock healthy, improving herd health, and responding to disease and public health issues, among many other services, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“I’m excited for the futures of these students,” Pillen said. “They are pursuing a career path that is certainly in high demand. We need skilled veterinarians who can provide advice and services to Nebraska’s livestock producers. Their commitment to working in our rural communities will help ensure food security, now and into the future.”

Following is a list of students accepted into the second cohort of the Nebraska Elite 11 Veterinarian Program, listed alphabetically by hometown:
> Ayr: Carter Auten
> Bancroft: Noah Brichacek
> Bennet: Emily Van Meter
> Berwyn: Alex Berghorst
> Big Springs: Claudia Rhoades
> Bloomfield: Ava McFarland
> Bridgeport: Tessa Little
> Broken Bow:  Keelyn Shea
> Burwell: Colter Wright
> Clearwater: Raina Krebs
> Columbus: Nicole Martensen
> Cozad: Kolton Goff
> Friend: Baylor Behrens
> Hampton: Kash Majerus
> Herman: Mason Stoddard
> Lincoln: Claire Kolbet
> Marquette: Emma Ellis-Sack
> North Bend: Olivia Buresh
> North Platte: Jenna Miller
> Stapleton: Cameron Berliner

Each student will receive the Nebraska Production Animal Health Scholarship, which covers 50% of tuition for the first two years of study in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Following a second year of study, 13 will be chosen for a continuation scholarship that covers 100% of tuition during the third and fourth years.

From there, the Elite 11 will be selected from Nebraska’s Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine to have all tuition and fees paid for while attending the university’s dual Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program with Iowa State University. The Elite 11 program aims to ease the financial burden of obtaining a veterinary degree for Husker students who commit to practicing veterinary medicine in clinics that serve large animals in Nebraska.

“On behalf of CASNR, I am thrilled to welcome these 20 outstanding students from across the state into this transformational initiative,” said Tiffany Heng-Moss, dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. “The success of this program’s first year has shown the powerful impact of investing in our future veterinarians — young leaders who will serve as the backbone of Nebraska’s agriculture: our production animal industry. We extend our deepest thanks to Gov. Pillen for his continued leadership and commitment to this critically important field.”

Chase Martin, a sophomore animal science and pre-veterinary medicine student and one of the 19 members of the first Elite 11 cohort, grew up on a cow-calf seedstock operation near Wellfleet. He applied for the program after several veterinarians who practiced near his hometown encouraged him to do so. So far, he said, he has found the program to be eye-opening in many ways, including to all the opportunities within the large animal veterinary industry.

During the freshman orientation class for all members of the first Elite 11 cohort, veterinarians who work for feedlots and poultry, dairy and swine operations, in addition to those in more general practices, shared their experiences with the class. Martin said he had not realized there were so many opportunities to specialize.

“I’d always thought of (the profession) as the guy who goes and practices in the local town and does a little bit of everything,” he said.

The orientation also covered skills important for veterinarians, such as responding to challenges and stress management. Perhaps most importantly, it created connections among the Elite 11 students. Martin has kept in touch with his classmates throughout the spring semester. He sees some at Rodeo Club events and through other campus organizations, and he has met up with others to study.

“A really cool part of the Elite 11 is that we’re all kind of in the same stage of college,” he said.

“We’re in a lot of the same classes. If one of us needs help on a chemistry assignment, it’s a phone call away.”

Seeing the students connect and get involved on campus has been rewarding, said Deb VanOverbeke, head of the Department of Animal Science and one of the instructors of the freshman orientation course. Many of these students will continue to cross paths throughout their schooling and over the course of their careers, she said. They will also face many of the same issues and challenges throughout college, veterinary school and in the workforce, which makes building a network critical for their later success, she said.

“We really wanted to create an experience that would set them up for long-term success, and in the process, set Nebraska’s livestock industry up for long-term success, too,” VanOverbeke said.

For more information on the Elite 11 program, visit https://casnr.unl.edu/nebraska-elite-11-veterinarian-program.



Nebraska Farm Bureau and Congressional Delegation Warn of Looming Tax Hike If 2017 Tax Reforms Expire

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) and Nebraska’s congressional delegation are sounding the alarm on a looming tax increase that could strike a major financial blow to families, businesses, and farmers and ranchers across the state. As key provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) set to expire at the end of 2025, NEFB is warning that inaction by Congress could devastate families and rural communities.

“The uncertainty surrounding the future of these tax provisions is causing real concern,” said Mark McHargue, NEFB President. “These reforms helped level the playing field for agriculture. Losing them would hit producers hard at the worst possible time.”

The TCJA, signed into law during the Trump administration, made significant changes to the federal tax code—including provisions that were especially beneficial to agriculture and other family businesses. For many farm and ranch families, it meant lower tax rates, higher estate tax exemptions, and greater flexibility in managing income and business deductions. But unless Congress acts, many of those provisions are set to sunset at the end of 2025, returning tax law to pre-2017 standards.

Estate Taxes Could Return to Center Stage
One of the biggest concerns among farm and ranch families is the potential roll back of the estate tax exemption, often referred to as the “death tax.” The TCJA temporarily doubled the indexed for inflation estate tax exemption to now over $13.9 million per person (over $27.9 million for couples), allowing most family farms to pass from one generation to the next without triggering a tax bill. However, if the exemption reverts to its 2017 level—around $5.5 million—it could force some families to sell land or assets just to pay the tax.

“Land values in Nebraska are high, and many family farms and ranches could be subject to the estate tax again if the exemption drops. Farm and ranch families work to build something to pass down. This could threaten that,” said McHargue.

