Friday January 17 Ag News

 Rural Mainstreet Economy Contracts Again

For the 16th time in the past 17 months, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) sank below the 50.0 reading in January, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for January increased to a weak 42.3 from December’s 39.6. The index ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 representing growth neutral.

On average, bankers expect approximately one in five grain farmers to experience negative cash flow for 2025.

“Despite another one-year extension of the farm bill, and $20.8 billion in farm disaster relief, the farm (grain) economic outlook remained weak for the first half of 2025. However, grain prices have recently improved, but not enough for profitability for many producers. On the other hand, regional livestock producers continue to experience solid prices, thus maintaining profitability,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Farming and ranch land prices: For the 8th time in the past nine months, farmland prices sank below growth neutral. The region’s farmland price index rose slightly to 42.0 from 41.3 in December. “Elevated interest rates and higher input costs, along with below breakeven grain prices for some farmers in the region, have put downward pressure on ag land prices,” said Goss.

This month, bank CEOs were asked to project 2025 farmland rental rates for non-irrigated, non-pasture farmland. On average, bankers expect an annual rental rate per acre of $278.

According to trade data from the International Trade Association (ITA), regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first 11 months of 2024 rose by $673.4 million to $11.6 billion from the same period in 2023 for a 6.2% gain. Mexico was the top destination for 2024 ag exports, accounting for 48.1% of total regional agriculture and livestock exports.

Farm equipment sales: The farm equipment sales index rose to a very weak 17.4 from December’s 14.3, which was the lowest reading since October 2016. “This is the 18th straight month that the index has fallen below growth neutral. High input prices, tighter credit conditions and weak farm grain prices are having a negative impact on the purchases of farm equipment,” said Goss.

Confidence: Rural bankers remain pessimistic about economic growth for their area over the next six months. The January confidence index rose to 42.3 from December’s 37.5. “Improving, but still weak agriculture commodity prices and negative farm cash flows, combined with downturns in farm equipment sales over the past several months, continued to push banker confidence below growth neutral,” said Goss.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The Nebraska Rural Mainstreet Index for January increased to 39.2 from December’s 36.5. The state’s farmland price index for January increased slightly to 40.9 from December’s 40.0. Nebraska’s new hiring index rose to 45.9 from December’s 43.7. According to trade data from the ITA, Nebraska exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first 11 months of 2024 rose by $81.3 million from the same period in 2023 for a 10.3% gain. Mexico was the number one destination for 2024 Nebraska ag exports, accounting for 68.3% of total Nebraska agriculture and livestock exports.

Iowa: January’s RMI for the state slumped to 40.7 from 41.7 in December. Iowa’s farmland price index for January dipped to 41.3 from 41.5 in December. Iowa’s new hiring index for January increased to 46.2 from 45.5 in December. According to trade data from the ITA, Iowa exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first 11 months of 2024 sank by $25.1 million from the same period in 2023 for a 1.6% reduction. Mexico was the number one destination for Iowa’s 2024 ag exports, accounting for 65.2% of total state agriculture and livestock exports.

The survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural agriculturally- and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index is a unique index that covers 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and the late Bill McQuillan, former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in January 2006.



Four New Representatives on the Nebraska Beef Council Board

Nebraska Beef Council is pleased to announce the four new members that have been elected to its Board of Directors. The newly elected board members bring a wealth of expertise, commitment, and a shared vision for the future of the organization.

The newly elected members are:
District 1: Butch Schuler of Redington.
District 3: Keith Kreikemeier of West Point.
District 5: Shannon Peterson of Gothenburg.
District 9: John Schroeder of Cozad.

The election of these members reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to ensuring strong leadership and diverse perspectives at the decision-making table in beef promotion, education, and research. With varied backgrounds in cattle operations, the new board members will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of Nebraska Beef Council in the coming years.

Ann Marie Bosshamer, Executive Director at Nebraska Beef Council, stated, "We are thrilled to welcome these producers to our Board of Directors. Their unique insights, experience, and passion for our mission will be invaluable as we continue to focus on the future of beef. We look forward to the contributions they will make to strengthen and grow our organization."

Current board members are Rosemary Vinton Anderson of Whitman, Jim Ramm of Atkinson, Michele Cutler of Elsie, and Mark Goes of O'Dell. June Loseke of Columbus will begin her second term representing District 7. Board members may serve a maximum of two consecutive four-year terms.

Officers for the Nebraska Beef Council Board were also elected to serve in 2025 including: Rosemary Vinton Anderson of Whitman as Chair; June Loseke of Columbus as Vice Chair; Michele Cutler of Elsie as Treasurer; and Jim Ramm of Atkinson as Secretary.

For more information about the Nebraska Beef Council, visit www.nebeef.org.



University of Nebraska–Lincoln contributes $3.06B to state economy

Nebraska’s flagship university continues to serve as a cornerstone of the Cornhusker State’s economic success.

A new economic development report discussed during the Dec. 6 University of Nebraska Board of Regents meeting reported that the University of Nebraska–Lincoln has an annual economic impact of $3.06 billion on Nebraska. The total is a $200 million increase since 2021. The university also supports 25,121 jobs statewide and contributes $84 million in state taxes.

All three totals represent nearly half of the University of Nebraska system’s overall economic impact.

“The University of Nebraska–Lincoln continues to play a central role in shaping the economic landscape of our state,” said Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett. “We are not only advancing education and research, but also driving growth, job creation and economic stability for all Nebraskans.”

The report was part of preliminary findings shared by Paul Umbach, founder and president of the firm Tripp Umbach. A full version of the report will be available in early 2025.

Overall, the NU system provides an annual economic impact of $6.4 billion, a $600 million increase since a 2021 report produced by Tripp Umbach.

During the meeting, Umbach shared additional details on the NU system’s influence on job creation, research innovation and workforce development statewide. Other contributions of the NU system to the Nebraska economy are:
    For every $1 invested by the State of Nebraska in the NU system, $10 is returned to the state’s economy;
    When NU’s impact is combined with that of Nebraska Medicine, the total economic impact rises to $11.9 billion — a $1.6 billion increase since 2021; and
    The NU system supports 52,335 jobs statewide, up from 47,342 in 2021. This equates to one in every 20 jobs in Nebraska being directly or indirectly tied to the university.

“The University of Nebraska is a powerhouse for our state’s economic growth and competitiveness,” said Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, president of the NU system. “The return on investment for Nebraskans is clear: The University of Nebraska creates opportunities, fuels innovation and creates ripples that positively impact communities and people all across the state.”

The NU system is one of about 50 organizations currently working with Tripp Umbach to quantify economic impact, Umbach said. While many other institutions of higher education have flatlined or even contracted in their economic impact since 2020, NU has seen broad and steady economic growth, he said.



Smith Statement on USTR's Announcement of Alterations to Trade Agreement with Colombia

Thursday, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced new binding interpretations of key provisions within the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA).

"USTR did not conduct its due diligence before entering this binding agreement during the final moments of a lame duck presidency. Robust engagement over priorities for negotiating new or improved comprehensive trade agreements would have been welcome earlier in President Biden’s term. Instead, this rushed and performative action is indicative of the Biden administration's failures to consult Congress and American stakeholders while properly engaging on trade matters."

BACKGROUND:
In December 2024 Smith spoke out after it was reported USTR was attempting to renegotiate provisions of USMCA and the U.S.-Colombia TPA without consulting Congress or American stakeholders.

On January 10, 2025, Smith led several Ways and Means Committee colleagues sending a letter to USTR Ambassador Katherine Tai. The letter called on USTR to refrain from finalizing any new terms for the U.S.-Colombia TPA and instead use President Biden's remaining days in office to seek input from Congress and American stakeholders.

Smith was has actively supported robust trade engagement with Colombia on the Ways and Means Committee's Subcommittee on Trade since 2011.



Over 420 Ag Groups Back Brooke Rollins for Secretary of Agriculture

The American Soybean Association and numerous state soybean affiliates, along with more than 420 agricultural organizations, are urging the swift confirmation of Brooke Rollins as the next USDA Secretary.

In a letter led by the Ag CEO Council and sent to Senate Agriculture Committee Chair John Boozman and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar, the groups emphasize the urgent need for strong leadership at USDA to tackle critical challenges facing American agriculture, including the farm bill, economic pressures, and food security.

A prompt confirmation of Rollins is essential to ensure USDA can begin addressing these issues and continue supporting farmers, ranchers, and rural communities nationwide.

Rollins' confirmation hearing is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 23.

ASA Congratulates Fordyce, Hoskins and Lindberg on Nominations to USDA Posts
ASA applauds the nominations of Richard Fordyce to serve as the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC), Dudley Hoskins to serve as the USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) and Luke Lindberg to serve as the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs (TFAA).

Steve Censky, ASA Chief Executive Officer, said in a media release, “As a fourth-generation farmer himself, Richard understands the importance of farm, risk management, and conservation programs to farmers. He has been a leader not only within the soybean industry, but also for the State of Missouri and then all of the United States during his time as Administrator of USDA’s Farm Service Agency. I know from working with him in all these roles that he will do an incredible job for American agriculture, and I’m thrilled by his nomination.

Likewise, I’m so pleased with the nomination of Dudley Hoskins. Dudley has been a longstanding friend of U.S. soybean farmers. Having the opportunity to work closely with him during my time as Deputy Secretary at USDA, he has a deep background in agriculture policy and understands how the work of the MRP mission area impacts U.S. farmers and ranchers.

I also want to congratulate and welcome Luke Lindberg to the USDA family. From his work leading South Dakota’s trade expansion efforts, Luke understands the importance of trade to farmers, ranchers, and rural America. ASA looks forward to continuing our work with the TFAA mission area on trade issues, including the continued development of new markets and the expansion of existing markets for U.S. soy.”



ACE Statement on EPW Committee Hearing with EPA Chief Nominee Zeldin

The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) held its hearing today to consider the nomination of Lee Zeldin to serve as the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings issued the statement below following Mr. Zeldin’s nomination hearing:
 
"If confirmed as EPA Administrator, Mr. Zeldin will be tasked with overseeing the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and E15 — two critical issues for the biofuels industry that he has previously opposed. We are grateful for Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Thune (R-SD) and others for raising these priorities and additional issues like sustainable aviation fuel during their discussions with Mr. Zeldin today and leading up to his nomination hearing. We appreciate his commitments to follow the law as it relates to timely and appropriate RVO rulemakings and doing his part to ensure year-round E15 nationwide, building on the momentum of E15 legislation initially included in the year-end funding package.”



USDA Issues Final Rule on Amendments to the Federal Milk Marketing Orders

Thursday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced a final rule amending the uniform pricing formulas applicable in all 11 Federal milk marketing orders (FMMOs). The final rule was made available for viewing on Jan. 16, 2025, in the Federal Register and on AMS’s National Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula Hearing webpage. It will be published in the Federal Register on Jan. 17.

