Thursday May 14 Ag News - Year-round E15 Passes US House - NE Beef Council New Dir of Prod Relations - CVA Updates Daykin Feed Mill - Ricketts on Rural Bank Revitalization - and more!

Nebraska Corn Growers Association Celebrates Passage of E15 Legislation

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) is celebrating the passage of H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act Wednesday.

“We are one step closer to year-round, nationwide E15, and it has been a long journey to get here,” said NeCGA board president, Michael Dibbern, a farmer from Cairo, Nebraska. “We appreciate Nebraska’s Congressional delegation, especially Rep. Adrian Smith, for championing this legislation and pushing it across the finish line.”

By providing drivers with another option at the pump and corn growers with market security, year-round E15 continues to prove a benefit to both urban and rural communities across the country.

“We implore Senate Leader John Thune to advance this bill to the Senate floor and deliver it to President Trump for signature,” said Dibbern. “Corn growers are ready to claim year-round E15 as a victory for farmers and consumers.”



Flood: ‘House-Passage of Year-Round E-15 Supports Farmers, Families, and Rural America’

Wednesday, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following house-passage of  H.R. 1346, also known as the “Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.” Congressman Flood is a cosponsor of the legislation, which lifts restrictions on the sale of 10 to 15 percent ethanol nationwide.

“For years, corn growers, working families, and President Trump have pushed for E15 to compete fairly as a nationwide fuel option,” said Congressman Flood. “Today, the House finally took action and passed this commonsense answer to lower costs at the pump and expand domestic markets for our producers. Nationwide sale of E-15 supports farmers, families, and rural America and is set to be a boon for Nebraska. I look forward to Senate passage and President Trump’s signature so families can finally have more choice and support our farmers at the pump.”

Congressman Flood delivered remarks ahead of votes, which can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcomed to use the recordings for their reporting purposes. 



Iowa Corn Growers Applaud House Passage of Year-Round E15 Legislation 

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) celebrates the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of nationwide, year-round E15 legislation. 

In response to the vote, ICGA President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa, Mark Mueller, released the following statement: 

"Today’s House vote is a monumental win for Iowa’s corn farmers, rural communities and millions of American drivers. Expanding E15 access drives market growth for U.S. corn and ethanol, promotes cleaner air and delivers real savings at the pump for consumers. 

“This victory would not have been possible without the steadfast leadership of Representatives Feenstra, Nunn, Miller-Meeks and Hinson. We thank them for their bipartisan efforts in moving E15 one step closer to the finish line. E15 is a real solution to high prices at the pump as a homegrown solution with outdated regulations that has caused a long-fought battle, and we are not finished yet. ICGA looks forward to working with the U.S. Senate to make E15 a reality for all Americans. 

“ICGA has long advocated nationwide access to higher blends of ethanol and applauds lawmakers for listening to farmers, biofuel producers and consumers for access to markets and options at the pump.” 



ASA Statement on House Passage of Year-Round E15 Legislation

The American Soybean Association continues to fully support year-round access to E15 and policies that strengthen domestic biofuels demand and create new market opportunities for farmers. However, the bill passed today contains more than just E15 provisions. Based on the findings of the recent Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) at the University of Missouri and Congressional Budget Office analyses, which also consider the permanent small refinery exemptions included in the bill, the House-passed legislation would result in reduced net farm income and negative economic impacts for soybean growers and the broader agricultural economy. Moving forward, ASA will continue working with lawmakers and stakeholders to advance solutions that enable year-round E15 without rewarding petroleum refiners who do not comply with the Renewable Fuel Standard at the expense of a critical domestic market for U.S. soy. Year-round E15 legislation must be pursued with a collective goal of strengthening farm income and supporting markets for both soybean and corn farmers.



Corn Growers Thrilled by Passage of E15 Legislation 

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 218 to 203 today to pass H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. In response, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower released the following statement: 

“We are thrilled to see that E15 legislation passed the House today and are deeply appreciative of the legislation’s sponsors, co-sponsors and all its congressional supporters.  

“Passage of this bill is essential to the success of corn farmers and rural communities, particularly as our growers face their fourth year of net losses and struggle with high input costs. It would also help drivers across the country who could save 10 to 30 cents per gallon on gas as fuel prices continue to rise.  

“We encourage members of the Senate to quickly take up this bill and send it to the president’s desk for signature.” 



NFU Celebrates Major Step Toward Year-Round E15

National Farmers Union (NFU) applauds House passage of the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, legislation that would allow for the year-round, nationwide sale of E15 fuel. NFU President Rob Larew released the following statement after the bill’s passage: 

“The House today delivered truly bipartisan legislation that provides meaningful benefits for family farmers, their communities and consumers. Year-round, nationwide access to E15 is a kitchen-table issue, helping families save money at the pump while creating stronger domestic market opportunities for America’s farmers. 

“At a time when both producers and consumers are facing continued economic pressure, expanding access to E15 is a commonsense step that strengthens competition in the fuel marketplace, supports homegrown energy and agriculture, and keeps more dollars circulating in rural America. 

“The Senate must quickly take up this legislation and send it to the president’s desk so farmers and families across the country can see meaningful savings and economic relief.” 



Farmers Applaud House Passage of Year-round E15 Sales

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on House passage of the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which will allow for year-round sales of fuels blended with 15% ethanol, known as E15. 

“Farmers applaud the House of Representatives, which proved what is possible when lawmakers work together on behalf of the American people. The bipartisan vote to allow the sale of year-round E15 will benefit drivers and farmers at a time both are desperately in need of good news. Fuels blended with 15% ethanol will increase demand for corn, which will help a struggling farm economy. America’s drivers will also have the choice to fill their tanks with fuel that is typically 10 to 30 cents cheaper per gallon. 

“We urge the Senate to follow the House’s lead and get this to the desk of President Trump, who has already signaled his support for E15. It’s a win-win for farmers, and for all of America.”



Pillen Highlights E15 Affordability, Supports EPA Waiver

Governor Jim Pillen announced Wednesday that the State of Nebraska will comply with recent guidance from Lee Zeldin, administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to help address fuel supply and address affordability issues.

“E15 is great for the people of Nebraska,” said Gov. Pillen. “It’s good for the environment and a cheaper option that helps families keep more money in their pockets. The corn used to produce it is grown right here in the Good Life by Nebraska’s hard-working farmers. E15 is a win-win for the Cornhusker state.”
The State of Nebraska will be honoring the EPA National Fuel Waiver issued March 25, 2026 for the duration of the EPA regulatory control season, just as it has in past years.

“E15 has been overlooked by federal legislators since 2011, but not in Nebraska,” said Nick Bowdish, president and CEO of Siouxland Ethanol. “Thanks to the leadership and advocacy of Governor Pillen, Nebraskans have access to higher blends of ethanol and are saving money at the pump with E15. While the Iranian War drives attention to fuel prices, ethanol’s practical solution is shining bright as always!”

In 2023, Gov. Pillen signed LB562 into law, creating the E15 Access Standard which requires all newly built gas stations to offer E15 at 50% of their fuel dispensers and will require existing stations to offer E15 at a single dispenser if that state-wide ethanol blend rate is not above 14% by 2027.

Generally, E15 options run about $0.20 less than regular fuel. The EPA has approved E15 for all standard vehicles produced after 2001 and the University of Nebraska -- Lincoln has completed studies showing no adverse effects of using it in standard vehicles.



NE Beef Council Announces new Director of Compliance and Producer Relations 

Growing up on a row-crop and cow-calf operation south of Kearney, Jacey Smidt developed a passion for the beef industry at an early age. From showing cattle through 4-H to helping build her family’s operation, Smitty Cattle Company, agriculture has always been at the center of her life. Now, Smidt is bringing that passion to her new role as Director of Compliance and Producer Relations for the Nebraska Beef Council. 

A graduate of Axtell High School, Smidt continued her education at Southeast Community College in Beatrice, earning degrees in livestock management and Ag business. After college, she interned with Aurora Cooperative before spending nearly three years working in animal nutrition out of the cooperative’s Minden location. While she valued the experience, Smidt knew she wanted to continue advocating for the beef industry in a different way. 

“I just want to continue to advocate and help others in the beef industry and promote the awesome industry that we’re in,” Smidt said. 

In her new position, Smidt will work closely with producers across the state while also overseeing compliance efforts with sale barns, packing plants and beef checkoff procedures. However, it is the producer relations side of the role that excites her most. 

“I really enjoy talking to producers and working with them,” she said. “I enjoy being a resource for them and helping them in any way that I can.” 

Smidt is also looking forward to connecting with the next generation of agricultural leaders through FFA programs and Ag education outreach. Whether speaking in classrooms or helping with beef promotion events, she hopes to share the story of the Beef Checkoff and the importance of the cattle industry with students across Nebraska. 

“I’m excited to be here and work with producers and everybody on the Beef Council team,” she said. 

Today, Smidt lives in Hildreth and remains actively involved in Smitty Cattle Company alongside her family, continuing the cattle operation that first sparked her love for the beef industry years ago.



Central Valley Ag Announces Investment in Daykin Mill Expansion to Support Evolving Protein Production

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is pleased to announce a strategic investment in its Daykin, Nebraska feed mill, positioning the cooperative to support the evolving needs of protein production across the region. Construction is expected to be completed in May 2027.

This investment includes expanding pelleting capabilities, additional ingredient storage, improved loadout capacity, and the addition of natural gas service. Together, these enhancements will increase efficiency, improve throughput, and strengthen CVA’s ability to meet growing and changing demand.

“This investment reflects our commitment to growing alongside our customers and the broader protein production industry,” said Doug Rowse, Senior Vice President of Feed at Central Valley Ag. “As production continues to evolve, we’re focused on making strategic improvements that enhance efficiency, expand capacity, and position CVA to capture future opportunities.”

CVA currently supports a range of livestock and poultry producers across its trade territory, delivering consistent, high-quality feed solutions. The Daykin expansion will further strengthen CVA’s capabilities in feed manufacturing, pelleting, and overall operational efficiency.