Pass-Through Deductions at Risk
Also on the chopping block is the 20% qualified business income (QBI) deduction for pass-through entities such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S-corporations—common business structures in agriculture. The deduction has helped farmers reduce their taxable income and reinvest in their operations. If the QBI deduction expires, those same farms could see a substantial jump in their federal tax liability.

“We’re already working on tight margins with input costs and interest rates continuing to be at high levels,” said McHargue. “Losing these tax provisions would hit us hard at a time when we can least afford it.”

Another important provision at risk is bonus depreciation, which allows farmers to reduce the cost of new and used equipment in the year it’s purchased. The TCJA temporarily expanded this benefit to 100%, encouraging investment in updated machinery and infrastructure. But bonus depreciation is already phasing down, and unless extended, it will fully be sunset by 2027.

“Bonus depreciation helped us modernize our equipment without killing our cash flow. Losing that would make upgrades a lot harder,” McHargue emphasized.

Nebraska Farm Bureau Calls for Action
With the clock ticking, the Nebraska Farm Bureau and its congressional delegation is calling on Congress to extend these important provisions and avoid what they describe as a “tax hike on working families.”

“The expiration of the TCJA would serve as a tax increase for virtually everyone and every business in the United States,” said McHargue. “This is about preserving family farms and ranches, keeping rural communities alive, and ensuring that Nebraska agriculture remains strong for generations to come.”

The organization is calling on policymakers to prioritize rural America in upcoming tax negotiations, especially as inflation, interest rates, and commodity price fluctuations continue to pressure producers.

“We’re not asking for special treatment,” said McHargue. “We’re asking for fair tax policy that reflects the long-term nature and unique challenges of farming and ranching.”

Nebraska’s congressional delegation made the following comments in support of extending TCJA:

“Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers, and small businesses benefitted greatly from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. With these tax cuts set to expire at the end of this year, Congress must come together to make these tax cuts permanent and help deliver for Nebraska’s hardworking families.” - Sen. Deb Fischer

“If the Trump tax cuts expire, Americans will see a $4 trillion tax increase. That will include Nebraska farm and ranch families. An average family of four making $80,000 would pay $1,700 more in taxes per year. We must extend the tax cuts. I’m proud to stand with Nebraska Farm Bureau in support of meaningful tax relief.” - Sen. Pete Ricketts

“After four years of tax-and-spend policies under the Biden administration, renewing the TJCA tax cuts is critical to ensuring that we get America back on track. The Trump tax cuts put more take home pay into the pockets of working Americans and our ag producers after 2017. If they were to expire, Nebraskans would experience significant tax hikes. Nebraska’s delegation is hard at work to ensure that the TCJA tax cuts are renewed so that we can ensure that our farm families and Main Street grow and thrive in the years to come.” - Rep. Mike Flood

“During the last administration, Americans faced crushing inflation, with some having to pick whether to buy groceries or pay their electric bill. Last November, the American people made it clear that they wanted something done to alleviate their financial hardship. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is vital to our economic recovery. Without its extension, American families and small businesses will face a devastating 20% tax increase, including a $1,514 tax hike for a Nebraska family of four, at a time when they need more money in their pockets, not less. I remain committed to working with Congress and President Trump to get these critical tax cuts across the finish line and deliver the financial relief Americans desperately need.” – Rep. Don Bacon

“As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, I have heard from farmers, ranchers, and other agriculture and rural development stakeholders about the benefits of TCJA policies. The doubled estate tax exemption greatly simplified succession planning for family farms, and the 20 percent deduction for pass through entities under Section 199A allowed rural small businesses to reinvest more of their earnings. Further, TCJA’s equipment expensing provisions have allowed farmers and other rural business owners the flexibility to buy new equipment and upgrade existing equipment. If successful TCJA provisions such as these are allowed to expire, Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers, and small businesses will face sharp tax hikes. We need to provide long-term certainty and renew TCJA to unleash growth.” – Rep. Adrian Smith



Smith Statement on Progress in Trade Talks with India

Tuesday, Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and India Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Terms of Reference have been finalized for negotiation of a trade agreement.

"With one of the world’s fastest growing economies and largest populations, improving our trading and strategic partnership with India is vital to the economic and security needs of both our nations. A bilateral trade agreement which will grow cooperation and reduce barriers to trade is important, and I appreciate the work of President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Prime Minister Modi in achieving this step forward. As the Trump administration continues its work, I will continue to insist on science-based standards and expanded markets for American agriculture, energy, digital services, and other products in India and around the world.

“I would be remiss to not also recognize the tragedy in Kashmir which occurred today. My prayers are with the Indian people as they grieve those lost and as their authorities work to bring the perpetrators to justice.”



NEBRASKA MILK PRODUCTION

Milk production in Nebraska during the January-March 2025 quarter totaled 306 million pounds, down 3% from the January-March quarter last year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. The average number of milk cows was 49,000 head, 2,000 head less than the same period last year.

Iowa Milk Production
Jan-March '25 - 1,497,000,000 lbs - down 0.9% from Q1 '24
245,000 milk cows - +4,000 cows from Q1 '24

January-March Milk Production down 0.3 Percent
Milk production in the United States during the January - March quarter totaled 56.7 billion pounds, down 0.3 percent from the January - March quarter last year. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.40 million head, 36,000 head more than the October - December quarter, and 58,000 head more than the same period last year.



