Friday October 02 Ag News - Managing Mud in the Feedyard - Engler Scholarships - Iowa's Top 5 Breaded Pork Tenderloins Announced - Corn, Soybean Crush Slightly Lower in August - USDA Recognizes October Cooperative Month - and more!

Managing Mud in the Feedyard: Focusing on What Matters Most
Connor Biehler, Nebraska Extension Educator

When feedyard profitability is discussed, attention is often focused on feed costs, cattle prices, and animal health. While these are all important, some of the most valuable investments a feedyard can make are not found in the ration or processing barn. Facility improvements that enhance pen conditions, cattle comfort, and labor efficiency can have lasting impacts on performance and cost of gain. 

Poor pen conditions can quietly erode feed efficiency, increase maintenance requirements, and drive up cost of gain throughout the feeding period. While the weather cannot be controlled, feedyard design and maintenance decisions can help to minimize the impact of mud and protect profitability. After all, the greatest returns often come from investments that improve conditions for the cattle. 
Start with Drainage 

If the water cannot leave the pen, other improvements can be made less effective. Poor drainage leads to mud accumulation which can reduce cattle comfort, increase energy for maintenance requirements, and increase labor demands. 

Producers should periodically evaluate the following questions: 
    Does water leave the pen quickly following a rainfall event? 
    Are there low spots where water consistently pools? 
    Are the drainage channels remaining open and functional? 
    Is runoff from roads, fields, or neighboring pens entering cattle pens? 

Practical steps to improve drainage include: 
    Leveling pens to eliminate low areas that collect water. 
    Maintaining proper pen slope towards drainage channels. 
    Cleaning ditches and drainage ways regularly. 
    Diverting runoff from adjacent areas away from cattle pens. 
    Regularly removing manure accumulations that restrict water movement. 
    Repairing high-traffic areas where heavy cattle activity has altered drainage patterns. 

Maintain Effective Pen Mounds 
Even in well-drained pens, cattle benefit from having access to a dry resting area. Pen mounds provide cattle with an elevated location that remains drier than the surrounding pen surface during muddy times.  

To maximize effectiveness, producers should consider: 
    Maintaining adequate mound height, generally 5 feet tall. 
    Providing at least 25 square feet per head of mound space. 
    Repair erosion and loss of shape over time. 
    Positioning mounds so water drains away from the resting area. 

Signs that mounds may need maintenance include: 
    Flattened mound profiles. 
    Standing water near the base of the mound. 
    Excessive manure accumulation. 
    Cattle crowding onto a small portion of the mound. 

Take-Home Message 
Effective mud management starts long before wet conditions develop. The best strategy for managing mud is mitigating it before it becomes a problem. Feedyards that prioritize drainage and maintain functional pen mounds are often better equipped to minimize mud, improve cattle comfort, and protect performance during wet conditions. For more information on managing mud in the feedyard, please contact Connor at 402-624-8007 or cbiehler2@unl.edu. 



Scholarship Opportunity Available for Aspiring Entrepreneurs at The Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program

The Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln is seeking students with a passion for entrepreneurship and a drive to turn their purpose into action. Scholarship applications for the 2027-2028 academic year are now being accepted, welcoming both incoming and current students of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources who have prior experience in FFA or 4-H. Applications are due by midnight on December 15, 2026. Applications can be found on the Engler website at https://englerjourney.com.

Since 2012 over $2 million has been invested in empowering future entrepreneurs and innovators through this program. The Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program is designed to empower enterprise builders. Participation in the program is not restricted to scholarship recipients.  

The Engler program began in 2010 with a $20 million gift from the Paul F. and Virginia J. Engler Foundation. The mission of the program is to embolden people on the courageous pursuit of their purpose through the art and practice of entrepreneurship. The program offers an academic minor while serving as an intersection in which students from a diverse array of majors and business interests can come together in pursuit of the American Dream.

For more information, visit https://englerjourney.com or contact: Halle Ramsey at hramsey2@unl.edu, or Tom Field at field2@unl.edu. 


Nebraska Cattlemen Applauds Nomination of Ibach for Under Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs

Nebraska Cattlemen released the following statement in response to President Donald J. Trump’s nomination of Nebraska native Greg Ibach to serve as Under Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Nebraska Cattlemen applauds the nomination of Greg Ibach to serve as Under Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Greg is a longtime friend and champion of Nebraska’s cattle industry. His decades of experience and dedication to agriculture make him well suited for this important role. We look forward to continuing our strong working relationship with Greg and urge the U.S. Senate to move swiftly in confirming his nomination.”



USMEF Statement on Nomination of Greg Ibach for USDA Under Secretary for Trade

President Trump has nominated Greg Ibach to serve as USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. Ibach is a former director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and was USDA under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs during the first Trump administration.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued this statement:

USMEF has been honored to work closely with Greg Ibach for many years, when he was a true champion for agricultural trade at both the state and federal levels. He has seen firsthand the returns that exports deliver for the U.S. ag economy and understands the importance of expanding global demand for U.S. products. To the extent possible, USMEF encourages the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry to expedite the scheduling of Ibach’s confirmation hearing and to advance his nomination to the full Senate. He is tremendously well-qualified for this appointment and we expect his nomination to receive strong bipartisan support.

Ibach was the 2018 recipient of USMEF’s most prestigious honor, the Michael J. Mansfield Award. 



Nebraska Farmers Union PAC Announces General Election Endorsements

NEBFARMPAC, the political action committee of Nebraska Farmers Union, Nebraska’s second largest general farm organization announced its general election endorsements today for Congress, the Legislature, Governor, Public Power Districts, Natural Resource Districts, and other statewide and district races.

Based on their position on family farm and ranch issues along with returned candidate surveys for Legislature candidates along with input from county and district officers, the NEBFARMPAC Board of Directors announced the following endorsements: (* = Incumbents)      

Federal
Congress First District: Chris Backemeyer
Congress Second District: Denise Powell
Congress Third District: Mark Cohen
U.S. Senate: Dan Osborn

State
Governor: Lynne Walz
Attorney General: Jocelyn Brasher
Secretary of State: Sarah Slattery
Auditor of Public Accounts: Mike Foley*

Legislature
LD2:    Caitlin Knutson
LD4:    Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek
LD6:    Patrick Leahy
LD8:    Erin Feichtinger
LD10: Cindy Johnson
LD12:  Christy Knorr
LB14:  SuAnn Witt
LD16:  Cindy Chatt
LD18: Jess Goldoni    
LD20: John Fredrickson*
LD24: Jana Hughes*
LD26:  George Dungan*
LD30:  Janet Bock
LD32: Mark Schoenrock & Shay Smith
LD34:  Ben Blodgett
LD36: Darin Tompkins
LD38: Janell Anderson Ehrke
LD41: Jeremy Heneger & Joe Johnson
LD46:  Danielle Conrad*
 
Public Service Commission: Wendy DeBoer

Public Power Districts
Subdivision 1: Mary Harding*
Subdivision 2: Bill Tielke
Subdivision 7: Wayne Williams*
Subdivision 9: Jerry Chlopek*

Omaha Public Power District
Subdivision 1: Sara Kohen
Subdivision 2: Mark Gudgel
Subdivision 3: Carol Blood

Board of Regents
District 1: Brent Comstock
District 2: Elizabeth Butler

State Board of Education
District 5: Michaela Conway
District 6: Grady Erickson
District 8: Sherrye Hutcherson 
 
Natural Resource Districts
Lower Elkhorn NRD: Graham Christensen
Lower Big Blue NRD: Anne DeVries*
Lower Platte North NRD:
Subdistrict 8: Jerry Johnson*
Subdistrict 9: Larissa Schultz*
At Large: Thomas McKnight*
Lower Platte South NRD
Subdistrict 3: Melissa Baker*
Subdistrict 8: Tom Green*
 
County Commissioner
Lancaster Subdistrict 1: Sean Flowerday*
Lancaster Subdistrict 3:  Bryan Seck
Lancaster Subdistrict 5: Rick Vest*
 
NEBFARMPAC is the political action committee of the Nebraska Farmers Union, which is a non-partisan, not-for-profit general farm organization founded in 1913 with a mission to protect and enhance the quality of life and economic well-being of family farmers and ranchers and their rural communities.  NeFU is the respected voice of family farm and ranch agriculture with nearly 4,000 family memberships.



Top 5 Contenders for Iowa's Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Revealed
    
Iowa’s iconic breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is back in the spotlight. After diners evaluated restaurants across the state, the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) has narrowed its 2026 contest to five contenders, in alphabetical order:
    Friends Hide-A-Way — Underwood
    Wasted Grain — Carroll 
    Landmark Grill & Grind — Williamsburg
    Sasquatch Jacks Hideaway Barroom & Grill — Waverly
    Tin Roost — North Liberty

For these restaurants, a place on the list brings more than bragging rights. Past finalists have reported substantial increases in customers and pork tenderloin sales as Iowans and enthusiasts across the Midwest travel to try the sandwiches for themselves.

“Every restaurant on this list has earned its place, but judging a great tenderloin comes down to more than size,” said Greg Carlson, a contest judge and retired pork producer. “We look for pork that’s tender and flavorful, with breading that complements it. As a former producer, it’s rewarding to see restaurants put so much care into a sandwich Iowans love.”

How the contest works
The public nominates restaurants that serve a hand-breaded or hand-battered pork tenderloin sandwich on their regular menu. Restaurants must keep year-round, regular hours; food trucks, concession stands, seasonal establishments and caterers are ineligible. Judges then evaluate qualifying restaurants, with a final panel selecting the winner and runner-up.

The winner receives $500, a plaque and an outdoor banner. The runner-up receives $250 and a plaque.

The results will be announced in mid-October during National Pork Month, aka Porktober.



Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks

Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 6.29 million tons (210 million bushels) in August 2026, compared with 6.66 million tons (222 million bushels) in July 2026 and 5.94 million tons (198 million bushels) in August 2025. Crude oil produced was 2.45 billion pounds, down 5 percent from July 2026 but up 4 percent from August 2025. Soybean once refined oil production at 2.00 billion pounds during August 2026 decreased 1 percent from July 2026 but increased 6 percent from August 2025.

Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 528 million bushels in August 2026. Total corn consumption was down less than 1 percent from July 2026 but up 4 percent from August 2025. August 2026 usage included 92.6 percent for alcohol and 7.4 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.31 million bushels, down 11 percent from July 2026 and down 3 percent from August 2025. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 478 million bushels, was up less than 1 percent from July 2026 and up 4 percent from August 2025. Corn consumed in August 2026 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 92.2 percent and 7.8 percent, respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.85 million tons during August 2026, down less than 1 percent from July 2026 and down 2 percent from August 2025. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.28 million tons in August 2026, down 1 percent from July 2026 but up 5 percent from August 2025.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 278,611 tons during August 2026, up 11 percent from July 2026 and up 11 percent from August 2025. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 180,096 tons in August 2026, down 14 percent from July 2026 but up 2 percent from August 2025.