The final rule follows a 49-day national hearing held from Aug. 23, 2023, to Jan. 30, 2024, in Carmel, Indiana, where AMS heard testimony and received evidence on 21 proposals from the dairy industry. AMS issued a recommended decision on July 1, 2024, followed by its publication in the Federal Register on July 15, 2024, which began a 60-day public comment period.

A total of 128 comments were received, analysis of which was included in a final decision that was issued on November 12, 2024, and published in the Federal Register on December 2, 2024.

Following publication of the final decision, AMS administered and oversaw 11 referenda whereby producers whose milk was pooled on an FMMO in the selected representative month of January 2024 had the opportunity to vote in favor of or opposition to the FMMOs proposed to be amended.

This final rule announces that producers in each of the 11 FMMOs approved the following pricing formula amendments:
    Updating the skim milk composition factors to 3.3 percent true protein, 6.0 percent other solids and 9.3 percent nonfat solids, with a six-month delayed implementation.
    Removing 500-pound barrel cheddar cheese prices from the Dairy Product Mandatory Reporting Program survey.
    Updating the Class III and Class IV manufacturing allowances to $0.2519 for cheese, $0.2272 for butter, $0.2393 for nonfat dry milk and $0.2668 for dry whey, all on a per pound basis, and the butterfat recovery factor to 91 percent.
    Returning the base Class I skim milk price formula to the higher-of the advanced Class III or Class IV skim milk prices for the month. In addition, adoption of a Class I extended shelf life (ESL) adjustment for all ESL products equal to the average-of mover plus a 24-month rolling average adjuster with a 12-month lag.
    Updating the Class I differential values to reflect the increased cost of servicing the Class I market.

The rule will be effective June 1, 2025, for all changes, except for changes to the skim milk composition factors. The amendments to skim milk composition factors will be implemented Dec. 1, 2025. These changes will apply to milk marketed on and after these dates, as applicable, and those changes will be reflected in both the advanced prices and pricing factors released before the start of the month and the class and component prices announced after the close of the month.



NMPF Thanks Members, USDA for FMMO Leadership

NMPF thanked USDA and the dozens of farmers and cooperative leaders who successfully steered Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization to a successful conclusion.

“Dairy farmers and cooperatives have done what they do best – lead their industry for the benefit of all,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “This final plan will provide a firmer footing and fairer milk pricing, which will help the dairy industry thrive for years to come. We appreciate the monumental contributions across government and the dairy industry that made this happen. The industry, and all dairy consumers, owe all of you a debt of gratitude.”

The new FMMO comes after more than 200 NMPF-led meetings to formulate the proposal that contributed heavily to USDA’s final decision, as well as a record-length 49-day federal order hearing and approval from the farmers who are covered under all federal milk marketing orders.

The new federal milk-pricing system, which officially will be published in the Federal Register tomorrow, will mostly take effect June 1 – coincidentally, World Milk Day – and is closely aligned with the principles of NMPF’s member-led recommendations, a process that began nearly four years ago.

Highlights include:
    Returning the base Class I skim milk price formula to the higher-of the advanced Class III or Class IV skim milk prices for the month. In addition, adoption of a Class I extended shelf life (ESL) adjustment for all ESL products equal to the average-of mover plus a 24-month rolling average adjuster with a 12-month lag.
    Updating the Class III and IV manufacturing allowances for cheese, butter, nonfat dry milk and dry whey, and the butterfat recovery factor.
    Updating the Class I differential values to reflect the increased cost of servicing the Class I market.
    Updating skim milk composition factors, with implementation delayed six months until Dec. 1.
    Removing 500-pound barrel cheddar cheese prices from the Dairy Product Mandatory Reporting Program survey.

NMPF has more resources to understand FMMO modernization and the road taken to get there. Farmers and cooperatives will have opportunities to learn more about the new system through webinars and other materials offered in coming weeks. NMPF will also continue pushing for elements of its proposal that require congressional authorization, including mandatory dairy manufacturing cost reporting to provide accurate, transparent data to inform future milk pricing discussions.



Needed FMMO Reform Undermined by Make Allowance Giveaway

USDA recently announced that a final Federal Milk Marketing Order decision was approved by dairy farmers and cooperatives across all 11 orders through separate referenda conducted within each order. AFBF has called for changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Orders dating back to 2019.

“We’re grateful that USDA listened to not only our calls but also calls from the broader dairy industry to switch back to the ‘higher of’ Class I milk formula, increase Class I differentials, improve cheese price discovery and update milk composition factors,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “However, the positive changes that will come as a result of these reforms will not be uniform for dairy farmers across the country and will be greatly offset by large, unjustified increases in make allowances.”

In October 2022, AFBF brought together representatives from a broad swath of the dairy sector, including dairy cooperatives, proprietary processors, state dairy associations and dairy farmers from across the country, for a successful first-of-its-kind industry-wide Federal Milk Marketing Order Forum, where industry consensus was reached on a variety of issues.

In addition to the consensus reached at that forum, a thorough grassroots policy process led by AFBF dairy farmer members has resulted in AFBF advocacy for a mandatory, audited survey of milk processing costs that are used to help establish make allowances. USDA instead bases make allowances on an unscientific, voluntary survey that allows processors to opt out, skewing the results in a direction that results in lower milk prices for farmers.

In fact, AFBF analysis has shown that changing the make allowance without a mandatory, audited survey could lead to unjust penalties for dairy farmers, which directly defies the intended purpose of the FMMO system.

All 11 orders approved the final decision with the required two-thirds majority. Under USDA’s interpretation of the amendment process, a “no” vote would have eliminated all existing milk pricing regulations in an order, leaving farmers with a stark choice between losing federal order protections or accepting the proposed changes.

“The FMMO system relies on fairness and transparency, and without a mandatory, audited survey of processing costs, dairy farmers’ checks will be reduced based on flawed and incomplete data,” Duvall added. “We now call on Congress to help restore the balance of fairness in the federal order system. Legislation can and should direct USDA to collect a more accurate survey of processing costs, which will level the playing field for all.”

AFBF representatives were present throughout the entire months-long hearing process and testified on a number of proposals. At the conclusion of the hearing, Duvall sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack relaying AFBF’s concerns with the proposed increases in make allowances.



Council Rolls Out 2024/2025 Corn Harvest Quality Report Around The World

In support of its 2024/2025 Corn Harvest Quality Report, released last month, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) is conducting a series of promotional programs to present data from the study to international buyers and end-users and inform them about the quality of the 2024/2025 U.S. corn crop.

The Council is holding in-person and virtual events in India, Japan, Korea, Latin America, Mexico, Southeast Asia and Taiwan across the month of January, allowing global agricultural stakeholders to start the year equipped with the latest information on U.S corn quality.

“Transparency is a vital part of any relationship, and that includes business and trade,” said Verity Ulibarri, USGC chairwoman. “This report provides clear and honest data to international buyers to highlight the quality of U.S. corn and how it can make a difference to end-users everywhere.”

The 2024/2025 Corn Harvest Quality Report is the 14th annual study sponsored by the Council and shows U.S. corn experienced limited stress throughout its development due to favorable growing season conditions. Those factors contributed to the highest projected average yield on record and promoted good grain quality and relatively warm, dry conditions during September and October permitted an effective dry-down and timely harvest.

The average aggregate quality of the representative samples tested was better than the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade. The report also showed 89.2% of the samples met the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade, and 96.2% met the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 2.

Relative to each quality factor’s average from the previous five crops, the 2024 U.S. corn crop boasts higher test weight, lower broken corn and foreign material (BCFM), lower total damage and lower moisture. The crop also had the highest 100-kernel weight in the history of the report and tied for the highest kernel volume, indicative of the near-ideal growing season.

“These rollout events communicate to buyers that they can trust U.S. producers and the Council is a reliable partner to facilitate trade in international markets,” Ulibarri said. “International customers recognize and appreciate the commitment made by U.S. farmers to produce the highest quality crops and the Council’s efforts to offer precise data so they can understand the product before they buy it.”

Thursday January 16 Ag News

 Issues to take into consideration by the beef industry in 2025
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

Just like that! We are starting the midyear of the third decade of the 21st century. Development and application of emerging technologies is in full swing. Individuals in most countries have access to technology and computer applications available only to a few in previous decades.

What does this mean to those participating in the beef industry? Perhaps at an operation level not much, but responses to influences external and internal to the industry are fast and lead to highly responsive markets, which lead to rapid changes in prices of beef, cattle, feed, and other inputs.

Beef cow inventory and heifer retention. These items have been on our minds for at least two years. We all look with some degree of interest to the next USDA report on cattle inventory later this month. Considering that heifer retention has been light to nonexistent, given feeder prices and drought, the beef cow inventory is expected to be under 28 million cows placing it as the lowest beef cow inventory since 1962.

Carcass weights and beef production. Beef production through the end of November in 2023 and 2024 was nearly identical (24.8 billion pounds). Heifer and steer slaughter counts were also

similar (23.6 million); heifers made up 40% of the harvest both years. Declines in beef (18%) and dairy (12%) cow and bull (7%) slaughter counts were made up by 2% plus heavier steer and heifer carcass weights (i.e., beef of greater quality).

This would mean that, if intentions to retain heifers in 2025 approach one percentage unit, using average slaughter weights and counts from 2024, one would expect to see a deficit of 80 million pounds in 2025 for every percentage unit heifer retention. Fewer cows in inventory from previous years would also represent fewer fed cattle to harvest in 2025.

How big will this decline be? This is a difficult figure to predict.

During herd rebuilding years, approximately 2 million beef cows are harvested yearly. During herd liquidation years, from 3 to 3.5 million cows are harvested yearly. In 2014 (2.4 million) and 2024 (2.7 million), the number of beef cows harvested declined dramatically from the previous liquidation year highs of 3 to 3.5 million. Concurrently, steer and heifer slaughter counts declined from 23.2 to 21.9 million head between 2013 and 2014 but they have not declined between 2023 and 2024. A large decline in steer and heifer slaughter counts is expected.

During the current cycle, between 2022 and 2023, steer and heifer slaughter dropped over 1 million head. During the previous cycle, between 2013 and 2014 and again between 2014 and 2015, steer and heifer slaughter dropped over 1 million head each time. Therefore, it is safe to expect that the industry is due to see a large drop in fed cattle harvest even if intentions to rebuild the herd are not expressed.

I believe it would be safe to project that 1 million fewer head of cattle (steers and heifers) will be harvested in 2025. This figure would include any heifers retained for heifer expansion. Beef and dairy cow slaughter is not expected to exceed 2.5 million. Using average carcass weights for all cattle harvested in 2024 (850 lb), one would expect to see a decline in beef production of 850 million pounds (approximate that figure to 1 billion pounds). Definitive intentions to retain heifers in 2025 will increase this deficit.

Demand and prices. Interestingly, beef production from 2021 to 2024 averaged 25.5 billion pounds. During the last cycle, between 2012 and 2014, beef production averaged 23.2 billion pounds. Therefore, the beef industry proved two things: 1) it can produce more beef with fewer cattle, and 2) the beef produced is of greater value.