“This project reinforces CVA’s long-term focus on supporting producers, adapting to market challenges, and investing in infrastructure that enables sustainable growth,” Rowse said. 



Ricketts Introduces the Rural Depositories Revitalization Study Act to Strengthen Rural Banks

U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) Wednesday introduced the Rural Depositories Revitalization Study Act to strengthen rural institutions, protect small-town depositors, and keep local credit flowing.  The legislation would also identify burdensome red tape and regulations that prevent the opening and growth of rural banks.

“Nebraskans rely on community banks and credit unions,” said Ricketts.  “They underwrite farm equipment.  They help small businesses and manufacturers get started.  They enable Nebraskans to become homeowners by providing first mortgages.  Regulations written for big banks should not apply to rural ones.  This bill helps make the Good Life possible for all Nebraskans.”

The Rural Depositories Revitalization Study Act would:
    Direct the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) to:
        Identify methods to improve the growth, capital adequacy, and profitability of depository institutions in the United States that primarily serve rural areas;
        Identify Federal statutes or regulations of the Federal banking agencies that limit the establishment of de novo depository institutions in rural areas;
        Create a report to Congress with their findings no later than a year after enactment.

BACKGROUND
Rural communities rely on their local institutions to provide them flexible credit.  New bank formulation is staggeringly low since 2009.  The total number of banks has declined by more than 70% since the 1980s.  The Rural Depositories Revitalization Study Act would identify solutions to ensure rural banks can be created and continue to thrive.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 5/8/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending May 8, ethanol production accelerated 6.4% to a 4-week high of 1.08 million b/d, equivalent to 45.44 million gallons daily. Output was 9.0% higher than the same week last year and 8.1% above the five-year average for the week. Yet, the four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 1.0% to 1.04 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.94 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks dropped 4.4% to 24.9 million barrels, the lowest volume since the first week of October 2025. Stocks were 2.3% less than the same week last year but 6.9% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions, including a 41-week low in the West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, slid 0.7% to a 5-week low of 8.75 million b/d (134.57 bg annualized). Demand was 0.5% less than a year ago and 2.4% below the five-year average.

Conversely, refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol increased 0.7% to 908,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.96 bg annualized. Still, net inputs were 2.3% less than year-ago levels and 1.1% below the five-year average.

Ethanol exports expanded 16.5% to an estimated 162,000 b/d (6.8 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



USDA requests producer input to support transparent reporting of 2026 crops, inventories, and values

Over the next several weeks, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will conduct the June Agricultural Survey by contacting over 90,000 producers across the nation to determine crop acreage and stock levels as of June 1, 2026.

“The June Agricultural Survey is one of the most significant and recognized surveys NASS conducts,” said Joseph L. Parsons, NASS administrator. “When producers take part, they help ensure that the nation’s agricultural reporting remains accurate, transparent, and free from speculation. Their responses directly support decisions made by farmers, ranchers, researchers, private industry, and policymakers who depend on trustworthy data.” Producers can respond to the June Agricultural Survey online at agcounts.usda.gov, by phone, or mail. They will be asked to provide information on planted and harvested acreage, including acreage for biotech crops and grain stocks.

“We recognize that this is a busy time for farmers, but the information they provide helps U.S. agriculture remain viable and capable. I urge them to respond to these surveys and thank them for their participation,” said Parsons.

NASS will publish the data in a series of USDA reports, including the annual Acreage and quarterly Grain Stocks reports on June 30, 2026. These data also contribute to NASS’s monthly and annual Crop Production reports, the annual Small Grains Summary, annual Farms and Land in Farms and Land Values reports, various livestock reports, including Cattle, Sheep and Goats, and Hogs and Pigs, and USDA’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates. 

Wednesday May 13 Ag News - Smith on Year-round E15 - Heifer Development at HAL - '26 NE Custom Rates Survey Published - Milk De-pooling and impact to dairy farmers - Corn Growers Spotlight Fertilizer Prices - and more!

Smith Sets the Record Straight on Nationwide, Year-Round E15 

Tuesday, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the biofuels caucus, joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues at a press conference urging Congress to lower prices at the pump for consumers and increase much-needed market access for ag producers by passing his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.  
 
During his remarks, Smith set the record straight by debunking E15 opponents' false claims while encouraging his colleagues to support commonsense policy as opposed to political gamesmanship. Smith was joined by National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower, along with U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Shontel Brown (OH-11). 

On Supporting Commonsense Policies:
"The American people deserve access to affordable, reliable fuel options, and American producers deserve policies grounded in commonsense—not political gamesmanship. That is exactly what nationwide, year-round E15 delivers.

Unfortunately, there has been a smear campaign full of misinformation aimed at preventing nationwide, year-round E15 from becoming a reality.  Now more than ever it is important for me to set the record straight."

On Expanding Choices for Consumers: 
"Our opponents claim this legislation is an unfunded mandate. That is simply false. My Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailers Choice Act does not require retailers to sell E15, nor does it force anyone to blend or market a new fuel product. What it does is provide certainty and flexibility for retailers who choose to offer E15 during the remaining three months of the year. It expands consumer choice—it does not impose government mandates."

On Lowering Prices at the Pump: 
"They say 'E15 raises prices for consumers.' When in reality, E15 does the opposite. In fact, it has proven to lower prices at the pump by 30 cents per gallon on average. At a time when families are already stretched thin, lower fuel costs matter, and that is exactly what E15 delivers."

On Increasing Market Access for Biofuels Producers: 
"Corn prices remain under pressure, and if Congress fails to create stronger domestic markets, we may once again be forced into expensive ad-hoc disaster assistance. 

Nationwide, year-round E15 is expected to increase corn demand by more than two billion bushels annually, creating stronger markets for producers while reducing the likelihood of future taxpayer-funded bailouts. This is not wasteful spending—it is smart policy."

On Achieving American Energy Independence: 
"This debate comes down to a simple question: do we want more affordable fuel, stronger energy independence, and expanded markets for American agriculture—or do we want to continue allowing uncertainty and politics to stand in the way?

I believe the answer is clear. Nationwide, year-round E15 is good for consumers, good for producers, and good for America." 



Heifer Development Program Continues at Haskell Ag Lab

The Haskell Agricultural Laboratory is pleased to announce that heifers are once again in our feedlot. Operating as the Haskell Ag Lab Heifer Development Center, the program is currently welcoming producer cattle, providing a dedicated environment focused on developing replacement heifers for producer’s home herds. 
 
A key component of this initiative is the reproductive management of the heifers, which includes the capability to perform artificial insemination up to two times to help ensure breeding success. This will allows producers to focus on the long-term productivity of their replacements with the support of the laboratory’s facilities. 
 
Enrolled heifers can receive genetic testing and pelvic measurements, providing producers with essential insights into the structural soundness and genetic potential of their animals. By integrating these diagnostic tools, the program helps producers make more informed decisions for their operations, ensuring that the heifers returning to their herds are well-developed. 
 
This program serves as a valuable resource for regional producers looking to enhance their breeding programs through development services. For those seeking more specific details regarding the program, please contact HAL Farm Operations Manager Logan Dana at 402-584-3852. 



2026 Nebraska Custom Rates Report Published
Glennis McClure, NE Extension Educator, Farm and Ranch Management Analyst 

The biennial Nebraska Custom Rates Report is now available through Nebraska Extension on the Center for Agricultural Profitability's website. Information in the report is based on survey data collected from 108 Nebraska respondents with rates included for 123 different custom operations and services.

The report provides market rate information as a reference for those offering custom work and for their potential customers. Custom service providers should also consider ownership and operating costs when setting rates. Information presented in the state summary and full report should be used only as a guide when determining what to charge or pay for custom operations.

Agricultural custom rate charges vary across the state. Therefore, the Nebraska Custom Rates Report groups survey responses by Nebraska Agricultural Statistics Districts. Several factors contribute to rate differences reported by survey participants, including field and job size, soil conditions, and the number of responses received for each operation. Some operators may charge below-market rates to neighbors or relatives. Rates may also change from year to year because of expense differences and local market conditions.

Determining an appropriate charge for custom machine hire and agricultural services should include consideration of current market rates reported in the survey, local demand for specific services, and availability of operators in the area.

Fuel cost is a major machinery expense and fluctuates over time. The 2026 custom rates survey data was received primarily during the first quarter of 2026. The statewide average expected farm-delivered diesel fuel rate reported by participants was $2.93 per gallon, with a range of $2.20 to $4.00 per gallon.

Since the survey period, diesel prices have increased. For example, if diesel fuel rises from $2.93 to $4.11 per gallon, that is an increase of $1.18 per gallon. If a power unit uses 0.85 gallons per acre for a specific operation, an additional $1.00 per acre would be needed to cover the increased fuel cost.
Using Ownership and Operating Costs to Set Rates

In addition to market rates reported in the survey, establishing custom service fees should include machine ownership and operating costs, with a profit margin added if desired.

The Center for Agricultural Profitability developed the Agricultural Budget Calculator (ABC) program to help producers determine production costs for their enterprises, including machinery and equipment costs. Producers and custom operators can use the online program to enter machinery information such as purchase value, expected ownership period, annual use, fuel prices, labor costs, repair expense, and field coverage rates to estimate operating costs per acre.

Fuel, repair, and salvage value calculations from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) are used in the ABC program.

Determining a rate to charge for agricultural custom services should be no different than pricing services in any other industry. First, review current market rates such as those reported in the Nebraska Custom Rates Report. Next, calculate total ownership and operating costs. Finally, add a profit margin if desired.

Full summaries from the custom rates survey, including regional rates for the eight Nebraska Statistics Districts and statewide averages, are published as University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension Circular EC823 and are available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability's website cap.unl.edu.



Secretary Naig Congratulates Johnston on Being Named New Home of Vylor’s Headquarters  

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig welcomed the announcement that Vylor will plant their new corporate headquarters in Johnston, Iowa: 

“This announcement is tremendous news for Iowa and Iowa agriculture. We congratulate the city of Johnston, Polk County and the state partners who helped make this possible, and we welcome this new chapter for a company with deep and historic agricultural roots in our state. 