Thompson, Boozman Highlight $13.8 Billion ARC/PLC Support Under Improved Farm Safety Net

House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) and Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) championed vital investments of $13.8 billion in the farm safety net improvements through the Working Families Tax Cuts that are now being administered by the Farm Service Agency. They issued the following statement as farm families are experiencing the benefits delivered with improvements to the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) including increased reference prices, modernized payment limitations, and the allocation of 30 million new base acres.
 
“Farming is an inherently risky business. America’s producers need adequate risk management tools that deliver certainty and predictability to continue growing our food and fiber. After years of operating under an outdated farm safety net, congressional Republicans delivered enhanced policies to protect and manage against market volatility and diminished yields. The ARC and PLC payments farmers are receiving this month are critical to supporting our hardworking farm families, strengthening the stability of the industry and planning for a future in farming.”
 
These updates are the first meaningful investments to the farm safety net since 2002. Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cuts will provide $13.8 billion in ARC/PLC support, more than double what farmers were expected to receive before these changes.
 
Implementation for improvements to ARC and PLC follows the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s implementation of other Working Families Tax Cuts provisions, including expanded access to and eligibility for standing disaster programs including the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) and Livestock Forage Program (LFP), in addition to making crop insurance more affordable.



Farmers Call on President Trump to Provide Diesel Price Relief

As farmers and ranchers face record-high diesel costs, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall today called on the president to take several steps to lower prices at the pump, including a temporary suspension of the federal highway diesel tax.

“Higher diesel expenses are hitting farmers at one of the most fuel-intensive times of the year – harvest,” wrote Mr. Duvall in a letter to President Trump. “Diesel is essential for the American economy and for farmers. Everything on the farm, from running tractors, combines and irrigation equipment to transporting crops, livestock and inputs requires diesel. Farmers and ranchers cannot postpone harvest or simply stop using diesel when prices rise.”

The national average on-highway diesel price has reached $6.38 per gallon, while farm diesel in the heart of the Corn Belt climbed to nearly $6 per gallon. The federal highway diesel tax is currently more than 24 cents per gallon. Farm Bureau also urged the administration to waive federal penalties for emergency use of dyed diesel on highways. At least 10 states have taken similar actions to combat fuel prices.



USDA Highlights National Cooperative Month

U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins today issued a USDA proclamation (PDF, 575 KB) to recognize October 2026 as the Department’s 62nd anniversary of National Cooperative Month.

“Cooperatives are a powerful engine of economic growth for our nation and central to President Trump’s America First agenda to strengthen our economy and empower communities,” said Secretary Rollins. “Today we celebrate our partnerships with these cooperative organizations and reaffirm our commitment to advancing the vital work they do to create jobs, build local prosperity, support critical infrastructure, and expand opportunity for rural America.”

Since the start of the Trump Administration and under the leadership of Secretary Rollins, USDA has invested more than $18.1 billion in loans and grants to support 242 cooperatives to spur economic development, invest in critical electric and broadband infrastructure, and build prosperity through rural cooperatives supported by USDA Rural Development’s programs.

During Cooperative Month, USDA will highlight ways the Department is investing in cooperatives and creating stronger and more resilient communities. Supporting cooperatives strengthens farmer profitability, expands market access, encourages innovation, creates jobs in rural communities, and reinforces the America’s role of leadership in agriculture, food production, and farm security.

This year’s theme for the month-long celebration is “Built for this Moment,” as selected by the National Cooperative Business Association. This theme acknowledges the electric co-ops delivering essential infrastructure to rural America, the food co-ops that support local farmers and agricultural producers, the housing co-ops creating lasting affordability and the worker co-ops preserving local businesses.



USDA Announces October 2026 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for October 2026, which are effective Oct. 1, 2026. USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.            
Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans 

FSA offers farm operating, ownership and emergency loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation.   

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for October 2026 are as follows:        
    Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 5.375%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 6.250%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct, Joint Financing): 4.250%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 2.250%
    Emergency Loan (Amount of Actual Loss): 3.750%    

FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders. To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.        
Commodity and Storage Facility Loans

Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment. Loans that provide interim financing are also available to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation  and are administered by FSA.   
    Commodity Loans (less than one year disbursed): 5.250%       
    Farm Storage Facility Loans:  
    Three-year loan terms: 4.500%  
    Five-year loan terms: 4.625%  
    Seven-year loan terms: 4.750%  
    Ten-year loan terms: 4.875% 
    Twelve-year loan terms: 5.000%  
    Sugar Storage Facility Loans (15 years): 5.125%       

To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. 



Michigan Farmer Matt Frostic Begins Term as NCGA President

Matt Frostic, of Applegate, Mich., began his term today as president of the National Corn Growers Association, a farmer-led trade association with offices in St. Louis and Washington.
 
Frostic, who farms 1,000 acres of corn, soybeans, edible beans and sugar beets, spent his first day in the role outlining his priorities as president. These include securing passage of legislation that allows for the year-round sale of fuels with 15% ethanol blends, passing the farm bill and diversifying demand for corn.
 
“These goals may seem ambitious, but we are going to do everything possible to make them a reality,” Frostic said. “Farmers work day and night, at times through difficult conditions, to produce a crop that feeds and fuels America and the world. We deliver, and we expect our representatives in Washington to work hard and deliver as well.”
 
Frostic brings extensive advocacy experience to his new role. He has spent the last year chairing NCGA’s Input Cost Task Force. In that role, he has worked to identify solutions to bring costs more in line with today’s commodity prices. He has also spent the last year serving as NCGA’s vice president and as chair of the organization’s resolutions committee, and as a member of the finance committee. Frostic is a former president and chair of the Michigan Corn Growers Association.
 
The NCGA board chooses a member from the governing body to serve as president each year. The term begins on October 1, the start of NCGA’s fiscal year.

Thursday October 01 Ag News - Grain Stocks and Small Grain Summary - CVA Partners in Howells Feed Mill - Nominations Open for Golden Owl Award - Fertilizer Prices on the Rise - Opportunities for Meat in China - and more!

US corn ending stocks up 35% from last year, soybean ending stocks down 3%

Old crop corn stocks on hand as of Sept. 1, 2026, totaled 2.10 billion bushels, up 35% from Sept. 1, 2025, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) Grain Stocks report released today. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down 3% from Sept. 1, 2025, and all wheat stocks were down 13% from a year earlier.

Of the total corn stocks, 787 million bushels were stored on farms, up 22% from last year. Off-farm stocks, at 1.31 billion bushels, were up 44% from a year ago. The June-August 2026 indicated disappearance was 3.20 billion bushels, compared with 3.09 billion bushels during the same period a year earlier.

Old crop soybean stocks in all positions on September 1, 2026 totaled 315 million bushels, down 3 percent from September 1, 2025. Of the total, 90.4 million bushels are stored on-farm and 225 million bushels were stored off-farm. June - August 2026 indicated disappearance is 744 million bushels, compared with 683 million bushels during the same period a year ago.

This report also contains revisions to the previous season’s production for corn and soybeans, which is normal for this time of year since the marketing year is complete. Production for 2025 corn was revised down less than 1 percent and soybean production was revised down slightly from the previous estimates.

All wheat stored in all positions on Sept. 1, 2026, totaled 1.85 billion bushels, down 14% from a year ago. On-farm stocks were estimated at 547 million bushels, down 21% from last September. Off-farm stocks, at 1.30 billion bushels, were down 10% from a year ago. The June-August 2026 indicated disappearance was 608 million bushels, down 14% from the same period last year.

By State    (1,000 bu - On farm  -  off farm  - total stocks)
Nebraska Corn ..........:  105,000   -   143,050  -   248,050 
Iowa Corn .................:  140,000   -   275,547  -   415,547 
Nebraska Soybeans ..:       8,800   -    18,672   -    27,472  
Iowa Soybeans ..........:    11,500   -    39,768   -    51,268  

2025 Production Estimates     Bu/acre     Total Prod (1,000 bu)
Nebraska Corn..........:           194.0          2,015,660     
Iowa Corn.................:           210.0          2,761,500     
Nebraska Soybeans...:            65.5           313,745     
Iowa Soybeans..........:            63.5           595,630     

In preparation for the Grain Stocks report, NASS conducted separate surveys for on-farm and off-farms stocks during the first two weeks of September. NASS also released the Small Grains Annual Summary report today. Key findings from that report include:
    All wheat production totaled 1.53 billion bushels in 2026, down 23% from the revised 2025 total.
    All wheat area harvested for grain totaled 31.9 million acres, down 15% from 2025.
    The U.S. all wheat yield was estimated at 48.1 bushels per acre, down 10% from 2025.

The levels of production and changes from 2025 to 2026 by type were:
    Winter wheat, 1.02 billion bushels, down 27%.
    Other spring wheat, 450 million bushels, down 10%.
    Durum wheat, 64.8 million bushels, down 24%.

The Grain Stocks and Small Grains Annual Summary reports and all other NASS reports are available online at nass.usda.gov/publications.



2026 Nebraska Small Grain Acreage and Production

Winter wheat production is estimated at 17.2 million bushels, down 55% from last year, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. The area harvested for grain totaled 520,000 acres, down 35% from 2025. Planted acreage totaled 910,000, down 4% from a year earlier. The yield is 33.0 bushels per acre, down 14 bushels from last year.

Oat production is estimated at 1.5 million bushels, up 51% from 2025. Area harvested for grain, at 29,000 acres, is up 45% from last year. Planted acreage totaled 155,000, up 24% from a year earlier. Average yield is 52.0 bushels per acre, up 2 bushels from 2025.



Central Valley Ag and RJ Feed Milling LLC Partner to Support the Future of Livestock Production

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is pleased to announce a strategic investment in RJ Feed Milling LLC, a feed manufacturing facility located in Howells, Nebraska. The partnership reflects CVA's continued commitment to supporting livestock production, expanding feed manufacturing capabilities, and creating long-term value for producers across the region.

As livestock production continues to grow in Nebraska, the partnership strengthens CVA's ability to serve customers while helping create additional demand for local grain production. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to operational excellence, CVA and RJ Feed Milling LLC are positioned to support future growth in the livestock industry and meet the evolving needs of producers. This partnership brings together CVA's scale and resources with the strong manufacturing capabilities and customer relationships established by Russ Vering and his team.