With these observations in mind, we can expect the American consumer to continue to purchase beef at increasing prices. However, saying this is expectation is limitless is not wise. On the other hand, other factors external to the price of beef such as fuel, housing or a greater calamity befalling humanity would motivate the American consumer to consider alternatives to consuming beef.

Factors that will slow or stop the cattle price hike. One was already mentioned: economic factors forcing the consumer to look to alternatives to consuming beef.

Within the beef industry, any strategy adopted by packers or resulting from government intervention that facilitates access to lower priced beef imports would have a negative effect on prices (packer purchase of less expensive lean trimmings in 2015 contributed to a rapid decline in fed cattle prices).

Lastly, as is always the case, eventually, heifer retention will lead to greater cattle inventories and supply of cattle and beef. However, ensuring that more heifers survive to weaning and breeding should reduce the need to keep more heifers away from feedlots to build the herd.



NSDA Names 2024 Philip H. Cole Industry Person of the Year
 
The Nebraska State Dairy Association (NSDA) has named Dr. Paul Kononoff, a Professor and Dairy Nutrition Extension Specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, as the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Philip H. Cole Industry Person of the Year award.
 
This annual award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to advancing the Nebraska dairy industry through leadership, innovation, and dedication.
 
Kris Bousquet, Executive Director of the Nebraska State Dairy Association, commended Dr. Kononoff’s achievements, stating: "Dr. Kononoff is respected as one of the brightest minds in dairy cattle  nutrition in the world. His commitment to research, mentorship of countless students, and his unwavering support of Nebraska’s dairy producers have had a profound impact on our industry. There is no one more deserving of this recognition than Paul.”
 
Dr. Kononoff has published over 100 scientific peer review articles and advised 31 graduate students. In recent years, he has spearheaded groundbreaking research, securing a substantial grant for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study how genetic and microbial factors can be manipulated to reduce methane production in cattle . His efforts have also focused on chemical characterization of feed, especially those grown in Nebraska, and understanding how they can be used to support the cow's needs for energy and protein during lactation. Kononoff serves as a board member of both the NSDA and the Dairy Council of Nebraska. He is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Dairy Science and served on the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine committee to outline the nutrient requirements for dairy cattle.
 
Dr. Kononoff’s dedication to the Nebraska dairy industry reflects the spirit of the Philip H. Cole Industry Person of the Year award, which honors those who go above and beyond to support the growth and success of the state’s dairy sector.

The NSDA will formally present the award to Dr. Kononoff at the 2025 Nebraska State Dairy Association Annual Meeting & Tradeshow on February 25th in West Point, Nebraska where dairy producers, industry leaders, and stakeholders will gather to celebrate his achievements. For more information about the Nebraska State Dairy Association Annual Meeting & Tradeshow, visit nebraskamilk.org or call 402.421.4472.



Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Now Accepting Scholarship Applications for the 2025-2026 Academic Year

The Nebraska Cattlemen Research and Education Foundation (NCF) announced they are now accepting scholarship applications for the 2025-2026 academic year from qualified youth in Nebraska with an interest in the beef industry.

NCF President Loren Berger stated, “The future success of the beef industry relies on students with a passion and desire to grow in knowledge of our way of life. NCF looks forward to providing young people with opportunities to make a lasting impact on beef cattle production.”

The prestigious Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship awards a $10,000 scholarship to an outstanding college junior, senior or graduate-level student. Eligible students must be residents of Nebraska and be enrolled in a Nebraska college or university pursuing a beef industry-related degree. The scholarship will be awarded based on student need, Nebraska beef industry involvement including past achievements and future plans, and academics. Completed applications are due by Saturday, March 15, 2025. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Finalists will be invited to a personal interview with the selection committee.

NCF offers numerous other $1,000 minimum scholarships, awarded on the basis of academic achievement, beef industry involvement, and goals/quality of application. Completed applications are due by Saturday, March 15, 2025. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Scholarship recipients must be a high school senior or college student, have a "C" or higher grade point average, and be enrolled or intending to enroll full time in a college or university that offers a bachelor's degree, an approved vocation or trade school, or a state accredited junior college.

Applications are available on the Nebraska Cattlemen website. Questions can be referred to Ashley McClinton at AMcClinton@necattlemen.org or by calling the NCF office at (402) 475-2333.

All scholarship winners will be announced during the Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting in June 2025.



Nebraska Soybean Board Seeks Soybean Farmers Interested in United Soybean Board Nominations

The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) is seeking soybean farmers interested in filling two of Nebraska’s four director positions with the United Soybean Board (USB), for a three-year term.

"Nebraska farmers have always been leaders in shaping the future of the soybean industry, and serving on the United Soybean Board is an incredible opportunity to make an even greater impact," says Andy Chvatal, NSB executive director. "Your insights can help guide investments that drive innovation, open new markets and deliver real results for soybean farmers across the nation."

USB’s 77 volunteer farmer-leaders work on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers to achieve maximum value for their soy checkoff investments. These volunteers create value by investing in research, education and promotion with the vision to deliver sustainable soy solutions to every life, every day. They focus on three priority areas: infrastructure and connectivity, health and nutrition, and innovation and technology.

To become a Nebraska member of USB, applicants must:
  - Be a soybean producer actively engaged in growing soybeans in Nebraska and own or share the ownership and risk of loss for those soybeans.
  - Be nominated by a Qualified State Soybean Board and submit a completed application.

NSB directors will submit a “first preferred choice nominee” and “second preferred choice alternate” for the open positions to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for consideration. The Secretary of Agriculture will make the final appointment. The USDA has a policy that membership on USDA boards and committees is open to all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation and marital or family status. The appointed individual is eligible to serve a total of three consecutive terms.

To be considered for the national leadership position, interested farmers need to submit a USDA Background Information Form before the February 28, 2025, deadline. To obtain this form, contact Andy Chvatal at the Nebraska Soybean Board office at 402-441-3240.

For more information about USB, visit unitedsoybean.org.



CVA Hosts Winter Grain Meetings

You're Invited!

Join the Central Valley Ag Grain Team for a Customer Appreciation Meal and Market Outlook Discussion as we address some key questions for 2025 including:
- What are realistic price possibilities on old crop bushels?
- How can I successfully market grain in low priced environments?
- Key themes to watch in 2025 and 2026

Plus, one registered winner who attends a meeting will be chosen at random and receive a new crop Hedge-to-Arrive with no service fee!

Meeting Dates
January 21st | 10:30 am | Oakland, NE
January 21st | 5:00 pm | Humphrey, NE
January 22nd | 5:00 pm | St. Edward, NE
January 29th | 5:00 pm | Laurel, NE
February 5th | 10:30 am | Royal, NE
February 10th | 5:00 pm | Elgin, NE
February 11th | 10:30 am | Seward, NE
February 12th | 10:30 am | Hampton, NE
February 12th | 5:00 pm | Polk, NE
February 18th | 10:30 am | Shelby, NE

RSVP Today at this web site: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCBJBTG.  



NRD Legislative Conference Brings Together Elected Leaders, Highlights Partnerships

The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts hosts their annual Legislative Conference to highlight partnerships and discuss natural resources policy at the Lincoln Embassy Suites Jan. 28-29, 2025.

The two-day conference brings together Natural Resources Districts (NRDs), elected officials and public-private partners integrally involved in conservation, technology, and policymaking. The conference also provides attendees an opportunity to learn how Nebraska’s NRDs work with landowners, state and federal agencies, and members of the public to protect Nebraska’s natural resources.

Governor Jim Pillen will kick off the event Tuesday, Jan. 28, followed by a property tax reform panel with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, Nebraska Farm Bureau, and Nebraska Association of School Boards; and a discussion of proposed legislation of interest to the NRDs. During the evening Senators Reception, NRD leaders will meet with state senators to discuss natural resources challenges and successes in the districts.

The conference continues Wednesday, Jan. 29, with breakout sessions for attendees, including:
    Improving Nitrogen-Use Efficiency for Corn in Nebraska: In-Season Management
    Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Dam Rehabilitation
    Revitalizing Irrigation: Restoring Aging Canals for Sustainable Water Management
    Update on Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s ONE RED Program
    Examining the Effect of Fertilizer Application Practices on Soil Nitrate and Water Quality
    Funding the Future: Strategies for Infrastructure Implementation
    Maximizing Producer Profits through Carbon-Smart Practices and the 45Z Tax Credit
    Nebraska Hydrology
    Eastern Nebraska Water Resources Assessment (ENWRA) Recharge Mapping and Focus Area Assessments
    Update on the Resilient Soils Act and the Nitrogen Reduction Act
    Bringing Life Back to Methodist Cove: Harlan County Lake Ecosystem Restoration

More than 300 natural resources stakeholders are expected to attend the conference, which is presented by Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts with a range of local and national sponsors including Blue Cross Blue Shield Nebraska, Eastern Nebraska Water Resources Assessment (ENWRA), HDR, Houston Engineering Inc., JEO Consulting Group, Olsson, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, The Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute and The Nebraska Water Center.

Conference registration is available on the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts’ website: https://www.nrdnet.org/events.



Crop Production Estimates Available for 2025 Growing Season

Iowa farmers can estimate the cost of producing various crops in 2025 by using data published in the January edition of Ag Decision Maker.

The article “Estimated Costs of Crop Production” https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/crops/html/a1-20.html includes average production costs for corn, corn silage, soybeans, alfalfa and pasture maintenance. Decision tools https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/decisiontools.html, as well as web-based calculators https://www.card.iastate.edu/tools/ag-decision-maker/crops/, are available that allow farmers to enter their own numbers, so they can estimate production costs on their own farm.

Production costs are always important to know in advance of the planting season, but even more so during a period of tighter profit margins in the crop market.

“The economic outlook for 2025 continues the pattern we ended 2024 with, where prices have fallen below production costs and any opportunities for profits will be limited this year, barring significant changes with either smaller production or greater usage,” said Chad Hart, professor in economics and economist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Hart said the report shows a 2% to 3% decline in the cost of corn production, driven mainly by lower fertilizer and chemical costs compared to 2024, whereas soybean costs are 1% higher. Total cost per bushel is impacted by higher trend yields used in the budgets, resulting in 1% to 6% declines overall. Land cost is projected to be stable, with increases in labor and machinery costs.

The report provides estimates for common crop rotations, including corn following corn, corn following soybeans and corn following silage. The report lists specific costs commonly associated with each crop, including seed, fertilizer, machinery use and labor. Budgets for various production methods are also included, such as low-till and strip-till budgets for corn and soybeans. Machinery costs reflect both new and used equipment and are up 3% to 4% in the 2025 projections.

Due to differences in soil condition, the quantity of inputs used and other factors, production costs will ultimately vary from farm to farm. Labor is treated as a fixed cost in the report, because most labor on Iowa farms is supplied by the operator, family or permanent hired labor.

Historical estimates of Iowa crop production costs are also available at Ag Decision Maker, dating back to 2000.

