Thursday August 27 Ag News - Groups Urge Trump to Reconsider Ground Beef Imports - Dairy Production Expands on Protein Demand - US/Canadian Cattle, Hog Inventories Expand - Fertilizer Prices Decline - Fertilizer Expansion Project Announced - and more!

Smith Urges Admin to Support America's Ranchers

Wednesday, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s move to increase foreign beef imports:

“As Nebraska’s ranchers continue to recover from the historic wildfires this spring—amid an ongoing drought—they need market certainty. With cattle inventory at 75-year lows, we must focus on policies which empower ranchers to rebuild our domestic herd.

While I acknowledge the administration’s efforts to address consumers’ concerns, providing certainty for America’s hardworking ranchers is essential. Moving forward, I will continue to encourage the administration to pursue policies that give America’s ranchers the assurance they need to make long-term decisions for their operations.”   



AFBF, LMA, NCBA and USCA Urge President to Reverse Proposed Beef Import Plan

Four of the nation's leading livestock and agricultural organizations have joined together to urge President Trump to reverse a proposed 90-day import plan they believe would weaken the long-term stability of the U.S. cattle industry.

In a letter sent today, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), Livestock Marketing Association (LMA), National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), and United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) called on the Administration to work with industry stakeholders on solutions that keep food affordable while protecting producers, consumers, and strengthening the nation's ability to produce its own food.

The full text of the letter is below:

The Honorable Donald J. Trump

On behalf of America’s cattle producers and the broader livestock industry, we write to express our deep concern with your announced plan to import up to 300,000 metric tons of beef over the next 90-days. The stated purpose of driving down beef prices and the commitment to sell it at a price that undercuts domestic supply send a disheartening message to farmers and ranchers across the country.

We share your goal of keeping groceries affordable for American families. However, flooding the market with discounted foreign beef is not the way to rebuild the American cattle herd, strengthen food security, or lower grocery bills in a lasting way. This announcement has already driven cattle markets sharply lower and undermines producers at a critical time of year when they are marketing cattle and making herd-building decisions.

Beef prices are in line with other consumer prices and reflect the inflated cost of raising cattle, grain, and forage. Ranchers and farmers are finally experiencing the strong beef demand needed to invest in their operations after years of drought, high input costs, processing plant disruptions, and other challenges that have reduced cattle numbers. This announcement will discourage investment in the U.S. cow herd and undo the progress producers have made.

We are deeply concerned that this import strategy sacrifices long-term food security for a short-term solution. Americans deserve safe and wholesome beef free from any market distorting actions. There is nothing more American than beef, and we look to your leadership to ensure resilience for our farmers and ranchers, which is the only long-term way to prevent higher grocery costs and maintain control over our food supply.

American cattle producers are asking you for a fair and competitive market, honest price signals, and policies that put U.S. farmers, ranchers, and consumers first. We urge you to reverse course on this 90-day import plan and work with us instead on solutions that strengthen, rather than weaken, America’s capacity to feed itself. We stand ready to work with you on policies that keep food affordable, protect producers and consumers, and preserve a viable future for the U.S. cattle industry.

Respectfully,
Zippy Duvall, President, American Farm Bureau Federation
Joe Goggins, President, Livestock Marketing Association
Gene Copenhaver, President, National Cattlemen's Beef Association
Justin Tupper, President, United States Cattlemen's Association



Milk producers added 52,000 head to the milking herd 

Dairy protein demand has continued to support nonfat dry milk (NFDM) prices at the CME on account of limited supplies. Meanwhile, rising butter production continues to limit price gains, even as demand grows at home and abroad. Domestic demand for cheese remains limited as the decrease in quick service restaurant foot traffic is now being compounded by decelerating retail sales. Record export volumes are helping support cheese, and thus Class III, prices, from sliding further.

DMC margins were $10.88/cwt in June as feed prices and the All-Milk Price both slid. Expectations for the formula to reflect the recent increase in feed prices and a lower All-Milk Price set the stage for a potential DMC margin below the maximum payment threshold in August.
 
Exports are becoming increasingly important for cheese and butter. Strong milk production has increased production for both products beyond incremental increases in domestic consumption, but as U.S. prices sit below EU and New Zealand, international buyers have bridged the gap and lent support to the market, buying an estimated 66% of the “new” cheese produced over the last two years. Cheese exports have risen 24% and butter exports have soared 90% through the first half of 2026, adding stability to these categories as changing consumer behavior and economic pressure reshape retail and food service demand at home.