“This investment reflects our confidence in the future of livestock and protein production,” said Brent Reichmuth, Senior Vice President of Operations at CVA. “By expanding our feed manufacturing footprint, we are strengthening our ability to serve customers, create value for producers, and help meet the protein needs of future generations.”

“We remain very optimistic about the future of livestock production in Nebraska,” said Kelby Vandenberg, Senior Vice President of Feed at CVA. “This partnership expands our manufacturing capabilities in a key livestock market and positions us to better serve producers as the industry continues to grow. Just as importantly, we are partnering with a team that shares our commitment to operational excellence, customer service, and long-term growth.”

“The feed industry is evolving at a fast pace, and success requires scale, efficiency, and a commitment to continuous improvement,” said Russ Vering. “Partnering with CVA gives us the opportunity to build a premier feed manufacturing business, expand our reach, and create a stronger platform for future growth.”

Effective October 1, 2026, CVA will operate and manage all aspects of the facility's business, while the partnership will be known as Howells Milling LLC.



CAP Webinars

Nebraska Crop-Share Leases: Findings from 92 Lease Arrangements
Oct 1, 2026 12:00 PM  
With Anastasia Meyer, Extension Agricultural Economist, UNL
How are Nebraska landlords and tenants dividing crop inputs, field operations and irrigation responsibilities? This webinar will share findings from 92 crop-share lease arrangements reported through the Nebraska Crop-Share Lease Survey. Participants will learn how common 50/50, 60/40 and other arrangements handle seed, fertilizer, crop-protection products, field operations, irrigation energy and equipment costs. The program will also explain how to use the findings as a benchmark for lease discussions—not as a one-size-fits-all formula—and identify important provisions to address in a written crop-share lease.

Nebraska Ballot Issues: November 2026
Oct 8, 2026 12:00 PM 
Dave Aiken, professor and water law/ agricultural law specialist at Nebraska 
Three issues will be on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot in Nebraska: (1) authorizing online sports betting, (2) prohibiting transgender females from participating on female school sports teams, and (3) making it more difficult for state senators to amend voter-approved laws. 

Register for webinar at the Center for Agricultural Profitability's webinar page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



Nominate Local Nebraska Teachers for Top Agricultural Educator Award 

Agriculture educators play a vital role within their communities by investing countless hours to prepare and empower students for successful careers in the industry. To honor their contributions and support them with additional resources, Nationwide and the Nebraska FFA Foundation are accepting nominations for Nebraska’s leading agricultural teachers for a chance to be named the 2026-2027 Ag Educator of the Year. 

Nationwide and its state partners recently recognized 107 exceptional agricultural teachers as 2025-2026 Golden Owl Award® finalists and then honored 15 grand prize winners as their state’s Ag Educator of the Year. Every finalist received $500 in funding to help advance their programs and the grand prize winners received an additional $3,000 to boost their efforts and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy. 

Nominate any Nebraska agriculture educator for the 2026-2027 Golden Owl Award from October 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026 here https://neffafoundation.org/what_we_do/programs/golden-owl-award.html. 

“The Golden Owl Award seeks to thank agricultural teachers for the extraordinary care they bring to their work as they go above and beyond in educating America’s youth and future leaders,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “We encourage students, parents, fellow teachers, and others to nominate their agricultural teachers to acknowledge their hard work.” 

Following the nomination period closing on 12-31-26, a selection committee will evaluate nominations and select six finalists in Nebraska, who will be recognized in front of their peers and students and awarded a personalized plaque and $500. One finalist will then be chosen as the grand prize winner, earning the 2026-2027 Ag Educator of the Year title for Nebraska and receiving the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $3,000.

Nationwide supports the future of the ag community through meaningful sponsorships of national and local organizations. In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA, including the Nebraska FFA Foundation, to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers, and advisors alike. To nominate a teacher or learn more about the Golden Owl Award, visit Nebraska Golden Owl Award https://neffafoundation.org/what_we_do/programs/golden-owl-award.html.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 9/25/2026
 
According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending September 25, ethanol production contracted 2.0% lower to 1.01 million b/d, equivalent to 42.29 million gallons daily and the lowest weekly volume since the end of January. Yet, output was 1.2% higher than the same week last year and 3.0% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate declined 2.4% to 1.06 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.26 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks dropped 3.3% to 23.9 million barrels, the lowest weekly volume since the start of 2026. Still, stocks were 4.8% more than the same week last year and 8.8% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions except the West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, slipped 1.8% to 8.69 million b/d (133.57 bg annualized). Demand was 2.0% more than a year ago but 1.1% below the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol climbed 0.8% to a 4-week high of 914,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.05 bg annualized. Net inputs were 1.0% more than year-ago levels and 1.3% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports expanded 16.4% to 142,000 b/d (6.0 million gallons/day). It has been more than three years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Anhydrous Leads Fertilizer Prices Higher, Up 25% From a Year Ago

For a second consecutive week, most fertilizers were more expensive compared to last month. Six fertilizers were higher compared to a month earlier, while the remaining two nutrients were slightly lower. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

One fertilizer did have a notable price increase. Anhydrous was 6% higher compared to last month and had an average price of $977/ton. Five fertilizers' prices were slightly higher compared to a month ago. DAP had an average price of $926/ton, MAP $970/ton, potash $498/ton, urea $675/ton and UAN32 $479/ton.

The remaining two nutrients were just slightly less expensive looking back a month. 10-34-0 had an average price of $701/ton and UAN28 $423/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.73/lb.N, anhydrous $0.60/lb.N, UAN28 $0.76/lb.N and UAN32 $0.74/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. UAN28 and UAN32 are 1% higher, potash is 2% more expensive, DAP is 3% higher, MAP and 10-34-0 are both 5% more expensive, urea is 9% higher and anhydrous is 25% higher looking back to last year.



USDA Announces $12.65 Million Available to Support Dairy Business Innovation
 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced approximately $12.65 million in funding is available through the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBI). The funding will support regional initiatives that provide technical assistance and subawards to dairy businesses working to develop, produce, market, and distribute dairy products. These initiatives support agricultural businesses that help rural economies thrive and bolster the dairy supply chain, so all Americans have access to quality domestic dairy products.

The FY26 funding opportunity is open to the four existing DBI initiatives: the California State University Fresno Foundation, the University of Tennessee, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, and the University of Wisconsin. These initiatives support dairy businesses through regional technical assistance, market development, product innovation, processing and packaging support, and subawards. USDA strongly encourages DBI Initiatives to prioritize subaward funding for equipment and infrastructure in their proposals for these funds. Equipment and infrastructure investments are critical to strengthening the dairy industry and overall dairy businesses capacity and DBI is currently uniquely positioned to offer such targeted funding opportunities.

Application Information
The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is available on the AMS DBI Webpage https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/dbi. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Dec. 1, 2026. Additional information, application resources, and information about previously funded projects, are also available on the AMS DBI webpage https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/dbi. For program questions, contact IPPGrants@usda.gov.



Meat Institute Issues Statement on Pork & Beef Trade Opportunities with China

Following the announcement that beef and pork were included in the list of goods qualifying for better trade treatment as a result of ongoing negotiations with China, the Meat Institute released the following statement:

“The Meat Institute is appreciative of Ambassador Greer’s ongoing efforts to secure greater access to Chinese markets for US pork and beef,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “It was great to see the inclusion of beef and pork on the list of non-sensitive goods, which will set the foundation for addressing persistently high retaliatory tariffs and trade-limiting non-tariff barriers on U.S. meat exports. This was one of the Meat Institute’s requests, and we thank the Trump Administration for its dedication to securing more favorable access for our exports. While we know these negotiations take time, we are confident Ambassador Greer and Ambassador Callahan will continue to work on the remaining, highly technical non-tariff barriers which continue to hinder access to China.

“The Chinese market is especially important for the beef supply chain. China is a key market for U.S. beef variety meats and offal – products that find little consumer demand in the U.S. and strong prices in China. These U.S. beef exports to China support higher carcass values and reduce price pressure on domestic cuts, contributing to more stable beef prices for American consumers. Strong export demand drives higher carcass value, which encourages cattle producers in the U.S. to rebuild the herd.

“We are particularly encouraged by the announcement of a technical agricultural working group established under the Board of Trade. We look forward to continuing to work with the Trump Administration to ensure that outstanding issues impeding beef trade to China, including ongoing plant suspensions that violate the spirit of the Phase One Agreement, be addressed when this working group meets later this year.”

Several U.S. beef plants were delisted after first-offense detections of ractopamine or melengestrol acetate (MGA), contrary to the Phase One Agreement. The Meat Institute has called for China to align its ractopamine policy with the Agreement and implement a clear, transparent, and enforceable process to prevent plants suspended for MGA or ractopamine findings from being barred indefinitely.



U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council Reacts To Ibach's Nomination As USDA Under Secretary

This week, former Nebraska Agriculture Director Greg Ibach was nominated to serve as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) next under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) President and CEO Ryan LeGrand issued the following statement in support of Ibach’s nomination:

“Greg has vast experience at the state and national levels in advocating for U.S. farmers in the international marketplace and will do a great job in this role,” LeGrand said.

“The Council looks forward to continuing its strong relationship and track record of earning major wins for U.S. agricultural exporters in tandem with its partners at USDA.”



CHS Foundation Funds $1 Million Investment in 4-H to Prepare Future Agriculture Leaders

CHS Foundation and National 4-H Council today announce that CHS is investing $1 million to fund programs that focus on developing future generations of agriculture leaders. The two-year commitment builds on a strong 21-year partnership between the two organizations to help young people thrive and prepare for work and life.  

Funding will support Beyond Ready; a 4-H initiative launched in 2024 to help teens build the confidence, competencies and real-world skills they need to succeed in school, work and life. The investment will also support:  
-    Beyond Ready innovation grants: Grants that support local 4-H programs led by Cooperative Extension. Young people will explore science, technology, and innovation shaping agriculture while building skills they can use throughout their lives. 
-    Youth recognition programs: Programs that elevate young people who are creating positive change in their communities, like 4-H Lead to Change.  
-    Ignite by 4-H: A national youth summit where more than 1,200 teens gain skills through real-world experiences. 
-    Storytelling: Efforts that elevate youth voices and showcase achievements throughout the year, demonstrating how 4-H builds real-world skills, leadership experience, and confidence. 

"The future of agriculture depends on the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. Our continued partnership with 4-H is one of the ways CHS and the CHS Foundation are investing in opportunities that connect young people to agriculture, expand their networks, and prepare them for success in work and life,” said Megan Wolle, President, CHS Foundation. “This investment focuses on bringing hands-on experiences closer to home for students and reflects our commitment to ensuring a strong future for agriculture." 

