Thursday April 09 Ag News - Combining Pesticide Training with Cancer Education - Agronomy Decisions Using AI - Iowa Farm Act passes IA House - CHS Q2 Results - Fertilizer prices Jump Higher - and more

What happens in Texas...
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

Does not stay in Texas. Borrowing from the slang which refers to when someone misbehaves somewhere (such as in Las Vegas) knowledge of the deed remains in that location. Yet, for the purpose of this column, what might happen in Texas will not just affect Texas but other states including ours.

Responding to the threat of New World screwworm (NWSW) in November of 2024, USDA paused imports of feeder cattle from Mexico. A regional resumption of imports occurred about a year ago, but these efforts were stopped as discovery of infected cattle (and other livestock and pets) closer to the US border occurred in May of 2025.

Fast forward to early 2026: beef industry news outlets reported on renewed interest to resume imports of live feeder cattle from Mexico. As of this writing, advocates of resumption of feeder cattle imports suggest that specific ports of entry furthest from the eastern states in Mexico where live screwworm infestations continue (Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas) be considered for phase reopening.

Whether you are in support of this idea or not, two questions come to mind: 1) How is the absence of feeder cattle affecting the Texas cattle feeding industry? and 2) What are the long-term

implications of a reduction in feeder calf supply (domestic and imported) on Texas agriculture?

Unfortunately, answers to the first question are beginning to surface. Late in February, Lubbock Feeders, a 50,000-head capacity feedlot in Lubbock, TX, made the decision to close. Reasons cited for the closure included the loss of feeder cattle sourced from Mexico. Mexican sourced feeder cattle made up to 70% of the total cattle on feed at Lubbock Feeders.

Overall, the suspension of imports of feeder cattle from Mexico resulted in a net loss of 1.1 million feeders, which is the average number of feeders imported from Mexico during the years 2022 to 2024. This short supply of feeder cattle became more significant as domestic feeder calf supply is also at an all-time low.

High-priced feeders and high-priced grain (delivered in Texas) are real pressures on feedlot economics for Texas cattle feeders.

As Texas cattle feedlots cope with economic pressures greater than those experienced by feeders in states closer to grain production, the implications will affect the rest of the country, particularly grain-producing regions.

With an average inventory of 2.5 million head of cattle on feed and a turnover rate of 2, Texas cattle feeders are expected to market 5 million head of grain-fed cattle a year. At average on-feed gain of 650 lb and a conversion ratio of corn grain to beef of 6 lb-to-1 lb, Texas cattle consume 400 million bushels of corn. Texas corn growers produce around 200 million bushels of corn. Therefore, Texas is a net grain importer to fulfill the needs of its feedlot industry.

If the Texas cattle feeding industry disappears, corn derived from approximately 200 million bushels will have to find other uses. This is the equivalent to the production of 1.1 million acres of corn (about one tenth of the corn-producing area of Nebraska).

Other major economic impacts will also be felt by the Texas and US economy. Assuming a labor ratio of 1 person to each 1,000 cattle on feed, unemployment resulting from closure of Texas feedlots may affect 2,500 individuals.

The alternative: resuming imports of Mexican feeder cattle may not result in a speedy recovery for Texas feeders. Demand for feeders to be finished in Mexico is strong. Alternatively, if the NWSW fly is discovered in Texas (or any other southern US state), health regulations for cattle derived from those states will immediately tighten.

Therefore, it appears that there is no easy answers, but what might happen in Texas will not affect Texans only.



A new path to cancer prevention for Nebraska’s agricultural community

In Nebraska, agriculture isn’t just an industry; it’s a way of life. With more than 44,000 farms and ranches across all 93 counties, the rural and spread-out nature of agricultural communities makes it challenging to reach them with health information. But one program is changing that. 

Pesticide Applicator Training connects with thousands of Nebraska producers each year, teaching safe chemical handling and reducing exposure risks. Now, it’s also helping bring cancer prevention and screening education directly to people who need it most.  

Rural Nebraskans face higher cancer risks and often have less access to preventive care. Traditional outreach doesn’t always reach these communities, but trusted programs do.  

A new partnership between the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center and Nebraska Extension embeds cancer education directly into pesticide training sessions, making it easier to reach producers in a meaningful, practical way.  

“We’re bringing cancer prevention and screening education directly to people in settings they already trust,” said Rachael L. Schmidt, APRN-NP, assistant director for Cancer Education and Screening, Community Outreach & Engagement. “By meeting individuals where they are, we are expanding awareness and connecting more Nebraskans to lifesaving screening.”  

The connection is a natural fit.   

“Pesticide Applicator Training is fundamentally about risk reduction,” said Hannah Guenther, statewide rural health Nebraska Extension educator and Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center representative. “Expanding that conversation to include cancer helps them recognize that there are multiple ways to reduce health risks—whether that means wearing proper protective equipment in the field or talking to a healthcare provider about recommended screenings.” 

Since January 2026, the program has reached more than 600 agricultural producers across Nebraska, with programs integrating short, 5–15 minute education segments covering cancer screening guidelines, and resources for follow-up care. 

Early feedback is encouraging. “Educators reported that the content fit seamlessly into existing sessions, and several participants said they plan to discuss cancer screenings with their healthcare provider,” Guenther said. “We are hopeful this approach will lead to increased awareness, earlier detection, and ultimately improved health outcomes in rural Nebraska communities.” 



WINNING CONTEST ENTRY SHOWS AI’S AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL

Nipuna Chamara, research assistant professor in biological systems engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, won a category of the 2025 Testing Ag Performance Solutions competition using artificial intelligence to make decisions for him.

The takeaway? AI can be an invaluable agricultural tool when paired with farmers’ experience and know-how.

“If a person like me, who’s not a farmer, can use AI to win a competition like this, imagine what a seasoned farmer, with decades of experience and knowledge, could do with this tool,” Chamara said.

The TAPS program is a university-led, real-world competition where participants manage actual plots of corn and soybeans for an entire growing season. The three judging categories are highest yield, highest profitability and highest input use efficiency. Participants make many of the same decisions for their TAPS plot that they make at home — such as seed selection, irrigation, pest control and grain marketing — but in a low-risk environment where they can experiment without harming or diminishing crops on their working farms.

Each team is given a plot or plots of land on which to grow their crops. Extension educators provide the teams with data, such as moisture levels and soil health, after which teams decide how much and when to water, fertilize or make other such choices. The results are tallied in September, and the winners are announced in January the following year.

In 2025, the TAPS fields were located at the Research, Extension and Education Centers in North Platte and Mead, Nebraska.

“The average grower has about 40 growing seasons to improve their operation,” said Chris Proctor, a Nebraska Extension educator who helps manage the contest. “As soon as the seed goes in the ground, they’re kind of locked in for that year. Within TAPS, last year we got 116 teams competing, so that’s 116 growing seasons’ worth of decisions all in one. So, in some ways it accelerates the learning iterations that are possible within the season.”

After a conversation with his doctoral supervisor, Yufeng Ge, and teaming up with faculty with expertise in nitrogen management, irrigation management, agronomy and agricultural economics, Chamara first entered the competition in 2024, using OpenAI’s ChatGPT to help him make decisions. He found decision-making in a real-world environment difficult and not practical with the AI models available.

At the time, ChatGPT had no real-time access to data, so Chamara and his team entered all the data manually, uploading information on crop type, soil health, moisture, weather and more. They then asked the AI simple close-ended questions about whether it was a good time to plant, fertilize, etc., and followed the recommendations given.

Proctor said he and the other competition managers didn’t see the use of AI as cheating and were more curious than anything.

“At that time, the excitement was building around AI, and I still don’t know that all of us really had our heads wrapped around what it was,” Proctor said. “At that point, it was much more conceptual than practical. AI claimed to do a lot of things, so let’s just see what happens. I didn’t have an expectation that it was just going to run away with the competition.”

That year, Chamara and his team placed seventh in the yield category.

For the 2025 competition, Chamara grew three corn plots and one soybean plot and immediately noticed two key differences with AI:
> It had become more advanced, pulling in real-time data from the internet on which to base its recommendations, even considering recent news about commodity price fluctuations.
> It already had data from the previous year’s competition to serve as a foundation for adding the current year’s information.

To capitalize on these advances, Chamara and his team would upload new data, such as the weekly grain report, and ask close-ended questions with a specific objective in mind.

The AI would then pull information from the internet, combine it with Chamara’s new and old data and recommend certain actions followed by an explanation of its reasoning. For example, as Chamara was competing in the profitability side of the contest, the AI suggested he lock in prices for his corn early because, at the time, market prices for crops were fluctuating drastically with the introduction of new tariffs.

Chamara said that relying solely on AI does run risks, as it can sometimes base recommendations on faulty or incorrect information found online, and he stressed the importance of turning to reliable sources such as grain reports and extension publications. However, he said, countries like the United States and Canada have a long history of collecting agricultural data and sharing it openly with the public, which benefits AI decision-making.

At the conclusion of the 2025 competition, Chamara and his team earned first place for the highest corn yield in the Mead sprinkler corn competition. They recently published the research outcomes in the journal Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture.

For the 2026 competition, Chamara said he would like to focus on profitability and sustainability and see how AI fares. He also would like to see an app that lets farmers connect AI to the sensors around their farm, automatically uploading real-time data daily to provide them with the most up-to-date information on how to accomplish agricultural goals.

“I think the growers that have more robust digital records and data sets can train AI to be more useful because now, all of a sudden, it gives a context to AI,” Proctor said. “If it has that backlog of reference, that’s where I think the power is.”

Chamara said if farmers are willing to try using AI, they already have the domain knowledge to couple with it.“Like a person who has Google, or a person who uses the library, we can use AI as a tool to make us more powerful in processing data,” he said.



Naig Applauds Bi-Partisan House Passage of Iowa Farm Act

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today applauded the Iowa House of Representatives’ strong bi-partisan passage of the Iowa Farm Act, House File 2748, by a vote of 81 to 8.   

“Thank you to members of the Iowa House for their strong bipartisan vote in support of the Iowa Farm Act,” said Secretary Naig. “I appreciate the leadership of Rep. Derek Wulf for floor-managing the bill and Speaker Pat Grassley for his continued support—both farmers who are constant champions for agriculture. This kind of bipartisan backing sends a clear message about the importance of agriculture to Iowa’s economy, communities, and future.” 

About the Iowa Farm Act 
The Iowa Farm Act is a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive legislative package introduced by Secretary Naig. It is designed to support Iowa farmers, strengthen rural communities, and position the state’s agricultural economy for long-term success. The bill reflects priorities identified by farmers, agribusinesses, and stakeholders and delivers practical solutions to today’s challenges while preparing for the future. The legislation expands economic opportunities by supporting value-added agriculture, agritourism, and new market access. It also provides targeted tax relief and regulatory clarity to reduce costs, promote fairness, and support farm succession. The package invests in the next generation of agriculture by prioritizing beginning farmers and strengthening the rural veterinary workforce. Additionally, it enhances Iowa’s biosecurity and foreign animal disease preparedness while protecting farmer confidentiality during emergencies. Finally, the Iowa Farm Act modernizes state operations and improves efficiency to better serve farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities. 