Farm bill decisions
Other important tools are also available in the January Ag Decision Maker update, including decision tools to help farmers select the appropriate farm bill program https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/crops/html/a1-33.html. Options include Price Loss Coverage and Agricultural Risk Coverage, with options for individual farm coverage or county-level coverage. The tools help farmers analyze and select the best option for their own operation.

The current farm bill has been extended through Sept. 30. Ann Johanns, extension program specialist in farm management, said with price changes in the projections for ARC-CO and PLC, it is a good time for producers to consider if their current enrollment best fits their operation’s risk management needs. USDA’s Farm Service Agency dates to make changes to program enrollment for ARC and PLC for the 2025 crop year are open from Jan. 21 to April 15, 2025.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 1/10/2025

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending January 10, ethanol production notched 0.6% lower to 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to 45.99 million gallons daily. Yet, output was 3.9% higher than the same week last year and 7.2% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.2% to 1.10 million b/d, which is equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.97 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks swelled 3.6% to 25.0 million barrels, the largest weekly level since the end of April 2024. Stocks were 2.7% less than the same week last year but 3.9% above the five-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the Midwest (PADD 2).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, slipped 1.8% to 8.33 million b/d (127.97 bg annualized). Yet, demand was 0.7% more than a year ago and the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol rebounded 6.4% to 829,000 b/d, equivalent to 12.74 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.7% less than year-ago levels but 0.7% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports declined 19.4% to an estimated 125,000 b/d (5.3 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Retail Fertilizer Prices Start 2025 Mixed

It's a new year but virtually the same old retail prices for fertilizers. Continuing the same trend as at the end of 2024, prices for all eight major fertilizers saw no significant movement in either direction during the first week of January 2025. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Average retail prices for five fertilizers were slightly higher than the previous month. Those were potash, which had an average price of $444 per ton, 10-34-0 $615/ton, anhydrous $735/ton, UAN28 $326/ton and UAN32 $365/ton.

Prices for the remaining three fertilizers were slightly lower than a month ago. DAP had an average price of $738/ton, MAP $808/ton and urea was at $490/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.53/lb.N, anhydrous $0.45/lb.N, UAN28 $0.58/lb.N and UAN32 $0.57/lb.N.

Three fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year ago. MAP is 1% more expensive, while both DAP and 10-34-0 are 2% higher looking back to last year. The remaining five fertilizers are lower. UAN28 is 3% less expensive, anhydrous is 5% lower, both urea and UAN32 are 7% less expensive and potash 13% lower compared to last year.



NCGA Releases Targets to Increase Agricultural Competitiveness

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) today published its 2025 Corn Competitiveness Report providing a roadmap for the incoming Trump administration and the new Congress to bolster the economic outlook for farmers and rural America. The report comes as corn growers are forecasted to face a third year of negative returns in 2025.

“The U.S. is a corn-producing superpower, growing about one-third of the world’s corn and doing so more sustainably than anywhere else on earth,” the report noted. “But the future of this American-grown powerhouse is in jeopardy as costly and burdensome regulations and outdated, unfavorable policies hinder American corn farmers’ market access resulting in high costs and low market prices.”

According to the report, the U.S. can turbocharge American competitiveness by focusing on six key targets:
    Increasing global market access for U.S. corn
    Expanding the use of U.S. corn in ethanol
    Strengthening farm risk management
    Preserving the American farm family legacy and farmland access
    Protecting access to agricultural innovations  
    Strengthening use of U.S. corn in American products
     
The report provides specific examples of the ways in which the U.S. can achieve these targets. These include developing new foreign markets, passing legislation that will expand consumer access to higher blends of ethanol, ensuring sensible regulations are in place and extending estate tax exemptions.

​​​​​​​“If the United States is going to build the greatest economy in history, supporting American corn farmers is foundational,” the report noted. “Corn growers need an environment where they can be innovative, productive and profitable. An environment with unobstructed access to necessary inputs, management tools and markets.”

Corn grower leaders argue that a change in Washington offers an opportunity to address these challenges. They say by following the report’s recommendations, the Trump administration and Congress can boost the economy and ensure American corn growers are competitive on the world stage.  



USDA Publishes Interim Rule on Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops Used as Biofuel Feedstocks

Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the publication of an interim rule on Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops Used as Biofuel Feedstocks. The interim rule establishes guidelines for quantifying, reporting, and verifying the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the production of biofuel feedstock commodity crops grown in the United States. These guidelines will facilitate the recognition of climate-smart agriculture within clean transportation fuel programs, creating new market opportunities for biofuel feedstock producers while enhancing climate benefits.

“The new guidelines are a win for farmers, biofuel producers, the public, and the environment. The action today marks an important milestone in the development of market-based conservation opportunities for agriculture,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Today’s action also builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic work to create greater opportunity for homegrown, renewable biofuels. From making E15 more widely available at gas station pumps and approving record biofuel levels, to investing in infrastructure to help communities invest in biofuels, to accelerating a future for Sustainable Aviation Fuels, this Administration created pathways for economic growth that will reverberate for generations to come.”

“America’s farmers play a critical role in building the clean energy economy,” said White House Senior Advisor for International Climate Policy John Podesta. “Today’s announcement from USDA reinforces the important role climate-smart agriculture plays in our rural economy, including in fueling clean transportation solutions, as well as the importance of providing pathways for unbundled, science-based accounting of the carbon benefits of climate-smart practices that help farmers earn more for what they grow.”

The rule issued today establishes a framework to connect climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices applied in the production of feedstock crops with reductions in the carbon footprint of biofuels. The rule includes three feedstock crops: corn, soy, and sorghum. It also covers CSA practices that could reduce GHG emissions or sequester carbon, including reduced till and no-till; cover cropping; and nutrient management practices, such as the use of nitrification inhibitors. Importantly, the interim rule allows for adoption of CSA practices both individually or in combination. This means that participating farmers would have the flexibility to adopt the CSA practices that make sense for their operation, while still being able to produce feedstocks with reduced carbon intensities under the rule.

Through this interim rule, USDA is establishing standards that can be used to quantify, track, and report the impacts of these practices. The interim rule establishes voluntary guidelines that may inform the development of requirements for other programs which incentivize low-carbon biofuels.

Establishing quantification and verification standards for climate-smart practices helps to ensure that the net GHG emissions reductions from these practices are real, thereby improving credibility and confidence, which could facilitate market opportunities for U.S. farmers growing biofuel feedstocks. In addition to reducing GHG emissions and increasing carbon sequestration, CSA practices can also generate additional environmental benefits, including improved water quality and soil health.

The interim rule includes guidelines on the following:
    Biofuel feedstock crops and entities in the biofuel supply chain;
    Quantification of farm-level crop-specific carbon intensity;
    Chain of custody standards for entities in the biofuel supply chain, including traceability and recordkeeping standards;
    Auditing and verification requirements; and
    Climate-smart agriculture practice standards for the biofuel feedstock crops included under the rule.

USDA is also publishing a beta version of the USDA Feedstock Carbon Intensity Calculator (USDA FD-CIC) to facilitate the quantification of farm-level crop-specific carbon intensity. USDA FD-CIC allows for the calculation of a farm-scale carbon intensity in line with the standards in the interim rule. USDA will complete a peer-review process to finalize the methodology and resulting carbon intensities included in USDA FD-CIC. USDA will evaluate and respond to the public feedback and peer-review provided on USDA FD-CIC, after which USDA will establish a final version. Until that time, users should consider values from USDA FD-CIC as preliminary. As part of this process of testing and feedback prior to finalization, the public will have the opportunity to examine and download USDA FD-CIC to experience how it would operate.

USDA is requesting public comment on the interim rule to help inform future revisions or additions to the final rule. Interested parties are welcome to submit comments on any aspect of the rule. The interim rule will be posted for public inspection on January 16 on www.regulations.gov and will be published on January 17. Interested parties may submit comments during the 60-day public comment period.



Latest Climate Smart Guidance Could Open New Profit Opportunities for Soy Growers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced an interim final rule on technical guidelines for measuring carbon reductions from climate smart agriculture (CSA) practices under the 45Z program. If adopted, the rule would better position U.S. soybean farmers to access incentives for utilizing practices that generate positive environmental outcomes, improve soil health and help meet the growing demand for biofuels.
 
Brent Swart, president of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and soybean farmer from Spencer, issued the following statement:
 
“Today’s interim final rule released today by USDA could move the needle on farmers’ ability to participate in the booming renewable fuels space, all while helping to reduce emissions and unlock new profit opportunities for the crops we produce. If realized by the incoming administration, the rule would provide a broader range of qualifying CSA practices—providing farmers with greater flexibility to make on-farm decisions that best fit their operation’s unique needs.
 
“While this guidance is not yet final and thus not actionable by farmers and their partners, it is a step in the right direction. We are committed to working with the U.S. Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service to ensure that these interim rules become actionable. We look forward to working with lawmakers and the incoming administration to provide feedback and ensure soybean farmers and the state’s biofuel producers are well positioned to fully access this market opportunity and reduce the carbon intensity for biofuels.”
 
ISA has long championed biofuel policy that supports Iowa’s farmers. This interim rule contains several wins that are a direct result of the advocacy of the Iowa Soybean Association and our partners. Under this proposal, new practices such as reduced till and split fertilizer application were added, alongside existing practices like no-till and cover crops. Additionally, the requirement to bundle multiple practices together was also removed. The association will submit public comment on the proposal in the near future.



Release of Climate Smart Ag Guidance Could Boost Farm Income and Help Unlock New Markets for Biofuels Producers

Wednesday U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack announced an interim final rule regarding technical guidelines for calculating carbon reductions from climate smart agriculture (CSA) practices. If adopted, this would allow farmers to capture an economic reward for agronomic practices that improve environmental outcomes, while providing biofuels producers another option for meeting the growing international demand for low carbon fuels.

“The interim final rule released today by USDA could be a major step forward in unlocking the potential to reduce farm-level carbon and thereby reduce the carbon intensity for biofuels,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. “There are several improvements from the previous CSA program, including more practices and flexibility. Just as importantly, a quick review of the new carbon calculator seems to show farmers would be given full credit for CSA practices instead of an artificially reduced number as in the previous iteration. Secretary Vilsack has once again pushed the envelope forward based on sound science and data. IRFA looks forward to digging into the proposal and providing feedback to help make it ever better.”

Included in the released interim final rule is a wider range of qualifying practices and greater farm-level flexibility, along with additional fertilizer options. The carbon calculations are specific to individual counties to ensure the best accuracy. The rule outlines procedures for quantifying, verifying and reporting CSA impacts.

“It is important to note that, if finalized, this CSA program could be not only adopted into federal policies like the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, but also into state clean fuel policies and international carbon programs as well,” added Shaw. “With the reliance on the best data and science and the imprint of the USDA, the onus going forward should not be on why a carbon program should adopt CSA, but rather on how they could possibly justify not recognizing CSA.”