 After Ignite by 4-H, youth participants applied their skills through 4-H Lead to Change, a program that helps young people identify local challenges, develop solutions, and compete for up to $10,000 to bring their plans to life.  

“Washington 4-H teens are a great example of what young people can accomplish when they have support to bring their ideas to life,” said Heather Elliott, chief development and marketing officer for National 4-H Council. “Through Lead to Change, they received funding for Leaf It Up, a project that helps college students experiencing food insecurity access fresh food through microgreen kits. Their work took them to the national stage at Ignite and shows how an idea can become a solution that makes a difference in local communities.”

Wednesday September 30 Ag News - Incidents of Foreign Objects clicks up in Beef - Proposal to Extend Small Biodiesel Producer Credit - Dairy Producer Margins Tighten - USDA Regenerative Pilot Program - and more!

The Cost of Foreign Object Contamination
Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM, Director Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance 

Foreign object contamination is not a new issue in the beef industry; however, we have recently seen a resurgence in detection. With historically low cattle numbers, the impact has magnified. The 2022 National Beef Quality Audit (NBQA) conducted a volunteer study of cull and fed plants. Of the 16 cull plants surveyed, 100% reported finding buckshot and/or birdshot in cow and bull carcasses. 

Additionally, 50% of these plants reported customers finding foreign objects outside of the plant. Twenty-four fed plants were also surveyed in the study with 58.3% reporting “yes” to foreign objects in beef. Contamination included buckshot, wire, needles, and darts. Not only is this a major welfare issue, but it is also costing the industry significant product loss, at a time that we cannot afford to lose it. Let’s break down the effects of one BB: 

-If a pre-harvest foreign object is found in the 2,000-pound trim, the batch before and after the contaminated batch will be discarded and unfit for consumption = 6,000 lbs of trim 

-As a practice, the processor would need to also discard the blended batch prior = 6,000 + 6,000 = 12,000 lbs 

-One 950 lb carcass averages 25% ground beef = 238 lbs. Therefore, 12,000 lbs is the equivalent of 51 head 

-Industry reports an average of 140 foreign object contamination events per facility. 51 head x 140 events = 7,140 head lost each year in a single facility. 

-The NBQA surveyed 45 facilities. 7,140 head x 45 facilities = 321,300 head lost/yr 

- 321,300 head x 238 lbs of ground beef/hd = 76 million lbs of ground beef lost/year 

This is a significant problem for our Nation’s beef industry and Nebraska is not immune to the effects, with birdshot being reported in Nebraska plants. As a cattle producer, it is our obligation to do the right thing, every time to maintain consumer confidence in our product. Shotguns should not be a cattle handling tool. 



IRFA Thanks Bipartisan Senate Effort to Extend Small Biodiesel Producer Credit

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) is thanking Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) for introducing bipartisan legislation to extend the Small Agri-Biodiesel Producer Credit through 2029.

The credit, which is set to expire Dec. 31, 2026, applies to the first 15 million gallons of annual production for small biodiesel producers with a capacity of 60 million gallons or less. It provides a $0.20-per-gallon tax credit for producers using crop oils and animal fats.

“Small biodiesel producers are an important part of Iowa’s rural economy, and they need certainty to keep investing and producing,” said Monte Shaw, executive director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association. “This extension gives Iowa producers the runway they need to keep turning Iowa-grown feedstocks into homegrown fuel, supporting farmers and strengthening rural communities.”

The extension would provide additional certainty for Iowa’s small biodiesel producers as the industry transitions to the 45Z Clean Fuels Production Credit.

IRFA will continue working with Iowa’s congressional delegation and federal policymakers on policies that support Iowa’s renewable fuels producers, farmers and rural communities.



Iowa Farm Bureau webinar helps farmers protect nutrients leading up to historically strong El Niño

Iowa could experience one of its wettest Septembers on record as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a greater than 90% chance the current El Niño will become very strong this fall and winter. Wetter conditions and a strong El Niño could affect soil temperatures, timing of nutrient applications and nutrient cycling. To help farmers protect their nutrients and make informed management decisions, Iowa Farm Bureau will host Preparing for Super El Niño: Protecting Water and Your Nutrient Investment on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 11 a.m.Central time.

El Niño occurs when waters in the equatorial Pacific become warmer than average, shifting weather patterns that can influence conditions in other regions. The webinar will explore what this could mean for Iowa soil temperatures, nutrient availability and soil conditions. Experts will also share strategies farmers can use to reduce nutrient loss and protect their investment, including nitrogen soil testing, Iowa State University’s N-FACT to help guide fertilizer decisions, along with practical manure management strategies and nutrient retention practices such as nitrification inhibitors, timing of fertilizer application and cover crops.

Featured speakers include Dr. Justin Glisan, state climatologist of Iowa; Dr. Mike Castellano, Iowa State University professor of agronomy and Iowa Nitrogen Initiative lead; and Dr. Dan Andersen, Iowa State University associate professor of biosystems engineering and Extension manure specialist.

“Farmers want to make responsible nutrient management decisions that are good for their crops and the environment,” said Shawn Richmond, Iowa Farm Bureau environmental policy adviser. “This webinar will offer practical strategies to help farmers protect their nutrient investment, keep valuable nutrients in their fields and reduce the potential for nutrient loss—decisions that benefit both their bottom line and the environment.”

To register, visit iowafarmbureau.com/events. 



Dairy Market Report: Rising Feed and Fuel Costs Tighten Producer Margin
National Milk Producers Federation

Liquid milk production grew 1.7% in July. While the size of the milking herd grew 1.9%, heat stress and wildfire smoke contributed to a slight decrease in milk output per cow. 

Turning toward markets, dairy ingredients are showing signs of strength. Nonfat dry milk prices rose into the $2.10s in late September as domestic use rose and supply remained limited. Dry whey prices are elevated too as more of the whey stream heads into whey protein concentrates. Conversely, even as butter is experiencing healthy domestic demand, growth in production volumes has outpaced domestic use. Cheese prices are also under pressure, feeling the effects of wavering consumer confidence as quick service restaurant foot traffic falls and retail sales ease. Still, exports continue to see double-digit growth, helping maintain some market balance.

For producers, DMC margins declined to $9.93/cwt in July as feed costs rose. Signs of increased economic pressure on producers are growing – feed costs are expected to rise through the end of the year, elevated diesel prices are increasing hauling charges, and borrowing costs are likely to rise due to the increase in bond markets and interest rates.

Read full report here: https://www.nmpf.org/dmr-sept-2026/.  



ASA Welcomes Greg Ibach Nomination for USDA Trade Post

The American Soybean Association welcomes President Donald Trump’s nomination of Greg Ibach to serve as USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs.

“Greg brings a deep understanding of U.S. agriculture and the importance of expanding markets for American farmers,” said ASA CEO Stephen Censky. “As a farmer and rancher himself, he understands firsthand how critical market access and agricultural trade are to producers. His years leading the Nebraska Department of Agriculture also gave him extensive experience promoting U.S. agricultural products in markets around the world.

“I had the great pleasure of working closely with Greg during the first Trump Administration, when he led USDA’s Marketing and Regulatory Programs mission area. He did an outstanding job breaking down sanitary and phytosanitary barriers to U.S. agricultural products, protecting American agriculture from pests and diseases, and strengthening domestic marketing programs. Greg brings tremendous experience and a real passion for making U.S. agriculture successful. ASA supports his nomination and urges the Senate to confirm him as soon as possible.”



USDA Increases Investment in Regenerative Pilot Program 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced increased financial assistance for the Regenerative Pilot Program from $700 million to $1 billion in fiscal year 2027, providing more producers with the opportunity to adopt conservation systems that improve soil health, water quality, and long-term farm resilience. Producers can now apply for assistance with regenerative practices.

Additionally, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is making improvements to the program, including using NRCS’s locally led conservation model to allow State Technical Advisory Committees to add conservation practices that reflect local resource concerns, production systems, and producer needs.

“The American farmers have spoken and we at USDA are responding! Our Regenerative Pilot Program has seen such tremendous enthusiasm that we are now expanding the financial assistance offered to farmers by $1 billion dollars,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, “American farmers are the frontlines of our fight to make America healthy again and we will work with them to achieve this goal.”

“Farmers are on the front line of our effort to Make America Healthy Again,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “Under Secretary Rollins’ leadership, USDA is increasing funding for this program to $1 billion to help farmers build soil health, reduce dependence on costly chemical inputs, and adopt regenerative practices.”

“Last fiscal year, NRCS obligated more than 5,100 contracts for more than $851 million to implement whole-farm conservation practices for regenerative agriculture. Through this program, farmers and ranchers continue to make improvements to soil health, water management and natural vitality, and provide consumers with American-grown whole foods,” said NRCS Chief Colton L. Buckley. “We are building on this success by improving flexibility without sacrificing outcomes and strengthening delivery and accountability.”

Also, for fiscal year 2027, the program maintains whole-farm planning while reducing the barrier to entry by lowering the resource concern threshold from 100% to 75% for the Conservation Stewardship Program. This improves flexibility without sacrificing outcomes. The program preserves the core conservation goals and outcome-based approach of the fiscal 2026 pilot while giving producers and staff greater flexibility in how outcomes are measured and achieved. The program also provides multiple monitoring and evaluation options tailored to cropland, grazing lands, and forestry operations.

Other enhancements for fiscal year 2027 include dedicated funding set-asides, improved tracking mechanisms, expanded technical support networks, and enhanced communications that will make the program easier to administer, easier to access, and more transparent for producers and taxpayers alike.

About the Regenerative Pilot Program
The Regenerative Pilot Program delivers a streamlined, outcome-based conservation model—empowering producers to plan and implement whole-farm regenerative practices through a single application. The initiative highlights USDA’s commitment to putting Farmers First and advancing the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) agenda by building a healthier, more resilient food system.

In fiscal year 2027, the Regenerative Pilot Program will continue to focus on whole-farm planning that addresses every major resource concern—soil, water, and natural vitality—under a single conservation framework. USDA is dedicating $650 million through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and $350 million through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to fund this second year of regenerative agriculture projects.

Producers can bundle multiple regenerative practices into one application, streamlining the process and increasing flexibility for operations. The program is designed for both beginning and advanced producers, ensuring availability for all farmers ready to take the next step in regenerative agriculture.

How to Apply
Farmers and ranchers interested in regenerative agriculture are encouraged to apply through their local NRCS Service Center by their state’s ranking dates for fiscal year 2027 funding consideration. Applications for both EQIP and CSP can be submitted under the single regenerative application process.