Long-time CHS Board member and former chair takes on new leadership opportunity

CHS Board of Directors member and former chair Dan Schurr, a farmer from eastern Iowa, has resigned his position on the CHS Board, effective March 30, 2026.

Schurr has accepted a seat on the Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company board of directors. In connection with his new role, he has stepped down from the CHS Board prior to completion of his term in December 2026. CHS and Nationwide have collaborated in serving cooperative owners with trusted products and services for many years.

“We thank Dan for his two decades of commitment to CHS and the cooperative system,” says CHS Board Chair C.J. Blew. “His vision, insights and dedication to shared success have been instrumental in CHS growth and strength. We know he will continue to be an advocate for cooperatives and for CHS.”

Schurr was first elected to the CHS Board by CHS members in Region 7 in 2006. He served as Board chair from 2017 through 2025. His Board seat will remain vacant until the 2026 CHS Annual Meeting, when CHS members from Region 7 elect a new Director to a three-year term. Region 7 includes Iowa and Missouri and nine other states to the south and southeast.



CHS reports second quarter fiscal year 2026 earnings

CHS Inc., a global agribusiness and the nation’s leading cooperative, today released results for its second quarter of fiscal year 2026. The company reported a net loss of $147.1 million and revenues of $8.4 billion for the quarter that ended February 28, 2026, compared to a net loss of $75.8 million and revenues of $7.8 billion in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025.

Key highlights for second quarter fiscal year 2026 financial results:
    In our energy segment, significantly higher expenses for renewable energy credits (RINs) and unrealized hedging losses were offset by strong operational execution and improved crack spreads.
    Continued market headwinds in grains, including weaker soy and canola crush margins, were partially offset by increased corn export volumes and stronger retail corn margins.
    Decreased agronomy sales volumes in crop nutrients and crop protection product lines, due to a weaker U.S. farm economy, were partially offset by continued strong performance from our CF Nitrogen joint venture.  

“CHS continues to deliver strong operational performance for our owners, despite the significant ongoing global industry challenges that are reflected in our financial results," said Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS Inc. “We will remain focused on cost discipline, operational excellence and supplying our owners with the inputs they need during planting season, as well as executing against all of our fiscal 2026 priorities."

Starting in fiscal year 2026, the company's financial segments have changed to align with its new end-to-end product-line operating model. 

Energy 
This segment includes our refined fuels, propane and lubricants product lines. Energy reported a pretax loss of $133.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2026, which represents a $54.2 million decrease versus the prior year period. This reflects significantly increased RINs expenses, as well as commodity market fluctuations and their impact on hedges, partially offset by higher crack spreads and an improved sales mix of refined fuels products. 

Grains
The grains segment primarily includes our corn, oilseeds, wheat and specialty grains product lines. The pretax loss of $17.9 million represents a $9.5 million decrease versus the prior year period and reflects:
    Lower oilseed crush margins, partially offset by the timing impact of temporary mark-to-market adjustments associated with commodity derivatives and by higher corn export volumes and stronger retail corn margins. 

Agronomy
This segment includes crop nutrients, crop protection and CF Nitrogen. A pretax loss of $11.5 million represents a $0.1 million decrease versus the prior year period and reflects:
    Decreased wholesale and retail crop nutrients margins.
    This decrease was partially offset by continued strong performance from our CF Nitrogen investment, driven by higher urea and UAN prices. 

Corporate and services
This segment includes CHS Capital and CHS Hedging, as well as our Ardent Mills and Ventura Foods joint ventures. The pretax loss of $1.9 million represents a $16.4 million decrease versus the prior year period, due to lower equity method earnings from our joint ventures.



DTN Retail Fertilizer Trends

Retail fertilizer prices continue to jump, in some cases by double-digits -- one of them by more than 30%. According to prices tracked by DTN for the last week of March 2026, all eight of the major fertilizers are higher compared to last month for the second week in a row. Five of the eight major fertilizers had considerable price increases compared to prior month. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more. 

Urea led the way higher again as the nitrogen fertilizer was a whopping 34% higher compared to last month. The liquid fertilizer had an average price of $838/ton. Both UAN28 and UAN32 were 21% higher than a month ago. UAN28 had an average price of $496/ton, while UAN32 was at $564/ton. Anhydrous was 18% higher than the prior month and had an average price of $1,060/ton. 10-34-0 was 8% more expensive than last month and had an average price of $714/ton.

The remaining three nutrients were slightly higher in price compared to last month. DAP had an average price of $863/ton, MAP was $917/ton and potash $489/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.91/lb.N, anhydrous $0.65/lb.N, UAN28 $0.89/lb.N and UAN32 $0.88/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier by the following amounts: potash, 6%; 10-34-0, 10%; MAP and DAP, 12%; UAN32, 34%; anhydrous and UAN28, 38%; and urea, 48%.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 4/3/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending April 3, ethanol production bounced 3.8% higher to 1.12 million b/d, equivalent to 46.87 million gallons daily. Output was 9.3% higher than the same week last year and 10.3% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.3% to 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.91 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks ticked up 0.2% to 26.1 million barrels. Stocks were 3.6% lower than the same week last year and 0.3% below the three-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the East Coast (PADD 1).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, softened 1.4% to a 5-week low of 8.56 million b/d (131.65 bg annualized). Demand was 1.6% more than a year ago but 1.1% below the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol declined 0.9% to 895,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.76 bg annualized. Net inputs were 2.6% more than year-ago levels and 1.4% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports swelled 65.0% to an estimated 203,000 b/d (8.5 million gallons/day), the largest weekly volume since February. It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.

Wednesday April 08 Ag News - UNL Alumni Lifetime Achievement Awards - UNL Webinars on wildfire recovery, cattle health challenges - Heuermann Lecture Apr 28 - NCGA Fertilizer Attitudes Survey - and more!

 UNL Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award 2025

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln recognizes four distinguished alumni with the 2025 Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award from the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture. Thomas S. Payne, Calvin O. Qualset, James “Jim” S. Schepers, and the late James “Jim” Specht are honored for their contributions to agriculture, research, and community service. The awards will be presented at the department’s Spring Banquet at the Nebraska East Union on April 15, 2026.

Calvin Qualset, an internationally recognized geneticist and plant breeder, improved cereal crop productivity and sustainability. Qualset was raised on a farm near Newman Grove, Nebraska, and graduated from Newman Grove High School in 1954. He earned a bachelor’s degree in technical agriculture from the University of Nebraska in 1958. At the University of California, Davis, he helped develop more than 24 wheat, barley, oat, and triticale varieties, doubling wheat yields and tripling acreage in California. He also played a leading role in conserving crop genetic diversity and served as founding director of the UC Genetic Resources Conservation Program.

Thomas Payne strengthened the genetic foundation of wheat globally through his work at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). He led the world’s largest wheat germplasm collection and the CIMMYT International Wheat Improvement Network, which tests thousands of wheat lines across more than 700 sites in over 90 countries. Payne also served as assistant and interim director of the Wheat Program and as CIMMYT Board secretary. Payne was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1958 and graduated from Lincoln Northeast High School in 1977. 

James Schepers contributed to soil science and precision agriculture, focusing on nitrogen management in crops. His research developed an active crop canopy sensor to monitor plant chlorophyll and guide in-season nitrogen applications. This work improves fertilizer efficiency, reduces environmental impact, and increases farm profitability. Scheppers was raised on an irrigated farm in the Platte River Valley near Shelton, Nebraska, he enrolled at the University of Nebraska and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1968. 

James Specht, a soybean genetics expert, advanced understanding of soybean physiology and genetics. He contributed to the first molecular marker–based genetic map of soybean and studied yield response to water availability. Specht’s research guided earlier planting strategies, improving soybean yield and water efficiency across the Midwest. Specht was raised near Scottsbluff, Nebraska, on a farm that produced irrigated sugar beets and other crops. He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and received his Bachelor of Science degree in agronomy in 1967.



Webinar on USDA Wildfire Recovery Programs in Nebraska April 15

Nebraska producers and landowners affected by recent wildfires can learn more about federal disaster assistance and recovery options during an upcoming webinar hosted by the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The webinar, "Wildfire Recovery Programs: USDA Resources for Nebraska," will be held at noon Central Time on April 15. It will feature representatives from the Nebraska state offices of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service, who will discuss available programs and considerations for those working through wildfire recovery.

The presentation will cover USDA resources related to livestock losses, grazing and forage losses, fencing and water infrastructure repair, debris removal, and eligible conservation assistance. Speakers also will explain how those programs apply in the current wildfire response and what producers and landowners should know as they work with local USDA offices.

The webinar is free to attend, but registration is required on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s webinars page https://cap.unl.edu/webinars/.

The Nebraska Farm Service Agency details many wildfire resources on its website https://www.fsa.usda.gov/state-offices/nebraska. 



Nebraska Extension to host April 16 webinar on spring cattle health challenges

The program, Nebraska Cattle Health Outlook: New World screwworm update, scours prevention and diagnostics, and UNL research on bovine pinkeye, will be held April 16 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Central Time via Zoom.

The webinar is designed for Nebraska beef producers and allied industry professionals seeking timely, research-based information on late-spring herd health risks.

Dr. Matt Hille, assistant professor and diagnostic pathologist at the Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center, will lead the session. Hille earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University and spent five years in feedlot and cow-calf practice in South Dakota before returning to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to complete a doctorate and residency in anatomic pathology. His work focuses on infectious diseases and immunology in beef cattle.

Topics will include:
    An update on New World screwworm
    Prevention and diagnostic strategies for calf scours
    University of Nebraska–Lincoln research on bovine pinkeye

The webinar will provide practical guidance to help producers make informed herd health decisions heading into the late spring and summer months.

Registration is available at: https://pears.io/events/nebraskaextension/5109/

For more information, contact Brock Ortner at 308-327-2312 or bortner2@nebraska.edu. 



Heuermann Lecture - Advancing Agricultural Innovation
A Fireside Chat with Under Secretary Scott Hutchins and IANR Vice Chancellor Tiffany Heng-Moss
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
3:00 p.m. CST - Lecture
Nebraska East Union, Great Plains Room
1705 Arbor Drive
Lincoln, NE 

Scott Hutchins, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics and Chief Scientist, will join Vice Chancellor Tiffany Heng‑Moss for a fireside chat exploring the future of agricultural innovation.

Drawing on his leadership overseeing USDA’s science agencies and decades of experience advancing agricultural research and innovation across the public and private sectors, Hutchins will share insights on collaboration, discovery, and the role of land‑grant universities in shaping resilient food and agricultural systems.

No cost and open to the public, no RSVP required. Lectures are streamed live online. Visit Website For Details https://heuermannlectures.unl.edu/.  