33 Choose Iowa Value-Added Grants Awarded

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has awarded 33 Choose Iowa value-added grants to Iowa farmers and small businesses located in 28 counties. Grant recipients were eligible to receive up to $25,000 in cost-share per project to increase or diversify their agricultural product offerings, expand markets and shorten supply chains. Choose Iowa awarded $463,000 in value-added grants to leverage a total investment by grant awardees of $1,325,710.05 to expand the availability of Iowa grown, Iowa raised, and Iowa made food, beverages, and ag products. The Choose Iowa grant announcement was made as part of Iowa Horticulture Week at Farmer Sarge’s in Algona, a veteran-owned produce farm, Choose Iowa member, and one of the 2025 grant awardees.

“Consumers increasingly want more locally grown food, beverages, and ag products, and that's great news for Iowa farmers and small businesses,” said Secretary Naig. “These Choose Iowa value-added grants are designed to help small, young, and beginning farmers grow their businesses to meet this rising demand. By investing alongside them, we're not only helping to expand the availability of Iowa products, but we're also fueling economic opportunity in communities all across the state.”

This year’s grants will support a wide variety of projects including produce processing and production, expanding farm-to-table dining, commercial kitchen construction, on-farm retail, refrigeration and freezer capacity for more direct-to-consumer sales, honey production and value-added processing, Christmas tree and popcorn sales, and more.

Individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations that are currently living or operating in Iowa were eligible to apply for the Choose Iowa value-added grants, and preference was given to small to medium-sized entities. This year, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship received 99 eligible grant requests totaling $1,741,704.41 – more than four times the available funding – underscoring the interest and demand for funding to support local foods programs.

Since the Choose Iowa value-added grant program launched in 2022, the Department has awarded nearly $1.64 million in state funded cost-share to 100 projects, for a total investment of $5.6 million to expand local production and processing.

Choose Iowa Value-Added Grants awarded today include the following 33 projects, among those that were funded include:

East to West Farm | Columbus Junction | $10,468
Construct storage and on-farm retail space to expand meat and egg sales.
Total project budget: $20,936

Lone Oak Honey Company | Sioux City | $1,164.54
Purchase a honey extractor and chest freezer to improve the efficiency of honey production.
Total project budget: $2,329.09

Wetzel Honey Farm | Corning | $7,669
Improve honey harvest with the purchase of an uncapper, extruder and melter.
Total project budget: $15,337

Choose Iowa is the state’s signature branding and marketing program for Iowa grown, Iowa raised and Iowa made food, beverages, and ag products. The Choose Iowa program was initiated by Secretary Naig and is administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. The Choose Iowa value-added grant accompanies similar Choose Iowa grants to support dairy innovation projects and expand meat processing. Choose Iowa’s marketing and brand program, now with 254 statewide members, continues to build momentum and visibility. Questions about Choose Iowa and its member benefits, grants and programs can be emailed to ChooseIowaGrant@IowaAgriculture.gov. Find members or nearby farm at ChooseIowa.com.



New Resource Describes Feed Mixing Uniformity Test Equipment and Procedure

Uniform feed ensures animals receive consistent nutrients, supporting their health and performance. A new publication from the Iowa Pork Industry Center at Iowa State University helps producers evaluate feed uniformity and identify ingredients that may affect herd outcomes.

Iowa State University Feed Mill“Mixer Uniformity Test Procedure” IPIC 210 outlines proper sampling procedures and testing methods for trace substances, and helps in analyzing and interpreting results. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach swine specialist Mark Storlie is the author of this publication.

“The mixer design will direct your sampling procedure,” Storlie said. “Samples should be taken at, or as close to, the mixer discharge as possible.”

The publication explains sampling techniques for both horizontal and vertical mixers. Horizontal mixers use a grain probe to collect 10 samples from set locations inside the mixer. For vertical or continuous proportioning mixers, samples should be collected as the feed is discharged, with careful timing.

Salt, trace minerals and synthetic amino acids are commonly used as tracers to test uniformity. Samples can be sent to a lab or sometimes are tested onsite.

“A mixer uniformity test should be conducted within 90 days of installation of a new or replacement mixer, or periodically (minimum once every one to three years),” Storlie said.

The publication also has guidance on interpreting test results and includes a link to the Feed Uniformity Test Tracker Excel spreadsheet, created by Storlie for calculating results. Consistent testing establishes a routine for producers, which in turn helps their animals maintain a healthy status and continued growth.

The two-page publication is available at no charge from the ISU Extension Store https://store.extension.iastate.edu/Product/17241.  



Farm Bureau Calls for Clarity in WOTUS

The American Farm Bureau Federation today asked for changes to the “Waters of the United States” rule to bring it in line with the Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court ruling, which called for more clarity in water regulations. AFBF submitted comments in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s request for recommendations.

“Considering drains, ditches, stock ponds, impoundments, irrigation ditches, and low spots in farm fields and pastures as jurisdictional ‘waters’ opens the door to regulation of ordinary farming activities that move dirt or apply products to the land on those lands,” AFBF stated in its comments. “Everyday activities such as plowing, planting, or fence building in or near ephemeral drainages, impoundments, ditches, or low spots could result in enforcement action triggering the (Clean Waters Act’s) harsh civil and criminal penalties unless a permit was obtained first. Bear in mind that permitting under CWA requires the investment of significant amounts of time and money. Most farmers and ranchers have neither of those in abundance.”