Nebraska Feedyard Recognized for Excellence
Beller Feedlot awarded 2026 CAB Feedyard Commitment to Excellence award

Motivation gets a feed truck moving before sunrise, keeps operations steady through adversity and drives pursuit of the next goal. It’s done more than fuel daily routines for Terry Beller, Lindsay, Nebraska. It’s helped build Beller Feedlot into a multi-generational operation known for its customer service and high-quality beef.

Founded in the 1950s by his parents, Jim and Mary Catherine, Beller Feedlot grew steadily through the generations. Today, Terry oversees a 6,200-head-capacity business guided by the same quality focus that shaped its creation.

The family’s dedication was recognized for its decades-long role in supplying the brand this September. Beller Feedlot received the 2026 Feedyard Commitment to Excellence Award at the Certified Angus Beef (CAB) Annual Conference in Marco Island, Florida.

One Pen at a Time
What started as a wedding gift became the foundation. Jim and Mary Catherine received a heifer and a steer, fattened and sold them, and then bought more cattle with the proceeds. The first generation of Beller Feedlot ownership repeated this process until they reached 300 to 400 head in the 1960s. Aiming for a total feeding capacity of 1,500 head, the first feedyard expansion took place in the 1970s.

As it grew, so did Terry and his brother Rick’s interest in cattle feeding. At their dad’s retirement and their own transition into management, numbers grew to 4,500 head and gradually increased since then. The last major expansion, a confinement barn, added 1,200 head to that capacity.

Some expansion stages were like growing pains, the first addition of six pens not leaving enough capital to stock more than half with cattle for the first three years.

Rick passed away in 2004, but Terry has carried on managing the family cattle feeding business.

"My shoulders were pretty heavy for a while," he says, and while noting his dad and brother would be proud of the progress today, none of it would be possible without the family and crew surrounding Terry.

The next generation, sons Riley and Wesley Beller, feature in daily operations. Riley feeds and checks cattle, along with hauling distillers and other corn byproducts for their grain farming enterprise. Wesley is a jack of all trades, assisting with feeding and processing cattle, maintenance and especially cleaning pens. That favorite duty is testament to the feedyard’s commitment to animal health and performance.

"Strong work ethic" is a common core description when speaking of their father. Not just his drive, but attention to detail and peace of mind from knowing nothing was left undone at the end of the day.

"Work hard, no shortcuts, do the right thing and go the extra mile," Wesley sums up.

The Beller Blueprint
The Beller Feedlot team sources high-quality Angus feeder cattle, provides top-tier care, manages nutrition for optimal performance, and builds strong customer relationships.

"We’ve got some great relationships that go back 35 and 40 years," Terry says. "And they don't look elsewhere."  

Most of those longtime, as well as newer sources, are known for Angus calves with performance and feed efficiency, carcass merit and docility. With a goal to produce as many CAB and Certified Angus Beef ® Prime carcasses as possible, Terry has zeroed in on reviewing carcass data from the packer.

In the early 2000s, Beller Feedlot became CAB licensed via a now-shuttered Feedlot Licensing Program, gaining increased access to carcass data from packers where they shipped cattle.

"It was the best move I ever did," Terry says.

At the time, getting a carcass data sheet back from the packer was no easy feat. But Terry pressed on and worked with the CAB team. He had a vision for better genetics and increased profitability—knowing how customer cattle graded, and sharing that with customers was an integral piece.

Despite catching some flak from his father, Terry passed the carcass data he received on to ranchers.

"It's like the Bible," Terry says. "They look at their carcass data and say, ‘That cow's got to go. We’ve got to switch bulls. We’ve got to make some change—we want Terry Beller to be happy with every calf that goes on that load.’"

The Bellers are keenly aware that the ability to grade well starts with high-quality Angus genetics at the ranch and is dependent on their daily management. Combining top-tier care and nutrition, they’ve found their sweet spot in achieving CAB and its Prime level.

Low-stress handling, a stringent fly protocol, shades and twice-daily pen checks—on foot—are the cornerstone of Beller’s animal care. And they still dial in feed rations with the counsel of a nutritionist. Details and doing things right matters.

"I like big numbers. I like producing premium cattle," Terry says. "And then once we close them out, I like to see a positive on the bottom line, of course."

A String of Successes
The Bellers aren’t new to such awards. In 2003, the feedyard was CAB Feedlot Partner of the Year for yards with less than 15,000-head capacity. They are one of only two CAB Gold Award winners among more than 70 previously licensed feedyards. Motivated by customer success, the partner yard regularly entered CAB’s quarterly AngusSource Carcass Contest between 2008 and 2011.

For Terry, it’s not about awards or plaques on the wall. It’s in knowing he and the crew completed another day’s work at the caliber he expects: the animals are well-fed, well taken care of and Terry’s happy with how things look at the sunset night check. Success is in a report from their packer partners showing he’s hit his CAB and Prime goals.

Today, Beller Feedlot markets nearly all cattle on a grid to Cargill or Greater Omaha. Carcass data from the past year for cattle harvested at both highlights the feedyard’s continued motivation and drive to achieve quality-rich outcomes.

Caption: Started by his parents in the 1950s, Terry Beller continues the Beller Feedlot legacy.

Since July 2025, the feedyard has carcass data from Cargill on 4,300 head averaging 24.8% Prime and 40.2% CAB. Another data set, comprising 13 lots of non-hormone treated (NHTC) program cattle sold to Greater Omaha, shows only one group grading below 40% Prime, with the highest reaching 77% Prime.

For Terry, though, a carcass sheet reading 100% CAB or Prime with no outs remains the benchmark. Looking ahead, he has another goal in mind: improving feed efficiency.

"Our ultimate dream is to convert four or five pounds of feed to one pound of beef, versus seven pounds to 1 pound of beef," he says.

For many, the numbers Beller Feedlot is posting today would be reason enough to celebrate. For Terry, they are simply the next benchmark to build upon. Whether the goal is more Prime, more CAB or greater feed efficiency, the approach remains unchanged: do the job right, take care of the cattle and keep looking for ways to improve. That philosophy fueled decades of success and will continue to shape the feedyard's future.

Tuesday September 29 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - Ibach Nominated for USDA UnderSecretary Position - Fat Iron Steak Turns 25 - ASA on US/China Board of Trade - Ethanol as a Marine Fuel - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress

Persistent rain left Nebraska producers with just 2.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Sept. 27. Corn maturity moved ahead of last year’s pace, but wet conditions held back harvest across major crops and delayed winter wheat planting. More rain in the forecast could prolong those delays this week.

The rain improved topsoil moisture, though deeper soils remained dry in parts of the state. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 10% very short, 20% short, 58% adequate and 12% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 16% very short, 27% short, 52% adequate and 5% surplus.

Field Crops Report

Corn
    Dented: 97% — ahead of 91% last year and near the five-year average of 96%.
    Mature: 70% — ahead of 61% last year and near the five-year average of 72%.
    Harvested: 11% — near 10% last year but behind the five-year average of 15%.
    Condition: 5% very poor, 12% poor, 29% fair, 39% good and 15% excellent.

Soybean
    Dropping leaves: 80% — near 81% last year but behind the five-year average of 86%.
    Harvested: 5% — behind 10% last year and 17% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 2% very poor, 8% poor, 28% fair, 48% good and 14% excellent.

Winter Wheat
    Planted: 38% — behind 54% last year and 60% for the five-year average.
    Emerged: 14% — behind 28% last year and 21% for the five-year average.

Sorghum
    Coloring: 88% — near 90% last year but behind the five-year average of 96%.
    Mature: 57% — ahead of 45% last year and 53% for the five-year average.
    Harvested: 5% — behind 8% last year and 9% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 6% very poor, 17% poor, 38% fair, 34% good and 5% excellent.

Pasture and Range
    Condition: 26% very poor, 17% poor, 34% fair, 22% good and 1% excellent.

Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency, Nebraska Extension and other reporters across the state.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 1.1 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Sept. 27, 2026. This is 5.1 days less than last year, when there were 6.2 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent short, 59 percent adequate, and 39 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 8 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 27 percent surplus. 

Ninety-seven percent of corn reached the dent stage, which is unchanged from last year. Seventy-two percent of corn has reached maturity, which is 6 percentage points behind last year. Five percent of corn has been harvested, which is 9 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 75 percent good to excellent. 

Sixty-two percent of soybeans are dropping leaves, which is 18 percentage points behind last year. Three percent of soybeans have been harvested, which is 12 percentage points behind last year. Soybean condition rated 74 percent good to excellent. 

Pasture condition rated 70 percent good to excellent.



USDA Crop Progress Report

After running ahead of normal the past few weeks, U.S. corn and soybean harvest progress slowed last week, bringing both crops back in line with the five-year average pace, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

Disruptions to harvest activity and winter wheat seeding could continue this week, as heavy rainfall is forecast across the Central and Southern Plains. But the moisture could substantially improve drought conditions and bolster wheat prospects heading into fall.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn dented was estimated at 96%, 2 percentage points ahead of last year's 94% and 1 point ahead of the five-year average of 95%. Corn mature was pegged at 72%, 3 percentage points ahead of last year's 69% and 1 percentage point ahead of the five-year average of 71%.
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 18% of corn had been harvested nationally as of Sept. 27, 1 percentage point ahead of last year's 17% and now equal to the five-year average.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 57% of the crop remaining in fields was in good-to-excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but 9 percentage points below last year's 66%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 75%, 1 percentage point behind last year's 76% and equal to the five-year average.
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 17% of soybeans had been harvested as of Sunday, 1 point behind last year's pace of 18% and now equal to the five-year average.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 58% of soybeans were in good-to-excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but 4 percentage points below the previous year's 62%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting was estimated at 27% complete nationally, 5 percentage points behind last year's 32% and 7 percentage points behind the five-year average of 34%.
-- Crop development: Winter wheat emerged was estimated at 8%, 4 points behind last year's 12% and 3 points behind the five-year average 11%.



Ibach nominated for return to USDA in trade role

Nebraska ag leader Greg Ibach is headed back to Washington after President Donald Trump nominated him to serve as under secretary of agriculture for trade and foreign agricultural affairs.

The White House sent Ibach’s nomination to the U.S. Senate on Monday. The post focuses on expanding overseas markets and advancing U.S. agricultural trade. The nomination requires Senate confirmation.

Ibach served as USDA under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs during Trump’s first administration. Before going to USDA, he was Nebraska’s longest-serving state agriculture director, holding the post for 12 years.

Ibach and his wife, Nebraska state Sen. Teresa Ibach, have three grown children.

Fischer Statement on Gregory Ibach USDA Nomination
“Congratulations to Greg on another well-deserved nomination. Having worked with Greg over the years, I know he will bring his experience and expertise to USDA at a time when farm country truly needs it. I look forward to working with him and finding new ways we can help producers in Nebraska.”