This decision reinforces that Iowa is a welcoming place for businesses to invest and thrive. With a competitive tax and regulatory climate, a highly skilled workforce, and an environment for innovation, Iowa is built for growth. 

Planting the headquarters here sends a strong signal to Iowa farmers that this company values being in the heart of agriculture and close to the customers it serves every day. I look forward to working alongside Vylor’s leadership to support Iowa farmers and strengthen our state’s agriculture community.” 



Understanding The Impact Of Milk Market De‑Pooling On Producer Paychecks
Fred M. Hall
Northwest Iowa Extension Dairy Specialist
Iowa State University Extension

Volatility in federal milk pricing and widening spreads between Class III and Class IV milk prices are once again putting dairy producers on alert as milk de-pooling activity intensifies across several Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMOs).

Milk de-pooling occurs when handlers voluntarily remove milk used for manufacturing—primarily Class II, III, or IV milk—from the federal revenue pool. While Class I beverage milk must remain pooled, processors of cheese, butter, powder, and other manufactured products can choose to leave the pool when manufacturing values exceed the uniform blend price.

The current market environment has created one of the most extreme incentives for de-pooling in recent history. As of early May 2026, Class IV futures for May and June were trading roughly $5 per hundredweight above Class III futures. Industry analysts note in June 2020, when USDA’s Food Box program was active, Class III futures were significantly higher than Class IV contracts by $8.14/cwt., but the current difference between Class IV and Class III is the highest ever. Historically de-pooling activity accelerates whenever one class of milk dramatically outperforms another. In 2020, pandemic-related government food purchases caused cheese prices to surge, pushing Class III prices more than $8 per hundredweight above Class IV. That spike triggered significant de-pooling and led to deeply negative Producer Price Differentials (PPDs) for many dairy farmers.

Today’s market rally is being driven largely by strong nonfat dry milk and Class IV pricing. Many cooperatives and processors may find it financially advantageous to de-pool milk to capture the full Class IV value rather than share revenues through the blended FMMO pool.

For dairy producers, the consequences can be significant. While de-pooling benefits processors by allowing them to avoid paying large sums into the pool, it often reduces the blend price they pay to farmers who remain in the pool. Negative PPDs may reappear on milk checks, particularly in cheese-heavy orders in the Upper Midwest and Central regions.

The Central FMMO region's March 2026 pooling data already illustrates the impact. Total pooled milk volume fell to 1.35 billion pounds, compared to more than 1.50 billion pounds during March 2025. At the same time, Class III utilization jumped to 48.2 percent while Class IV utilization dropped to just 12.0 percent, reflecting aggressive de-pooling by Class IV manufacturers.

Fluid milk (Class I) processors face additional pressure because they cannot de-pool and must pay the higher of the advanced Class III or Class IV skim milk pricing factors. Those higher costs may eventually translate into increased retail milk prices for consumers.

USDA’s upcoming advanced pricing announcements and All-Milk price reports later this month will be closely watched as producers evaluate the growing impact of de-pooling on milk checks, processor economics, and overall dairy market profitability.



Corn Growers Fight for Transparency, Competition in Fertilizer Market

Corn growers continue to raise alarms about high fertilizer costs, including during a hearing on fertilizer affordability today before the Senate Agriculture Committee.

“In August, South Dakota farmers will begin to seriously plan and make decisions regarding the 2027 corn crop, however it is nearly impossible for them to know what market conditions will look like at that time,” South Dakota Corn Growers Association President Trent Kubik told the committee. “The majority of corn farmers are therefore concerned about fertilizer price and availability as they look forward.”

Kubik was one of many corn grower representatives from across the country who flew in this week, during the middle of planting season, to share their perspective with members of Congress and advocate for the passage of the Fertilizer Transparency Act, which was introduced by Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and several other bills on the matter that are pending in Congress.

“Farmers are saddled with an economic situation that is unsustainable, with skyrocketing fertilizer prices coupled with corn prices that can’t support those costs,” said Matt Frostic, Michigan corn farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) first vice president, during a visit to Capitol Hill. “The fertilizer industry has become more consolidated, more concentrated, and more unworkable for farmers.”

Kubik also addressed concentration of the fertilizer market during the hearing, noting that only a handful of domestic companies supply the U.S. market.

“Over the past 40 years, fewer and fewer fertilizer firms serve the U.S. farmer due in no small part to industry mergers,” Kubik told the committee. “By almost any measure, these are highly concentrated markets.”

The problem with fertilizer supply and costs worsened in 2020 after the Commerce Department, acting on a petition filed by Mosaic, a U.S.-based company, imposed duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. 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 J.R. Simplot.

As a result of the decision, at least one Moroccan company halted shipments of phosphate fertilizers into the U.S., which led to record-high fertilizer prices that only abated slightly in subsequent years, only to be impacted again recently by events in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, in a further blow to farmers, Mosaic announced this week that it will scale back domestic production of phosphate fertilizer even as the company is still pushing for increasing duties on imports of Moroccan phosphate, and while they continue to deliver shareholder profitability.

The announcement spurred the ire of the National Corn Growers Association.

“The leaders at Mosaic continue to make one self-serving move after another, and always at the expense of the farmers who buy their products,” Frostic said. “If Mosaic wants to cite financial challenges as a reason for needing to cut production, maybe it’s time they finally recognize the stress they have put on farmers in recent years. The least they could do is call for an end to the duties on phosphate imports from Morocco.”

Frostic said NCGA will continue to sound the alarms and push for congressional action until fertilizer prices come down.



Winter Wheat Production Down 25 Percent from 2025

Winter wheat production is forecast by USDA at 1.05 billion bushels, down 25 percent from 2025. As of May 1, the United States yield is forecast at 47.6 bushels per acre, down 7.3 bushels from last year's average yield of 54.9 bushels per acre. Area expected to be harvested for grain or seed totals 22.0 million acres, down 14 percent from last year.

Hard Red Winter production, at 515 million bushels, is down 36 percent from a year ago. Soft Red Winter, at 301 million bushels, is down 15 percent from 2025. White Winter, at 232 million bushels, is down 5 percent from last year. Of the White Winter production, 8.03 million bushels are Hard White and 224 million bushels are Soft White.



Ranchers Welcome Return to Common-sense Land Management

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on Bureau of Land Management actions to update grazing regulations and rescind the misguided Conservation and Landscape Health Rule.

“Ranchers appreciate Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and President Trump for working to provide certainty to ranchers who use public lands for livestock grazing, which is crucial to the success of farmers and ranchers in the Western United States. Modernizing decades-old grazing regulations will provide more flexibility for updated management practices and will help ranchers rebuild America’s cattle herds. Ranchers care for the land they’ve been entrusted with, and responsible stewardship of public lands helps to reduce wildfires, control invasive species, and promote overall health benefits to the land.

“Rescinding the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule and updating grazing regulations recognizes the important balance our country has achieved on public lands. It ensures ranchers have critical access to rangelands, which ultimately supports the stability and availability of homegrown protein for America’s families.” 

Tuesday May 12 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - NE Ext Hosts Roller Crimper Workshop - Beef on Dairy Dialogue webinar - UP Reports Grain Shipments Significantly Higher - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Statistics - May 10

                             Very Short      Short    Adequate     Surplus
Topsoil Moisture .......:    49          35            16              -     
Subsoil Moisture .......:    45          36            19              -     

                            .....  Last year   Last week   This week   5YrAve
Corn Planted ...............:    70            43             67               60     
Corn Emerged ............:     32            7              25                18  
Soybeans planted .......:    58            40             64                44     
Soybeans emerged .....:     17            2               18                 8     
Sorghum planted ........:     15            4               7                  7     
Winter Wheat headed .:      2             6               36                3     

                                              VP       Poor       Fair        Good       Excellent    
Winter Wheat Condition .:    37          45          13          05               -     
Pasture Conditions ..........:    41          38          16           5                -    



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending May 10, 2026, which is 0.1 day more than last year, when there were 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture conditions rated 3 percent very short, 23 percent short, 68 percent adequate and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture conditions rated 3 percent very short, 18 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus. 

Corn planting in Iowa reached 72 percent complete, which is even with last year and 9 percentage points above the five-year average. Corn emergence reached 19 percent, 8 percentage points below last year but even with the five-year average. 

Soybean planting reached 60 percent, which is the same as 2025 and 12 percentage points above the five-year average. 7 percent of the soybean crop has emerged. 

Oats planted in Iowa reached 94 percent, 2 percentage points behind last year when 96 percent of the crop had been planted. 



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

Corn planting was over halfway finished by the end of last week, while soybean planting continued ahead of last year's pace and its five-year average, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released on Monday.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 57% of corn was planted nationwide as of Sunday, 2 points behind last year's pace of 59% and 5 points ahead of the five-year average of 52%. 
-- Crop development: 23% of corn had emerged as of Sunday, 3 points behind last year's 26% and 4 points ahead of the five-year average of 19%.

SOYBEANS
-- Planting progress: An estimated 49% of intended soybean acreage was planted as of Sunday, 4 points ahead of last year at this time and 13 points ahead of the five-year average of 36%. 
-- Crop development: 20% of soybeans had emerged as of Sunday, 4 points ahead of last year and 8 points ahead of the five-year average of 12%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: An estimated 40% of winter wheat was rated poor to very poor as of May 10, up 22 percentage points from 18% a year ago, according to NASS.

-- Crop development: 61% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 10 percentage points ahead of last year's 51% and 16 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 45%. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Planting progress: 53% of the crop was planted nationwide as of May 10, 10 percentage points behind last year's pace of 63% and 2 percentage points ahead the five-year average of 51%. 
-- Crop development: 23% of spring wheat was emerged as of Sunday, 2 percentage points behind last year's pace of 25% and 4 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 19%.