Farm Bureau’s recommendations include:
    Creating a definition of the ‘relatively permanent standard,’ which guides agencies in determining whether a body of water falls under federal jurisdiction;
    Regulating wetlands only when they are indistinguishable from and have a continuous surface connection to WOTUS waterways; and
    Providing clear exemptions and exclusions so farmers and ranchers can use their land without the risk of severe penalties.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall said, “America’s farmers and ranchers are committed to doing the right thing by protecting the resources they’ve been entrusted with. We need clear regulations to reach those goals, however. The Supreme Court ruled that the previous administration overstepped its authority with WOTUS. We appreciate EPA taking steps to bring WOTUS in line with the Sackett ruling by providing clarity that respects the high court’s decision and farmers’ efforts to preserve the environment as they grow the food and fiber America’s families rely on.”



Secretary Rollins Statement on Dairy Industry Voluntarily Removing Artificial Colors from National School Lunch Program

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins Wednesday applauded the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announcement on the IDFA Healthy Dairy in Schools Commitment, a voluntary, proactive pledge to eliminate Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 in milk, cheese, and yogurt products sold to K-12 schools for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs beginning during the 2026-2027 school year:

“America’s dairy farmers and milk processors have always led the way in providing our families and schoolchildren with healthy, nutritious, and delicious milk products. While I look forward to getting whole milk back into our schools, today’s announcement shows how the dairy industry is voluntarily driving change and giving consumers what they want, without government mandates,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “I thank IDFA and the dairy industry for leading the way and look forward to other industries thinking about how together, we can Make America Healthy Again.”



USDA Delivers Immediate Relief to Farmers, Ranchers and Rural Communities Impacted by Recent Disasters

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins Tuesday announced $340.6 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture disaster assistance to deliver relief to farmers, ranchers and rural communities impacted by natural disasters that have caused devastation across the country.

In support of President Trump’s January executive order, which expedited assistance to communities who were left behind by the Biden Administration, Secretary Rollins is delivering critical aid through the USDA Disaster Assistance Fund to provide immediate relief to communities that have waited far too long to receive the aid they need to recover.

“My heart goes out to the families across our great country who have lost loved ones, homes, businesses and livelihoods,” Secretary Rollins said. “As one of his first executive actions, President Trump made it a top priority for his administration to deliver fast and fair relief to communities impacted by disasters. USDA is fulfilling the President’s promise today and ensuring we are doing everything we can to support state and local efforts to rebuild these communities to be even stronger than before.”

Secretary Rollins made the announcement today in North Dakota where USDA is delivering more than $5 million to help rebuild electric infrastructure following damage from severe storms and wildfires.

USDA will also deliver $25 million in relief to North Carolina communities and $18 million to Tennessee communities impacted by hurricanes since 2022 including hurricanes Fiona, Ian, Idalia, Helene, and more. As part of this funding, USDA will use:
    $5.8 million to support economic development for enterprises and farm producers.
    $15.6 million to help rural communities rebuild key infrastructure after disasters.
    $20 million for safe drinking water, sanitary waste disposal, and electric infrastructure restoration.
    $2 million for technical assistance to towns seeking aid.

As part of today’s announcement, the Trump Administration is making key improvements to the fund, cutting bureaucratic inefficiencies that will enable USDA to put Americans first by:
    Deploying critical aid as quickly as possible;
    Ensuring funds are more responsibly and effectively managed than ever before;
    Responding immediately to a backlog of requests from communities that have sought disaster assistance in recent years; and
    Waiving limiting eligibility criteria such as income requirements, population limits and more.

The USDA Disaster Assistance Fund will provide relief directly to rural families, farmers and small business owners, helping them recover, restore and rebuild to be stronger than before. The fund will be used to repair homes, businesses, infrastructure and critical services in communities hit hardest by disaster.

Today’s announcement shows the Administration’s commitment to standing with America’s rural communities during their times of need. USDA continues to prioritize swift and effective disaster relief, ensuring that no community is left behind following natural disasters.



ASA Appreciates USDA Disaster Assistance Funds

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins has announced $340.6 million in disaster assistance to help farmers and rural communities affected by natural disasters. The American Soybean Association is pleased the funding has become available and applauds the administration for coming through on its promise to help those many farmers and others who have been in need following extraordinary circumstances.

Caleb Ragland, president of the American Soybean Association and soy farmer from Kentucky, said, “We appreciate the administration for seeing these devastating circumstances and coming to the aid of farmers and rural communities. When natural disasters strike, we have very little recourse to protect our livelihoods. This funding will help many people who are trying to rebuild their homes and businesses and hopefully restore some normalcy after enduring hurricanes, floods, fires and the outcomes that come with such disasters.”

ASA thanks the administration for its Rural Development Disaster Assistance package and what it means for those affected.



Investing in Herd Expansion: Time Value of Money and Opportunity Cost

James Mitchell, Ph.D. and Ryan Loy, Ph.D.
Extension Economists
University of Arkansas

The decision to rebuild the U.S. cowherd is based on profitability—not just current prices. According to the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC), cow-calf returns in 2023 and 2024 are estimated at $252 and $443 per cow, respectively. At the same time, a common concern among producers is the cost of heifers. For example, USDA-AMS data show 2024 bred heifer prices from the Missouri Show-Me-Select sales averaging over $3,000 per head, a 26 percent increase compared to 2023. Before investing in replacement heifers, whether by buying or raising your own, producers should evaluate the investment over the heifer’s entire productive life on the operation.

Whether you’re spending revenue from calf sales or borrowing, the dollars used today to grow the herd have a cost. Buying bred heifers at $3,000 per head or retaining heifers valued at $1,500/head ties up capital that could be used elsewhere in your business. The key question is: will the future stream of returns from those heifers over their productive life exceed the value of that initial investment today? To answer that, producers can use net present value (NPV), a tool that accounts for both profitability and the time value of money.