CAP Webinars

Nebraska Crop-Share Leases: Findings from 92 Lease Arrangements
Oct 1, 2026 12:00 PM  
With Anastasia Meyer, Extension Agricultural Economist, UNL
How are Nebraska landlords and tenants dividing crop inputs, field operations and irrigation responsibilities? This webinar will share findings from 92 crop-share lease arrangements reported through the Nebraska Crop-Share Lease Survey. Participants will learn how common 50/50, 60/40 and other arrangements handle seed, fertilizer, crop-protection products, field operations, irrigation energy and equipment costs. The program will also explain how to use the findings as a benchmark for lease discussions—not as a one-size-fits-all formula—and identify important provisions to address in a written crop-share lease.

Nebraska Ballot Issues: November 2026
Oct 8, 2026 12:00 PM 
Dave Aiken, professor and water law/ agricultural law specialist at Nebraska 
Three issues will be on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot in Nebraska: (1) authorizing online sports betting, (2) prohibiting transgender females from participating on female school sports teams, and (3) making it more difficult for state senators to amend voter-approved laws. 

Register for webinar at the Center for Agricultural Profitability's webinar page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



25 Years Later, the Flat Iron Steak Remains a Model for Beef Innovation

Twenty-five years ago, a relatively unknown muscle from the beef chuck began appearing on restaurant menus in Nebraska. Today, the flat iron steak is a familiar choice at restaurants, grocery stores and meat shops across the country. Its story is one of the beef industry's most successful examples of turning research and innovation into value.

The story began in Nebraska in the late 1990s, when researchers at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln joined a multi-state effort to better understand the individual muscles that make up the beef chuck and round. The Muscle Profiling project examined 39 individual muscles, evaluating characteristics including tenderness, flavor, composition and processing traits. The research was completed in October 2000.

Dr. Chris Calkins, a University of Nebraska meat scientist, helped lead the research. The project revealed that some muscles traditionally considered part of lower-value cuts had characteristics that made them well suited for premium steak products.

One of the most significant discoveries was the infraspinatus muscle, located in the beef shoulder. By removing a layer of connective tissue and using a different cutting method, researchers were able to turn the muscle into what became known as the flat iron steak.

"We weren't necessarily looking for another steak," said Dr. Chris Calkins, professor emeritus of animal science at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. "We were trying to understand the value that was already in the beef carcass. When we started looking at individual muscles, we found some real opportunities to take something that had traditionally been ground up for hamburger and turn it into a high-quality steak eating experience."

The research was funded through the Beef Checkoff, an investment made by America's cattle producers to strengthen demand and build value for beef. The original research was conducted through the University of Nebraska - Lincoln and University of Florida in cooperation with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. The project ultimately led to the development of the flat iron steak, along with other value-added cuts including the petite tender and ranch steak.

"The flat iron is a great example of what can happen when beef producers invest in innovative research," said Ann Marie Bosshamer, executive director of the Nebraska Beef Council. "The investment didn't just result in a new steak, it helped add value for the entire beef industry, from the farmers and ranchers all the way to the consumer."

From Nebraska research to the national marketplace
The flat iron's journey from the University of Nebraska meat laboratory to American dinner tables moved quickly.

In 2001, Nebraska-based Whiskey Creek Steakhouses were among the first to serve the new steak at their restaurants while Omaha’s iconic Johnny’s Café offered flat irons as part of their special events menu. An Omaha World-Herald story published in October 2001 highlighted the cut and its potential to become a beef-lover’s new favorite steak. The article was eventually picked up by national media outlets and soon the flat iron steak moved beyond its Nebraska beginnings.

The early reaction from diners was strong as they compared the flat iron's tenderness to filet mignon while appreciating its rich beef flavor. At the time, however, processors were still learning the specific cutting technique necessary to produce the steak. As processors refined the fabrication process and restaurants and retailers demonstrated consumer demand, the flat iron became available to consumers nationwide.

Today, flat iron steaks can be found in restaurants and grocery stores throughout the world. In Nebraska, the flat iron steak appears on menus of all sizes from some of the state’s best-known steakhouses to the small-town cafes and bar-and-grills that serve their local communities.

Creating value from the whole carcass
The significance of the flat iron extends well beyond the steak itself.

The Muscle Profiling research was prompted in part by a disparity in the value of different portions of the beef carcass. The chuck and round had been declining in value while the rib and loin commanded higher prices. Researchers set out to better understand the characteristics of individual muscles and identify opportunities to market some of those muscles as higher-value products.

The approach changed the way the industry looked at the beef carcass.

Instead of viewing the chuck primarily as a source of roasts and ground beef, researchers demonstrated that individual muscles could be evaluated and marketed according to their unique characteristics. Calkins and his research team's work ultimately helped create several new beef cuts and has been credited with adding significant value to market cattle. The University of Nebraska estimates the broader muscle profiling project has had an annual economic impact of approximately $1.5 billion.

"The flat iron is really a story about using science to find value where we didn't realize it existed," Calkins said. "Consumers got another great steak. Restaurants and retailers got another product to offer. Processors found another way to merchandise the carcass. And producers ultimately benefited because we were creating more value from the animal."

The success of the flat iron also helped establish a model for continued innovation throughout the beef industry. Research into individual muscles has continued to identify additional opportunities to develop new cuts and give consumers more choices while improving the value of the beef carcass.

For Nebraska, the flat iron carries an additional point of pride in a steak now enjoyed around the world with its roots here in The Beef State.

"Twenty-five years after the flat iron first made its way onto Nebraska menus, it is a great reminder that innovation can have a lasting impact," Bosshamer said. "It started with producers willing to invest in research, scientists willing to ask different questions and an industry willing to take a new idea to the marketplace. That's a success story worth celebrating."



NEBFARMPAC Endorses Mark Cohen for Third Congressional District 

Nebraska Farmers Union’s Political Action Committee, NEBFARMPAC announced its endorsement of independent candidate Mark Cohen for Congress in CD3 in the general election.

Vern Jantzen, NEBFARMPAC President from Plymouth said, “As voters, it is our job to determine whether or not the status quo is working for us, or against us. When times are good, we usually stay the course and retain our public officials who are our management team. Affordability is a good way consumers can measure whether or not the status quo is working for or against us. As a farm organization, the performance of the ag economy weighs heavily on our assessment. By the vast majority of affordability indicators, consumers are paying more for almost everything we buy. It is no secret the ag economy continues to face the worst financial crisis since the 1980s. Our PAC board believes it is time for a change. We believe Mark Cohen has a unique set of skills and experience to champion the interests of family farm and ranch agriculture and consumers as a whole with badly needed new ideas and energy.”  

John Hansen, NEBFARMPAC Secretary said, “Mark Cohen is the first independent candidate our PAC has supported for Congress CD3 since it was formed. His experience in ag law with the 1980s farm crisis financial meltdowns, and his military legal skills and service with distinction make him uniquely qualified to provide CD3 with new energy and fresh new ideas while avoiding many of the pitfalls of partisan politics that have paralyzed Congress. American agriculture has lost far too much money for far too many years for us to blindly repeat old voting habits. If we always do what we have always done, we will continue to get what we have always gotten. That is not a path forward to a better future. That is a sure-fire way to dig the economic hole we are in deeper. It is time for a change. Mark Cohen gives us a long overdue better way to vote for both our values and our pocketbook.”

“Time after time, Congress has failed family farmers and ranchers during this growing economic crisis. This Congress has not done their obvious job to pass an updated and improved Farm Bill for the past three years. Instead, this Congress passed HR1 giving the bulk of the permanent tax breaks to the richest of the rich while poor rural youth and older citizens have seen their eligibility for food and medical assistance reduced. The 47% of Affordable Care Act recipients in rural areas of our state saw the costs of their premiums go up 20 to 26%. Our PAC board felt Mark Cohen is a high quality and independent candidate that has the right set of experience and skills to provide leadership on agricultural and rural issues, and earn the support of all voters in the Third Congressional District,” said Jantzen.

 

ASA Says China Soybean Commitments are Critical Amid Continued Tariffs  

Following the summit between Presidents Trump and Xi, the American Soybean Association points to China’s continued commitment to purchase a minimum of 25 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans annually in years 2026, 2027, and 2028. These annual commitments provide important demand and greater certainty for U.S. soybean farmers.

“As soybean farmers look to strengthen and expand markets, China’s annual commitment to purchase 25 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans provides critical stability, and we expect those commitments to be fully met,” said ASA President and Ohio soybean farmer Scott Metzger. “China remains an important market for U.S. soybeans, and we want to see a strong trading relationship that allows more customers in China to purchase our soybeans.”

ASA is disappointed U.S. soybeans were not included among the agricultural products receiving additional tariff relief from China. China’s remaining 10% retaliatory duty limits access for private Chinese importers, meaning soybean trade will continue to be handled primarily by China’s state-owned enterprises. Removing the tariff would improve the competitiveness of U.S. soybeans and provide greater opportunity for private Chinese buyers.

ASA is encouraged that the U.S. and China have made commitments to meet two more times before the new trade truce deadline of Jan. 10, 2027, and continues to urge trade negotiators to pursue a trade deal that provides additional support for U.S. soybeans. Further, President Trump has championed a strong Renewable Fuel Standard and other policies to benefit biomass-based diesel, which is a key domestic market for U.S. soybean farmers. While pursuing a more beneficial trade deal with China, protecting and growing our domestic biofuels markets remains critical to protect soybean farmers’ bottom lines entering harvest season.  



U.S. Dairy Statement on U.S.-China Board of Trade

The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council welcomed an announcement today of the operationalization of a U.S.-China Board of Trade and its initial product scope:

Gregg Doud, President and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation
"America's dairy farmers welcome the launch of the U.S.-China Board of Trade, and we commend USTR for prioritizing agricultural exports. Retaliatory tariffs continue to put U.S. dairy at a disadvantage in China while our competitors gain ground. We are encouraged by dairy’s inclusion as products slated for retaliatory tariff reductions. U.S. dairy farmers look forward to seeing China’s tariff retaliation on dairy fully lifted and urge the inclusion of dairy in as key part of China’s agricultural purchase commitments. The positive momentum today is good for farmers, good for trade and good for both countries."

Krysta Harden, President and CEO, U.S. Dairy Export Council
"The U.S. dairy industry strongly supports the launch of the U.S.-China Board of Trade and the prospect it offers for giving U.S. dairy exporters and their customers the predictability they need. We are encouraged by the inclusion of U.S. dairy exports on the list of products to be considered for tariff reduction. USDEC urges the Board to swiftly deliver the full elimination of the retaliatory tariffs that still weigh on U.S. dairy so our suppliers can compete on a more level playing field. The two-month extension of the tariff truce is also a welcome step forward. As wider talks continue, it is essential that proposed port fees on Chinese ships are not passed along to U.S. agricultural exporters. Added freight costs would undercut the very gains the Board of Trade is meant to achieve."