See Roller Crimpers in Action at Nebraska Extension Workshop May 20

Discover how roller crimpers can help manage cover crops without turning the soil — see the equipment in action and learn how to make this low-disturbance method work for your operation at Nebraska Extension’s hands-on workshop on Wednesday, May 20.

Roller crimpers mechanically terminate cover crops while leaving the soil undisturbed, ideally creating a thick mulch that suppresses weeds. They are commonly used by organic and regenerative farmers, as well as others looking to reduce herbicide inputs or improve weed control with cover crops.

Growers and ag professionals interested in learning more about this termination strategy are invited to attend Nebraska Extension’s annual workshop at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC), near Mead, Nebraska. Free on-site registration begins at 9 a.m.; no pre-registration is required. The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude at 11:30 a.m.

In the event of inclement weather, the workshop will be rescheduled for Friday, May 22.

For more information, contact Katja Koehler-Cole at 402-504-1016 or Aaron Nygren at 402-624-8030. ENREEC is located at 1071 County Road G, Ithaca, Nebraska.

This event is free thanks to funding from Nebraska Extension and the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).



Indiana Passes Nebraska in Planted Popcorn Acres

According to the Farm Service Agency, Indiana has passed Nebraska in terms of planted popcorn acres. However, Nebraska continues to be in the lead in white corn acreage, which were up last year. Nebraska also continues to be 3rd in seed corn acres, though all major states were down from last year 



Beef On Dairy Dialogue webinar: What’s Going On With Carcass Size?

The 2026 Beef On Dairy Dialogue webinar series continues on Thursday, May 14 at 12 noon CDT with a presentation by Dr. Warren Rusche on carcass size and the implication to the industry and consumers.

Warren Rusche currently serves as an Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Beef Feedlot Management Specialist at South Dakota State University. His outreach and research efforts focus on strategies for enhancing the value of crops and livestock to improve rural profitability across South Dakota. Prior to his current role, he served as a cow/calf field specialist based in Watertown and was the co-manager of his family’s cow-calf and cattle feeding business in South Dakota for thirteen years. He earned an MS in Animal Science from Kansas State University and a Ph.D. in Animal Science from South Dakota State University.

There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, registration is required at least one hour prior to the webinar. Register online at: https://go.iastate.edu/CARCASSSIZE.

For more information; in Iowa contact, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota contact, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; in South Dakota contact, Warren Rusche, 605.688.5452 or in Nebraska contact, Kortney Harpestad, 507.525.3584.



Union Pacific: Grain Transports Off to Record Start in 2026

Union Pacific’s grain shuttles traveled fast and fluid across the rail network during the first quarter of 2026, as the railroad reported record volumes of grain transports fueled by demand in Mexico and overseas markets.

The railroad surpassed its first quarter record of grain volumes previously set in 2008 amid renewed demand for U.S. feed grain for export.

“Our team’s ability to capture record volumes of grain is a testament to our focus as a railroad on providing tremendous service to our customers while operating our network at peak performance,” said Jason Hess, senior vice president – Bulk, Marketing and Sales. “Our network is running incredibly fast, allowing us to handle more volume, which is a win-win for the railroad and our customers.”

For example, Union Pacific grain shuttle velocity averaged 334 miles per day during the first quarter, compared to 294 miles per day in 2025. 

The renewed demand for U.S. feed grain comes after farmers harvested a record corn crop in 2025, with production up 14% from 2024.

Union Pacific’s commitment to operational excellence is a big reason for the fluidity of the railroad’s network, but two other key enhancements also have helped: investments in new grain hopper cars that can carry more grain and improved fluidity at the southern border.

Union Pacific has been adding new high‑efficiency covered hoppers to its fleet that can carry an additional 2,500 pounds and are 3 to 7 feet shorter than legacy cars. These design improvements allow more covered hopper cars per train within the same track footprint, increasing the total volume transported for our customers

In addition, a new crew change procedure at the Eagle Pass international border crossing has expedited the time it takes for trains to travel across the Mexican/U.S. border. The new procedure allows Mexican partner crews to travel seven miles from the border into Union Pacific’s Eagle Pass yard to interchange with U.S. crews rather than conducting a time-consuming crew change operation on an international bridge.

“The enhanced fluidity across the international bridge means we can handle more volume while delivering faster times to our customers,” Hess said.



ASA Statement on Mosaic Phosphate Production Cuts

Monday, the American Soybean Association issued a statement in response to reporting on The Mosaic Company’s plans to scale back domestic phosphate production:

“This unsettling news from Mosaic comes at a time when U.S. soybean farmers are facing major economic headwinds, and neither the skyrocketing cost nor the availability of inputs – like phosphate fertilizer – are helping ease those challenges,” said ASA President and Ohio soybean farmer Scott Metzger. “This is the worst time possible for Mosaic to decrease domestic phosphate production. High sulfuric acid costs are disrupting the global fertilizer market, and farmers are ultimately paying the price through higher input costs.”

ASA again calls on the Trump administration to help address the high cost and availability of phosphate fertilizers by terminating the countervailing duty on imported phosphate fertilizers from Morocco and Russia, Metzger said, adding, “this ill-conceived duty has increased the cost of phosphate fertilizer for farmers by $6.9 billion over the past five years while commodity prices continue to trend downwards. We urge the President to remove the CVD on phosphate fertilizers to address the availability and affordability of this important input.”



Drought Lingers in South and West
Will Secor, Extension Livestock Economist, University of Georgia

Five months into 2026, and unfortunately, drought is not a new topic. The current U.S. Drought Monitor shows abnormally dry or drought conditions covering much of the southern and western portions of the U.S. Around 60 percent of cattle inventory are in drought conditions.

Drought impacts two important areas: herd management and feed decisions. Drought impacts herd management through marketing decisions – timing, weight, retention, and more. In the short-run, drought may increase the number of calves and feeder cattle hitting sale barns earlier and at lighter weights. This effect may put some downward pressure on lighter-weight calves this fall when spring calves are weaned. Additionally, cull cow price may face headwinds as more cows are culled to save pasture and range resources. Long-term, drought conditions slows and/or delays the cattle inventory rebuild.

Feed decisions will be important to watch this year. Hay production in many southern and western states struggled in 2025 (e.g., Texas’s other hay production was 20 percent lower year-over-year), and many southeastern states had lower hay stocks on December 1 compared to last year. Hay prices may move higher this year on tighter supplies. This may have knock-on effects for other commodity prices (e.g., corn) as producers seek out alternative feed components.

This feed topic is interesting as it relates to decisions within the cattle supply chain. The incentive many feedlots have been facing over the last several months is to feed cattle longer with relatively cheap feed to capitalize on high feed cattle prices. If drought impacts the feed-cost part of this situation, it could have two impacts. First, it could put downward pressure on feeder cattle prices. The breakeven price that feedlots could pay would drop as the cost of gain increases. Second, it could crimp the interest feedlots have to feed cattle longer. This may reduce beef supplies later this year, putting additional upward pressure on beef prices.

NOAA drought outlooks project some improvement in the South in the coming months, but drought is expected to remain for most areas that are currently in drought. Both short-term and long-term impacts will start to be felt later this year from decisions producers are starting to make today.



Preparation and collaboration are key for navigating issues, according to 2026 Stakeholders Summit speakers

Speakers at the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 2026 Stakeholders Summit addressed pressures impacting animal protein, including animal rights extremism, legislative agendas, animal health and welfare, and supply chain coordination. The 2026 Summit was held May 5-7 in Kansas City, Mo. and included more than 205 registered in-person attendees. A recording pass is available for purchase through May 21 to access session recordings.

“The 2026 Stakeholders Summit highlighted the importance of the farm and food communities working together to navigate pressures impacting animal protein,” said Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Alliance president and CEO. “Speakers emphasized the need for continued collaboration across sectors, the strength that comes with preparation, and the role telling our personal stories can play in reaching consumers. The networking opportunities across attendees was also a particular highlight for this year’s event, with several new events added to the agenda.”

Preparation is key
A key theme from Summit speakers was that preparation is key to safeguard against agricultural threats. During the session “High Steaks, Real Threats,” panelists Andrew Rose, BIO-ISAC, Kristin King, AnzenSage, and Jonathan Lawler, Rural Strategies Group, offered several pieces of advice to attendees, including documenting practices and policies as verification if crisis hits the farm. They also recommended surveying the farm layout and looking at it as honestly as possible for potential weak points. The growth of technology in recent years also highlighted the need for increased cybersecurity measures to ensure data privacy and confidentiality.

A separate session, “What’s Heating Up,” addressed trends in activism and how farms, processing facilities, and zoos are being targeted. Speakers, including Challis Hobbs, Fur Commission USA, Joe Regenstein, PhD, Cornell and Kansas State University, and Tom Albert, Zoological Association of America, noted that vandalism, trespassing, animal release, and arson are some of the top tactics used to target animal facilities. In some cases, it’s been identified that extremists are being hired and paid to attack farms. There’s also a growing trend of smaller, family-owned farms being increasingly targeted. “Confidence comes from being prepared,” Hobbs stated, quoting legendary basketball coach John Wooden.

Supply chain collaboration
Collaboration – from the farm level to consumer-facing restaurants and retailers – was also a key theme of the event. In the session “Tools of the Trade,” speakers Stephanie Wetter, National Pork Board, and Callahan Grund, U.S. CattleTrace, discussed the importance of record keeping and data to support research and innovation. On the farm, it was stressed that employees should be trained, outcomes measured, and data verified to continuously improve protocols. Similarly in the animal health space, tracking disease spread between animals can be communicated with animal health officials to further collaboration and improve response. Supply chain members – wherever they sit – were encouraged to ask for data, engage with current data collection programs, and lean into traceability and transparency as assets rather than risks.

The opening keynote, “Leading Under Pressure” with Sarah Bohnenkamp, touched on supply chain collaboration as well, encouraging attendees to share more data across the supply chain and to walk a mile in each other’s shoes to consider perspectives. Stakeholders need to trust one another to do their part and be intentionally curious to foster engagement and understanding. In the closing keynote, Crystal Mackay, LOFT32, stated, “For our industry to show up and grow and meet demand, we need to show up and collaborate.”