To calculate NPV, start by estimating all future revenues from the heifer, primarily from calf sales over her productive life, include her cull value in the last year, and subtract expected annual cow costs to derive future net returns. Next, discount those net returns into today’s dollars using a rate comparable to your loan interest rate or expected return on investment. An 8 percent discount rate is a reasonable starting point. Finally, subtract your initial investment, whether that’s the purchase price or the value of a retained heifer, from the total value of your discounted net returns. A positive NPV suggests the investment will add value to your operation. A negative NPV suggests it does not generate a sufficient return and would not be worth undertaking.

For example, assume you purchase a bred heifer for $3,000 and annual cow costs are $1,000 per year, including pasture, feed, veterinary care, and labor. You expect her to wean a 525-lb calf per year for five years, with calves selling for $295/cwt (or $1,549 per calf). Net returns are $549 per year ($1,549 – $1,000). At the end of year five, you expect to sell her for $1,200, based on 1,200 pounds at $1.00 per pound. To calculate net present value (NPV), we discount each year’s net return and the cull value back to today’s dollars using an 8 percent discount rate:
    Year 0 (Initial Investment): $3,000 ÷ (1+0.08)0 = -$3,000
    Year 1: $549 ÷ (1+0.08)1 = $508.33
    Year 2: $549 ÷ (1+0.08)2 = $470.68
    Year 3: $549 ÷ (1+0.08)3 = $435.82
    Year 4: $549 ÷ (1+0.08)4 = $403.54
    Year 5: $549 ÷ (1+0.08)5 = $373.65
    Year 5 cull value: $1,200 ÷ (1+0.08)5 = $815.77

The total present value is $508.33 + $470.68 + $435.82 + $403.54 + $373.65 + $816.77 = $3,007.79, and the net present value is $3,007.79 – $3,000 = $7.79. In this example, the heifer generates a positive NPV over her productive life. However, this NPV is derived under a constant revenue and cost assumption; any unexpected cost or revenue changes can greatly impact the feasibility of this investment due to the small, but positive, NPV value.

There is no single “correct” set of assumptions for this type of analysis. Producers should test a range of scenarios by adjusting calf prices, input costs, reproductive performance, the discount rate, and cull value to reflect their operation. If the investment only appears viable under highly optimistic assumptions, such as a cow producing eight or nine consecutive weaned calves without any setbacks, that should raise concern. The likelihood of that happening is low. If the investment requires everything to go exactly as planned over an extended period just to break even, it may warrant reconsideration. It’s better to identify those risks through planning than to be surprised by them later.

Tuesday April 22 Ag News - Crop Progress Report

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending April 20, 2025, there were 6.2 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 33% very short, 45% short, 22% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 41% very short, 42% short, 17% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Corn planted was 8%, near 5% for both last year and the five-year average.

Soybeans planted was 2%, equal to last year, and near 1% average.

Winter wheat condition rated 23% very poor, 17% poor, 30% fair, 29% good, and 1% excellent.

Oats planted was 72%, near 69% last year, and ahead of 66% average. Emerged was 28%, behind 34% last year, but near 24% average.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

Planters were rolling across much of the State before being slowed by precipitation. Iowa farmers averaged 5.5 suitable for fieldwork for the week ending April 20, 2025, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. In addition to planting corn, soybeans and oats, fieldwork included tiling, building waterways and spraying when winds allowed.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 6 percent very short, 22 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 7 percent very short, 30 percent short, 61 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus.

Corn planted reached 18 percent, 3 days ahead of last year and 5 days ahead of the 5-year average.

Eleven percent of the expected soybean crop has been planted, 3 days ahead of last year and 1 week ahead of the 5-year average.

Oats seeding reached 68 percent complete, 5 days behind last year but 3 days ahead of the 5-year average. Twenty-three percent of the expected oat acreage has emerged, 4 days behind last year but 5 days ahead of normal.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

U.S. corn planting moved slightly ahead of last year's pace and the five-year average last week, according to USDA NASS' weekly Crop Progress report released on Monday. Winter wheat conditions declined again slightly last week, NASS reported.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 12% of corn was planted nationwide as of Sunday, 1 point ahead of 11% last year and 2 points ahead of the five-year average of 10%.
-- Crop development: 2% of corn was emerged as of Sunday, 1 point behind last year but equal to the five-year average.

SOYBEANS
-- Planting progress: An estimated 8% of intended soybean acreage was planted as of Sunday, 1 point ahead of last year's 7% at this time and 3 points ahead of the five-year average of 5%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: An estimated 45% of winter wheat was rated good to excellent as of April 20, down 2 points from 47% the previous week and below 50% at the same time last year, according to NASS.
-- Crop development: 15% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 1 percentage point behind last year's 16% but 2 points ahead of the five-year average.

SPRING WHEAT
-- Planting progress: 17% of the crop was planted nationwide as of April 20, 3 points ahead of last year's 14% and 5 points ahead of 12% for the five-year average.
-- Crop development: 2% of spring wheat was emerged as of Sunday, equal to both last year and five-year average.



Nebraska Beef Passport Celebrates 5-Year Milestone with New Stops and Added Features

The Nebraska Beef Passport is back and better than ever for its 5th year! Starting May 1, this fan-favorite program from the Nebraska Beef Council returns with new features, more stops, and even more delicious reasons to hit the road. The 2025 Beef Passport, available now at www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org, includes nearly 60 locations across the state – from small-town cafés and sizzling steakhouses to independent meat processors , and butcher shops.