NCGA Surveys Find Rising Alarm Over Fertilizer Costs and Availability, with Risks Escalating Into 2027

U.S. corn farmers are facing growing uncertainty around fertilizer affordability and access, with concern mounting well beyond the current planting season, according to new survey results released today by the National Corn Growers Association.

Findings from two nationwide surveys conducted in late March reveal that while many growers secured fertilizer supplies for the 2026 crop before recent global disruptions intensified, anxiety about fertilizer pricing and availability is rapidly accelerating—particularly for the 2027 crop year.

“Fertilizer prices were high even before the war in Iran began,” said Jed Bower, Ohio farmer and NCGA President. “Added market stress due to the Strait of Hormuz closure has only intensified an already difficult situation, particularly as we look towards 2027.”  
For every farmer expressing greater concern about fertilizer prices and availability for 2026, nearly two farmers report heightened concern for 2027, the surveys found, underscoring that today’s market volatility is already shaping decisions well beyond this season.
 
Retail fertilizer prices rose following the onset of conflict in the Middle East, a critical hub for global fertilizer trade. While prices remain below their 2022 peaks, affordability has deteriorated because corn prices are much lower today. On a “currency of corn” basis, farmers now need 185 bushels of corn to purchase one ton of urea, the highest level on record.
 
Beyond rising costs, farmers are increasingly worried about whether fertilizer will be available when they need it. Global shipping disruptions and reports of curtailed fertilizer production in several countries are tightening supplies and heightening uncertainty across markets.
 
To make matters worse, two multi-billion-dollar fertilizer companies based in the United States – Mosaic Corporation and J.R. Simplot – have pushed for continuation of countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco, resulting in higher prices and a stoppage of fertilizer shipments from that country.
 
While near-term supplies for spring 2026 appear relatively stable for many producers, survey responses make clear that concern intensifies looking ahead. Fertilizer supply chains operate on long timelines, and disruptions today could compound into tighter supplies later this year—precisely when farmers begin securing inputs for the 2027 crop.

“Fertilizer purchasing decisions are forward-looking,” the report notes, “and today’s uncertainty is already influencing how growers view the risks of the next crop cycle.” 



RFA Applauds Regulatory Progress on 45Z, Seeks Additional Refinement and Immediate Release of New GREET Model

The U.S. Department of Treasury has made “meaningful progress” in developing rules implementing the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, but several aspects of the regulations need additional clarity and refinement, according to comments submitted to Treasury by the Renewable Fuels Association.

According to RFA’s comments, the top priority for Treasury should be releasing an updated 45ZCF-GREET model as soon as possible. The model is used by ethanol producers to determine the lifecycle “emissions rate” of their fuel, which ultimately establishes the value of the 45Z tax credit.

“If effectively implemented, the 45Z tax credit has the potential to stimulate domestic energy production, strengthen U.S. energy security, bolster rural economies, and support increased investment and innovation in the renewable fuels and agriculture sectors,” wrote RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “The technology-neutral structure of 45Z is a crucial feature, allowing clean fuel producers to pursue the most economically efficient and practical pathways for reducing emissions and boosting domestic energy production.”

“However, as currently drafted, certain aspects of the proposal introduce inconsistencies and implementation challenges that may limit participation, create unintended market impacts, and reduce the near-term effectiveness of the program,” he added.

Among the major points stressed in the comments:
    RFA strongly supports Treasury’s proposed integration of important changes to the 45Z credit program, as directed by last year’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
    Treasury and the Department of Energy should immediately release an updated 45ZCF-GREET model that reflects OBBBA-directed changes.
    The agencies should work with the Department of Agriculture to finalize and integrate workable, equitable, and science-based technical guidelines for regenerative agriculture feedstocks and an updated FD-CIC calculator.
    Treasury should adopt a more flexible Provisional Emissions Rate process that allows for efficient characterization of new technologies and incremental emissions-reducing improvements at existing clean fuel facilities.
    Energy Attribute Certificates must be retained as a practical, market-based tool for reducing emissions rates.
    The interaction of “undenatured fuel ethanol” and “denatured fuel ethanol” for 45Z credit generation must be clarified.
    Treasury should clarify that only transportation and industrial fuels are eligible for 45Z credit generation.
    Foreign feedstock restrictions should not result in undue tracking, certification, and reporting requirements for feedstocks and fuel pathways that do not rely on imports.
    Treasury should clarify several elements of Prevailing Wage and Apprenticeship requirements and provide safe harbors for good-faith efforts to comply.

“We believe the final 45Z regulations must recognize the realities of today’s biorefining and agriculture sectors and the complexities of our nation’s transportation fuels marketplace,” Cooper wrote. “At the same time, final regulations must embrace an intuitive and manageable approach to registration, reporting, recordkeeping, and emissions rate modeling that creates a dependable operating environment and empowers investment.”



Clean Fuels Welcomes Opportunity to Clarify 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit Rules

Clean Fuels Alliance America submitted comments this week on behalf of biodiesel, renewable diesel and SAF producers on Treasury’s proposed rule for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. Clean Fuels expressed appreciation for Treasury’s responsiveness to industry input on the January 2025 Notice of Intent to Propose Rules and urged the agency to provide additional certainty with timely final rules.

“The Proposed Regulations accurately respond to taxpayer comments on the prior guidance and provide additional certainty for the industry,” Clean Fuels writes. “Clean Fuels and its members request additional clarity in some areas.”

Kurt Kovarik, Clean Fuels’ Vice President of Federal Affairs, added, “Producers greatly appreciate the clarifications and reliance clauses that Treasury provided in this proposed rule. They are grateful that Congress adopted additional changes to the 45Z credit through the One Big Beautiful Bill. But the 45Z tax credit came into effect in January 2025 without sufficient industry guidance. Producers are asking for certainty that Treasury’s new proposal applies to sales in 2025. Increased certainty will help achieve Congress’ goals of producing more domestic energy and supporting farmers with domestic market opportunities.”



ACE Calls for Swift Action on 45Z, Reiterates More Clarity Needed on Low-Carbon Farming Practices

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) submitted comments to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service regarding proposed rules on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, emphasizing the need for timely implementation and further clarity to support ethanol producers and farmers.

In written comments, ACE CEO Brian Jennings underscored the significant financial pressure facing rural America and that enabling farmers and producers to benefit from low-carbon practices is critical to unlocking the full value of the 45Z credit.

“Since farming practices represent about half of ethanol’s carbon intensity, clean fuel producers must have the opportunity to monetize low-carbon farming practices such as reduced tillage or precision fertilizer use to fully unlock the value of 45Z.”

ACE noted that if these practices are fully recognized, the economic impact could be substantial.

“If Treasury allows low-carbon farming practices to qualify towards emissions rates it could mean billions of dollars annually for clean fuel producers and farmers, providing a market-based opportunity to dramatically increase rural and farm income.”

Jennings expressed support for elements of the proposed rule, including the use of modeling tools such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Feedstock Carbon Intensity Calculator (FD-CIC) and Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) 45ZCF-GREET model, while stressing the importance of keeping them current with the latest science and real-world data supported through activities such as the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) activity being led by ACE and specifically designed to address information gaps regarding the low-carbon benefits of farming practices to help improve the accuracy of modeling tools.

“We have strongly recommended updates to FD-CIC values for low-carbon farming practices by incorporating the best available science and results from real-world activities, so we are encouraged Treasury expects to make these updates as part of future iterations of the 45ZCF-GREET.”

ACE also urged coordination with the USDA and the DOE to finalize the tools.

“We implore Treasury and the IRS to act swiftly to finalize clear guidance and work closely with USDA and DOE to develop and finalize the tools necessary to achieve full monetization of farming practices.”

Additionally, ACE’s comments call for Treasury to rely on existing USDA protocols within the Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Risk Management Agency (RMA) to verify low-carbon farming practices.

“If these existing USDA protocols are sufficient for verifying the distribution of billions of taxpayer dollars for crop insurance, commodity, and conservation programs, they are equally sufficient for verifying the same conservation practices for the 45Z credit. The Treasury Department should rely on existing USDA assets in the reporting and verification for the 45Z tax credit.”

ACE consultant Jonathon Lehman will testify at the May 28 hearing.



Growth Energy Submits Recommendations for Treasury’s Final 45Z Rule

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, submitted comments to the U.S. Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) outlining recommendations for the implementation of the Section 45Z clean fuel production tax credit, as enhanced and extended by the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB). 

“Treasury has done an outstanding job of collecting feedback from all relevant stakeholders, and we applaud their commitment to implementing 45Z in a way that ultimately maximizes the credit’s economic benefits,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With the right guidance, including flexible guidelines for farmers seeking to adopt innovative practices, 45Z can accelerate U.S. energy leadership and unlock billions of dollars in new investments across rural America. We look forward to Treasury’s final ruling that will give farmers and biofuel producers the certainty they need to expand access to more affordable fuel options.” 

Among other recommendations, Growth Energy urged regulators to include on-farm practices in the credit calculation, follow the law to exclude indirect land use change (iLUC) from the credit calculation, and quickly finalize their guidance. These actions would provide near-term certainty for farmers, clarify how the 45Z-CF GREET model will be used to determine credit eligibility, and open pathways for a wider variety of crop-based feedstocks. Growth Energy also called on Treasury to eliminate administrative complications that could stall investment.  

“Our members are critical to the supply of biofuel in the United States and have substantial interests in the sound implementation of the 45Z credit,” wrote Growth Energy. “Our industry is eager to advance the administration’s energy goals by providing low-cost, innovative, and American-made fuel as we remain committed to helping our country diversify its energy portfolio and provide consumers with better and more affordable choices at the fuel pump.” 



USDA Announces the Creation of the USDA National Proving Grounds Network to Strengthen U.S. Farm and Ranch Profitability

USDA’s Research, Education, and Economics Under Secretary Dr. Scott Hutchins today announced the launch of the USDA National Proving Grounds Network for AgTech (NPG-Ag), a nationwide initiative designed to rigorously evaluate agricultural technologies under real-world U.S. farming and ranching conditions.

“Agricultural research in the United States has long supported the development of practical solutions that improve farm and ranch productivity while strengthening rural economies; indeed, innovation has been our competitive edge and ensured food security since the nation’s founding 250 years ago,” said Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics Dr. Scott Hutchins. “By establishing a coordinated national research network to objectively validate new and emerging technologies, especially digital and AI-driven technologies, we are helping ensure row crop, specialty crop, and livestock producers all have access to reliable performance data for their investment decisions with a goal to accelerate adoption of AgTech innovations. Moreover, we fully expect that NPG-Ag will expand and facilitate the development and application of emerging technologies across the public and private sector to uniquely benefit U.S. agriculture.”

The initiative has been designed to thoroughly test and validate both existing and emerging tools under real-world production conditions, ultimately providing farmers and ranchers with trusted, practical insights that they can rely upon when making technology-investment decisions.