Tell your story or others will tell it for you
Sessions also recognized the need to continue telling personal stories, noting if the farm and food communities don’t tell their own stories, someone else will tell it for them and it may not be accurate. During the session “Leveraging Sustainability to Build Trust,” panelists including Nancy Himmelfarb, Himmelfarb Sustainability Consulting, Francois Leger, FPL Food, LLC, and Rachael Wagner, Eocene Environmental Group, recommended sharing values, practices, and policies confidently with the public. A strong stance is more authentic and clearer and will resonate more with the audience. Companies were also encouraged to ensure they are engaging with employees who can be their strongest assets in sharing personal stories and building brand trust.

A recording pass has been made available to purchase for those who were not able to attend the 2026 Summit in person. Session recordings will be posted within two weeks after the event and will only be available to registered attendees and recording pass holders.

Save the date for the 2027 Stakeholders Summit, scheduled for May 5-7 in Arlington, Va. Follow the hashtag #AAA27 for periodic updates about the event.

The 2026 Summit would not be possible without the support of sponsors, including U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, Farm Journal, Meatingplace, Watt, Cargill, Perdue Farms, Zoetis, American Feed Industry Association, Dairy Farmers of America, U.S. Soy, Agri-Pulse Communications, Inc., Amick Farms, Aviagen, CoBank, Dairy MAX, Farm Credit Council, Mountaire Farms, National Pork Board, National Pork Producers Council, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Lamb Board, Cal-Maine Foods, Cobb-Vantress, LLC, Empirical, Hendrix Genetics, National Chicken Council, North Carolina Farm Bureau, Progressive Dairy, Trans Ova Genetics, Tyson Foods, United Egg Producers, Vivayic, Eggland’s Best, and Eocene Environmental Group.

Monday May 11 Ag News - Pillen Requests Federal Disaster Declaration - UNL's McMechan Receives NSB Honor - CAP May Webinars - NPB Forms Swine Health Strategy Committee - USDA Implements Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act - and more!

Pillen Requests Federal Disaster Declaration for Wildfire Damage
 
Friday, Governor Jim Pillen requested that President Donald Trump issue a major disaster declaration related to severe wildfires that impacted the state from March through April. The funding will assist with covering the cost of damage to public infrastructure that occurred as a result of the Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby and Minor fires. More than 821,000 acres were burned in those four fires.
 
The request includes Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln, and Morill counties and would help cover damage to roads, bridges, and power infrastructure. Power infrastructure was the most impacted, with fires burning through transmission corridors and distribution systems.
 
“As Nebraska faced historic wildfires, the people of our state came together to jumpstart the recovery process,” said Gov. Pillen. “I’m submitting my request for a disaster declaration to the White House and FEMA. We appreciate President Trump’s attention to this matter and his long-standing support of our state when we have requested disaster recovery funding.”
 
Preliminary damage estimates by FEMA and NEMA have reached nearly $9.7 million, with state officials saying federal assistance is needed to support long-term recovery efforts.
 
“Since these fires, we’ve been blessed beyond measure to see the outpouring of support – and load after load of hay – cross county and state lines to support ranching families and communities in the Sandhills, added Gov. Pillen. “Nebraskans are tough as nails, and we’ll get through this moment together.”



McMechan Honored with the 2026 Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award

Dr. Justin McMechan built his research program around the problems Nebraska farmers were already facing. Receiving the Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award from the people he works for made it all hit home. He thought he was walking into a room to defend his research proposals. He wasn’t.
At its March 2026 meeting, the Nebraska Soybean Board named Dr. Justin McMechan the recipient of the Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award—given to individuals whose soybean research creates real, measurable value for Nebraska farmers. The award was established by the family of the late Larry Tonniges, a longtime Nebraska farmer who championed production research as part of his service on the board. McMechan is an Associate Professor of Entomology at UNL with a combination Extension and Research appointment, splitting his time between East Campus in Lincoln and ENREEC near Mead. The surprise caught him at a loss for words. For a researcher who's spent years standing in front of rooms full of farmers, that's saying something.

STILL A FARMER AT HEART
McMechan grew up on a small farm in Manitoba, Canada, where farming was always the plan. He eventually found his way to Nebraska for his education, which didn’t take him far from the field. He plants every research plot himself. He sprays. He harvests. And when it’s time to plant, he’s right there on the farm — his “right-sized” two-row planter running alongside the farmer’s 12- and 16-row equipment, working the same field setting, talking through the same questions. “I’m still kind of a farmer at heart,” he said. “It’s just... I’m farming for education. And it’s honestly more gratifying, because I get to help this whole community.”

SCIENCE AS A SERVICE
McMechan’s research program runs on a simple premise: farmers identify the problem, then he goes to find the answer. Roundtable discussions with farmers, consultants and ag professionals shaped his research priorities from the start. Proposals followed—not because they were interesting to researchers, but because farmers said they mattered. The Nebraska Soybean Board funded them for the same reason. That’s still how it works. “It’s 100 percent the foundation of how I formed my program,” he said. He runs small-plot research at five to 10 farm locations across Nebraska each season, looking for solutions that are practical and don’t add cost. When results come back, farmers recognize them. “If we build it together,” McMechan said, “it fits somewhere on the farming operation already.”

RESEARCH FOCUS AREAS
    Pests in cover crop-to-corn systems
    Corn ear abnormalities
    Soybean gall midge biology and management
    Hail damage in row crops
    At-plant tactics like depth, row spacing, tillage

FILLING THE GAPS ON GALL MIDGE
When soybean gall midge was first identified in 2019, the Nebraska Soybean Board pushed for emergency funding within roughly 90 days—a rare move that put Nebraska at the front of the research. That foundation still holds. The pest is unlike anything soybean growers had faced before, and getting answers has been a slow process of filling in gaps. McMechan describes it this way: you put a box on your head  and poke one hole. That’s your entire field of vision. As research advances, more holes get poked, and the picture comes into greater focus. Right now, that focus is on variety selection. Two years of planting farmer-supplied seed in controlled settings revealed mortality rates ranging from 6 to 70 percent, depending on variety. When McMechan asked a group of farmers what that information was worth to their operation, the average answer was $30,000. That kind of impact is exactly what he shows up to find and exactly what the Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award was created to recognize. 



Nebraska Teachers Invited to 2026 Soybean Science Institute

Nebraska middle and high school teachers are invited to apply for the 2026 Soybean Science Institute, a hands-on professional development program designed to bring agriculture and science to life in the classroom.

Hosted by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in partnership with the Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB), the institute will be held July 7-8 and July 14-16, 2026. Sessions will take place at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Ithaca.

The program will select 20 teachers, with priority given to cross-curricular teams, to explore the question: Why do we grow soybeans in Nebraska?

Participants will work alongside content experts from CASNR, NSB and fellow educators to better understand Nebraska’s soybean industry and its role in the state’s economy, environment and daily life. The institute emphasizes inquiry-based learning and systems thinking, helping teachers develop classroom-ready lesson plans that integrate science, math and agriculture.

The Soybean Science Institute is a paid professional development opportunity. Teachers who complete the full program will receive a $1,050 stipend, along with a $250 bonus for implementing a lesson plan developed during the institute. Participants will also receive classroom resources to support continued learning.

Applications for the 2026 program are due May 15, and space is limited.

Teachers interested in applying or learning more can visit the Soybean Science Institute webpage https://agronomy.unl.edu/extension-outreach/field-days-and-workshops/2026-soybean-science-institute/.



CAP Webinar: Agricultural Land Management Quarterly
May 11, 2026 12:00 PM 
With Jim Jansen and Anastasia Meyer, Agricultural Economists, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Offered since 2019, the quarterly webinars address common management issues for Nebraska landowners, agricultural operators, and related stakeholders interested in the latest insight on trends in real estate, managing agricultural land and solutions for addressing challenges in the upcoming growing season. 

The May 2026 webinar will cover trends in Nebraska cash rental rates for 2026, financial implications for changing commodity prices and adjusting cash rents. Communications issues and strategies for optimal land management for landlords and tenants will be discussed. A Q&A session will also be included.

Register here: https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



CAP Webinar: Beyond the Auction: The Social Value of Nebraska’s Livestock Sale Barns
May 14, 2026 12:00 PM 
Marilyn Schlake, Emeritus Extension Educator, Agricultural Economics 
Randy Saner, Livestock Systems Extension Educator 
Bethany Johnston, Livestock Systems Extension Educator 

Nebraska’s livestock sale barns do more than provide a place to buy and sell cattle. They also serve as important gathering places where producers exchange information, build relationships and stay connected to their communities.

This webinar will highlight findings from a University of Nebraska–Lincoln study on the social value of livestock sale barns and the role they play in supporting rural wellbeing in Nebraska. Presenters will discuss how sale barns help strengthen community ties, support personal well-being, build trust, and share knowledge across generations. The discussion will also explore what these findings mean for producers, educators and rural communities working to sustain important local gathering places.

Explore the findings at https://cap.unl.edu/salebarns

Register here: https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



CAP Webinar: Nebraska On-Farm Research: Agronomic and Economic Decisions
May 21, 2026 12:00 PM 
Adam Leise, Extension Educator and Director of UNL On-Farm Research

The Nebraska On-Farm Research Network (NOFRN) is a structured network to allow farmers to test products, practices, and test decision making skills in their own fields, using their own equipment. Working with UNL Extension, farmers conduct trials on a wide array of topics ranging from fungicide, cover crops, Nitrogen, biologicals and even the use of drone imagery to determine what approach works best for their operation. In 2025, NOFRN conducted over 115 projects with reports detailing treatment differences, such as yield and disease pressure, as well as conducting economic thresholds using real application and product cost. NOFRN is farmer driven, and open to testing the many topics of agronomy and how economics affects decision making.

Register here: https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



National Pork Board Forms Producer-Led Advisory Committee to Advance National Swine Health Strategy

The National Pork Board (NPB) has established a new Swine Health Advisory Committee, which held its inaugural meeting this month in Des Moines, Iowa. The producer-led committee will provide strategic input and guidance to help ensure the National Swine Health Strategy remains aligned with industry priorities and delivers meaningful progress.