NCGA Reacts to USDA Rule Impacting Biofuel Tax Credit

The U.S. Department of Agriculture published an interim rule today that provides guidelines for climate smart agriculture practices for crops used for biofuels.

The tax credit, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, is designed to help the agricultural industry make inroads into the aviation sector. Farmers have long awaited today’s release.

The new rule removes the requirement to bundle climate smart practices and instead allows corn to qualify as an eligible feedstock if individual practices are used to grow it. But farmers have also asked for more clarity on how they will benefit from the law.

“We are appreciative of Secretary Vilsack for ushering the process along and increasing the number of corn bushels that would qualify for the tax credit,” said Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. “It is still unclear whether that is enough to enable farmer participation.”

Additional opportunities for improvement would include the use of a book and claim system and the expansion of practices that would qualify for the credit, both of which would allow for greater farmer participation.

USDA will open a 60-day public comment period in which NCGA will continue to communicate the role farmers are playing in producing feedstocks for biofuels.

“Corn growers are poised to meet this market demand if given the opportunity,” Hartman said. “We look forward to working with the Trump administration as this process evolves.”



ACE Welcomes USDA Guidelines to Create Meaningful Opportunities for Farmers, Biofuel Producers

Wednesday, the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) welcomes the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) interim final rule “Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) Crops Used for Biofuel Feedstocks,” to help create meaningful opportunities for farmers and biofuel producers through the implementation of sustainable practices. USDA also issued a Feedstock Carbon Intensity Calculator (USDA-FD-CIC) to quantify greenhouse gas emissions per bushel from corn and other domestic feedstock crops.
 
USDA’s rule aligns with ACE’s feedback to the department and our commitment to promote climate-smart farming practices and improving the procedures for quantifying, reporting and verifying their effect so farmers and biofuel producers get properly rewarded under clean fuel programs, including the 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit. The rule mentions ACE’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) projects, which will serve as a valuable resource to inform updated greenhouse gas (GHG) credit values for CSA practices, improving the accuracy of GREET and addressing perceived “information gaps” currently preventing farmers and ethanol producers from monetizing CSA practices in regulated markets.
 
While the Trump Treasury Department holds ultimate authority in crafting final guidance for the 45Z tax credit, ACE welcomes USDA lending its expertise to how CSA practices are handled to help provide a strong foundation for ensuring clean fuel programs reward innovative, verifiable sustainability efforts.
 
ACE CEO Brian Jennings expressed gratitude for USDA’s leadership, stating:
 
"We commend Secretary Vilsack and the Office of Chief Economist for taking critical steps to support farmers and biofuel producers in achieving verifiable carbon reductions through climate-smart practices. We’re pleased to see greater flexibility for farmers, including the stacking of practices and a departure from the all-or-none bundled approach previously required under 40B. ACE looks forward to continuing our collaboration with USDA and the Treasury Department as it finalizes the 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit under the incoming administration, ensuring these efforts are accurately recognized and rewarded.
 
“The ACE-led USDA-Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Programs (RCPPs) are designed to help improve the accuracy of the GREET model, and we look forward to partnering with Argonne scientists and USDA, particularly in how climate-smart agriculture crops are calculated under GREET and USDA’s new feedstock carbon intensity tool, to ensure farmers and ethanol producers can maximize on 45Z and future programs.”
 
USDA is requesting public comment on the interim rule to help inform future revisions or additions to the final rule until March 18.
 
In related news, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory issued its updated Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Technologies (GREET) model (45ZCF-GREET), following the U.S. Treasury Department’s Friday announcement with preliminary 45Z guidance.
 
“Since 45Z is based on lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, every single point of carbon intensity has value, which makes it essential to get the details around modifications to the GREET model right, and we also thank the Department of Energy scientists for continuing to evolve this gold-standard lifecycle modeling tool,” Jennings added.



National Farmers Union Secures Government Action Against John Deere’s Monopoly Power

National Farmers Union (NFU) proudly supports the lawsuit filed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the attorneys general of Minnesota and Illinois against John Deere & Co., alleging the company’s repair restrictions violate competition laws. NFU filed a formal complaint with the FTC and has long been at the forefront of the fight for farmers’ right to repair.

“NFU filed the formal complaint with the FTC to uphold farmers’ basic economic right to repair their own equipment. Today’s lawsuits mark a key victory in this fight for family farmers and ranchers, recognizing that monopolies should not stop farmers from being able to repair their own equipment,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “When we prevail, farmers will have the power and freedom to fix their equipment faster and at a lower cost. We commend the FTC on this decisive step to safeguard farmers’ rights.”

For years, NFU has championed farmers’ rights to access the tools, information and software necessary to repair their own machinery. John Deere’s repair policies block farmers from fixing their own equipment and force them to rely on a limited number of dealers. This had led to exorbitant costs and significant operational delays during critical planting and harvesting periods. A 2023 study by the US Public Interest Research Group found that U.S. farmers could save as much as $1.2 billion a year if manufacturers like John Deere stopped imposing repair restrictions.

The signatories on the complaint include the Nebraska Farmers Union and the Iowa Farmers Union.  

Wednesday January 15 Ag News

 Governor Pillen and Senators Introduce Legislation to Benefit Nebraska Agriculture

Tuesday, Governor Jim Pillen and state senators presented three bills critical to preserving and protecting agriculture in Nebraska.

“As the first farmer-governor in more than 100 years, I know how important it is that we take steps to preserve our way of life, for the benefit of those who consume our products,” said Gov. Pillen. “We feed the world and save the planet. To ensure that we can do that for generations to come, we need to take steps that protect our water supply, the data that farmers use to improve their yields and their profits and that we keep extremists from introducing unproven meat products from being sold to consumers.”

Lab-Grown Meat
Senator Barry DeKay is bringing legislation to keep lab-grown meat from being manufactured, distributed, or sold in Nebraska. The bill defines “cultivated food protein” and requires those products to be labeled “adulterated food products” under the Pure Food Act.

"There are clear, recognized benefits of meat as a source of protein. It is uncertain whether manufactured meat protein is a substitute for natural meat sources as essential dietary needs. I question elevating lab meat to a level of equivalency with real meat,“ said Sen. DeKay. “Until or unless there are clear labeling rules that adequately disclose that cultured meat is not real meat, its sale allows lab meats to unfairly benefit from industry investments in marketing and production. What’s more, this industry is supported by organizations that want to do away with animal production in Nebraska and the United States. This is part of the process that we’re going to go through to make sure our way of life, our livestock, and our product that we can put on the dinner table stays intact going forward."

Gov. Pillen added, “It's important we get on the offense so that Nebraska farmers and ranchers are not undermined. Our job is to protect consumers, grow agriculture and defend agriculture. Most of us want government out of our hair, but there are places where government needs to step in and protect us.”

Merging NDEE & DNR
At the request of the Governor, Senator Tom Brandt is bringing a bill to merge the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. Policies and programs focused on water quality and quantity will now be under the same leadership. This will improve long-range planning for water and natural resource management issues such as nitrogen management and soil health. Related to nitrogen management, the Governor also announced the formation of his Task Force on Water Quality and Quantity.

Speaking on the merger, Sen. Brandt said, "By merging the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Environment and Energy, we are streamlining government operations to better address our state’s critical water needs. This legislation represents an opportunity to enhance efficiency, strengthen resource management, and ensure a sustainable future for Nebraska."

Agricultural Data Privacy
Another emerging issue for the agricultural community is producer data privacy.  Senator Mike Jacobson’s planned bill will keep the ownership of producer generated data with the farm or the producer where it was created. It prohibits sale of that information to other agricultural corporations. In this regard, it would be similar to the recently adopted Consumer Data Privacy Act. If passed, Nebraska would be a national leader by being the first state to have a law restricting the sale of agricultural data.

“Nebraska farmers and ranchers are increasingly concerned about the variety of new ag data products that are arriving on the market,” said Sen. Jacobson. “They want to know what happens to their data once they provide it to ag tech providers. They have a lot of questions about how the data is used, if they can retrieve it and should they trust the providers?”

“It’s important we not only defend agriculture but go on the offensive,” said Gov. Pillen. “The better agriculture does, the better our economy does. I’m eager to work with the legislature this year to lead the nation and protect and grow our agriculture industry.”



Annual Beef Feedlot Roundtables scheduled across Nebraska

Join Nebraska Feedlot Extension at three locations across the state Feb. 18, 19 and 20 to dive into a series of timely topics relevant to feedlot management.

The program will include
    Managing hairy heel wart in the feedyard with Becky Funk, veterinarian with UNL's Great Plains Veterinary Education Center
    Leveraging cattle implant strategies for greater gains with Jessica Sperber, Nebraska Extension feedlot specialist
    UNL Beef Innovation and research update with Galen Erickson, Nebraska Extension feedlot specialist
    Feedyard personnel management with Pete Anderson, Midwest PMS
    Market outlook with Jeff Stolle from Nebraska Cattlemen

Each Roundtable runs from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. local time.
    Tuesday, Feb. 18, Bridgeport, Nebraska, Prairie Winds Community Center
    Wednesday, Feb. 19, Gothenburg, Nebraska, Bayer Water Utilization Learning Center
    Thursday, Feb. 20, West Point, Nebraska, Nielsen Community Center

Pre-registration is requested by Friday, Feb. 14 at: https://go.unl.edu/2025roundtable

The cost is $20, payable online at registration or at the door via cash or check. Lunch will be provided.



Northeast Nebraska Crops Update Feb 3 at HAL

Nebraska Extension is hosting the Northeast Nebraska Crops Update at the Haskell Ag Lab on February 3rd, 2025 near Concord, NE. All those interested in emerging topics on crops in Northeast Nebraska are encouraged to attend.

Research updates will be provided by Nebraska Extension and industry representatives will be available for product discussions. Registration begins at 8:30am with the program running from 9am to 3:30pm.

Registration requested by Jan. 29 at https://go.unl.edu/register-crop-update.

Topics include:
    Corn and Soybean Disease Updates
    Nebraska On-Farm Research
    Manure Management
    In-Season Nitrogen Recommendation for Corn
    Emerging Soybean Pests
    Farm Bill Outlook: Prospects and Future Decisions
    Dicamba Thresholds in Soybeans
    Industry Partner Product Updates

Free to attend | Lunch will be provided | CCA credits available!
Main shop at the Haskell Ag Lab, 57905 866 Rd, Concord, NE 68728



Feb. 4, 2025 - Landlord/Tenant Cash Rent Workshop

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability and Nebraska Extension will present a workshop in Wayne for farm and ranch landowners, landlords and tenants who want to learn more about current trends in farm or ranch real estate, and best practices for managing or leasing land.

“Big Questions and Innovative Solutions in Land Management” will be held from 1 to 4 p.m., Feb. 4, in the meeting room at Hometown Café, Tacos & More, 509 Dearborn St. #4.

The workshop will cover topics related to Nebraska's land industry for farms and ranches. Those include evaluating current trends in land values and cash rents, lease provisions and legal considerations, proper communication strategies and considerations for successful land transitions. Workshop participants will also be able to find answers to common farmland leasing and land ownership questions.   