American farmers and ranchers are facing real pressures, and they need confidence that new technologies will deliver tangible value on the ground—whether through lower input costs, reduced labor demands, or greater overall efficiency. The NPG‑Ag delivers a targeted solution to this agricultural challenge, meeting today’s demands and preparing for tomorrow’s needs. This effort is designed to accelerate the U.S. farmer’s confidence to adopt innovations that improve profitability and strengthen the long-term resilience and competitiveness of American agriculture. The NPG-Ag will also provide farmers with trusted, data-driven information on technology performance and economic return, helping reduce investment risk and support more informed decisions. Moreover, the network will support the collaborative development of emerging technologies so that U.S. farmers and ranchers are the first to benefit.

The initiative will be spearheaded by USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), working in coordination with other USDA research agencies. Grand Farm, a North Dakota-headquartered AgTech ecosystem and innovation testbed, will serve as the USDA’s National Program Manager, alongside land-grant universities across the country that will serve as primary research and testing partners.

“ARS has long played a vital role in driving productivity gains and strengthening the global competitiveness of U.S. agriculture by delivering scientific solutions to our nation’s most pressing agricultural challenges,” said ARS Administrator Joon Park. “ARS has established a new Director of Digital Agriculture to position the agency for the AI and digital agriculture era—and to support the responsible adoption of novel innovations. This position will help empower our scientists, programs, and external partners to develop, adopt, evaluate, and deploy emerging technologies that enhance public–private innovation and accelerate the research-to-farmer pipeline. As the lead for USDA’s NPG-AgTech, ARS remains firmly committed to ensuring that emerging technologies are rigorously evaluated through a transparent, science-based process supporting their adoption.”

Agricultural technology companies are invited to enroll their commercial and pre-commercial products with Grand Farm when the request for products is opened to the public. For more information, please visit the USDA National Proving Grounds Network for AgTech website https://www.usda.gov/agtech.



Sand County Foundation Receives Grant to Enhance Grasslands Resilience

Sand County Foundation is among six nonprofit organizations nationally to receive the first round of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s (NFWF) “Grassland Resilience and Conservation Initiative funding.” The initiative will help cattle ranchers enhance wildlife habitat, conserve water resources, and improve soil health across the nation’s grasslands. 

A nonprofit conservation organization, Sand County Foundation has been awarded a multi-year, $7.8 million NFWF grant to accelerate regenerative grazing practices, habitat restoration, and conservation of wildlife and water on working ranches across the nation. 

Healthy grasslands are critical to supporting people, wildlife, and rural economies. This initiative advances voluntary conservation practices that can support grasslands and strengthen the resilience of working ranchland.

“Sand County Foundation is thrilled about this opportunity,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation CEO. "For years, our network of ranchers has been seeking ways to expand grassland conservation. Thanks to NFWF, we can help them realize their ambitions."

“Sand County Foundation’s team looks forward to providing technical assistance for land managers who want to improve ecological and economic resilience across their grazed land,” said Dr. Heidi Peterson, Sand County Foundation’s Vice President of Agricultural Conservation and Research.

Sand County Foundation will support ranchers in California, Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

 

Farmer sentiment improves despite rising input cost concerns

Farmer sentiment improved in March as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose to 127, up from 116 in February. The improvement was driven by a notable increase in producers’ expectations for the future, with the Future Expectations Index climbing 14 points and the Current Conditions Index rising 6 points. Despite the improvement, producers’ outlooks remain more cautious than a year ago, with the Future Expectations Index still below the March 2025 levels. The survey was conducted March 16-20.

Producers reported mixed financial conditions in March, with 18% indicating their operations were better off than a year ago. Expectations for the year ahead continue to be cautiously optimistic, with 20% of respondents anticipating improved financial performance, compared with 18% expecting worse financial performance over the next 12 months. The Farm Capital Investment Index edged up 3 points to 53, but plans to expand machinery purchases remain limited, with only 4% of producers planning increases. 

“While producers are feeling more optimistic about the future, there’s still a noticeable gap between short-term challenges and long-term confidence,” said Michael Langemeier, the barometer’s principal investigator and director of Purdue’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. “Longer-term optimism is supported by stronger expectations for farmland values and the broader economy, though livestock producers remain notably more optimistic than crop producers.”

This month’s survey also examined producer expectations for inflation and interest rates. Approximately 39% of respondents stated that they expect inflation for consumers to exceed 3%. When asked whether the U.S. prime interest rate would be lower, about the same or higher 12 months from now, 34% of producers anticipate lower interest rates, while 16% said they expect rates to be higher. 

The March survey also included questions about leasing farmland for solar energy production. Twelve percent of producers reported discussing a solar lease within the past six months. Reported lease rates varied widely, with roughly 21% exceeding $1,500 per acre. More than half of respondents (56%) said contract offers included an escalator clause, most commonly in the 2% to 3% annual range. Overall, 5% of respondents indicated that they or one of their landowners had signed a solar lease. 

Farmland value expectations strengthened in March, with the Short-Term Farmland Value Expectations Index rising from 123 to 125 and the long-term index increasing from 150 to 159. Producers pointed to alternative investments, net farm income and interest rates as the primary factors influencing farmland values.

Optimism about the direction of the U.S. economy improved in March, with 65% of producers indicating the country is headed in the “right direction,” compared to 59% in February. 



American Highland Cattle Association taps Curious Plot to help position the breed and association for sustainable growth

The American Highland Cattle Association (AHCA) and Curious Plot are teaming up to reshape the image of the popular and growing heritage beef breed. American Highland is a breed known for its resilience, maternal instincts and beef quality, making these cattle low-maintenance and profitable for both purebred and crossbreeding programs. AHCA enlisted Curious Plot to spread the word to business-minded cattlemen and women who value herd temperament, high-quality lean beef yield and unique marketing opportunities.

The popularity of American Highland cattle in social media may make some people think they belong more in a petting zoo than a profitable beef operation. But underneath the distinctive long hair and iconic horns is a docile, hard-working animal with exceptional maternal instincts, high calving ease, hardiness, longevity and superior foraging ability, which produces high-quality, lean beef.

“We are not a novelty breed. We are a working beef breed. Strong in heritage, growing in numbers and trusted by a new generation of cattle producers,” said American Highland President Diane Clark. “This is beef that earns its place on the plate. Highland beef delivers a healthier, elite alternative that today’s discerning consumers are demanding.”

With more than 2,200 members and 70,000+ registered head in the herdbook, AHCA is one of the fastest-growing breed associations in the U.S. ─ and is just getting started.

“American Highland is a professional beef breed association for cattlemen and women looking for a profitable and growing beef breed, regardless of farm size or business model,” said Clark. “Our mission is to grow the category and position the breed as an elite beef breed in the cattle industry. This breed has a bold future ─ and we’re ready to lead it forward.”

Indeed, American Highlands are more than a striking silhouette in the pasture or a petting-zoo novelty. American Highlands’ ability to thrive in harsh climates, utilize rough forage and reduce feed costs provides economic and sustainability advantages for producers who are looking for low-maintenance, high-longevity cows suitable for a variety of environments, from cold and rugged highlands in the Mountain West and New England to Southwestern desert climates with sparse forage and warm, lush pastures of the Southeast.

“We have faced some difficult communication challenges with clients in food, agriculture and companion animal health, but this one is really hairy,” said Curious Plot CEO Laurie Fleck. “The viral social media trend portraying the breed as cuddly comfort animals is sending the wrong message to beef producers and consumers. Correcting that misperception is a challenge we are excited to tackle.”

Adding to the challenge is confusion between American Highland Cattle and miniature Highlands. Typical American Highland cattle are full-size animals, generally ranging from frame scores of 2 to 5. By contrast, so-called “mini” cattle are intentionally bred to be smaller, often through selective breeding or crossbreeding with cattle carrying dwarf genetics. Standard American Highlands are the recognized, traditional heritage breed used in beef and production settings; the Mini Highland is not a recognized beef breed.

American Highland beef represents a healthier, premium alternative for consumers and a profitable opportunity for cattle producers. American Highland beef’s flavor profile, marbling and tenderness are valued in direct-to-consumer and grass-fed markets: naturally lean, distinctively clean tasting and raised with purpose. Highland beef delivers a healthier, elite alternative that today’s discerning consumers are demanding. 

“The future of the U.S. beef industry lies in more diverse production models to meet the needs of today’s producers and consumers,” said Fleck. “American Highlands are well-positioned for the future, and we are proud to help tell the story and promote continued growth.”

Tuesday April 07 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Reports Start for 2026 - Midwest Dairy Elects Leadership - Disaster Readiness for 2026 - Deere on Right to Repair agreement - and more!

 Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Report

USDA’s first Crop Progress report of the season shows the 2026 growing season is just getting started across Nebraska, but very dry soil conditions are already shaping early‑season concerns.

In Nebraska, corn and sorghum planting have not yet begun, which is still normal for early April. Producers had some opportunity for fieldwork last week, with 4.8 days suitable statewide, slightly better than this time last year. However, soil moisture remains extremely limited, with 84 percent of topsoil rated short to very short and 85 percent of subsoil also short to very short. Those dry conditions could quickly become more impactful once planting activity increases.

Winter wheat in Nebraska continues to struggle, with just 19 percent rated good to excellent, while 43 percent is rated poor to very poor. Much of the crop remains dormant, but limited moisture and ongoing dry weather are raising concerns as the crop approaches more active growth stages later this spring.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 2.9 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 5, 2026, which is 0.4 days less than last year. Corn and soybean planting in Iowa reached 0% complete for the week ending April 5, 2026, which is unchanged from last year. Topsoil moisture conditions across Iowa were rated 4 percent very short, 19 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 14 percent surplus for the week ending April 5, 2026.



First National USDA Crop Progress Report of 2026

The nation's winter wheat crop is starting the 2026 growing season in worse shape than last year's crop, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released on Monday.

NASS estimated U.S. winter wheat condition at 35% good to excellent, 13 points below 48% at the same time last year, amid widespread drought in the Central and Southern Plains.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: An estimated 31% of winter wheat was rated poor to very poor as of April 5, up from 21% a year ago, according to NASS. Oklahoma had the highest very-poor-to-poor rating at 54%. It was followed by Texas with a 51% very-poor-to-poor rating and Colorado with a 49% very-poor-to-poor rating. Top winter-wheat-producer Kansas' crop was rated 38% good to excellent, 38% fair and 24% very poor to poor. Washington's crop was rated 86% good to excellent.
-- Crop development: 7% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 2 percentage points ahead of last year's 5% and equal to the five-year average. Texas' winter wheat was 30% headed, 7 points ahead of last year's 23% and 5 points ahead of the state's average pace of 25%.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 3% of corn was planted nationwide as of Sunday, 1 point ahead of 2% last year and equal to the five-year average. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Planting progress: 2% of the crop was planted nationwide as of April 5, 1 point behind last year's 3% and equal to the five-year average. 