Announcements by the U.S. and China governments indicated that the Board of Trade’s tariff relief will be implemented “consistent with their respective domestic laws and processes” rather than taking effect immediately. In July, NMPF and USDEC provided input on the Board of Trade's design and product coverage, stressing the need for relief from retaliatory tariffs on U.S. dairy exports. Both organizations will continue working with the U.S. government to remove remaining barriers to trade and prevent new ones.



Ag Coalition Emphasizes Importance of Trilateral Trade Impact as Accord Begins

Officials from the United States, Mexico and Canada are meeting this week in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, as part of the Tri-National Agricultural Accord. In response to this meeting, Agricultural Coalition for USMCA spokesperson Bryan Goodman released the following statement:

"Trade between the U.S., Mexico and Canada is extremely important to the U.S. agricultural sector, rural America and the U.S. economy. In fact, agricultural and seafood exports to Canada and Mexico accounted for $149 billion in economic output in the United States in 2024. This kind of economic impact would not be possible if not for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

"This week's accord will provide all involved with the opportunity to move beyond select disagreements, listen to each other, reflect on the incredible benefits of this agreement and identify opportunities for enhanced cooperation. We hope the conversations at the accord will contribute to the renewal of the agreement for the benefit of producers and consumers in all three countries."



New Report Shows Ethanol's Potential as a Marine Fuel 

Growth Energy, the nation's largest biofuel trade association, welcomed the release today of a new report by the National Lab of the Rockies (NLR), "Evaluation of Ethanol Use in Marine Shipping," that demonstrates ethanol's technical, economic, and environmental potential as a viable, low-carbon fuel for ocean-going vessels.  

"This report makes it clear that the American ethanol industry could have a potentially transformative impact on the maritime sector," said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. "The things that make ethanol such an attractive option as a fuel for ships are the same things that make it vital as a fuel for light-duty vehicles—lower emissions, cost competitiveness, and scalability. We thank NLR for its critical work outlining the ways in which ethanol can meet the needs of today’s shipping sector and look forward to working with our members and the entire industry to secure ethanol's global future as a maritime fuel." 

"Ethanol has advantages that few other potential marine fuels do. Its robust compatibility with methanol infrastructure, its overall scalability, and its environmental benefits make it uniquely suited to help the shipping sector achieve its goals,” said NLR Senior Research Fellow and author of the report Robert McCormick. “We hope this research paves the way for greater collaboration between ethanol producers and shippers, and that it encourages further study to fully grasp the impact ethanol could have in maritime applications.”  

“The marine fuel market is key to new growth for ethanol,” said U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. “Even modest adoption could create billions of gallons of new demand, providing another long-term market for corn growers while helping the shipping industry reduce emissions.” 

The report details the many advantages ethanol offers when used as a fuel for ships, including: 
    Molecular similarity to methanol: “Large dual-fuel methanol engines can operate on ethanol with no changes.” 
    Lower emissions: “A cited study estimated U.S. corn ethanol at approximately 51.4 gCO2eq/MJ, about 46% lower than petroleum fuels, with additional reductions possible through carbon capture and sequestration.” 
    Lower toxicity: Ethanol has “lower human toxicity” compared to other marine fuels, and in the event of a spill, “rapid dissolution and low bioaccumulation [of ethanol] reduce long-term environmental persistence compared to conventional oil spills.” 
    Abundant supply: “The United States has about two billion gallons per year of idled production capacity (nearly six million mt).” 
    Energy density: “Ethanol has approximately 35% higher energy content than methanol...” 

The report also identifies marine shipping as a potentially significant market for ethanol producers, estimating that the currently operating methanol dual-fuel fleet alone could consume roughly two billion gallons of ethanol annually under high-substitution scenarios.



The Impact of Heifer Slaughter on Herd Expansion & Beef Supply
Hannah Baker, Beef and Forage Economics, University of Florida / IFAS Extension

It is no secret that record-high beef prices over the last year are a result of tight cattle supplies and strong consumer demand. The average monthly retail price for all fresh beef products in July was $9.63/lb. This is down from the high of $10/lb. in April but is still 5% higher than the same month last year and 31% higher than the 5-year historical average for August.

Demand shifts among beef products are normal for this time of year as we transition from the grilling months of summer to the pot roast days of fall. As we get closer to the holiday season, we can expect to see more demand shifts and seasonal price changes among beef products. Additionally, fuel prices continue to require a larger portion of household incomes that could otherwise be spent on grocery items such as beef. However, the overall story is that consumers still want to buy beef amidst tightening cattle supplies further supporting beef prices.

Beef production so far in 2026 (as of September 1) has declined by 5%, or 829.4 million pounds, compared to the same period in 2025. While average dressed weights for both steers and heifers have increased by roughly 30 pounds since last year, the increase has not been enough to offset the decrease in the number of cattle being processed. At the time of writing this, year-to-date federally inspected steer and heifer slaughter are down by 5.6% and 11.2%, respectively.

The decline in heifer slaughter does imply more heifers are being retained, but the percentage of heifers being slaughtered so far in 2026 is 30.7%. When we started holding back heifers from 2012-2016 for the last expansion period, this percentage ranged from 28.6% to 25.6% before heifer slaughter began increasing again in 2017. Fundamentally speaking, as more heifers are retained, beef production can be expected to decrease in the short-term until more calves enter the market, resulting in an increase in beef production in the long-term. 

Monday September 28 Ag News - ONE RED Infrastructure Investment in Norfolk - ARC/PLC Enrollment Open with New Base Acres - NeFB Leadership Academy in WashDC - Share your Thoughts on AI - and more!

Pillen Highlights Major ONE RED Infrastructure Investment in Norfolk

On Friday, Governor Jim Pillen highlighted Nebraska’s ONE RED initiative in Norfolk and how it is poised to help the city fund a critical wastewater infrastructure project. He was joined by Senator Robert Dover, Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment Director Jesse Bradley, and Norfolk Mayor Shane Clausen.

Norfolk and DWEE are partnering on a $38 million grant through the ONE RED Wastewater Treatment Facility Anaerobic Digestion Program. This program aims to help communities build or expand digesters, gas collection systems, and energy infrastructure at wastewater facilities.

“Today, we’re celebrating an opportunity for $38 million in funding that would help Norfolk invest in its future and the health and safety of its residents,” said Gov. Pillen. “Nebraska has always been a state that finds practical ways to make the most of what we have. We have the agricultural resources. We have communities with wastewater infrastructure, and we have the technology to put those resources together.”

The ONE RED initiative, overseen by DWEE, received a $307 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Those funds are being used to implement multiple programs aimed at strengthening Nebraska’s economy by:
    Improving energy efficiency
    Reducing energy costs
    Providing incentives for agriculture practices that improve soil health, water conservation, and nutrient management
    Improving agricultural waste management
    Increasing the beneficial use of biogas

“DWEE is excited to start rolling out these funds so Nebraskans can start to see the positive environmental and economic impacts of these programs,” said Director Bradley. “This project is about turning organic waste into opportunity, producing valuable biogas, supporting Nebraska agriculture, improving environmental outcomes, and investing in infrastructure that will benefit the community for years to come.”

Norfolk’s digester project is intended to accept agricultural wastewater and capture the biogas created by the digester process to convert it into renewable natural gas. Not only will this generate energy, but it will also help Norfolk’s wastewater facility handle high-strength waste.

“Today’s announcement reflects a significant investment in Norfolk and the future of our community,” said Mayor Clausen. “This funding will ensure we have the infrastructure needed to support Norfolk’s continued growth. We appreciate everyone who has worked with the city to find a path forward.”

There is additional funding for Nebraska communities available through the Wastewater Treatment Facility Anaerobic Digestion Program.

This ONE RED grant opportunity represents an important investment in Nebraska’s wastewater infrastructure and helps the city expand its role from treating wastewater into viewing it as a valuable resource.

“State investment can help communities move projects from an idea to construction and ultimately to operation,” said Gov. Pillen. “Through ONE RED, Nebraska is showing its commitment to its residents by finding new avenues that help communities find innovative ways to grow while protecting resources.”



ARC/PLC Enrollment Opens with New Base Acres

Agricultural producers can soon begin enrolling in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, which the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently updated to include more than 30 million new base acres. This expansion, the first in 20 years, was made possible by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act and is part of USDA’s efforts to put Farmers First.

Now that the base allocation process is complete, producers can make elections and enroll for the 2026 crop year from Sept. 16 through Dec. 11, 2026, and for the 2027 crop year from Nov. 2, 2026, through March 15, 2027. Because eligible acres exceeded the nationwide 30-million-acre cap, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is applying an across-the-board, prorated reduction of 3.69% to all newly allocated base acres.

Base Allocation Notifications
The opportunity for landowners to review their base allocation summaries and take necessary action ended Aug. 31, 2026. This included correcting inaccurate information, designating subsequent acres or opting out of adding base acres. Landowners did not lose base acres through the base allocation process.

If landowners did not notify FSA of changes, the base allocation summary is considered accurate and complete; however, an across-the-board factor will apply. FSA determined the base allocation percentage reduction using all acreage reported as eligible, and new base acres will automatically be allocated to farms after applying the 3.69% reduction.

Base allocation notifications will be available beginning Sept. 16, 2026. Landowners can access notifications online using a Login.gov account. Landowners who do not currently have a Login.gov account can contact their FSA county office to obtain their base allocation notification beginning Sept. 16, 2026.

Enrollment Period
Producers can now change their election and enroll in ARC-County (ARC-CO) or PLC, which both provide crop-by-crop protection, or ARC-Individual (ARC-IC), which protects the entire farm. Although election changes for 2026 are optional, producers must enroll through a signed contract each year. Existing multi-year contracts ended in 2025, but producers have the option to sign a new multi-year contract for 2026 through 2031. Producers who opt out of a multi-year contract can enroll for the 2027 crop year starting Nov. 2, 2026, through March 15, 2027.

If producers do not submit their 2026 election by Dec. 11, 2026, their election remains the same as their 2025 election for crops on the farm, and the farm is ineligible for payments for the 2026 program year. Landowners cannot enroll in either program unless they have a share interest in the farm.

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 and short grain rice, safflower seed, seed cotton, sesame, soybean, sunflower seed and wheat.

Some land grant universities offer web-based decision tools to help producers make informed election decisions using crop data specific to their respective farming operations.