Refreshments will be provided by Farmers National Company.

The program is free to attend. Registration is requested by Feb. 3, by calling Nebraska Extension in Wayne County at 402-375-3310.

More information is available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, https://cap.unl.edu/land25.



4 New Board Members Join Nebraska Beef Council Board of Directors

The Nebraska Beef Council held elections to name 4 new board members to their Board of Directors. The new board members, each elected to a 4 year term, are as follows:
    District 1: Butch Schuler of Redington
    District 3: Keith Kreikemeier of West Point
        Cedar, Dixon, Dakota, Pierce, Wayne, Thurston, Madison, Stanton, Cuming and Burt counties
    District 5: Shannon Peterson of Gothenburg
    District 9: John Schroeder of Cozad



First Annual Northeast Nebraska Ag Conference Was A Huge Success

Nearly 300 people gathered for the Northeast Nebraska Ag Conference held at the Lifelong Learning Center at Northeast Community College on December 17th, 2024. Attendees from Nebraska and surrounding states gathered to hear from a great lineup of speakers.

Rick Clark, of Williamsport, IN Kicked off the conference with his keynote address “Increasing Farm Profits with Conservation”. Rick showcased how he has reduced expensive inputs and increased profits on his operation. Rick is moving towards organic no-till on his farm and discussed the realities of both the successes, and the challenges, of making this system work.

There were numerous options for concurrent breakout sessions where attendees could select the sessions attended based on the topics that would best serve their farms and ranches. Speakers covered items of interest that ranged from equipment set-up for successful no-till to total crop system redesigns that include grazing livestock on cropland.

In one session, Jason Mauck, of Gaston, IN, shared his passion for “farming weird” - including the way he views sunlight as a limiting factor in traditional systems, and the stock-cropper he co-developed to graze animals in growing crops.

Another session highlighted a value-added products panel - a group of Nebraskans who are adding value to products by taking them to retail, finding local added-value markets, or using unique “livestock” to produce additional products from the same crops. The panel discussed ideas on how to create more income on their acres.

Wrapping up the day, a panel of local northeast Nebraska farmers discussed how they are making conservation farming work locally. Junior Pfanstiel, Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD); Jeff Steffen, Lewis & Clark Natural Resources District (LCNRD); Curt Morrow, Lower Niobrara Natural Resources District (LNNRD); and Art Tanderup Upper Elkhorn Natural Resources District (UENRD) discussed their operations, how they are implementing different practices, and the economics of their systems.

The Northeast Nebraska Ag Conference was co-hosted by the Bow Creek Watershed Project (Lewis & Clark NRD) and the Bazile Groundwater Management Area (LCNRD, LENRD, LNNRD, and UENRD), Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Nebraska Strategic Ag Coalition, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Partners include Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy / EPA, Nebraska Extension, Nebraska Environmental Trust, UNL and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The Committee is already hard at work preparing for the second annual Northeast Nebraska Ag Conference planned for December 2025.



Study Shows Iowa Pork Industry is Vital to State's Economy
    
Iowa’s hard working pig farmers are a vital component of the state’s economy, as shown by a new study released by the Iowa Pork Producers Association. The data verifies Iowa’s status as the number one pork producing state in the nation, providing 33% of the U.S. hog inventory, and creating more than 120,000 jobs.

Providing Jobs, Economic Activity
Iowa’s 5,172 pig farms help create more than 64,000 jobs in the state from hog production, more than 39,000 from hog slaughter, and more than 16,000 from hog processing, totaling 120,231. The pork industry contributed $15.4 billion in value added to Iowa’s economy in 2024.

Iowa Pork Industry Economic Contribution By the Numbers:
    $15.4 billion in value added to the state’s economy.
    More than 120,000 jobs supported statewide.
    $8.0 billion in household income.
    $40.5 billion in total sales.
    More than $2.7 billion in taxes paid.

Breakdown of $15.4 billion in value added:
    $9.9 billion from hog production.
    $3.9 billion from hog slaughter.
    $1.5 billion from hog processing.

"The pork industry is the backbone of Iowa’s agricultural economy, driving billions in economic impact, creating thousands of jobs, and feeding millions of people across the world,” said Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman, IA who serves as president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “The work of pig farmers is essential to the strength and resilience of our communities and the future of American agriculture."

Pig farms with 2,000-4,999 head remain the most common in the state, comprising 31% of all pig farms in Iowa.

Iowa's hog cash receipts for 2023 totaled $9.328 billion, representing 34.3% of the U.S. hog cash receipts and 22.9% of Iowa's total cash receipts from all commodities. Hog inventory numbers set a record high in December 2023, with 25 million hogs on Iowa farms.

A Cycle of Sustainability
Iowa leads the nation in pork production for several reasons. The state’s pig farmers take pride in a rich heritage, building on generations of experience while embracing cutting-edge research and technology to produce pork that is nutritious, safe, and delicious. Additionally, Iowa’s abundant supply of essential feedstuffs makes it an ideal location for raising pigs efficiently.

A balanced pig diet contains energy and amino acids, which come from corn and soybean meal diets. From weaning to reaching market weight, an average pig eats 12 bushels of corn and 2.5 bushels of soybeans. Over the course of a year, Iowa pigs consume 2,272,856 acres of corn and 1,514,892 acres of soybeans. That means nearly one-eighth of Iowa’s row crops are marketed for nearby use, thus reducing the cost of grain transportation.

Hog manure is invaluable to farmers as a sustainable and cost-effective fertilizer that enriches soil with essential nutrients, improving crop yields while reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. It helps farmers efficiently manage waste, enhance soil health, and create a self-sustaining cycle by fertilizing crops used to feed their livestock, maximizing farm productivity and environmental stewardship.

Benefiting Local Communities
The top five Iowa counties in hog inventory are Washington, Sioux, Lyon, Plymouth, and Hardin counties. Washington, Sioux and Lyon counties each have more than 1 million pigs. Hamilton, Lyon, Marshall, Plymouth, Sioux, Wapello, Washington, and Woodbury counties all have an estimated value-added contribution of more than $300 million from the pork industry. Value-added refers to the difference between the total revenue of an industry and the total cost of inputs, such as labor, materials, and services.

The pork industry remains central to Iowa’s agricultural and economic prosperity, affirming its leadership in the U.S. pork industry. The study was conducted by Decision Innovation Solutions (DIS) in 2024.



Iowa Biodiesel Production Ticked Up in 2024, but Hits Headwinds Entering 2025

In 2024, Iowa biodiesel production ticked up to 353 million gallons, up from 350 in 2023. Iowa biodiesel plants managed to power through being undercut by a drastically low Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) blending level for 2024, but could not escape uncertainty surrounding tax policy as the long-time biodiesel blenders credit expired while the rules for the new 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit remain in flux. By the end of 2024, multiple Iowa biodiesel plants were not producing.

“Iowa biodiesel producers powered through most of 2024, but the end of the year brought a time of uncomfortable uncertainty,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw. “We need quick action in Washington to prevent 2025 from being worse. Multiple plants are sitting at idle waiting and hoping for the Treasury Department to finalize the rules for the new 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit. Tax credit uncertainty has tied the entire biodiesel supply chain up in knots. We need action now. Biodiesel remains a key part of ensuring domestic energy security while boosting rural communities and farmers.”

When it comes to Iowa biodiesel production, soybean oil remains the king, accounting for 77 percent of the production in 2024. Animal fats accounted for nearly 9 percent, while canola oil, distillers corn oil, and used cooking oil (UCO) each made up over 4 percent of feedstocks.

Iowa’s ten biodiesel plants have the capacity to produce 416 gallons annually. The IRFA compiled production information from a confidential industry survey.



Cattle Producers Pleased by Withdrawal of Anti-Free Market USDA Rule

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) welcomed the withdrawal of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) proposed rule entitled “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets,” announced today by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. This harmful regulation would have dismantled current cattle marketing agreements, reversed decades of innovation in the cattle industry, and threatened producer profitability.

“Under the ‘Bidenomics’ agenda, USDA pushed regulations like this one which would have undermined the free market, harmed hardworking cattle producers, and far exceeded the agency’s authority granted by Congress,” said NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Tanner Beymer. “We are pleased that USDA recognized their failed approach and withdrew this rule. NCBA will continue advocating for sound market principles and we look forward to working with the next Administration on enhancing profitability opportunities for America’s cattle farmers and ranchers.”



Field Set for World Livestock Auctioneer Championship Semifinals

Thirty-one bid callers will battle it out in the World Livestock Auctioneer Championship in Dunlap, Iowa, this June. Held in conjunction with Livestock Marketing Association’s annual convention, the event will bring together the top 10 individuals from each of the three qualifying events, along with the reigning International Livestock Auctioneer Champion.

The semifinalists are:
    A.J. Austin, Newport, Arkansas
    Andy Baumeister, Goldthwaite, Texas
    Tyler Bell, Anderson, Texas
    Neil Bouray, Webber, Kansas
    Leon Caselman, Long Lane, Missouri
    Colvin Connell, Willard, New Mexico
    Ryan Dean, Roland, Oklahoma
    Dean Edge, Rimbey, Alberta, Canada
    Steve Goedert, Templeton, California
    William Gregory, Auburn, Kentucky
    Michael Imbrogno, Turlock, California
    Brennin Jack, Virden, Manitoba, Canada
    Marcus Kent, Dunnellon, Florida
    Takoda Kiser, Leon, West Virginia
    Ryan Konynenbelt, Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada
    Justin Mebane, Bakersfield, California
    Trey Narramore, Portales, New Mexico
    Garrett Nunn, Laramie, Wyoming
    Ross Parks, New Concord, Ohio
    Jack Riggs, Glenns Ferry, Idaho
    Troy Robinett, Decatur, Texas
    Seth Schnieder, Hershey, Nebraska
    Ethan Schuette, Washington, Kansas
    Jeff Showalter, Broadway, Virginia
    Barrett Simon, Rosalia, Kansas
    Preston Smith, Imperial, Nebraska
    Andrew Sylvester, Westmoreland, Kansas
    Jace Thompson, Billings, Montana
    Marshal Tingle, Nicholasville, Kentucky
    Scott Twardowski, Swanville, Minnesota
    Zack Zumstein, Marsing, Idaho

The World Livestock Auctioneer Championship, conducted by Livestock Marketing Association, is in its 62nd year. To learn more, visit lmaweb.com.



Empowering Farmers Through Innovation: John Deere Expands Self-Repair Solutions, Furthering Farmer Independence

Tuesday, John Deere (NYSE:$DE) announced another significant step forward in supporting customers’ ability to maintain and repair their machines across the agricultural and construction industries. The latest addition to Deere’s suite of digital solutions will further empower customers and independent repair technicians by, among other things, enabling them to reprogram Deere-manufactured electronic controllers.
 
These new capabilities will be integrated into the John Deere Operations Center™ and will offer more comprehensive solutions for diagnosing and repairing equipment while ensuring machine reliability, safety, and compliance.
 