Midwest Dairy Elects New Officers to Lead 2026 Board

Elections for the Midwest Dairy Corporate and Division boards were held
during the organization’s annual meeting in Kansas City, Missouri, early last week.
Elections for the 2026 Corporate board officer team are as follows: Charles Krause from Minnesota
division, was re-elected as chair of Midwest Dairy; Tom Walsh from South Dakota division, was
elected as first vice chair, Margaret Johnson from Minnesota division, was elected as second vice
chair, Jonna Schutte from Iowa division, was elected as secretary, and Matt Schelling from Iowa
division was re-elected as treasurer.

New members elected by their divisions to the Midwest Dairy Corporate board include:
• Rita Vander Kooi – Minnesota
• Denise Rohweder – North Dakota

Nebraska Division
• Chair – Joyce Racicky, Mason City
• Vice chair – Larry Schuster, Pickrell
• Secretary/Treasurer – Jodi Cast, Beaver Crossing

Iowa Division
• Chair – Jonna Schutte, Monona
• Vice chair – Lee Maaseen, Maurice
• Secretary – Patrick Jones, Spencer
• Treasurer – Matt Simon, Epworth
• Colleen Krogmeier, Marv Schelling, and Michael Nettinga were seated as new board members of the
Iowa board.

Illinois Division
• Chair – Brent Mueller, Garden Prairie
• Vice chair – Bill Deutsch, Sycamore
• Secretary – Amy Hildebrandt, South Beloit
• Treasurer – Megan Holland-Zito, Apple River
• Bob Dietzel was seated as a new board member of the Illinois board.

Minnesota Division
• Chair – Kristine Spadgenske, Menahga
• Vice chair – Sarah Kuechle, Eden Valley
• Secretary – Mindi Arendt, Mazeppa
• Treasurer – Eric Sonnek, Foreston
• Elle Tibor and Rita Vander Koii were seated as new board members of the Minnesota board.

Mo-Kan Division
• Chair – Steve Ohlde, Linn, Kansas
• Vice chair – Orville Miller, Hutchinson, Kansas
• Secretary – Heidi Wells, Milton, Kansas
• Treasurer – Lynda Foster, Fort Scott, Kansas
• Jessica Wohler was seated as a new board member of the Mo-Kan Division board.

North Dakota Division
• Chair – Denise Rohweder, Wishek
• Vice chair – Jon Qual, Lisbon
• Secretary – Jennifer Holle, Mandan
• Treasurer – Lilah Krebs, Gladstone
• Jon Qual was seated as a new board member of the North Dakota Division board.

Ozarks Division
• Chair – Marilyn Calvin, Mt. Vernon, Missouri
• Vice chair – Jack Dill, Conway, Missouri
• Secretary – Carrie Rantz, Spokane, Missouri
• Treasurer – Bill Haak, Gentry, Arkansas
• Tim Crawley, Clay Hempel, and Aaron Stewart were seated as new members of the Ozark Division
board.

South Dakota Division
• Chair – Kevin Van Winkle, Canistota
• Vice chair – Kevin Pearson, Flandreau
• Secretary – Rebecka Butz, Dolton
• Treasurer – Jogchum Andrenga, Brandt
• Steve Landman was seated as a new member of the South Dakota Division board



Brecht Named Iowa Pork Producers Association Consumer Outreach Director
    
The Iowa Pork Producers Association has named Hope Brecht as its new Consumer Outreach Director. Brecht will lead consumer engagement efforts, with a focus on youth programming and outreach at the Iowa State Fair Pork Tent.

In this role, Brecht will help connect consumers to pork production through educational experiences and hands-on programming, with an emphasis on reaching both youth already involved in agriculture and those less familiar with the industry.

Originally from Belle Plaine, Iowa, Brecht graduated from Iowa State University in 2022 with a degree in agricultural communications. Following graduation, she worked as a communications specialist for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, where she collaborated with industry partners, including Iowa Pork.

“Hope’s time with the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers provided her with hands-on experience working alongside livestock farmers,” said Pat McGonegle, CEO of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “She brings valuable experience that will strengthen our consumer and youth outreach efforts.”

Brecht’s interest in agriculture was sparked through her involvement in the National FFA Organization, where she served as an Iowa state officer. Her experiences helped shape her passion for connecting consumers with agriculture and highlighting the importance of the pork industry in Iowa.

“I’m excited to join the Iowa Pork Producers Association and be part of a team that is doing meaningful work for Iowa’s pork producers,” Brecht said. “I look forward to creating opportunities for youth and consumers to learn more about pork production and to share that story at events like the Iowa State Fair.”

Since starting her role, Brecht has already been involved in youth programming initiatives and is looking forward to engaging with fairgoers at the Pork Tent this summer.



Be Prepared with New Disaster Readiness Website from ISU Extension and Outreach

Iowans face a wide range of disasters each year, and preparation is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk. To support communities statewide, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has launched a new Disaster Readiness website — a one-stop hub for trusted information and resources to help Iowans prepare, respond and recover from disasters.

With staff in each of Iowa’s 99 counties, ISU Extension and Outreach plays a critical role in local communities when disasters occur, providing strong community connections to help Iowans rebuild their lives.

Understanding the disaster landscape
Disasters are complex events that require coordinated planning and informed action before, during and after an emergency occurs. The Iowa Extension Disaster Education Network team is comprised of more than 20 extension staff and faculty representing all program areas. Extension professionals have the unique position of working with local communities as educators, to reduce the impact of disasters through research-based education, technical assistance and community engagement. 

The Iowa EDEN team uses the disaster cycle as a framework, breaking down information into four distinct stages: preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation. 

“We aim to bring resources and education to our communities so that Iowans can make informed decisions when it matters most,” said Lori Williams, extension’s emergency management program specialist. “Our goal is to deliver clear information and practical tools for local leaders, individuals and families, businesses and farmers to respond effectively in any situation.” 
Resources and expertise for Iowans

Disaster readiness means being prepared for more than floods and droughts, Williams said. The website uses an all-hazards approach, categorizing 18 types of disasters and emergencies into natural, biological, and human-caused and technological. The primary focus of the site is to deliver audience-based guidance and tools for various groups, ranging from individuals and households to businesses and local government. 

Extension’s Disaster Readiness website offers:
    Resources to support mental health and emotional well-being for individuals, families, farmers and communities 
    Practical home and household tips and resources to help individuals and families prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters
    Information for community leaders, local governments and businesses to strengthen local resilience, protect operations and support recovery when emergencies happen
    Information for farmers and agriculture professionals on biosecurity and protecting crops and livestock during disasters and extreme weather events

“In ISU Extension and Outreach, our mission is to empower individuals, families, farms and communities to stay safe and resilient no matter what challenges arise,” Williams said. “When Iowans plan ahead, they reduce risks, protect lives and property, and recover more quickly.”

The Disaster Readiness website will continue to be developed, highlighting timely and relevant resources to meet the ongoing needs of Iowans in an ever-changing world. 

Learn more about Iowa EDEN and view disaster resources on the Disaster Readiness website https://www.extension.iastate.edu/disasterreadiness/. 



Deere & Company Reaches Settlement in Repair Services Antitrust Litigation

Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) announced today that it has reached a settlement agreement to resolve the multidistrict “right to repair” litigation pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. This settlement addresses the issues raised in the 2022 complaint and brings this case to an end with no finding of wrongdoing.

“As we continue to innovate industry leading equipment and technology solutions supported by our world-class dealer network, we are equally committed to providing customers and other service providers with access to repair resources,” said Denver Caldwell, vice president, Aftermarket & Customer Support. “We’re pleased that this resolution allows us to move forward and remain focused on what matters most – serving our customers.”

As part of the settlement, Deere will deposit funds into a class settlement fund. The funds will be distributed to class members pursuant to a Court-approved distribution plan and used to cover administrative and legal fees. Additionally, Deere will continue to support customers and other service providers with access to repair resources, including tools, manuals, and diagnostic software.

Deere remains dedicated to supporting customers’ ability and access to maintain, diagnose, and repair their equipment safely, efficiently and conveniently. “John Deere Operations Center™ PRO Service is designed to enhance customers’ ability to care for their equipment how and when they want, and this settlement reaffirms Deere’s commitment to customer choice of how they want their equipment supported and access to the tools that enable it,” said Caldwell. The company will continue investing in customer uptime solutions and delivering industry-leading equipment and technology to help farmers and ranchers get their work done.

The settlement remains subject to approval by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. To learn more about John Deere’s commitment to supporting customer repair, please visit deere.com/repair.



Calf Basis Levels
Matthew Diersen, Risk & Business Management Specialist, South Dakota State University

At the end of the first quarter of 2026, nearby futures prices for live cattle were trading from $240 to $245 per cwt, up over $30 per cwt from the year earlier. Nearby feeder cattle futures prices were trading from $365 to $370 per cwt, up around $70 per cwt from the year earlier. The cash prices for lighter-weight feeder cattle (or heavier calves) have followed the shift higher. The weighted-average price for steer calves weighing 5-600 pounds in South Dakota has been around $500 per cwt for the first quarter.  The large price increases have resulted in ever-widening basis levels for those looking to hedge or price calves or lighter feeder cattle.

Basis, generally the difference between a cash price and a nearby futures price, can have a seasonal pattern in live cattle and feeder cattle. Basis levels reflect transportation costs and quality differences for cattle with weights consistent with the underlying contracts. Using historic basis levels by month and location works well for live cattle and feeder cattle. 

For calves, the situation changes. Basis is typically positive for calves when compared to feeder cattle futures prices. Lighter-weight feeder cattle have a higher per cwt price than heavier feeder cattle even though the per head values are lower. From 2021 to 2025, the basis on steer calves in South Dakota averaged over $60 per cwt. In March 2026, the basis was $140 per cwt. Thus, for planning purposes or hedging calculations, price levels matter more than historic basis levels. Current or recent basis levels for calves will be much better proxies than year-ago or multi-year averages. 

What explains the basis level? Feeder cattle futures reflect the value of steers weighing 700-899 pounds. If August 2026 feeder cattle futures are trading at $365 per cwt, the price reflects a value of $2,920.00 per head. Adding a basis of $140 per cwt to the futures price implies a 550-pound steer would be worth $2,777.50 per head. To make that work, the cost of gain has to be less than $142.50. Hay prices and grazing fee rates are similar to last year. Cash corn prices have been sharply lower compared to a year earlier, both nationally and in South Dakota. A basis level could also be deduced by taking the feeder-weight value and subtracting off an expected feed cost or going rate of gain, then finding a calf-weight value. Regardless, the biggest driver behind the higher basis levels observed recently and expected for a while is the higher feeder cattle futures prices.

Monday April 06 Ag News - Groundwater levels show little change in NE - LENRD March Meeting recap - NE Brand Act Changes Proposed - Red Meat Export Update - and more!