Producers can make program elections and enroll online using a Login.gov account or by making an appointment at their local FSA office.

Crop Insurance Considerations
Producers are reminded that ARC and PLC election and enrollment can impact eligibility for some crop insurance products.

Producers can now add SCO coverage or the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) regardless of their ARC or PLC election. Previously, producers who elected ARC-CO or ARC-IC were ineligible to purchase the Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) through their Approved Insurance Provider for the same acres, but The Working Families Tax Cuts Act removed this restriction.



Leadership Academy Takes Nebraska Agriculture’s Priorities to Washington

Members of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy recently traveled to Washington, D.C., for a firsthand look at the federal policy process and to advocate on issues important to Nebraska agriculture. During visits with members and staff of Nebraska’s congressional delegation on Capitol Hill, they discussed the importance of completing a new Farm Bill and ensuring it provides meaningful support for farmers and ranchers.

The group also advocated for year-round E15, a fix to California’s Proposition 12, which protects a national marketplace for livestock producers, and policies that address high fuel and diesel costs facing farmers and ranchers.

Trade was another key topic of discussion, with participants emphasizing the importance of reliable markets around the world for Nebraska’s agricultural products and the need for trade policies that provide producers with opportunities to compete globally.

The Leadership Academy’s Washington D.C., experience extended beyond Capitol Hill. The group met with staff from the American Farm Bureau Federation to learn more about national agricultural policy and Farm Bureau’s advocacy efforts. Participants also visited the Irish Embassy, gaining insight into the United States-Ireland relationship, and the importance of international trade and agricultural markets. The trip provided Leadership Academy participants with an opportunity to see federal policymaking up close while giving Nebraska’s next generation of agricultural leaders a voice in the policy discussions shaping the future of the industry.



Midwest Producers, Students Invited to Share Views on AI in Agriculture
Jean Claude Niyomugabo - UNL Graduate Research Assistant

From identifying crop problems to turning years of field data into management guidance, artificial intelligence is moving closer to the decisions producers make every day. University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) researchers want to know how producers and future agricultural professionals view this changing role.

Midwest corn and soybean producers and agriculture students are invited to participate in a new survey examining their perceptions of, trust in and readiness to use AI-enabled agricultural tools. These may include yield prediction systems, variable-rate input applications, irrigation decision tools, pest and disease detection platforms, remote sensing tools and AI-based advisory systems.

Researchers hope to better understand the factors that may encourage or limit adoption of these technologies among current producers and the next generation of agricultural professionals.

The survey is open to people age 19 or older who are either:
    Farmers or agricultural producers involved in Midwest corn and soybean production systems; or 
    University students enrolled in agriculture-related academic programs in the Midwest. 

The anonymous survey takes approximately 10–12 minutes to complete. Participation is voluntary, and participants may skip any question they do not wish to answer.

Complete the AI-enabled agricultural tools survey https://unlcorexmuw.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77MO3ukHAMK21KK by Sunday, Dec. 20, 2026.

For questions about the study, email Jean Claude Niyomugabo, UNL Biological Systems Engineering graduate research assistant, or Heather Akin, UNL assistant professor of strategic communication.



Nebraska Farmers Union PAC Endorses Lynne Walz for Governor

NEBFARMPAC, the political action committee of Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU), Nebraska’s second largest general farm organization with nearly 4,000 farm and ranch families, announced its enthusiastic and unanimous endorsement today of former state senator Lynne Walz for Governor and Ben Steffen for Lieutenant Governor in the general election. 

“Lynne Walz and Ben Steffen both grew up on family farms that taught them the importance of hard work, and the values of family and community. Sen. Walz supported family farm and ranch agriculture as a state senator. Ben Steffen is a well-known and trusted Nebraska farm and rural leader. Their blueprint “Commitment to Nebraska” includes growing agriculture, sustainable property tax reform, new ag markets, growing the livestock sector and bioeconomy, and prioritizing rural development. The Walz-Steffen team knows that agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and that when farmers and ranchers do well, our state as a whole does well. We believe the Walz-Steffen team will work for and with the entire ag community to deal with the growing farm crisis gripping Nebraska farm and ranch families, and to prioritize doable and sustainable property tax reform,” said NEBFARMPAC President Vern Jantzen of Plymouth.

“Lynne Walz and Ben Steffen do their homework, bring people to the table, build consensus, and are committed to solving problems in an inclusive and nonpartisan manner. Lynne Walz has a proven track record in the legislative process of working with everyone to get things done. Ben Steffen has a proven track record as a farm and rural advocate and leader. He understands the challenges ag faces because he lives it every day. Together, the Walz-Steffen team has the right set of experience and leadership skills our state needs to tackle both the farm and state budget crisis. As Governor and Lt. Governor, they will hit the ground running,” said NEBFARMPAC Vice President Art Tanderup of Neligh. 

“Our PAC board firmly believe the Walz-Steffen team has the right skills, experience, values and vision to help our state deal with the farm crisis we are now facing. When things go well, as voters, we stick with our leaders. When times go poorly, voters make needed changes. Lynne Walz could not have picked a better running mate Ben Steffen for Lieutenant Governor. We know Ben Steffen well. He is a family farmer, President of Ag Builders of Nebraska, Chairman of the Nebraska Association of County Extension Boards, President of the Nebraska Rural Radio Association, and a member of Nebraska’s two largest general farm organizations. “We know and trust Lynne Walz and Ben Steffen to say what they mean, and mean what they say. They have earned our trust and support,” concluded NEBFARMPAC Secretary John Hansen of Lincoln.

"Right now, Nebraska farmers and ranchers are facing one of the worst financial situations we've seen in decades," said Democratic nominee for Governor Lynne Walz. "Input costs are up, property taxes are up, and trade fights have closed markets our farmers spent generations building. Jim Pillen hasn't done enough to address this crisis. I'm grateful to have the Nebraska Farmers Union with me. As Governor, I'll work as hard for our farmers as they work for us, to lower costs, open new markets, and make sure family farms like the one I grew up on have a future in Nebraska."



USDA Cold Storage August 2026 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers on August 31, 2026 were up 1 percent from the previous month and up 8 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were up 2 percent from the previous month and up 5 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were down 1 percent from the previous month but up 12 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were down 35 percent from last month and down 1 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on August 31, 2026 were down 1 percent from the previous month and down 4 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were down slightly from the previous month and down 5 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were down 3 percent from last month and down 2 percent from August 31, 2025.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on August 31, 2026 were up slightly from the previous month and up 2 percent from August 31, 2025. Butter stocks were down 5 percent from last month but up 10 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks on August 31, 2026 were up slightly from last month but down 4 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were up 31 percent from last month and up 2 percent from a year ago.



Ambassador Greer Issues a Statement on Announcement of Recommendations from the U.S.-China Board of Trade 

Sunday, Ambassador Jamieson Greer issued a statement following the announcement of the recommendations from the U.S.-China Board of Trade. President Donald J. Trump and President Xi Jinping established the U.S.-China Board of Trade during President Trump’s May visit to Beijing to manage trade in non-sensitive products between the two largest economies in the world. Following President Xi’s visit to Washington, both sides have announced the next step under the U.S.-China Board of Trade, including recommendations for non-sensitive products that may qualify for better trade treatment.

“As a direct result of the strong relationship between President Trump and President Xi, the United States and China, under the auspices of the new Board of Trade, have recommended $30 billion of trade in non-sensitive goods on each side that could benefit from more favorable tariff treatment in the future,” said Ambassador Greer. “From agricultural products to medical devices, President Trump is unlocking improved market access for about 30 percent of U.S. exports to China, while benefiting consumers with imports from China of household goods, toys, and other products that the United States generally does not import from other countries. The Trump Administration will continue to pursue fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade with China by ensuring compliance with commitments on agricultural and energy purchases, pursuing balanced trade in non-sensitive goods, and securing market access for American farmers, manufacturers, businesses, and workers.”



Higher-component dairy herds capture bigger milk checks as consumer demand shifts toward manufactured dairy products 

U.S. dairy herds producing higher levels of butterfat and protein are capturing significantly larger milk checks as consumer demand shifts toward cheese, yogurt, butter, cottage cheese and other manufactured dairy products. A new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange found that herds in the top decile for milk components earned $101 to $352 more per cow annually at average U.S. production levels, with that advantage rising to $136 to $474 per cow at higher production levels.

Milk components have become the leading driver of milk check revenue as more than 80% of farmgate milk now moves into manufactured dairy products rather than beverage milk. The CoBank report analyzed seven regional Federal Milk Marketing Orders that price milk using Multiple Component Pricing provisions and found wide variation in component production across regions and herds.

“Those numbers can add up fast,” said Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist with CoBank. “For instance, assuming annual average milk production of 24,390 pounds per cow, higher-component herds in the Upper Midwest FMMO had a $256.58 per cow advantage over lower-component herds. At 33,000 pounds of annual production, that advantage widens to $345.58 per cow. For a 100-cow dairy, that’s an extra $34,558 in annual income — and for a 1,000-cow dairy, it represents $345,582 of additional revenue.”

The shift is accelerating milk component production, with butterfat and protein levels in the nation’s milk supply growing faster than at any time in modern dairy history.

For generations, beverage milk dominated U.S. dairy consumption, keeping butterfat and protein levels relatively stable. As consumers increasingly turned to cheese and other dairy foods, milk pricing formulas evolved to the multiple component pricing concept. Today, more than 90% of the U.S. milk supply is priced based on butterfat, protein and other solids, largely because manufactured dairy products account for most farmgate milk use.

Wide variance across FMMOs and herds represents opportunity
While overall average levels of butterfat and protein content in the U.S. milk supply have grown substantially, FMMO data shows a wide variance of component levels across regions and among individual herds.

Abbi Groves, agricultural commodities economist with CoBank, said component optimization gives producers a clear path to improve milk check revenue while helping processors secure the solids their plants need most.

“In the Upper Midwest FMMO, average 2025 component levels were 4.37% butterfat, 3.33% protein and 5.79% other solids. But the gap between the top 560 herds and the bottom 560 herds was significant. That spread shows the scale of opportunity for lower-component herds to close the gap and increase revenue by producing more butterfat and protein.”

Dairy processors also have an opportunity to further incentivize production of the components their plants need most. Some processors are already including product prices for whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate in milk check formulas. These newer pricing concepts, above and beyond federal order minimums, further incentivize protein production.

“These are just some of the opportunities that abound to meet rising demand,” added Geiger. “Given shifting demand and the growing role components are playing in producer revenue, traditional milk production metrics like rolling herd average no longer tell the full revenue story. New benchmarks focused on pounds of components produced will provide a clearer view of what ultimately drives the milk check.”