View Full Report: https://www.nmpf.org/milk-production-climbs-on-protein-demand/.  



Weekly Ethanol Production for 8/21/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending August 21, ethanol production expanded 2.1% to 1.11 million b/d, equivalent to 46.70 million gallons daily. Output was 3.9% higher than the same week last year and 10.7% above the five-year average for the week. Yet, the four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.5% to 1.11 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 17.00 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks ticked up 0.3% to a 10-week high of 25.2 million barrels. Stocks were 11.8% more than the same week last year and 12.2% above the five-year average. Inventories built in the Midwest (PADD 2) and West Coast (PADD 5) but thinned across the other regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, improved 4.1% to an 8-week high of 9.04 million b/d (139.01 bg annualized). Still, demand was 2.1% less than a year ago and 1.2% below the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol edged down 0.3% to 923,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.19 bg annualized. Net inputs were 1.0% less than year-ago levels and 0.1% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports rose 25.6% to 162,000 b/d (6.8 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



United States and Canadian Cattle Inventory Up 1 Percent 

All cattle and calves in the United States and Canada combined totaled 106 million head on July 1, 2026, up 1 percent from the 106 million head on July 1, 2025. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 42.6 million head, were up slightly from a year ago.
                        
All cattle and calves in the United States as of July 1, 2026, totaled 94.2 million head, up slightly from the 94.0 million head on July 1, 2025. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 38.1 million head, were unchanged from a year ago.

All cattle and calves in Canada as of July 1, 2026, totaled 12.1 million head, up 3 percent from the 11.7 million head on July 1, 2025. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 4.49 million head, were up 2 percent from a year ago.

This publication is a result of a joint effort by Statistics Canada and NASS to release the number of cattle and calves by class and calf crop for both countries within one publication. This information was requested by the United States cattle industry to provide producers additional information about potential beef supplies. United States inventory numbers were previously released on July 24, 2026. Canadian inventory numbers were previously released on August 24, 2026.



United States and Canadian Hog Inventory Up Slightly 

United States and Canadian inventory of all hogs and pigs for June 2026 was 87.7 million head. This was up slightly from June 2025 but down 1 percent from June 2024. The breeding inventory, at 7.12 million head, was down 1 percent from a year ago and down 2 percent from 2024. Market hog inventory, at 80.5 million head, was up slightly from last year but down 1 percent from 2024. The semi-annual pig crop, at 82.4 million head, was up 1 percent from 2025 and up slightly from 2024. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 6.87 million head, down 1 percent from last year and down 3 percent from 2024.

United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on June 1, 2026 was 73.7 million head. This was down slightly from June 1, 2025 and down slightly from March 1, 2026. The breeding inventory, at 5.88 million head, was down 1 percent from last year and down slightly from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 67.8 million head, was up slightly from last year but down slightly from last quarter. The pig crop, at 33.5 million head, was up slightly from 2025 but down 1 percent from 2024. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 2.82 million head, down 1 percent from 2025 and down 3 percent from 2024.  

Canadian inventory of all hogs and pigs on July 1, 2026 was 14.0 million head. This was up 1 percent from July 1, 2025 and up slightly from July 1, 2024. The breeding inventory, at 1.24 million head, was up 1 percent from last year and up 1 percent from 2024. Market hog inventory, at 12.8 million head, was up 1 percent from last year but down slightly from 2024. The semi-annual pig crop, at 15.8 million head, was up 4 percent from 2025 and up 6 percent from 2024. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 1.27 million head, up 2 percent from last year and up 2 percent from 2024. 

This publication is a result of a joint effort by Statistics Canada and NASS to release the total hogs, breeding, market hogs, sows farrowed, and pig crop for both countries within one publication. This information was requested by the United States hog industry to provide producers additional information about potential hog supplies. United States inventory numbers were previously released on June 25, 2026. Canadian inventory numbers were released on August 24, 2026.