“John Deere has a long-standing commitment to enhancing our customers’ ability to repair their equipment. Consistent with that commitment, we’ve continued to deliver new and enhanced solutions designed to improve that experience” said Denver Caldwell, Vice President of Aftermarket and Customer Support. “As our equipment has become more technologically advanced, so too have the repair tools needed to advance customer capabilities. We are committed to offering customers the best equipment ownership experience, both in the form of world-class dealer support and extensive self-repair resources. This offering advances our goal of minimizing customers’ unplanned downtime and enables them to be more productive and profitable in their operations.”

For years, John Deere has invested in enhanced solutions and is excited to take the next step as we continue to gather feedback from customers through the development process to complete our pilot. The customer and independent repair technician pilot will set the stage for launch in the U.S. and Canada by the second half of 2025.
 
Commitment to Repairability
For decades, John Deere has empowered customers to take control of their repair and maintenance needs, from publishing operator, diagnostic, and technical manuals, to selling parts over the counter to customers and independent repair shops to developing digital tools like Customer Service ADVISOR™. John Deere’s latest expansion will offer a more user-friendly, centralized platform for self-repair. As a leader in agricultural and construction technology as well as customer support, John Deere is committed to further enhancing machine ownership for a new generation.
 
Expanding Existing Tools and Resources
In addition to the new solution, John Deere has an expansive suite of tools currently that support customers throughout their machine ownership journey, including:
    John Deere Bookstore for viewing operators' manuals for free and purchasing technical manuals;
    Quick Reference Guides and instructional videos for maintenance tips;
    Shop.Deere.com for finding and purchasing parts online;
    John Deere Operations Center™ for managing farm data, maintenance, and machine information;
    Customer Service ADVISOR™ for digital manuals, and for clearing and refreshing codes, taking diagnostic readings, and performing limited calibrations; and
    Equipment Mobile this free app is a one-stop-shop for machine information including operators and parts manuals, maintenance plans, quick reference information, trouble code lookup, and software updates on select 4G connected machines.

Innovating to Enhance Machine Ownership
John Deere is an industry leader in self-repair resources for customers and remains committed to future investments that enable customer and independent repair technicians to improve machine uptime. Recent enhancements demonstrate the ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, empowering equipment owners and improving machine ownership worldwide. John Deere will continue to innovate, making it easier for customers to work on their machines and their systems to keepthem up and running when they need them the most.



Merger of Hypor and Danish Genetics Officially Closed

Hendrix Genetics proudly announces the successful closing of the merger between Hypor, its swine genetics division, and Danish Genetics. This strategic combination unites two industry-leading swine genetics organizations under the Hendrix Genetics umbrella, creating a value proposition that sets a new benchmark for the swine industry. Together, Hypor and Danish Genetics, supported by Hendrix Genetics' multispecies expertise and cutting-edge R&D capabilities, are committed to delivering unmatched value and innovation to the pork value chain.

A Unified Value Proposition for the Swine Industry
The merger represents a powerful synergy of expertise, resources, and a shared vision for the future of swine genetics. By combining the strengths of Hypor and Danish Genetics, the new entity offers a differentiated and compelling value proposition for pig producers worldwide. Customers can expect:
    Innovative R&D: World-class research and development capabilities to stay ahead of genetic advancements.
    Comprehensive Genetics Portfolio: A range of solutions tailored to diverse customer needs in global markets.
    Global Reach with Local Proximity: Reliable partnerships and long-term support close to the customer.

Richard Maatman, CEO of Hendrix Genetics, stated: “This merger brings together the best of two world-class swine genetics organizations. Our combined expertise and scale enable us to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that drive progress and create real value for our customers.”

Jan Gerber, CEO of Danish Genetics, highlighted the shared commitment to the industry’s future: “Joining forces with Hypor under Hendrix Genetics allows us to set new standards for innovation, animal welfare, and customer success. This partnership is a step forward in meeting the demands of pig producers of tomorrow.”

The Strength of Collaboration
To reflect the combined strengths of Hypor and Danish Genetics, the new entity will operate under the name Hendrix Genetics Swine. This name underscores the collective expertise and resources of the two organizations while highlighting Hendrix Genetics’ commitment to empowering the swine industry. The headquarters for Hendrix Genetics Swine will be based in Denmark, further solidifying its proximity to key markets and customers.

Raf Beeren, Managing Director of Hendrix Genetics Swine, emphasized: “Hendrix Genetics Swine is the culmination of years of collaboration and expertise. This merger is about leveraging our combined strengths to deliver higher performance, sustainability, and innovation for our customers and the industry as a whole.”

Looking Ahead
The official closing of the merger marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Hypor, Danish Genetics, and Hendrix Genetics. This collaboration positions Hendrix Genetics Swine as a global leader dedicated to advancing sustainable performance and empowering the pork value chain through continuous improvement.

Tuesday January 14 Ag News

 Peoples Company Acquires Lincoln-based United Farm and Ranch Management

Peoples Company, a recognized leader in integrated land management, brokerage, appraisal, and energy solutions with offices across the nation, today announced it acquired Lincoln-based United Farm and Ranch Management (UFARM). UFARM, a nearly 100-year-old land management company, will add 15 employees and four offices, along with more than 90,000 acres of farm and ranch land under management, to Peoples Company’s growing team and portfolio.

“For nearly 100 years, landowners have trusted the United Farm and Ranch Management team to implement strategies to improve farm productivity and increase the value of their land. While ownership of the company is changing, the 100-year legacy of stewardship and trusted advisement of United Farm and Ranch Management will remain,” said Steve Bruere, President of Peoples Company.

Headquartered in Lincoln, UFARM has offices in Kearney, Norfolk, and North Platte. The company specializes in the management of farmland, ranches and recreational properties, and offers real estate and appraisal services.  UFARM currently manages land in five states: Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and South Dakota.

Peoples Company, which is based just outside of Des Moines in Clive, Iowa, will retain all UFARM’s employees. Peoples Company has licensed brokers, appraisers, and is actively managing land in the states where UFARM has land under management.

“As we considered the next chapter for United Farm and Ranch Management, our team was focused on a partnership that provided continuity for our clients and employees, finding a team that shared our client-focused approach to land management, and offered complimentary services so our clients can reap the rewards of the new partnership,” said Chris Scow, Managing Broker and Operations Manager of UFARM. “With Peoples Company’s robust land brokerage experience, their energy management services, and their capital markets group, we believe this partnership positions our team and our clients exceptionally well for the next 100 years.”

Peoples Company’s acquisition of UFARM in Nebraska comes on the heels of their 2024 purchase of Lallman, Paulson & Brettmann, Inc. in Fremont, Neb., and their 2020 acquisition of Omaha-based Mid-Continent Properties, Inc.



Boehm to step down as IANR leader

After nearly a decade of successful leadership, Mike Boehm is stepping down in the dual role as the University of Nebraska’s Harlan Vice Chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and vice president for agriculture and natural resources.

Boehm will continue in the role through the spring semester before returning to a faculty role in the Department of Plant Pathology and working to help advance key university initiatives. Tiffany Heng-Moss, dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, will serve as the interim leader of IANR starting June 1.

In a Jan. 13 message to campus, Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett praised Boehm as a trusted partner and campus leader.

“Together, we have logged countless miles traveling across the state — from Nebraska City to Scottsbluff — meeting the remarkable people who make Nebraska unique,” Bennett said in the message to campus. “His dedication to IANR, the university and the state has been inspiring and impactful, leaving a legacy of progress and collaboration.”

A celebration for Boehm and his contributions to the university will be announced.

Through the spring semester, Boehm will work closely with Heng-Moss to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Heng-Moss has served as dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources since 2019. She led the college as interim dean from 2017 to 2019 and was associate dean for five years. She has been a faculty member at the university since 2001.

“(Heng-Moss) is deeply connected to the agricultural community across the state and around the country, and she is an accomplished educator and researcher,” Bennett said. “She is ideally situated to lead the institute during this critical period.”



USDA Finalizes Third New Regulation Under the Biden-Harris Administration to Create Fairness and Transparency for Contract Farmers

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the third installment in a series of regulatory reforms under the Packers and Stockyards Act that, in combination with other updates finalized under the Biden-Harris Administration, is intended to level the playing field for farmers who raise chicken, turkeys, hogs, cattle, and sheep under contract or for sale to meat and poultry processing companies.

Specifically, the rule announced today will give chicken farmers better insight into companies’ payment rates for their birds, will institute stability and fairness in what is commonly known as the ‘tournament system,’ will provide farmers with key information on capital improvements the companies require farmers to make in order to keep or renew contracts, and give farmers stronger leverage when companies do not adhere to the rules.

“During my time as Secretary of Agriculture, time and again USDA has been confronted with the stories of farmers who lost their life’s savings or went bankrupt because of an unfair system they entered into when they agreed to raise animals for a major meat conglomerate. It is USDA’s job to advocate for farmers, and these regulatory improvements give us the strongest tools we’ve ever had to meet our obligations under the Packers & Stockyards Act,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “While there is still work to be done, I am immensely proud that the Biden-Harris Administration has taken historic action to level the playing field for farmers. This complements other ways we’ve worked to enhance competition across the agriculture sector, from investing in independent processing capacity, to shoring up domestic fertilizer production, to promoting transparency around seed technology and markets. As the bedrock of so much that our society depends on, and the pillar of rural economies, farmers deserve honesty, certainty and options when it comes to their hard work.”



CHS reports first quarter fiscal year 2025 earnings

CHS Inc., the nation’s leading agribusiness cooperative, today released results for its first quarter of fiscal year 2025. The company reported net income of $244.8 million and revenues of $9.3 billion for the quarter that ended Nov. 30, 2024, compared to net income of $522.9 million and revenues of $11.4 billion in the first quarter of fiscal year 2024.

Key highlights for first quarter fiscal year 2025 financial results:
    Decreased selling prices for grains, oilseeds and refined fuels led to lower revenues.
    Despite strong sales volumes, Energy segment earnings declined due to evolving market conditions negatively impacting refining margins.
    Ag segment earnings were moderately lower due to softening oilseed crush margins compared to historically high margins in the first quarter of the prior fiscal year.
    Equity method investments continued to perform well, with the CF Nitrogen investment being the largest contributor.

“The energy industry is experiencing compressed refinery margins at the same time that U.S. agriculture is seeing a weaker farm economy with a globally competitive marketplace for grains and oilseeds,” said Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS Inc. “Just as we have for nearly 100 years, CHS is leveraging our efficient global supply chain, strong relationships and expertise to navigate these changing markets, while strategically investing to meet our owners’ future needs.”