“The National Swine Health Strategy is informed by producers and is for producers,” says Dr. Seth Krantz, advisory committee member and NPB board member. “Producers have felt the significant mental and economic stress of swine disease for too long. The time has come for our industry to unite around the long-term mission of improving herd health. It will take daily individual actions and decisions on farms around the nation to make a measurable difference for the entire pork industry, but that is the goal.”

The National Swine Health Strategy aims to reduce the impact of domestic diseases like porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), lessen the spread of disease, and keep foreign and emerging diseases out.

“I look forward to collaborating with others across the industry to take this important next step and moving the needle on swine health for the future sustainability of our industry and the well-being of our animals and caregivers,” continues Krantz.

The advisory committee will offer ongoing strategic input and recommendations to NPB staff and board members in three areas of their work:
·       Prioritizing proposed plans to find efficiencies and opportunities across industry resources;
·       Defining clear actions and measurable outcomes to track progress and demonstrate impact on turning research into action; and
·       Addressing both the risk of transboundary diseases and the ongoing burden of disease, including PRRSV and PEDV.

“The formation of this new producer-led advisory committee is an important step in advancing the National Swine Health Strategy and continuing to transform valuable research and resources into practical, slat-level solutions for producers,” says NPB Chief Veterinarian Dr. Dusty Oedekoven. “I am excited and energized at the opportunity to collaborate with this group of engaged, wise and generous producers who are willing to contribute their time and expertise to help improve swine health for the entire pork industry.”

NPB Swine Health Advisory Committee members include, in alphabetical order:
·       Dr. Matt Anderson, Suidae Health and Production
·       Paul Ayers, The Maschhoffs, NPB board member
·       Dr. Alexandra Buckley, USDA Agricultural Research Service
·       Cheryl Day, Ohio Pork Council
·       Joe Dykhuis, Michigan producer
·       Dr. Anna Forseth, National Pork Producers Council  
·       Scott Hays, Missouri Pork Association
·       Jesse Heimer, Missouri producer, NPB board member
·       Stacy Herr, Indiana Pork Producers Association
·       Nathan Isler, Ohio producer
·       Dr. Clayton Johnson, Carthage Veterinary Services, LTD
·       Dr. Jeff Kaisand, Iowa Animal Industry Bureau
·       Dr. Seth Krantz, Tosh Farms, NPB board member
·       Dr. Joel Nerem, Pipestone
·       Dr. Megan Niederwerder, Swine Health Information Center
·       Dr. Kathleen O’Hara, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
·       Lawrence Parks, The Parks Companies
·       Brock Pillen, Nebraska producer
·       Jeremy Robertson, Iowa producer
·       Brandon Schafer, Minnesota producer
·       Dr. Harry Snelson, American Association of Swine Veterinarians
·       Dr. Gordon Spronk, Minnesota producer, NPB board member
·       Dr. Matthew Turner, JBS Live Pork
·       Kraig Westerbeek, Smithfield Foods
·       Todd Wiley, Iowa producer
·       Noel Williams, Seaboard Foods
·       Clay Zwilling, National Swine Registry

The health of the U.S. swine herd is the foundation of every producer’s livelihood. By working together, the industry is strengthening its ability to protect long-term herd health and improving the lives of pigs and America’s 60,000 pig farmers. NPB supports producers through swine health research and on-farm tools like U.S. SHIP, AgView® and the Secure Pork Supply Plan. Learn more at porkcheckoff.org/strategy.



USDA Implements President Trump’s Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins Friday announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a final rule implementing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, restoring whole and reduced-fat (2%) milk options in federal child nutrition programs for children and adults ages 2 and older.

The rule advances President Donald J. Trump’s commitment to improving childhood nutrition and supporting America’s dairy farmers by ensuring schools and child nutrition providers can once again offer students nutrient-dense dairy options that align with the latest nutrition science and consumer preference.

“President Trump promised to Make America Healthy Again, and restoring whole milk to schools is a major step toward delivering on that promise,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “For years, outdated federal rules kept nutritious whole milk off school menus, despite growing evidence showing the importance of healthy fats and nutrient-dense foods for child development. USDA is proud to implement the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and give schools the flexibility to serve real, wholesome milk options that help children grow, learn, and thrive.”

Whole milk and other dairy products provide essential nutrients including protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamins A, D, and B12. Whole milk is especially important for young children aged 1 to 10 to support energy needs and brain development.

USDA is also continuing the multi-year process to update school meal standards based on the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations. In the meantime, USDA is taking immediate action to increase access to real, nutrient-rich foods in schools and child nutrition settings, including local beef and other locally grown foods.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act was signed into law by President Trump on Jan. 14, 2026.



USDA Clears Path for Whole Milk in Schools

The National Milk Producers Federation today applauded USDA’s Interim Final Rule, “Expanding Fluid Milk Options in Child Nutrition Programs,” which includes whole and 2% milk as options in the school breakfast, Special Milk and Child and Adult Care Food programs.

The rule is an important step in implementing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 that was signed into law in January.

As the rule was developed, NMPF requested clarification from USDA that schools would have the option to provide whole and 2% milk for school breakfasts as well as school lunches; today’s rule meets that need and benefits schoolchildren by ensuring a full range of milk options at every school meal.

“Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in delivering whole and 2% milk back into schools,” NMPF President & CEO Gregg Doud said. “Offering whole and 2% milk in schools helps students meet recommended daily values for many essential nutrients. It's logistically challenging for schools to offer this milk for lunches but not for other meals, which weakens the benefits that whole and 2% milk provide. Today’s rule provides much needed clarification so that schools can offer the same milk options during breakfast and lunch.”

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act gives schools the option of serving whole and 2% milk varieties — in addition to the 1%, fat-free, and flavored options already offered — in federally funded programs for the first time since federal rules in 2012 cut them.

“When the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act passed, NMPF pledged our fullest support to federal officials and school districts across the nation to help implement this important legislation,” Doud said. “We appreciate USDA’s swift, comprehensive efforts on implementation to ensure that schools have the information they need to make purchasing decisions and whole and reduced fat milk offerings return to school menus.”

The Interim Final Rule takes effect in a month and is now open for public comment to inform a future final rule.



Growth Energy Announces that E15 Is Now Offered at 5,000 Locations across the U.S.

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, announced Friday that the total number of retail locations selling E15—a more affordable fuel blend made with 15% American ethanol—now totals more than 5,000 stores, marking a new milestone in E15 availability.

“More and more fuel retailers across the U.S. are offering E15 because they know it’s a more affordable fuel option that their customers can rely on,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With 5,000 stores now selling E15 across the U.S., more drivers than ever are able to take advantage of E15’s lower prices. We congratulate every fuel retailer that’s made this milestone possible, and look forward to watching the total E15 store count continue to climb as retailers invest in ways to deliver better, more affordable fuel options.”

Since 2020 the number of stores selling E15 in the U.S. increased at an annualized rate of 15%. Between 2024 and 2025, the number of E15 stores jumped from 3,808 to 4,736, a total of more than 900 new stores representing an increase of 24% in that period. This increased rate of adoption was achieved despite the fact that, today, E15 can only be sold all year long if the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues a waiver for retailers to do so. This is an outdated regulatory requirement that’s still on the books from a 35-year-old law that was enacted before E15 was first introduced as a fuel option.

“We’ve seen robust growth in E15 availability even with these outdated waiver-to-waiver regulations,” Skor added. “At the current rate of E15’s expanding retail footprint, we expect to see more than 1,200 additional retail locations begin to sell E15 in 2026. If Congress can deliver a permanent fix for year-round E15, however, that number would be exponentially higher. This is why it’s so important for Congress to take action and vote in favor of year-round E15 now—more consumers deserve access to E15’s cost savings, and that’s exactly what this greater regulatory certainty would provide.”

Congress is set to vote on a bill that would allow for the year-round sale of E15 on May 13. Supporters of E15 should visit growthenergy.org/E15Now and tell their elected officials to support the measure and finally make E15 available all year long.



New Sorghum Assurances Protocol Supports Buyer Confidence in U.S. Sorghum 

The U.S. sorghum industry today announced the first issuance of Sorghum Assurances Protocol certificates, a major milestone that strengthens the crop’s position in global markets by providing verified documentation of U.S. sorghum production practices.

Developed by the United Sorghum Checkoff Program (USCP) in partnership with the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC), the Sorghum Assurances Protocol establishes a standardized framework to document how U.S. sorghum is produced across key areas including production practices, supply chain integrity and traceability. The issuance of the first certificates marks the transition from development to real-world application, allowing verified sorghum to move through commercial channels.

“This is an important step forward for U.S. sorghum growers and the entire value chain,” said Tim Lust, CEO of USCP. “We’ve worked for several years to build a system that clearly communicates the value of U.S. sorghum to our customers around the world. With these first certificates, we’re now delivering that value in a way that is tangible, credible and aligned with customer and market needs.”

The certificates provide buyers and end users with additional confidence in U.S. sorghum, helping support continued access to key export markets and future growth opportunities across food, feed and fuel sectors.

“This achievement reflects strong collaboration across the sorghum industry to develop a program that works for producers, customers and the broader supply chain,” said Kim Baldwin, USCP Board Chair and USGBC Innovation & Sustainability Advisory Team Lead. “Through the Innovation & Sustainability Advisory Team, we’ve worked to build a practical framework that supports producer opportunities while helping position U.S. sorghum as a trusted, sustainable choice in global markets.”

For producers, the milestone represents another step in strengthening demand for U.S.-grown sorghum at a time when global markets are increasingly focused on documented production practices.

“Global customers are increasingly asking for greater transparency and documentation across agricultural supply chains,” said Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of USGBC. “The Sorghum Assurances Protocol helps meet that demand and reinforces the reliability and value of U.S. sorghum in international markets. This is an important step in maintaining and growing market access for our producers.” 