Soy Checkoff Invites Farmers to Prove the Quality of Their Crop

United States soybean farmers have a free, straightforward way to prove the quality of their crop to the world. Through the Annual Soybean Quality Survey, funded by the Soy Checkoff, farmers can send in a sample from their 2026 harvest at no cost and receive a personalized report on its quality. Samples are due Oct. 21, 2026, and the effort helps position U.S. soy as the premium choice for customers around the globe.

Since 1986, the Annual Soybean Quality Survey has documented the quality of the U.S. soybean crop, one sample at a time. The survey is led by Dr. Seth Naeve, professor of agronomy and plant genetics at the University of Minnesota. Farmer participation supports the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) in building international marketing programs on behalf of the Soy Checkoff.

“Every sample a farmer sends in makes our picture of U.S. soybean quality more complete,” said Dr. Naeve. “That information travels with our crop to customers around the world and helps them understand the real value of what American farmers grow.”

As the global marketplace grows more competitive, U.S. soy increasingly wins on value and quality rather than price alone. Survey data gives buyers a clear, science-based picture of the protein, oil value and overall composition of the U.S. crop, and it helps ensure every growing region is represented at global buyers’ conferences. When farmers include the seed company and variety with their sample, they also help researchers identify which varieties deliver the most value to international customers.

How to participate
    Request a free sample kit at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdkfTxIvYahxiqlSodvh34zZr5uUwggk2zpmJN-YqNym1zn9w/viewform?usp=dialog or z.umn.edu/soybean-quality. Each kit includes simple instructions and a postage-paid sample bag.
    Scan the QR code on the bag to record your information quickly and accurately.
    Return your sample by Oct. 21, 2026. Samples are accepted through mid-December, but returning early helps ensure your region is represented.
    Receive your personalized results by mid-December.
    View the full survey report in January 2027 at https://z.umn.edu/SoyQualityReports, where past reports are also available.
    All individual results are kept strictly confidential. Only aggregated data appears in the final report. 

“Taking a few minutes to send in a sample is one of the easiest ways to invest in the reputation of U.S. soy,” said Cindy Pulskamp, a USB farmer-leader from North Dakota. “It costs nothing, and it helps every soybean farmer compete in markets here and abroad.”

Farmers can learn more about the Annual Soybean Quality Survey and access past reports at https://z.umn.edu/SoyQualityReports.



UAN28 Leads Fertilizer Price Declines for Fifth Consecutive Week

Retail fertilizer prices remained somewhat varied during the third full week of August 2026, according to retailers surveyed by DTN. For the fifth week in a row, five fertilizers were lower in price compared to last month, while the remaining three were slightly higher. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Like last week, only one nutrient had a significant price move. UAN28 was 8% less expensive compared to last month, averaging $436 per ton. The average price of all nitrogen fertilizers tracked by DTN was $625/ton. Four other fertilizers were just slightly lower. Urea averaged $664/ton, 10-34-0 $715/ton, anhydrous $943/ton and UAN32 $458/ton.

The remaining three nutrients were just slightly more expensive looking back a month. DAP averaged $916/ton, MAP $959/ton and potash $495/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, urea averaged $0.72/lb.N, anhydrous $0.58/lb.N, UAN28 $0.78/lb.N and UAN32 $0.72/lb.N.

Seven of the eight fertilizers tracked by DTN are higher in price compared to one year ago. Potash is 2% higher, UAN28 is 4% more expensive, urea is 5% higher, MAP is 6% more expensive, 10-34-0 is 7% higher, DAP is 8% more expensive and anhydrous is 24% higher year over year. The one exception is UAN32, which is 5% lower than a year ago.



CHS and OCP North America launch major initiative to strengthen U.S. fertilizer supply

CHS, America’s leading farmer-owned cooperative, and OCP North America, a subsidiary of the OCP Group, are taking a major step to strengthen domestic fertilizer production in the United States. Through a proposed joint venture, the two companies are preparing to build and operate a phosphate fertilizer production facility at the Cornerstone Energy Park located in Waggaman, Louisiana. The new plant is expected to produce over 1 million metric tonnes of phosphate-based fertilizer annually and would be the first of its kind constructed in the United States since 1984. 

American farmers use phosphate fertilizer to grow the crops that fuel and feed the world. However, phosphate reserves in the country are declining and today the U.S. imports approximately 40% of the phosphate-based fertilizer that is used to meet farmer demand. The potential to bring this new capacity online could reduce U.S. dependency on imported phosphate-based fertilizer by more than 48%, significantly strengthening the domestic fertilizer supply chain.     