“We’re excited to celebrate the fifth year of the Beef Passport,” said Adam Wegner, director of marketing for the Nebraska Beef Council. “Every year, the program grows – both in popularity and in the diversity of participating locations. Since the initial launch of the program in 2021, there have been over 10,000 beef meals enjoyed by passport users from over 600 communities across the state.”

Participants can access the Nebraska Beef Passport for free on their mobile device or print a paper version directly from the website. New in 2025, collecting check-ins is now as easy as scanning a QR code when visiting a participating location creating a simpler, streamlined user experience.

With each check-in, passport users earn points that can be redeemed for prizes through the Nebraska Beef Council. Every visit also enters participants into the grand prize drawing for one of two fresh beef bundles provided by the Nebraska Beef Council and the Nebraska Association of Meat Processors (NAMP).

“Launching our fifth year of the Nebraska Beef Passport is really special,” said Wegner. “It has become more than just a fun summer activity – it’s something people look forward to each year. Folks tell us they love discovering new places they wouldn’t have otherwise visited, and it’s a great reminder of just how strong and vibrant Nebraska’s beef industry really is.”

Restaurants
Bordertown Steakhouse - Kilgore
Branding Iron Grill & Pub - Tilden
Bronco's Hamburgers - Omaha
Carl's Tavern - Ord
Double L Country Store & Café - Harrisburg
Highway 2 Depot - Mullen
Little Ted's Pub & Grill - Nebraska City
Outlaw Steakhouse & Saloon - Garland
Rowdy's Steakhouse - Fairbury
Taste of Texas - McCook
The Cellar Sports Bar & Grill - Kearney
Three 21 Tavern - Lexington
Thunder Road Sports Bar - Grand Island
Charlie's Pub - Milligan
Front Street Steakhouse - Ogallala
Julie's Hay Town Grill - Hay Springs
Bob's Bar & Grill - Martinsburg
The Loading Chute - Hampton
The Speakeasy - Holdrege
Papa Moon - Scottsbluff
Buck's Bar & Grill - Venice
Dinker's Bar & Grill - Omaha
Two Bills Steakhouse - Clearwater
Royal Bar & Grill - Royal
H.F. Crave - Lincoln
Ruhlman's Steakhouse - Ashland
Capones - North Platte
Cunningham's Journal on the Lake - Kearney
The Palace Lounge - Red Cloud
Single Barrel - Lincoln
              
Meat Shops
R&M Meats - Norfolk
Main Street Meats - Ogallala
Ellsworth Crossing - Waterloo
Buresh Meats - David City
B.I.G. Meat - Omaha
Rick's Meats - Elkhorn
Loeffel Meat Shoppe - Lincoln
Marky's Meat Market - Gering
Cornhusker Beef Company - Nebraska City
              
Meat Processors
American Butchers - Beaver City
Aurora Meat Block - Aurora
Belschner Custom Meats - Amherst
Blair Meat Market - Blair
Den's Country Meats - Table Rock
Heartland Provisions - Diller
Dundy County Processors - Benkelman
Faltin Meat Market - Howells
Gentert Pack - Holstein
Husker Meats - Ainsworth
Karpisek Market - Wilber
McLean Beef - York
Midwest Meat Company - Minden
M-K Meats - Unadilla
North Bend Locker - North Bend
Ord Locker - Ord
Pickrell Locker & Smokehouse - Pickrell
Shamrock Locker - O'Neill
Wahoo Locker - Wahoo

The 2025 Nebraska Beef Passport runs from May 1 through September 30.

For more details visit www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org or contact the Nebraska Beef Council at 1-800-421-5326.
 


The 41st International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo: Where Ethanol’s Leaders and Producers Meet

In today’s unpredictable market, the smartest decision you can make is to stay connected—to new ideas, new partners, and the pulse of the industry. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the 41st International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo (FEW), June 9-11, 2025, in Omaha, Nebraska.

For more than 40 years, this is the one place where ethanol producers from across the globe gather alongside technology providers, innovators, and policy leaders to move the industry forward. If you’re making critical short-term decisions or planning long-term investments, the FEW offers the technical content, strategic perspective, and face-to-face networking you need to stay ahead.

“There’s no substitute for being in the room with the people who are shaping the future of ethanol,” said John Nelson, chief operating officer at BBI International. “In addition to being the largest and longest running ethanol event during the past 41 years, the FEW is where producers, innovators and decision-makers come together to tackle challenges, share solutions and spark the next wave of industry progress. If you want to be part of what’s next, this is where you need to be.”

With more than 2,500 attendees, 575+ producers, and nearly 400 exhibitors, FEW http://fuelethanolworkshop.com/ is the largest and longest-running ethanol event in the world. It's where you'll learn about process improvements, carbon capture strategies, and new market opportunities—from SAF to co-product innovation. It's where decisions are made, deals are done, and the future of ethanol is shaped.



Time to check and treat your herd for ticks

Temperatures are warmer, grass is greening up nicely, and yes, it's time for ticks. But are ticks on cattle a concern? Absolutely, said Iowa Beef Center program specialist Beth Reynolds, because of disease transmission opportunities.

For example, anaplasmosis is a tickborne disease with an estimated U.S. beef industry impact over $300 million per year. The cost is realized in poor performance, abortions, and death loss.

"For infected cattle that recover without medication, these animals remain carriers for life without showing clinical signs which increases the likelihood for the disease to spread within the herd," she said. "Anaplasmosis is in Iowa with cases trending higher in recent years."