The voluntary, industry-led effort helps communicate how U.S. sorghum is produced and handled while supporting customer requests and strengthening market opportunities for U.S. sorghum. By aligning with globally recognized frameworks, the protocol further positions U.S. sorghum as a reliable, high-quality ingredient across food, feed and fuel markets.

“As global demand evolves, it’s critical that U.S. agriculture continues to lead with innovation and transparency,” Lust added. “This work ensures sorghum remains well-positioned not just today, but into the future.”

More information about the Sorghum Assurances Protocol is available at sustainablesorghumexports.org.

Friday May 08 Ag News - NC Midyear Meeting Registration Open - CVA Awards 20 Scholarships - NU Symposium on Beef Cattle Welfare - AgCeptional Spotlight Nominations - Virutal Fencing Bus Tour - and more!

Registration Opens for 2026 Nebraska Cattlemen Midyear Meeting 

Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) announced registration is available for the 2026 Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting in Dawson County. This year's meeting will take place on Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11.

Nebraska Cattlemen President Craig Uden stated, "As beef cattle producers are recovering from the largest wildfire in Nebraska history and facing serious animal health threats, all while navigating a turbulent political landscape, coming to the table is more important than ever." He continued, "We look forward to seeing cattlemen and women from every sector of the industry join us in Dawson County."

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



Central Valley Ag Awards 2026 Scholarships to 20 Future Agricultural Leaders

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 scholarship program, awarding $1,000 each to 20 outstanding students who are pursuing higher education in agriculture-related fields. These scholarships reflect CVA’s commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders and strengthening the future of rural communities.

“I want to build strong connections within my community, with my neighbors and with the businesses and customers that I work for and that I work with. I am very passionate about what my future could be in this world of agriculture, and I can’t wait to make a strong, positive and unique impact on this industry.” Otte wrote in his essay.

This year, applicants were asked to reflect on a more career-defining question: What inspired you to pursue a future in agriculture, and how do you hope to make a positive impact on your community and the industry? Their essays told stories of early mornings on the farm, mentorship from family members and teachers, and a shared vision of strengthening agriculture.

“Agriculture is more than a career; it is a way to strengthen the connections between people and the land they depend on. I hope to encourage others to appreciate the importance of agriculture and consider careers in the field.” Consbruck wrote in her essay.

“We continue to be inspired by the stories behind each application. These students aren’t just pursuing careers in agriculture,” said Paige Godbersen, Talent Coordinator at CVA. “They understand the impact agriculture has beyond the farm, and they’re motivated to be part of that bigger picture moving forward.”

Those receiving scholarships are:
1. Lucille Koinzan, Neligh, NE
2. Luke Harder, Belden, NE
3. Cody Andreasen, St. Edward,
4. Luke Otte, Ulysses, NE
5. Owain Jones, Tipton,
6. Braden Janzen, Henderson, NE
7. Easton Good, Barnard, KS
8. Jenna Gengler, Beloit, KS
9. Campbell Consbruck, West Point, NE
10. Jenna Funk, Clearwater, NE
11. Cale Oborny, Garland, NE
12. Kathryn Naber, Seward, NE
13. Cissanie Krohe, Utica, NE
14. Shaylie Kester, Clearwater, NE
15. Lane Kelly, Thurston, NE
16. Reece Taylor, Newport, NE
17. Kayton Anderson, Wausa, NE
18. Brenna Long, Clay Center, NE
19. Kade Pearson, Beloit, KS
20. Caden Brandl, Humphrey, NE

CVA congratulates the 2026 scholarship recipients and wishes them continued success in their educational journeys. Each recipient represents the future of agriculture. Rooted in tradition yet motivated to innovate and lead. Through this program, CVA continues to support the future of agriculture by investing in those who will lead it forward. For more information about Central Valley Ag and its scholarship program, visit cvacoop.com.



NEBRASKA U TO HOST INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON BEEF CATTLE WELFARE JUNE 1-3

University of Nebraska–Lincoln faculty are at the forefront of animal welfare research and will host a June 1-3 international symposium highlighting the latest research and practical applications for beef cattle.

“There is a clear and growing need for collaboration across disciplines and sectors, and this symposium aims to address that need in a very intentional way,” said Ruth Woiwode, who has pioneered the university’s animal welfare studies as an assistant professor of animal science.

Woiwode, who is also an animal behavior and well-being specialist with Nebraska Extension, is co-chairing the symposium along with Brian Vander Ley, a veterinary epidemiologist and extension specialist with the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, and director of the Great Plains Veterinary Education Center.

The International Symposium on Beef Cattle Welfare, founded by a cooperating team of U.S. and Canadian animal scientists and veterinarians, is a biennial event hosted in rotation by partner institutions in both countries. The 2026 symposium, to be held at the Nebraska East Union, will feature the theme “Bridging Research and Practice for the Future of Beef Cattle Welfare” and include talks, roundtables and panels discussing practical tools, research findings and the trajectory of beef cattle welfare management.

Registration is underway, and the full program is online https://www.beefcattlewelfare.org/, with presentations scheduled from a range of experts from academia and industry.

Discussions on beef cattle welfare often take place within the separate professional communities for packers, veterinarians and producers.

“As a result, many of the conversations shaping animal welfare are occurring in parallel rather than in a shared space,” Woiwode said.

She and other organizers have structured the symposium to promote cross-sectional discussion by focusing on shared challenges and dissemination of ideas across disciplines and sectors.

IANR is well positioned to contribute to this effort given its livestock infrastructure, applied research and extension outreach. A key strategic investment is the Klosterman Feedlot Innovation Center near Mead, Nebraska, featuring enclosed feeding facilities, open pens, a handling barn with classrooms and a 240-head capacity high-tech feed facility. Those facilities enable advanced research regarding individual animal responses to feed, cattle comfort/health and environmental management.

Nebraska speakers at the symposium include Tiffany Heng-Moss, Harlan Vice Chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources; Tom Field, Paul Engler Chair of Agribusiness Entrepreneurship; and Paxton Sullivan, technical services manager with Sustainable Beef LLC,  a $400 million, rancher-owned beef processing plant in North Platte that opened in 2025 and processes about 1,500 cattle per day.

Through agreement with the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists, the symposium will provide 13 hours of continuing education for the group’s members. Organizers are in the process of securing accreditation for North American veterinarians to receive continuing education credit.

As a U.S.-Canada endeavor, the symposium exemplifies the close economic and research connection between the two countries regarding cattle.

Longstanding research programs in Canada have played a significant role in advancing beef cattle welfare science, Woiwode said. At the same time, industry partners operating across both countries are contributing to the development and implementation of new technologies and management approaches.

Emerging ventures such as Blackshirt Feeders in western Nebraska, supported in part by Canadian investment and connected to the university, illustrate how closely aligned these systems have become in practice, bringing together veterinarians and production leaders with experience across both U.S. and Canadian cattle systems. Participation from groups such as Telus Agriculture further reflects the growing integration of data, research and production.

As for the future, Woiwode said, “while the field is increasingly adopting integrated, data-informed and systems-based approaches to animal welfare, long-term progress will depend on how effectively we understand and support the human component — including training, decision-making and workforce development.”

The symposium aims to strengthen the connections between research and practice and facilitate long-term collaboration across sectors and regions.

“The future of this work is not only about advancing science and practice, but also about sustaining the community and infrastructure needed to support it,” Woiwode said. “Events like this symposium play an important role in creating that continuity, aligning priorities and maintaining momentum over time.”




Nominations for the AgCeptional Spotlight Award now open

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond in agriculture? Someone who embodies passion, innovation, leadership or all the above? Now is your chance to shine a light on their impact! 

Applications are officially open for the AgCeptional Spotlight Award, celebrating individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the world of agriculture. “AgCeptional” means just that: exceptional in any corner of the ag industry. Whether their influence is big or small, traditional or trailblazing, what matters most is the difference they have made. 

Here is the best part: there is no strict criteria. If you believe someone is AgCeptional, we want to hear their story. Tell us what sets them apart and why they deserve recognition. 

To help guide your nomination, you might consider highlighting areas such as: 
    Contributions to a family farming operation
    Service and impact within their community
    Advocacy for agriculture
    Involvement in agricultural organizations
    Leadership and mentorship
    Promotion of the ag industry
    Notable achievements
    Creative talent or innovation
    Business success and growth
    Or anything else that makes them truly AgCeptional  

Applications are due June 15, 2026. Nominate someone who inspires you at https://go.unl.edu/agceptional. 

Celebrate the people who make agriculture thrive. Submit your nomination today and help us recognize the AgCeptional individuals shaping the future of agriculture.

The AgCeptional Women's Conference will be held on November 20, 2026 at the Nielsen Community Center in West Point.  Registration for the conference will open September 1st.  




See Virtual Fencing in Action: A Multi-State Bus Tour in June

Have you wondered how virtual fencing might work on your operation, but want to see it in action before making a decision? A two-day bus tour on June 16–17 will give cattle producers the opportunity to evaluate virtual fencing systems in real-world settings.

Virtual fencing (VF) has the potential to reduce labor associated with fencing and cattle movement while improving control over grazing distribution and pasture utilization. However, many producers want to better understand how these systems perform under real-world conditions before making an investment.

This bus tour provides a practical, side-by-side look at multiple commercially available VF systems and how they are being used by producers and researchers.

Tour Agenda
Day 1 – June 16 (Producer Site Demonstrations)
    6:45 am pick up from Lancaster County Extension Office, Lincoln, NE
    10:00 am: Rolling Prairie Ranch, Hatfield, MO → Halter system
    3:00 pm: Mud Ridge Ranch, Red Oak, IA → Nofence system
    Dinner and overnight stay in Lincoln, NE 

Day 2 – June 17 (Research & Application)
    9:00 am: Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC), Mead, NE
    eShepherd/Gallagher and Halter systems
    Discussions on VF grazing research
    11:30 am: Lunch and panel discussion with researchers and industry representatives
    1:00 pm: Adjourn

What producers can expect
    Observe multiple VF systems operating under real production conditions
    Compare system features and performance side-by-side
    Learn how VF can be applied to improve grazing management and labor efficiency
    Ask questions directly to producers, researchers, and technology providers 

Registration Details 
Register by June 9th. The cost is $200 per person, which includes transportation, lodging, and lunches. 