 GROUNDWATER LEVELS CONTINUE TO DECLINE AMID PERSISTENT DROUGHT CONDITIONS

Groundwater levels throughout Nebraska continued to decline in 2025 following several years of persistent drought. According to the recently released 2026 Nebraska Statewide Groundwater-Level Monitoring Report from the Conservation and Survey Division in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s School of Natural Resources, groundwater levels declined, on average, by 0.29 feet. With a few exceptions, however, these declines did not significantly impact drinking-water supplies or groundwater for irrigation.

For the new report, nearly 5,000 wells were measured in spring 2024 and spring 2025 to monitor changes in groundwater levels in Nebraska. Of these wells, 62% recorded a decline. The largest declines, exceeding 10 feet, occurred in the Nebraska Panhandle, an area that has experienced continued drought conditions for several years. Much of Nebraska experienced some level of drought for most of the preceding six years. Above-average precipitation in central Nebraska, generally along the Platte River Valley, resulted in some minor groundwater-level rises, by as much as 10 feet in localized areas.

Most of the groundwater used in Nebraska comes from the High Plains Aquifer, referred to locally as the Ogallala Aquifer. The aquifer spans eight central U.S. states from South Dakota to Texas, and approximately 90% of Nebraska lies atop it.

As a rule, variations in shallow groundwater levels and precipitation are intimately linked. Precipitation is the main source of aquifer replenishment in Nebraska. It replaces part — but not all — of the groundwater pumped for irrigation and domestic use. Hotter and drier growing seasons drive higher irrigation demands, but they also entail less precipitation and, in turn, less groundwater recharge. Both effects lead to declines in groundwater levels. Years with above-average precipitation, however, provide more water for groundwater recharge and typically require less pumping for irrigation, and potentially result in rising groundwater levels.

Nebraska’s thriving agricultural economy is heavily dependent on groundwater for irrigation. Nebraska producers draw irrigation water from more than 97,000 active irrigation wells statewide. Pumping groundwater from a vast number of wells can be detrimental to the long-term sustainable use of aquifers, but Nebraska is fortunate to have a nation-leading system of groundwater management in its 23 Natural Resources Districts. The NRDs regulate groundwater with comprehensive regional management plans that undergo periodic updates. Recent and long-term groundwater-level declines in some parts of the state constitute a persistent concern worthy of public awareness. Some wells in these areas will likely eventually go dry or need to be drilled deeper.

The annual report’s long-term change maps, which span pre-groundwater-irrigation times through 2025, verify the overall abundance of groundwater in Nebraska. Nevertheless, high-magnitude local changes in groundwater levels, from declines exceeding 130 feet to rises exceeding 120 feet, have also been apparent in successive iterations of the same map. Groundwater levels in most of Nebraska have experienced a net change of less than 20 feet since predevelopment times. Parts of Chase, Perkins, Dundy and Box Butte counties, in contrast, have experienced major, sustained declines in groundwater levels due to a combination of factors. Irrigation wells are notably dense in these counties, annual precipitation is comparatively low, and there is little or no surface-water recharge to groundwater.

The report was authored by Aaron Young, Mark Burbach, Valentina Ita, Susan Lackey, R. M. Joeckel and Jeffrey Westrop.

A free PDF of the report can be downloaded at https://go.unl.edu/groundwater. Printed copies can be purchased for $7 at the Nebraska Maps and More Store, 3310 Holdrege St., and phone orders are accepted at 402-472-3471.



Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors March Meeting Recap

The Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors met on Thursday, March 26th, at the office in Norfolk for the monthly Board meeting.

Directors approved four Community Forestry Incentive applications and one Forestry Incentive for Public Facilities application for Fiscal Year 2027. The Community Forestry Assistance Program was developed to provide assistance for the improvement or renovation of community green spaces on public lands – such as cities, villages, counties, and public schools. The Forestry Incentive for Public Facilities was created for privately owned but publicly available spaces – like public cemeteries and golf courses. 

An Interlocal Agreement with the City of Pierce was also approved by Directors. At the March 12th Committee Meeting Chad Anderson, Pierce City Administrator, came before the Board and presented an official request to proceed with the next steps and into the Design Phase of the North Fork Elkhorn River WFPO Plan.

The City of Pierce is moving through a phased certification process to re-certify the Pierce levee with Federal Emergency Management Agency. They have already completed Phase 1 of the levee accreditation and are ready to move onto the Preliminary Design Phase of the Project. Some Phase I findings included: the need for additional height on some portions of the levee; closure improvements; interior drainage improvements; and embankment and foundation stability. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $540,000.00 with $97,010.00 being carried over from the Plan Phase of the project. The remaining local costs, $442,990.00, will be split 50/50 with each entity contributing $221,495.00 for the project. The interlocal agreement with the City of Pierce will be in effect through June 30, 2029.

Connor Baldwin, Groundwater Management Area Specialist, gave the Board an update on producers who have not yet completed Management Area Reporting and/or Nitrogen Certification. Both the Annual report and Nitrogen Certification are required for producers in the Phase 2 and Phase 3 areas. Annual Reports are submitted on January 15th every year for both dryland and irrigated fields, while Nitrogen Certification only needs to be renewed once every four years. Annual Reports can be filled out in the office with Connor and numerous opportunities for Nitrogen Certification Training are offered each year.

Directors agreed that staff may begin issuing Notices of Violation to farm operators who have failed to submit annual field reports and obtain Nitrogen Certification as required by the LENRD Groundwater Management Area Rules and Regulations.

Conversations regarding flood mitigation options for the City of Battle Creek will resume next month. Curt Becker, Assistant General Manager, informed Directors that a representative from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to attend the April 9th Committee Meeting to discuss flood mitigation possibilities for Battle Creek.

Brian Bruckner, General Manager, provided an update regarding the final report of the Nebraska Water Task Force. Bruckner was one of 20 members throughout the state who served on the Governor’s task force beginning in June 2025. He also sat on the Water Conservation and Quality and Nitrate Legacy and Drinking Water Access Subcommittees. Key recommendations from the Task Force focus on educational materials for residents and producers; increased engagements with producers; improved Nitrogen management; and increased statewide water measurement through voluntary efforts and cost share opportunities.

The Lower Elkhorn NRD is already working hard to achieve these measures. The requirement for flowmeters on all high-capacity wells in the District has been in place since 2019 and assistance for domestic well testing and Reverse Osmosis systems is also available for residents. With continued support from producers and District residents, the Lower Elkhorn NRD remains committed to work tirelessly to protect and conserve our precious groundwater.

To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local District can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next Board of Directors meeting will be Thursday, April 23rd, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live. 



Bill to Change Livestock Brand Act Advances
Nebraska Farm Bureau 

Since the start of the legislative session, Nebraska Farm Bureau’s priority in the negotiations around the broader brand issue has been to ensure the continuation of the Nebraska Brand Committee with adequate funding and to protect the integrity of the brand inspection program. In addition, Farm Bureau also worked to ensure the cattle feeding sector continues to be a part of the overall brand program, after legislation was introduced last session to exempt feedlots from brand inspection.

Last week, senators gave first round approval to LB 1187, legislation to make changes to Nebraska’s Livestock Brand Act. Sen. Barry DeKay of Niobrara (District 40) introduced legislation to help ensure the financial solvency of Nebraska’s Brand Committee by allowing the Committee to increase fees to support operations. However, the measure ultimately has become the vessel to address broader issues that have surfaced around the Nebraska Brand Committee and brand inspection program. These issues led to the introduction of another brand-related bill (LB 1258) this session to move Nebraska to a statewide voluntary brand inspection system, which Nebraska Farm Bureau actively opposed.

Nebraska Farm Bureau supported the original “fee only” version of LB 1187 and opposed advancing the bill to the floor with additional structural changes. During an Agriculture Committee hearing held prior to the Committee advancing the bill to General File, Nebraska Farm Bureau opposed AM 2503, which would have significantly altered the underlying bill.

On Wednesday, senators took up LB 1187 on first round debate, where the body adopted an amendment offered by Sen. Mike Jacobson (AM3037). The Jacobson amendment was a product of considerable negotiations with stakeholders, including the Nebraska Farm Bureau, following the Agriculture Committee’s decision to advance the bill, despite considerable opposition to the Committee’s proposal to make broader structural changes to the Brand Committee and the inspection program.  

Upon adoption, the Jacobson amendment (AM 3037) effectively became the bill. The amendment includes numerous provisions, and among the more notable changes are provisions to:
·       Establish five districts across the state where each district would have a cow-calf representative on the Brand Committee. In addition, the Brand Committee would add a livestock auction market representative and a cattle feeder from within the brand inspection area. Nebraska Farm Bureau advocated for ensuring strong cow-calf representation on the Committee.
·       Allow the Brand Committee to adjust the inspection fee up to $1.50 per head, a change from the current $1.10 maximum. Nebraska Farm Bureau advocated for the additional fee authority for the Brand Committee.
·       Fees for registered feedlots would be adjusted to 25% of the brand inspection fee. Nebraska Farm Bureau advocated for the fee to be set at 35% of the brand inspection.
·       Feedlots which currently have no mandatory audit requirements would be subject to no less than two audits per year. Nebraska Farm Bureau advocated for two full audits.

The Jacobson amendment passed with 39 yes, 1 no vote and 7 present not voting. LB 1187 as amended with the Jacobson amendment advanced to Select File (second round debate) with 36 yes, 4 no votes and 7 present not voting. 



Consumers Still Demand Beef
NeFB Economic Tidbits

Consumer demand for beef continues to grow and is reaching record levels. An index created by the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) to gauge beef demand clocked in at 138 last year, the highest on record and a 10-point jump over 2024. The index is a function of price elasticity for beef, retail prices, per capita beef consumption, and the Consumer Price Index. The index’s baseline is 2000. The higher the index compared to 2000, the stronger the beef demand compared to that year. According to Tyler Cozzens, Director of LMIC, a 10-point jump has only occurred two other times in the last 25 years, from 2003 to 2004, and from 2019 to 2020. Cozzens also noted the index has increased 30 points, or 27%, since 2019.

Consumers keep buying beef despite higher prices. Between February 2025 and February 2026, beef prices rose 14.4%. The question is whether consumer buying will remain robust if the economy falters. Research by Glenn Tonsor and Justin Bina found that “financial sentiment may be even more influential on meat demand than income itself. To para phrase, income stability (ideally growth) is likely necessary but not itself sufficient for meat demand support if the public is highly concerned about their finances.” In other words, consumer sentiment regarding their finances weighs heavily into beef purchasing decisions. Surveys have shown consumers are increasingly pessimistic about the economy. Waning consumer sentiment could mean a slowdown in beef demand, although consumers’ beef demand has seemed unaffected by economic concerns thus far. Either way, beef demand bears close watching.



February Pork Exports Above Year-Ago; Another Big Month for Beef Variety Meat

February exports of U.S. pork were slightly higher year-over-year, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). While beef exports trended lower, due in large part to continued lack of access to China, shipments of beef variety meat posted another strong increase. February was a robust month for per-head export value, with pork exports equating to more than $67 per head slaughtered and beef exports reaching nearly $423 per head of fed slaughter. Exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts trended higher, reaching the largest volume since May.