“This is an exciting moment for American agriculture,” said Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS. “As a farmer-owned cooperative, we exist to help farmers succeed. Together with OCP North America, we have the opportunity to build the first phosphate fertilizer plant in the U.S. in more than 40 years. This investment has the potential to create more value for our owners by bringing fertilizer production closer to the American farmer and the cooperative network.”

In connection with the proposed joint venture, the OCP Group will supply phosphoric acid to the facility, drawing on its global phosphate expertise and resources. Finished fertilizer products will be distributed through both OCP North America and CHS, which serves cooperatives, retailers and farmers across the United States through its extensive wholesale and retail crop nutrients network. The new fertilizer plant’s expected location within the Cornerstone Energy Park in Waggaman helps ensure access to raw materials and the ability to transport products via the Mississippi River system.

"This project represents a milestone in OCP North America’s commitment to serving American agriculture,” said Kevin Kimm, CEO of OCP North America. “Together with CHS, we aim to build lasting infrastructure that strengthens U.S. food security and delivers a reliable, domestically produced supply of the crop nutrients American farmers need.” 

Once approved, the project is expected to create approximately 60 permanent, high impact jobs in Jefferson Parish along with 500 construction jobs. The parties estimate that the project will have a total job impact of 924 direct and services-support jobs. This is expected to bring real, positive economic and community impact to the state of Louisiana. Subject to project-related and funding approvals, construction is expected to take up to 24 months.

“This announcement by CHS and OCP North America further solidifies the Cornerstone Energy Park and Jefferson Parish as key economic development locations attracting global industry,” said Matthew Sokol, president and CEO of Cornerstone Chemical Company. “As one of the largest employers in Jefferson Parish supporting hundreds of employees who call South Louisiana home, the Energy Park plays an important role in the area economy and the Greater New Orleans region.”

The project aligns closely with the U.S. government’s priority to expand U.S. fertilizer production capacity to support America’s farmers. Reflecting this, an application has been submitted for potential funding through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long-term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) program.   

In addition to announcing the potential project in Waggaman, CHS and OCP have also committed to charitable giving in the greater New Orleans area. “OCP believes that where we do business, we have a responsibility to invest in the people and communities around us, and we're proud to stand with CHS in making that commitment to greater New Orleans,” stated Kevin Kimm, CEO of OCP North America.

“At CHS, we operate with the value of cooperative spirit, which means we invest in the communities where we live and work,” said Debertin. “We are excited to be joining with OCP to invest in this area as it supports a key role in serving America’s farmers.”  



Stine® HP Corn®: 10 lines for 2027, backed by three decades of high-population research

Stine® Seed Company is bringing growers 10 HP Corn® options for 2027, including two new lines, extending a high-population breeding program the company has led for more than three decades.

Stine HP Corn is the company’s high-population corn program, built around genetics bred and selected to perform when growers tighten spacing and add plants per acre. Crowding is where a corn plant reveals its weaknesses in standability, leaf structure, pollination and ear placement. Since the 1990s, Stine has advanced only the material holding up under those conditions, producing lines that tend to have shorter plant height, strong stalks and plant architecture suited to tighter spacing.

“We didn’t set out to make corn shorter. We set out to build the highest-yielding corn we could find, and this is where the genetics took us,” says Myron Stine, company president. “Every generation we advanced got selected in high populations, where a weak plant shows itself fast. What’s in the bag today is the material that kept making grain every time we crowded it.”

Two new HP lines for 2027
Stine E481-G brand corn is a new version of the widely sold MX481-G brand corn, delivering an additional 4% yield increase along with improved standability. The 97- to 99-day, glyphosate-tolerant line has demonstrated consistent success west to east, performs best at higher planting populations and carries a premium seed treatment. E481-G led Stine’s Mid Elite Yield Trials at over 111%.

Stine E530-0 brand corn is a high-yielding conventional line with excellent moderately tall ear placement that performed at 113% in Stine’s Early-Mid Elite Trials, a separate trial group covering earlier maturities. Its semi-fixed ear allows for increased populations and maximum yield potential, and it features premium seed protection for fast starts and outstanding early-season growth.