There are various methods available to control tick populations on livestock, with use dependent on individual circumstances.

"Treating with chemical acaricides, like a pour-on, is the most common strategy," Reynolds said. "To prevent ticks from developing resistance, rotate the class of chemical used annually. When treating, treat all animals in the herd at the same time, and reapply product according to label directions for best results."

Burning pastures in the spring can reduce tick populations in that pasture, although she cautions farmers to be aware of brush areas, etc. that can serve as tick refuges.

She said a recent BEEF magazine article titled "Dangerous hitchhikers" does a great job of describing and explaining cattle health threats caused by ticks, and encourages producers to take a look at it.

The three most common species encountered in Iowa are the blacklegged (deer) tick, American dog (wood) tick, and the lone star tick. All three are effective vectors for different diseases and pose a risk to humans as well as livestock and pets. In addition, lone star tick bites pose the risk of alpha-gal syndrome (red meat allergy.) Awareness and prevention are crucial in keeping yourself and your livestock healthy.

For more information, check out this ISU resource available online Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases PM 2036 https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/12612.  



Six Cattle Technology Trends That Continue to Push Boundaries
Bruce Derksen on behalf of Performance Livestock Analytics

The cattle industry has seen a sharp rise in technology in recent years. While new high-tech tools are promising, they also have to be practical, user-friendly and offer a solid return on investment before cattle producers invest.

The surge of new technology brings both optimism and skepticism. We talked to cattle producers and related experts about seven tools they’re excited or concerned about, think have value or are considering for their operations.

Electronic identification (EID) tags
Individual animal identification is top-of-mind for many producers.

Missouri rancher Matt Poindexter hopes for complete birth to butcher traceability. “We should be able to keep records from the day a calf is born to the day it’s hanging on the rail and have the information move back and forth across the supply chain,” he says.

If cow/calf producers used more EID technology and passed data to backgrounders, finishers and packing plants, it would improve management practices, protocols and production strategies, Poindexter says.

“I’d know what shots were given and when, solving comingling issues by pairing groups with the same vaccines,” he says. “I could even isolate bloodlines more susceptible to sickness to improve my herd.”

South Dakota rancher Chris Howard’s interest in individual identification lies in pasture management. He would use the added data to confirm correlations between movements and rotational grazing timing.

“My theory is at a certain threshold, cows move more to attain the same level of forage intake. If I identify this threshold, my rotational grazing will be more efficient,” he says.

On a simpler note, he’d also welcome ‘The cows are out!’ alerts.

For producers considering or already using EID tags, here are a few ideas to make sure you’re getting the most out of your tag investment.

Performance tracking through the chain
Many producers show interest in pairing performance tracking software with EID tag systems for better decision-making.

Iowa-based Ryan Brothers Inc. buys 700- to 800-pound calves and feeds them to finish.

“If I could share EID information with a cow/calf guy and continue the data to finishing and slaughter before it returns to them, it would be huge,” says co-owner Pat Ryan. “If there is enough good information on the tags to track performance, we’d know next year when they’re selling those calves again if they were a good or poor buy.”

He thinks this historical information, including accurate finishing weights, would guide purchasing and sorting strategies.

Nebraska rancher Paul Johnson agrees that receiving data back on the steers, replacements and bred heifers he sells each year would be beneficial.

“We don’t get any data back as we don’t have the facilities to finish our cattle,” Johnson says. “It would be nice to know how they do. We see what they gained but that’s it. With more information, we’d put extra value on carcass merit for our herd.”

Herd management software
Many cattle feeders have long relied on handwritten notes to manage feeding, inventory, health, marketing and more. Pen and paper have obvious limitations, including human error and physical degradation.

North Carolina feeder Brandon Pardue wanted to stop passing scraps of paper to the loader operator mixing ingredients, who then transferred them to the feed truck driver.

Pardue picked Performance Beef from Performance Livestock Analytics to help him manage details that could otherwise get lost. “I love the simplicity and handiness of it,” he says. “When tallying up a group, we aren’t worried about every number and date we wrote down. What went into the group is right in front of us.”

He loves how the software removes inventory automatically and puts it directly where it’s supposed to go. “You know a group’s cost every day,” he says. “Having the accuracy of feeding, weights and inventory numbers has saved us time, improved efficiency and added profit. Plus, the detailed analytics and reports assure our clients.

Feed bunk management
Reading and responding to feed bunk conditions is often considered an optional task. If done at all, it typically falls to a feedlot employee scribbling down a few notes while traveling past the bunks. This “unofficial” task can make or break profitability as bunk mismanagement leads to extra days on feed, bloats, average daily gain valleys and feed conversion pitfalls.

“I wanted to view remotely when bunks were going clean as I’m often away,” says Lance Hamman, Iowa feedlot owner and new Precision Livestock Technologies user. “I needed 24-hour monitoring to eliminate the wild swings in feeding and stay ahead of the trend curve for what my pens were doing.”

Precision Livestock Technologies’ machine vision system tracks bunks and feeding behavior via 24/7 camera monitoring. Hamman believes this tool has increased average daily gains and improved feed efficiency.

“It provides enough information even the novice can use to make more accurate decisions, but there’s plenty to keep the experts busy.”

Feed efficiency
“Feed efficiency is our next low-hanging fruit,” says Wisconsin beef producer Jared Geiser. “Days on feed and actual feed costs are the two biggest drivers of profitability. Getting a jump on selecting the most efficient animals for our environment sets us up for success.”