Pork exports continue to build momentum in Latin America and Asia
February pork exports totaled 242,511 metric tons (mt), up 1% from a year ago, with export value also edging 1% higher to $678.8 million. While leading market Mexico posted another excellent performance in February, shipments to Japan increased significantly from last year’s low total and exports also trended higher year-over-year to South Korea, Central America, the Dominican Republic and Taiwan.

“It is gratifying to see demand for U.S. pork continue to expand in our Western Hemisphere markets,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “But the rebound in Japan really stands out to me, given the strong economic headwinds and intense competition in this important market. To build on this recent momentum in Japan, it is critical that we continue to differentiate U.S. pork and demonstrate its advantages to Japanese importers and consumers.”

For January through February, U.S. pork exports were 2% above last year’s pace in both volume (493,372 mt) and value ($1.37 billion). Export value is slightly ahead of the record pace established in 2024.

Variety meat exports remain a bright spot for U.S. beef
February beef exports totaled 85,066 mt, down 13% year-over-year, while value fell 10% to $722.7 million. Much of this gap was due to China’s lockout of U.S. beef, though February shipments were also below last year to Korea, Japan and Canada. Exports increased year-over-year to Mexico, Taiwan, the Caribbean and South America, while demand was steady in the Middle East and Central America. Excluding China, February exports were 4% higher in value and just 1% below last year’s volume.

The February totals included 24,081 mt of beef variety meat, up 12% from a year ago, while the value of these shipments soared 40% to $106 million.

“Beef variety meat exports continue to trend higher, especially on the value side, and that makes such an important contribution to the value of every animal,” Halstrom said. “Where U.S. beef has access, muscle cut demand has held up well and provides a great complement to our robust domestic market. But for beef variety meats, export markets are really the whole ball game, so it’s great to see these products achieve broad-based growth.”

Through the first two months of 2026, beef and beef variety meat exports were 12% below last year’s pace in volume (177,624 mt) and 6% lower in value ($1.5 billion). Excluding China from these results, exports increased 2% to 175,915 mt, while value was 10% higher at $1.49 billion.

January-February exports of beef variety meat increased 9% from a year ago to 51,592 mt, while export value climbed 43% to $232 million.

Lamb muscle cut exports largest in nine months
February exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 326 mt, up 52% from a year ago and the largest since May. Export value increased 31% to $1.47 million. Shipments increased year-over-year to the Caribbean and Central America, but trended lower to Mexico.

January-February lamb exports were 20% above last year in volume (564 mt) and 13% higher in value ($2.91 million). Growth was driven primarily by the Caribbean and Central America, but shipments also edged higher to Taiwan and Japan. 

Friday April 03 Ag News - Reiners on USDA mission to Vietnam - CVA Approved Equity Redemptions, Donates to NE FFA Foundation - LRP for Ranchers course - Evaluate Alfalfa Stands - and more!

Nebraska Farmer Joins USDA Mission To Vietnam

The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) recently participated in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Trade Reciprocity for U.S. Manufacturers and Producers trade mission to Vietnam, where the delegation engaged with key coarse grain and co-product stakeholders in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

USGBC Vice Chairman Jay Reiners of Juniata, Nebraska, USGBC Deputy Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania (SEA&O) Chris Markey, USGBC Vietnam Representative Tran Trong Nghia and USGBC Regional Ethanol Consultant Kent Yeo joined the mission’s principal, USDA Under Secretary Luke J. Lindberg, for the program.

“The Council’s close alignment with USDA on expanding international markets for the U.S. corn, sorghum and barley farmer was further reinforced by this constructive mission to Vietnam,” said Reiners said.

“We appreciate Under Secretary Lindberg’s recognition of Vietnam’s potential as a key growth market for U.S. coarse grains and co-products, as well as its role as a strategic gateway to broader regional expansion for our farmers’ products.”

Vietnam is one of Asia’s fastest growing fuel markets, with annual consumption of gasoline projected to surpass three billion gallons per year in 2027. The upcoming E10 policy, which will apply to the country’s RON95 grade of gasoline, will complement the existing E5 RON92 mandate implemented in 2018 – meaning 100 percent of gasoline in Vietnam will be blended with ethanol beginning in June. The new policy is expected to create a fuel ethanol demand of approximately 240 million gallons per year.

Vietnam continues to be a major market for U.S. DDGS and has recently emerged as a top export market for U.S. corn. More than 1.1 million metric tons (MMT) of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) were exported to Vietnam in marketing year (MY) 2024/2025, making it the third largest export market for U.S. DDGS. Vietnam was the eighth largest customer of U.S. corn in MY 24/25 and is the seventh largest export market for U.S. corn in the current marketing year.

The mission commenced in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s economic hub, where the delegation met with key ethanol customers, including PVOIL, to discuss procurement and implementation strategies ahead of the country’s introduction of E10 gasoline. The Council’s delegation also participated in the Food & Hospitality Vietnam Trade Show, the largest food and beverage expo in Vietnam, alongside other USDA cooperators promoting U.S. food and agricultural products.

The delegation continued to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and political nucleus, to conduct site visits and meetings with key importers. This included a visit to Haiphong International Container Terminal (HICT), a business roundtable with coarse grain and co-product importers and the USDA Ag Hall of Fame Reception, where Under Secretary Lindberg presented the U.S.–Vietnam Agricultural Hall of Fame Award to six Vietnamese companies.

Under Secretary Lindberg and the Council’s team also held an E10 promotional event at Petrolimex’s flagship retail fuel station, where Petrolimex Chairman Pham Van Thanh attended to discuss E10 and dispensed gasoline for local motorbike and passenger vehicle customers. The activity further underscored the strong partnership between Petrolimex, Vietnam’s largest fuel distributor, and the U.S. ethanol industry.

The Council, Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association signed a quadripartite memorandum of understating (MOU) with Petrolimex in 2025 to assist the company in its preparation for increased ethanol blending.

“The significant agricultural trade partnership between Vietnam and the U.S. will only strengthen in the coming years with continued growth of the Vietnamese animal feed industry and rollout of E10 gasoline. The Council stands ready to support the Government of Vietnam and the Vietnamese industry in expanding protein production, dairy production and ethanol use,” Markey said.



Central Valley Ag approves $2.5 million in Age-Based Equity Redemptions

Central Valley Ag (CVA) Cooperative is proud to announce the approval of approximately $2.5 million in Age-Based Equity redemptions for eligible member-owners who have reached at least 65 years of age as of December 31, 2025. The CVA Board of Directors authorized the redemptions, reinforcing the cooperative’s commitment to returning value to its members.

“Our success is rooted in the dedication and loyalty of our member-owners,” said Nic McCarthy, CVA President and CEO. “These equity redemptions reflect our ongoing commitment to returning value and recognizing those who have helped build and sustain CVA over the years.”

The approved redemptions include both Qualified and Non-Qualified Based Equity. Qualified Age-Based Equity Redemptions are non-taxable and Non-Qualified Age-Based Equity Redemptions are taxable.

“Our member-owners are the foundation of CVA’s strength and future,” said Luke Carlson, CVA Board Chairman. “By staying financially disciplined and forward-looking, we’re able to support today’s members while ensuring the cooperative remains strong for the next generation.”

CVA remains dedicated to building a cooperative system that benefits members today and for generations to come. For more information, visit www.cvacoop.com. 



Fuel up for FFA campaign raises $2,757 for Nebraska FFA Foundation

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is proud to announce a donation of $2,757.15 to the Nebraska FFA Foundation following its Fuel Up for FFA campaign during National FFA Week. During this time, CVA donated 5 cents from every gallon of fuel purchased at CVA fuel sites with a CVA fuel card. Through this promotion, CVA and its fuel customers helped support the next generation of agricultural leaders. 

"FFA students represent the future of agriculture and leadership," said Jeff Ingalls, SVP of Energy at CVA. "When customers purchased fuel at CVA locations, they directly helped provide opportunities for young people who will drive our industry forward." 

The donation was presented during the Nebraska State FFA Convention held during March 25-27 in Lincoln, Neb. The convention provides students from across the state with opportunities to participate in leadership development events, connect with industry professionals and grow their leadership skills. 

"We are grateful to everyone who fueled up for FFA," said Stacey Agnew, executive director of the Nebraska FFA Foundation. "Thank you to CVA for creating this promotion and for your continued support of FFA. Because of individuals and sponsors like you and CVA, the Nebraska FFA Foundation is able to invest in growing leaders, building communities, and creating career connections for students, teachers and programs across the state." 

Funds raised through this campaign support leadership development programs, state convention experiences, and local chapter initiatives across Nebraska. 



New Online Course, “Livestock Risk Protection Insurance for Ranchers,” Launches April 1

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program is pleased to announce the launch of a new online course, Livestock Risk Protection Insurance for Ranchers, available beginning April 1.

This self-paced course is designed specifically for ranchers who want to better understand the Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) Insurance program and how it can be used to manage price risk. Whether participants are new to livestock insurance or looking to refine their risk management strategies, the course provides practical guidance tailored to agricultural producers.

The course is taught by University of Nebraska–Lincoln agricultural economist Elliott Dennis, who specializes in livestock markets and risk management.

“Price volatility is one of the biggest risks livestock producers face,” Dennis said. “LRP can be a useful tool for managing that risk, but many producers aren’t familiar with how it works or when it makes sense to use. This course is designed to walk ranchers through the fundamentals and help them determine how LRP may fit into their operation.”

Participants in the course will:
· Learn the fundamentals of Livestock Risk Protection Insurance
· Explore when this insurance product may be most useful
· Discuss strategies for selecting optimal coverage levels

Livestock Risk Protection Insurance for Ranchers is $50 per participant. To enroll, visit go.unl.edu/ae.

This course is part of the Agri-Essentials program, supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2024-70027-42470. All participants are welcome regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status. 



SPRING ALFALFA PLANT EVALUATION 
- Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator 

As temperatures begin to rise, don’t’ forget to take a bit of time to assess alfalfa stand health going into this year’s growing season. Snow cover over the winter helped insulate plants from extreme temperatures, but exposed plants, older stands, or late harvested alfalfa still have a potential for winter kill.  

Even before plants begin to green up, individual plant assessments can be done.  While assessment before green-up occurs may seem a bit preemptive, pre-scouting now can focus scouting efforts to problem areas later on when time becomes precious during spring planting.  

    Dig up 4-5 random plants per 20 acres, being sure to get the crown and a good portion of the tap root (around 6 inches at least).  Split the root and crown open. A healthy plant will be white and firm while winter damaged taproots will be yellow to brown in color and stringy. Yield will begin to be impacted when damage is greater than 30% of the total root/crown area.

    Look for alive, in-tact basal buds at the crown of the plant.  Buds formed last fall will start growth sooner and boost first cutting yields.  A lack of basal buds doesn’t mean that the plant won’t recover, but first cuttings may be smaller.