Register at https://go.unl.edu/vf_bustour.

This program is hosted by University of Nebraska and Iowa State University, and is partially sponsored by Halter, Nofence, Gallagher, and Iowa Forage and Grassland Council.



Nelson selected as vice chancellor for research and innovation

Jennifer Mize Nelson has been named the vice chancellor for research and innovation at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, following a rigorous internal search process. The appointment, announced May 6 by Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson, is pending approval by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.

“Jennifer is a respected, collaborative leader with the experience to advance research, scholarship and creative excellence at UNL,” Ankerson said. “She brings a clear vision and strong execution skills to lead strategy and manage complex research operations effectively. I look forward to continuing our work together to advance the university’s research priorities.”

Nelson said she is deeply honored to serve as UNL’s vice chancellor for research and innovation.

 “I am continually inspired by, and proud of, the talented University of Nebraska–Lincoln faculty, staff and students whose passion, ideas, energy and collaborative spirit drive the research, scholarship and creative endeavors that have brought us to this point and will propel us even further,” Nelson said. 

“I look forward to building and strengthening partnerships across government, higher education, industry and our communities in Lincoln, across Nebraska, and beyond, while clearly conveying to stakeholders the tremendous value of Nebraska’s research enterprise as a catalyst for shared progress. Together, we can harness the power of Nebraska’s discovery, creativity and innovation to advance our state, the nation and the world.”

As vice chancellor, Nelson will oversee UNL’s research and economic development enterprise. She will guide short and long-term goals for research growth; strengthen support for sponsored research, technology commercialization and industry partnerships; support interdisciplinary centers and emerging research opportunities; and ensure the infrastructure, compliance environment and collaborative culture needed for faculty and research teams to thrive. She will also play a central role in elevating Nebraska’s national research profile, expanding external partnerships and positioning the university to compete successfully for transformational funding opportunities.

Nelson’s interim role, a position she had held since November 2024, focused on strengthening the university’s research culture and building connections between faculty, research support services and external partners. She led the first-ever Research and Innovation Convening on May 7, 2025, which brought together more than 200 faculty and helped set the stage for developing the university’s research identity framework, composed of six identity areas and cross-cutting areas of distinction.

Nelson also launched the university’s first Research and Innovation Showcase, inviting representatives from local and state businesses, civic groups and government to meet with faculty and learn about UNL’s capacity and capabilities.

Under Nelson’s leadership, the Office of Research and Innovation has sought more direct faculty input through focus groups to identify the resources and programs needed to advance research. Based on that feedback, the office revamped its internal funding model to better position faculty for external grants and maximize the impact of scholarly work, including the addition of an internal peer review process. R&I also launched a new cohort program focused on helping faculty accelerate readiness, competitiveness and collaboration for teams to secure major collaborative funding.

Nelson previously served as associate vice chancellor and research integrity officer in R&I. In that role, she served as a liaison to UNL’s research centers and major core facilities; led development of a campuswide research data strategy; and oversaw compliance programs including human subjects protection, animal care and conflict of interest. Before joining R&I in 2019, she was director of administration for the Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior.

A member of the UNL faculty since 2011, Nelson is research faculty in the Department of Psychology and has served as co-investigator on several National Institutes of Health-funded projects studying children’s cognitive development and health outcomes. Her research focuses on executive control development from early childhood through adolescence and its implications for mental and physical health.

Nelson earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UCLA and a doctorate in clinical child psychology from the University of Kansas. She completed a predoctoral clinical internship at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford and the Children’s Health Council.



Celebration of Life for Dr. L. Dale Van Vleck to be May 16

Former students, colleagues, family, and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Dr. L. Dale Van Vleck, an emeritus professor in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, who passed away on December 23, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, after a brief illness. The Celebration of Life will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the Great Plains Room in Nebraska's East Campus Union. The family has asked attendees to please RSVP if they plan to attend https://forms.gle/ytgEZBUmeEStsahz9. 

Born on the family farm in Clearwater, Nebraska, in 1933, Dale went on to earn both his bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Nebraska in 1954 and 1955, respectively. Following service in the U.S. Army Chemical Corps, he earned his Ph.D., under Dr. Charles Henderson at Cornell University, in 1960. He continued there, first as a research geneticist before transitioning to a tenure-track position and being promoted to full professor in 1973. 

After retiring and transitioning to emeritus faculty at Cornell in 1988, he became a research geneticist with the USDA Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, Nebraska, replacing the recently retired Dr. Gordon Dickerson. The position included an appointment as a professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. 

Teaching and training students was always a focus of his work. Dale formally advised or mentored 52 Ph.D. and 39 M.S. students, and 77 research associates. Over half of these mentees came from one of over 30 countries outside of the U.S. His memory was unmatched – he could recall not only details about scientific studies, but of each of his students' interests, the grade they earned in the courses he taught, and their career paths. He continued correspondence with many long after their training was complete. 

Dr. Van Vleck’s body of work was remarkable, comprising 14 books, 11 book chapters, more than 380 peer-reviewed publications, over 100 proceedings and abstracts, and a similar number of extension/outreach publications. His "Green Book," a compilation of summary material designed to serve as a textbook for an upper-class undergraduate and graduate student course in animal breeding, was used by hundreds of students during his time at Cornell and Nebraska. The goal of the book was to teach students; reflecting that goal it was priced to cover the cost of printing and shipping. 

Although he was never one to brag, the list of awards Dr. Van Vleck earned is long, including recognition as a Fellow of the American Society of Animal Science (1999), Beef Improvement Federation Pioneer Award (2002), the ASAS Morrison Award (2005), and induction into the ARS Science Hall of Fame (2010). 



Iowa Pork Producers Deliver More Than 100,000 Servings of Protein to Pantries
    
Iowa pork producers are making a meaningful impact in communities across the state through the continued success of their Pork in the Pantry program.

In 2026, the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) partnered with county pork producer organizations and local volunteers to deliver more than 25,000 pounds of pork, providing more than 100,000 servings of high-quality protein to Iowans in need. The effort spanned 70 counties and supported 144 local food pantries statewide.

Through Pork in the Pantry, IPPA provides up to $1,000 in reimbursement per county pork producer organization to purchase and donate pork to local food pantries. In 2026, IPPA contributed $67,309, helping generate a total statewide donation of $79,656 thanks to additional support at the county level. All of the pork is purchased locally.

Here's a full breakdown of the 2026 Pork in the Pantry numbers:
    Counties Participating: 70
    IPPA Contribution: $67,309
    Total Donation Cost: $79,656
    Total Pounds of Pork: 25,350 lbs.
    Total Servings: 101,399
    Total Food Pantries Impacted: 144

“Pork in the Pantry is a powerful example of how Iowa pig farmers live out our We Care principles every day,” said IPPA President Dean Frazer of Conrad, Iowa. “When you see 70 counties come together to provide more than 100,000 servings of protein, it shows the strength of our communities and the commitment our farmers have to helping neighbors in need. This is about more than pork. It’s about making a real difference close to home.”

Food pantries across Iowa continue to face strong demand, particularly for protein. Programs like Pork in the Pantry help fill that need by providing a consistent source of nutritious, high-quality pork to families.

In addition to organized county efforts, individual pork producers and community partners are stepping up in new ways to expand the program’s reach.

One of many examples of county pork producer organizations stepping up was the Hamilton County Pork Producers donating 550 pounds of pork loin roasts and 400 pounds of ground pork locally, providing a significant boost to three local food pantries.

"This is what community is all about. Being able to donate pork we raise and help supply three local pantries with pork loin roasts and ground pork is something we take a lot of pride in," said Gene Gourley, Hamilton County pork producer. "It’s a small way we can support our neighbors.”

The Clay County Pork Producers provided $2,000 worth of pork chops to the Clay County Upper Des Moines Opportunity (UDMO) food pantry.

“Being able to offer pork gives people more than just a meal, it gives them something substantial and nourishing, and that is not always easy for us to provide. This donation of 800 porkchops (420 pounds) is so beneficial to our panty and the clients we serve. We are so appreciative of our partnership with the Iowa Pork Producers Association and Clay County Pork Producers. It is community partners like you that support our mission here at UDMO-Helping People. Changing Lives," said Teri Chinn, outreach specialist with Clay County UDMO.

In Dubuque County, local pig farmers banded together with businesses and service organizations to donate nearly 2,200 pounds of pork to four local food pantries. Spearheaded by Wayne Demmer and his family, the effort included support from the Dubuque Knights of Columbus, Pipestone Veterinary Clinic, Fidelity Bank, and others.

“With IPPA’s support, it prompted others to step in and donate as well,” Demmer said. “We did a lot better than expected. I was just hoping to cover the processing.”

The group plans to continue donations later this year and is exploring ways to expand the effort into surrounding counties.

As participation continues to grow, Pork in the Pantry remains a meaningful example of Iowa pig farmers’ commitment to caring for their communities, ensuring families across the state have access to safe, nutritious food.



EPA Releases Draft Fungicide Strategy for Public Comment
American Soybean Association

The Environmental Protection Agency released its draft Fungicide Strategy, outlining how the agency plans to address Endangered Species Act requirements for agricultural fungicides. The proposal includes a three-step framework to evaluate potential impacts to federally listed species, identify mitigation measures, and determine where those mitigations would apply.

Among updates included in the draft are expanded mitigation options intended to provide greater flexibility for growers and applicators. EPA proposed additional spray drift reduction tools aimed at helping keep pesticide applications on target and reduce movement beyond the intended field. The agency also emphasized the strategy itself would not immediately impose requirements but instead guide future registration and registration review decisions with additional opportunities for public input.

EPA opened the proposal for a 60-day public comment period through June 29 and expects to finalize the strategy later this year.