He appreciates that some companies measure feed intake through smart bunks weighing feed consumption. Startup costs can be high, though, which prevents most average producers from accessing this tool.

“Feed efficiency is the next logical step for selecting highly functional and profitable cattle,” Geiser says. “The industry is behind the rest of the world in traceability and advanced reproduction. We must step up and use advancing technologies when they become more available, practical and affordable.”

Genetic testing and selection
Genetic testing isn’t a new idea, however more commercial cow/calf operators now want testing data for bulls they purchase.

Troy Rowan, assistant professor and beef genetics extension specialist at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, says widespread use of genetic tests is the largest technological leap of the last two decades.

“Historically, commercial buyers made purchases with limited information and minimal data,” he says. “Genomics and genetic testing have instilled more confidence as large amounts of accurate data become available. Integrating genomic evaluations to help reduce the risk associated with these large investments creates a major advancement.”

Shared concerns
Technological advances are exciting, but government interference and regulation worry many.

Poindexter is hesitant about mandated animal identification. “I know there is demand for it, and when voluntary, then fine. If enforced, then no. It needs to be our option.”

Ryan agrees. “It’s a changing industry. We’re fighting rules and regulations we don’t necessarily like.”

Johnson adds, “The line we must walk is that it would be nice to do all these things but I’m not a fan of government overreach. For my sake, I’d love GPS trackers on every cow, but the possible consequences scare me.”  

Geiser is concerned about secondary selection pressure and missing the big picture when focusing too much on feed efficiency. “Does relying on this technology cause an antagonistic relationship with marbling, milk, foot health, docility and more? Do we spend too much money and effort chasing technologies and miss opportunities to contract/hedge profitably in search of the next dollar down the road?”   

Cost and ROI play major roles in how a technology is perceived.

“Either we adapt or die as an operation. It’s how it goes,” Johnson says. “If something specific becomes cost-effective, we need to take a long, hard look at it and not just automatically rule things out.”

Howard says, “Dollars are the potential drawback with anything. If it’s something I’m interested in, I’d try it if it’s financially feasible.”

To the future and beyond
Cattle producers are interested in technologies that improve efficiency, reduce labor and provide useful data. Many are opening their minds and occasionally their pocketbooks for the right opportunities.

The future will reveal which technologies get adopted and stick around for the long haul.



NMPF Dairy Market Report - APRIL 2025

Rising milk production, together with the current climate of general economic uncertainty, is pressuring milk prices, although margins remain relatively high.

February fluid milk sales were 1.3% higher than a year earlier when adjusted for leap year, while revised January numbers from USDA show the national milk cow herd was 66,000 head larger than in January 2024. Preliminary February numbers showed an annual gain of 62,000 head and a leap year-adjusted 1% increase U.S. milk production.

The four monthly NDPSR dairy product survey prices, and consequently the Class III and Class IV prices, were all lower in March from a month earlier. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all items set a new record in March, as it usually does, but it was just 2.4% higher than a year earlier, indicating a relative cooling of overall retail price inflation by that common yardstick. The March CPIs for most of the key dairy products reported stayed measurably below the high levels they attained in recent years. The U.S. average all-milk price dropped by $0.50/cwt from January to $23.60/cwt in February, and the Dairy Margin Coverage margin dropped by $0.73/cwt, to $13.12/cwt.

View Full Report https://www.nmpf.org/milk-sales-increase-dairy-prices-slip-amid-economic-shifts/



March Egg Production Down 7 Percent

United States egg production totaled 8.63 billion during March 2025, down 7 percent from last year. Production included 7.35 billion table eggs, and 1.28 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.18 billion were broiler-type and 104 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during March 2025 totaled 351 million, down 8 percent from last year. March egg production per 100 layers was 2,458 eggs, up slightly from March 2024.
                                    
Total layers in the United States on April 1, 2025 totaled 351 million, down 8 percent from last year. The 351 million layers consisted of 287 million layers producing table or market type eggs, 60.4 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 4.00 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on April 1, 2025, averaged 79.1 eggs per 100 layers, down slightly from April 1, 2024.



NSP seeks candidates for the Board of Directors

National Sorghum Producers has opened applications for the 2025 board of directors. NSP is looking for new producer leaders who are passionate about advancing the crop and shaping the future of the sorghum industry.

“We often hear that getting involved is the most important thing we can do to ensure tomorrow for our industry and the next generation,” said NSP Chair Amy France. “In today’s uncertainty, there are no truer words. We are excited to help drive effective policy and promote, advocate for, and defend the sorghum industry. We encourage and welcome all who have a passion for sorghum, agriculture and the future of our family farms to apply.”

Board members are instrumental in advancing policies and building relationships that benefit sorghum farmers and the industry. Candidates should be NSP members passionate about advocacy and fundraising, with a vision to advance the industry. No prior board experience is necessary to apply.

“We’re looking for forward-thinking leaders who are passionate about shaping the future of the sorghum industry at this critical time,” NSP CEO Tim Lust said. “With ongoing policy challenges and opportunities on the horizon, our farmer-led board plays a vital role in ensuring sorghum producers are strongly represented in Washington, D.C. It’s about stepping up with vision, purpose and a commitment to making a real impact.”

Applications are due Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 5 p.m. Central Time. After the application deadline, the NSP Nominating Committee will review all applications before making nominations to the NSP Board of Directors for consideration and election during the August summer board meeting. Selected members will serve a three-year term, beginning October 1, 2025—the start of NSP’s fiscal year.

For the application and more information, visit SorghumGrowers.com/leadership/.