Energy
Pretax earnings of $19.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 represent a $247.1 million decrease versus the prior year period and reflect:
    Lower refined fuel margins due to less favorable market conditions, including higher U.S. refinery capacity utilization and global production
    The positive impact of lower costs for renewable fuel credits, which partially offset lower income from refined fuels

Ag
Pretax earnings of $166.7 million represent a $3.1 million decrease versus the prior year period and reflect:
    Decreased margins in oilseed processing due to a larger supply of canola and soybean meal and oil across global markets, somewhat offset by the timing impact of market adjustments
    Market-driven price decreases in wholesale and retail agronomy

Nitrogen Production
Decreased market prices for urea, partially offset by lower natural gas costs, contributed to pretax earnings of $25.2 million — an $11.2 million decrease versus the prior year period.

Corporate and Other
Pretax earnings of $47.2 million represent a $3.3 million increase versus the prior year period, primarily reflecting improved equity method investment income.



USDA Announces 2025 Enrollment Periods for Crop and Dairy Safety-Net Programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the 2025 enrollment periods for key safety-net programs – Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) as well as Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC). Agricultural producers can submit applications to USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) for ARC and PLC for the 2025 crop year from Jan. 21 to April 15 and for DMC for the 2025 coverage year from Jan. 29 to March 31.

ARC and PLC provide financial protections to farmers from substantial drops in crop prices or revenues and are vital economic safety nets for most American farms. Meanwhile, DMC provides producers with price support to help offset milk and feed price differences.  

“Our safety-net programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers, so don’t delay enrollment,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “If you’re getting coverage through the Agriculture Risk Coverage or Price Loss Coverage programs, avoid the rush and contact your local FSA office for an appointment. Even if you are not changing your program election for 2025, you still need to sign a contract to enroll.”

“And at $0.15 per hundredweight for $9.50 coverage, risk protection through Dairy Margin Coverage is a relatively inexpensive investment in a true sense of security and peace of mind.”   

The American Relief Act, 2025 extended many Farm Bill-authorized programs for another year, including ARC and PLC as well as DMC.  

ARC and PLC
Producers can elect coverage and enroll in ARC-County (ARC-CO) or PLC, which provide crop-by-crop protection, or ARC-Individual (ARC-IC), which protects the entire farm. Although election changes for 2025 are optional, producers must enroll through a signed contract each year. Also, if a producer has a multi-year contract on the farm it will continue for 2025 unless an election change is made.   

If producers do not submit their election revision by the April 15 deadline, their election remains the same as their 2024 election for commodities on the farm from the prior year. Farm owners cannot enroll in either program unless they have a share interest in the cropland.       

Covered commodities include barley, canola, large and small chickpeas, corn, crambe, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, dry peas, rapeseed, long grain rice, medium grain rice, safflower seed, seed cotton, sesame, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat.   

USDA also reminds producers that ARC and PLC elections and enrollments can impact eligibility for some crop insurance products including Supplemental Coverage Option, Enhanced Coverage Option and, for cotton producers, the Stacked Income Protection Plan (commonly referred to as STAX).  

DMC
DMC is a voluntary risk management program that offers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer.  

DMC offers different levels of coverage, even an option that is free to producers, minus a $100 administrative fee. The administrative fee is waived for dairy producers who are considered limited resource, beginning, socially disadvantaged or a military veteran.

DMC payments are calculated using updated feed and premium hay costs, making the program more reflective of actual dairy producer expenses. These updated feed calculations use 100% premium alfalfa hay.   



Survey Showing SCN’s Continued Spread Renews Focus on the Threat

Researchers have been updating the map of known soybean cyst nematode (SCN) distribution regularly since 2000, and with each update, the threat spreads. The latest update, spearheaded by Iowa State University (ISU) nematologist Greg Tylka, reveals 31 counties in 10 U.S. states reporting SCN for the first time during the 2020 through 2023 timeframe.  

In Canada, 10 rural municipalities in Quebec and three counties across Manitoba and Ontario reported SCN for the first time over that three-year span.  

SCN widespread in soybean-producing areas
Most of the primary soybean-producing areas in the U.S. and Canada overlap the SCN distribution map. In the U.S., SCN is in every county of Illinois and Iowa, the top two soybean-producing states.  

SCN costs U.S. soybean farmers more yield than any other pathogen. Losses due to SCN are double that of the next largest pathogenic threat. Based on SCN’s ongoing spread, Tylka says, “It’s reasonable to conclude that increased soybean yield losses due to the nematode will follow, if not already occurring in these areas.”  

And just because an area is not reporting SCN does not mean fields there are free of the pathogen. “Fields may be infested with the nematode for many years before infestations are discovered,” the report notes.  

Why SCN is tough to beat
After the initial discovery of SCN in North America in 1954, breeders developed soybean varieties with genetic resistance to SCN, namely PI 88788 and Peking. “A great majority of SCN-resistant soybean varieties available throughout soybean-producing areas of the U.S. and Canada were developed with resistance genetics from PI 88788,” Tylka explains. But after decades of overuse, SCN populations developed resistance to PI 88788.  

While PI 88788 resistance still dominates seed company offerings, the number of soybean varieties with Peking resistance is rising. In fact, the number of varieties with Peking resistance available to Iowa farmers in 2025 more than doubled from last year to 200, according to ISU’s annual checkoff-funded publication. The list contains a total of 920 SCN-resistant soybean varieties.  

“Farmers now have many choices of varieties with Peking SCN resistance from many brands,” Tylka says. “That enhances their ability to rotate resistant varieties, a key element of active SCN management.”

Actively managing SCN
To combat mounting resistance to PI 88788, The SCN Coalition encourages farmers to work with their trusted agronomic adviser to develop a plan, including:
    Test fields to know your numbers.
    Rotate resistant varieties.
    Rotate to non-host crops.
    Consider using a nematode-protectant seed treatment.  

Because soybeans with Peking SCN resistance will likely outyield PI 88788 resistance varieties in SCN-infested fields, it can be tempting to plant Peking over and over. But that’s a bad idea. Prolonged use of Peking SCN resistance will create its own resistance battle. The best strategy is to rotate resistance types.  

Defining SCN’s toll on a field-by-field basis
SCN robs soybean yield with little to no aboveground symptoms. For that reason, spreading awareness about the threat and its economic damage are priorities for The SCN Coalition. SCN’s wide distribution focuses attention on the pathogen and can motivate more farmers to test their fields.  

Farmers can get an estimate of what SCN is robbing their bottom line by using the SCN Profit Checker calculator https://www.thescncoalition.com/profitchecker/. Powered by data from more than 25,000 university research plots, the tool estimates the economic toll of SCN, field by field. By giving farmers the ability to put dollars and cents on SCN’s toll, the Coalition hopes to increase active management of the pathogen.  



Register Today For CattleCon 2025

While CattleCon 2025 is just around the corner, Feb. 4-6, in San Antonio, Texas, it isn’t too late to register. Whether flying or driving, make plans to join thousands of cattlemen and women for the largest cattle industry event in the country. Register in advance at convention.ncba.org or in person on-site.

Buzz Brainard, host of Music Row Happy Hour, returns as emcee to kick things off on Tuesday, Feb. 4, along with Opening General Session speaker Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney. A decorated F-16 fighter pilot, professional golfer, philanthropist and bestselling author, Rooney is called to “inspire people to help people.'' Rooney is best known for founding the Folds of Honor, a leading non-profit organization that provides educational scholarships for children and spouses of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders.

Wednesday morning begins with celebrating the 2025 Beef Quality Assurance Award winners. This special general session will be impactful for those looking to transition their business to the next generation or new ownership; Dr. Shannon Ferrell will examine generational changes shaping the world today including remote work and shifts in wealth creation.

Also on Wednesday, the Sustainability Forum will include a panel of industry experts discussing building operation resilience through adoption of written grazing management plans. Grazing management plans (GMPs) build resilience by establishing a baseline for observing and managing land, cattle and finances while enabling producers to make informed decisions about operational goals. Panelists will provide insights into the application of GMPs for production, drivers of adoption, socioeconomic factors and supply chain opportunities.

The final day begins with CattleFax conducting their U.S. & Global Protein and Grain Outlook Session. Randy Blach, the team at CattleFax and meteorologist Matt Makens will discuss what 2025 and beyond might look like for the cattle industry.

Throughout CattleCon, the 32nd annual Cattlemen’s College will include educational sessions with industry leaders tackling innovative topics. Other highlights include a D.C. Issues update, Today’s Beef Consumer market research update and Beef Industry Forum. The Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame banquet and Environmental Stewardship Award Program reception will recognize leaders for their achievements, and there will be more than nine acres of displays, exhibitors and education in the NCBA Trade Show.

There will be plenty of entertainment for all to enjoy. Anah Higbie, winner of the 12th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, will perform at the Opening General Session, Paul Bogart, a CattleCon favorite, will bring his down-to-earth charm to Wednesday’s Big TX Fest, and contemporary country music star Scotty McCreery will perform following the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Thursday night.

In addition, producers will be hard at work guiding both NCBA policy and Beef Checkoff programs. Annual meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax and National Cattlemen’s Foundation will also take place.

For more information and to register, visit convention.ncba.org.



2025 Picks Up Where 2024 Left Off
Will Secor, Extension Livestock Economist, University of Georgia

Cattle markets are off to a hot start in 2025. All through the supply chain from beef markets to feeder cattle markets, prices are up significantly year-over-year. Continuing tight supplies and strong demand remain the driving forces behind these price movements.

Boxed beef prices are up about 16% year-over-year and moved higher in the second week of January compared to the first reading of the year. Direct fed steer prices also increased this week by about 2% compared to last week and up 17% year-over-year. It is notable that these year-over-year price increases come amid higher head counts moving through negotiated cash markets this week.

In feeder cattle markets, prices are up across the country and across weights. 700-800 lb. feeder steer prices are up roughly 20 percent in the Plains and much of the Southeast. Some areas have seen more substantial increases (e.g., Oklahoma at around 24%), while others more moderate (e.g., Mississippi at around 16%). Heifer prices in this weight range have seen similar price increases.

At lower weights, prices are also higher. However, different regions have seen more pronounced differences. Many parts of the Southeast have seen 500-600 lb. steer prices proportionally higher than heavier weight feeder steers. For example, 700-800 lb. steers in Kentucky increased 23% year-over-year, while 500-600 lb. steer prices increased slightly more at 26%. 400-500 lb. steer prices in Kentucky were up by 34% year-over-year. In contrast, many western states saw prices increase proportionately less for lighter-weight feeder cattle compared to their heavier-weight counterparts.

Overall, 2025 has picked up where 2024 left off. Prices continue to move higher year-over-year. Demand appears to be steady to strong as reflected in last year’s projected large beef disappearance and higher beef prices. Moreover, additional macroeconomic data, such as the recent jobs report, suggests that the overall economy could support continued beef consumption in the year-ahead.

Additionally, cattle supplies remain tight in 2025. While aggregate supplies (i.e., overall U.S. cattle inventories) are unlikely to change in the short term, there are reports that feeder cattle imports from Mexico could begin again later this month. This could create downward pressure to some feeder cattle prices in the weeks after imports are allowed again, whenever that occurs. However, overall cattle inventory will remain constrained in the year ahead supporting higher prices going forward.