    If plants have begun growth, look at where it is occurring on the crown.  Healthy plants will have growth fully throughout the crown while damaged plants will often have asymmetrical growth with more stems on one side than the other.

If more than 30% of the plants assessed have significant damage, yield for the upcoming year may be impacted. Options like interseeding perennial grasses, seeding a warm season forage crop after the first harvest, or terminating the stand may need to be considered.



Tyler Bose Advocates for Sorghum Producers in Washington, D.C.

Tyler Bose of Arcadia represented Nebraska sorghum producers last week in Washington, D.C., as part of his role on the legislative committee with the National Sorghum Producers. During his time on Capitol Hill, Bose met with policymakers and advocated for issues important to sorghum producers, working to advance policies that support agriculture in Nebraska and across the country.

Bose wrapped up his visit by attending the Great American Agriculture Celebration at the White House, joining agricultural leaders from across the nation.

“It’s an honor to represent Nebraska sorghum producers on a national stage,” said Bose. “Having the opportunity to visit directly with policymakers and share our story is critical to ensuring agriculture and sorghum specifically, continues to have a strong voice in Washington.”

Nebraska Sorghum Producers expressed appreciation for Bose’s leadership and commitment to the industry.

“Tyler’s involvement shows just how important it is for growers to be engaged beyond the farm,” said Kristine Jameson, Executive Director for Nebraska Sorghum. “These conversations help shape the future of agriculture, and it takes dedicated leaders like Tyler to make sure our industry is represented.”

Bose’s experience also highlights the value of leadership development within the sorghum industry. Programs like Leadership Sorghum, offered through the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, provide growers and industry professionals with opportunities to build skills, expand their networks, and engage in advocacy efforts that impact agriculture at every level.

Applications are now open for Leadership Sorghum Class VIII. The program equips participants with the tools and experiences needed to step into leadership roles and represent the sorghum industry both locally and nationally.

“Getting involved in programs like Leadership Sorghum is one of the best ways to grow as a leader and make a difference,” said Bose. “We encourage anyone with a passion for agriculture to apply.”

Nebraska sorghum producers and industry partners are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and apply.

For more information or to apply, visit: https://www.sorghumcheckoff.com/press-releases/united-sorghum-checkoff-program-opens-applications-for-leadership-sorghum-class-viii/



IRFA Urges EPA to Include Biodiesel in Clean School Bus Program

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) submitted comments this week in response to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) request for information on the Clean School Bus (CSB) Program. The EPA sought feedback on a broad range of fuel options that school buses could use to reduce emissions, including biofuels, natural gas, and hydrogen, in their revamping of the program. 

In its comments, IRFA strongly recommended allocating substantial resources towards biodiesel infrastructure to enable the use of B20 (20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel) or higher blends, engine modification technologies for buses to use blends as high as B100, and incentivizing the purchase of biodiesel to allow school districts to try it in their fleets. 

Key points from IRFA’s comments include: 

Biodiesel is a Drop-In Solution That Works Today 
“Unlike electric buses, which require significant capital investment both in terms of new vehicles and charging infrastructure, biodiesel blends of up to B20 can be used in every diesel school bus operating in America today. These fuels require no engine modifications, no new vehicles, and no specialized training. IRFA recommends allocating CSB Program funding toward biodiesel fueling infrastructure, including onsite storage tanks for school districts. While B20 is a drop-in fuel option, providing support for the initial capital investments required to install biodiesel-specific infrastructure, school districts will be more likely to try B20 or even higher blends.” 

Cold Weather Concerns 
“This modification technology [referring to products such as the Optimus Ecosystem, technology that upgrades heavy-duty diesel engines to run on 100% biodiesel] is currently enabling the use of year-round B100 in some of the United States’ coldest cities. Ames, Iowa; Madison, Wisconsin; and Washington, D.C. have all adopted these engine modification systems for their heavy-duty public works vehicles, including snowplows, demonstrating that concerns about biodiesel in cold weather can be addressed with affordable solutions.” 

Emissions and Health Improvements 
“Studies have consistently shown that biodiesel is a simple and effective way to reduce tailpipe emissions from heavy-duty engines. Compared to replacing an entire bus, as would be required under a transition to electric school buses, the emissions reduction per taxpayer dollar is much higher by simply dropping B20 into existing buses, or potentially making the relatively small investments required to adopt B100 modification technology. If the goal is to protect as many children as possible from potentially harmful tailpipe emissions, while working within the funding currently available, biodiesel is a far more effective option.” 

Biodiesel “Buy Down” Incentives 
IRFA participated in a study with Humboldt Community School District in Iowa to evaluate the benefits of switching its fleet from conventional diesel to B11. The study found a 3.4% increase in fuel economy, an 11.2% decrease in fuel burned for DPF regeneration, and consistent results when more buses in the fleet were switched to biodiesel. These results were discussed in the comments. 

In addition, IRFA said the following about incentivizing studies with school districts:  

“IRFA recommends that EPA allocate CSB grant funds toward helping “buy down” higher biodiesel blends for participating school districts. They may be interested and willing to make the switch to blends such as B20, but making any kind of change can be a risky decision, especially for districts with limited budgets. As demonstrated by the Humboldt pilot study, school districts that are incentivized to compare biodiesel blends with conventional diesel will see benefits, making continued adoption more likely.” 

In conclusion, IRFA stated: “Biodiesel is a clean-burning solution that can reduce emissions exposure for children, improve fuel economy, and reduce maintenance needs across existing school bus fleets.”  




Ag Groups Call for End to Fertilizer Duties

Over 50 state ag groups and eight national organizations sent a letter to the International Trade Commission this week urging the agency to revoke the countervailing duty orders on imports of phosphate fertilizer from Morrocco. 

The letter – signed by the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Cotton Council, National Sorghum Producers, Society of American Florists, USA Rice, US Rice Producers Association – said that continuing the duties will further worsen the dire economic conditions faced by American farmers.  

“Maintaining the phosphate fertilizer [countervailing duties] will allow a small set of powerful corporations to continue to limit supply options for farmers,” the letter said. “This has already prevented farmers from accessing the tools that meet their crop production needs and resulted in lower yields and negative economic impacts.” 

The duties stem from a decision in 2020 by ITC to impose duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. The decision came after the U.S.-based Mosaic Company petitioned the agency to do so.  

Mosaic claimed at the time that unfairly subsidized foreign companies were flooding the U.S. market with fertilizers and selling the products at extremely low prices. The petition was supported by another U.S. company, J.R. Simplot.  

The duties are now being examined under a sunset review process that will determine if they should continue. 

The duties have had major effects on the phosphate fertilizer market. At least one Moroccan company halted shipments of phosphate fertilizers into the U.S., which led to price hikes and tight supply conditions, saddling farmers with a hardship that has only become more dire in recent weeks with the conflict in the Middle East. Phosphate (DAP) prices peaked in 2022 during the Russia-Ukraine crisis, but have only eased moderately since, with the corn/phosphate price ratio (the amount of bushels needed to buy a ton of fertilizer) reaching record highs in 2025. 

The letter said that these fertilizer companies have gained at the expense of America’s farmer.  

“These companies—one of which the CEOs receives $9.8 million in annual compensation—do not need import protection to keep them healthy,” the letter said. “Farmers on the other hand do need help. The United States simply does not have sufficient domestic phosphate resources to meet agricultural demand on its own.” 

A recent letter from farmers to Mosaic and Simplot calling on them to rescind their petition went unanswered. 

The sunset review will progress over the next year, culminating in a decision by the ITC to determine if the duties should continue. The final decision is expected in the spring of 2027.  



February U.S. Ethanol and DDGS Exports Remain Robust Despite Pullback
Renewable Fuels Association

U.S. ethanol exports edged 1% lower in February to a still-strong 209.9 million gallons (mg), though volumes remained 36% above year-ago levels. More than half of February shipments went to Canada and the European Union, with the balance distributed across nine other countries. Canada remained the top overall destination, even as exports eased 12% to a 10-month low of 61.2 mg, and it accounted for 70% of all denatured fuel ethanol shipments. The European Union continued to lead as the largest market for undenatured fuel ethanol. Total ethanol exports to the European Union surged 42% to a record 49.8 mg, led by the Netherlands. Exports to India jumped 120% to a three-month high of 26.7 mg. Brazil fell 30% from January to 25.7 mg; even so, U.S. exports to Brazil in just the first two months of 2026 already exceed Brazil’s full-year 2025 imports by 25%. Rounding out the top markets were Colombia (10.0 mg, -17%), the United Kingdom (9.3 mg, +17%), South Korea (6.9 mg, -2%), Mexico (6.5 mg, +57%), the Philippines (5.9 mg, -48%), and Peru (5.8 mg, up fourfold). Year-to-date U.S. ethanol exports totaled 421.9 mg, 25% ahead of the same period last year.

U.S. ethanol imports remained minimal in February, with just 138,663 gallons arriving from Brazil and Canada. Total imports for the year remain below 200,000 gallons.

U.S. exports of dried distillers grains (DDGS), the animal feed co-product generated by dry-mill ethanol plants, declined 9% in February to 919,855 metric tons (mt). Much of the decline reflected a 23% drop in shipments to Mexico, the top destination, to 174,775 mt. South Korea increased 2% to 123,571 mt, while Indonesia rose 11% to 101,868 mt. Colombia slipped 19% from a record high to 84,597 mt. Vietnam dipped 1% to 70,438 mt, its lowest shipment volume in a year. Other major markets included Canada (46,460 mt, -14%), Turkey (45,245 mt, -24%), the European Union (40,639 mt, +17%), Morocco (40,233 mt, +63%), and Japan (26,250 mt, -12%). The remaining one-third of February shipments was spread across 27 additional countries. Year-to-date DDGS exports reached 1.93 million mt, 16% above the same period last year.



USDA Dairy Products February 2026 Production Highlights

Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 1.16 billion pounds, 3.9 percent above February 2025 but 9.0 percent below January 2026. Italian type cheese production totaled 506 million pounds, 6.8 percent above 
February 2025 but 8.8 percent below January 2026. American type cheese production totaled 451 million pounds, 1.9 percent above February 2025 but 9.3 percent below January 2026. Butter production was 221 million pounds, 9.1 percent above February 2025 but 8.2 percent below January 2026.

Dry milk products (comparisons in percentage with February 2025)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 159 million pounds, up 8.7 percent.
Skim milk powder - 28.2 million pounds, down 8.3 percent.

Whey products (comparisons in percentage with February 2025)
Dry whey, total - 67.3 million pounds, up 12.0 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 84.7 million pounds, up 1.0 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 38.3 million pounds, up 5.8 percent.

Frozen products (comparisons in percentage with February 2025)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 57.6 million gallons, up 3.7 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 29.6 million gallons, down 2.8 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 1.64 million gallons, up 23.0 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 3.06 million gallons, up 2.0 percent.