Including E481-G and E530-0, the 2027 Stine corn lineup features 10 HP Corn options: 9105-10, 9213-G, 9322-10, 9453-G, 9756-G, 9808E-0, 9808E-G and 9808E-20. Maturities run from 83–85 days to 114–116 days, so growers on short-season northern acres and full-season southern acres alike have an HP Corn option in their zone. All 10 maintain the ear height Stine targets for harvestability.

Built for the populations growers are moving toward
Stine research shows growers can increase populations by up to 12% with HP Corn, and a potential 10% yield boost at higher plant populations when the genetics hold performance under greater density. 

Population is only part of the equation. Narrowing row width moves plants toward the more equal-distance plant spacing that lets a dense stand perform. The goal on fertility is making sure nutrients are available when the plant needs them most, including sulfur in the fertility program. Those practices pay off when the genetics underneath them hold standability and ear quality in a crowded stand.

“Growers ask how far they can push populations without giving up standability or ear quality,” says Brian Hartman, Stine national corn product manager. “That’s the question our program has been answering since the 1990s. We aren’t guessing at what happens when a grower adds plants. We’ve been planting and selecting at those populations for three decades, so a grower can move up and know the genetics have already been through it.”

Plant architecture built for dense stands
HP Corn architecture addresses the challenges of higher plant populations.

More upright leaf structure keeps neighboring plants from shading one another in a dense canopy, so the stand captures sunlight it would otherwise lose. Smaller tassels cast less shade on the leaves below them, and a shorter distance between the tassel and the uppermost ear supports more efficient pollination.

Sturdier stalks and a lower center of gravity hold plants up through wind events, when a crowded stand is most vulnerable. Ear placement has moved up the plant relative to plant height across generations of selection, keeping ear height favorable for excellent harvestability.

Shorter plants also open up management options. Where field conditions and equipment allow, growers can make fungicide and fertilizer applications with ground equipment rather than by air.

Proven in the Elite Yield Trials
Every HP Corn line moves through Stine’s Elite Yield Trials before reaching a grower’s field. E481-G led its Mid Elite Yield Trials group at over 111%, and E530-0 performed at 113% in the Early-Mid Elite Trials.

“These have been tested in real fields, at the populations growers actually plant, generation after generation,” says Hartman. “That’s the difference between a concept and a product growers can plant with confidence.”

The breeding program behind the 2027 HP Corn lineup is the same one Agri Marketing magazine recognized with its 2023 Product of the Year award, an honor whose past recipients include Roundup Ready technology and Bt-traited corn.

Explore Stine’s full 2027 corn lineup in the Stine Corn and Soybean Product Guide on StineSeed.com. Farmers can also contact their local Stine sales rep for more details on HP Corn options for next season. 

Wednesday August 26 Ag News - Corn Silage and Kernal Processing - CAP Land Management Webinar Tomorrow - Landowners & Renewable Energy Leases - RFS Small Refinery Exemptions could top 1.8 billion - and more!

Appraising crops through cattle feeding
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

The economic approach to assigning economic value to a crop grown for the feedlot (it could be in association with a family member or another partner unit) is based on a simple principle. Subtract the value of off-farm expenses from the gross return (generally receipts of cattle sold, but manure value as fertilizer should also be included here) and assign the balance to the cropping operation.

From the gross value of the economic return (cattle sales), one subtracts the cost of all other items used in the cattle feeding process including cattle, yardage (which includes labor, fuel and oil, repairs, utilities, facilities depreciation, etc.), veterinary medicine expenses, purchasing and selling costs including trucking, and feed or supplements (distillers grains, micro-ingredients, supplements, additives, etc.) purchased off the farm. The balance is then assigned to the crop operation to pay for feed raised on the farm.

Following this approach, the feedlot activity results in zero return. Therefore, one must calculate an acceptable return to the feedlot activity, generally prime lending rate plus 2 points. Currently, that value is 10% annual return. This return is applied to the feedlot activity using the investment in cattle feeding (using the figures from the feedlot closeout for example) and feeding period say 210 days or 58% of a year, which translates to 5.75%. If feeding a single lot for 210 days results in a 1-million-dollar investment, then a reasonable net profit to the feedlot activity is $57,500.

This return must be subtracted from the balance left over from the calculation of gross return minus off-farm expenses to ascribe a proper feedlot activity return. Once this is accomplished, the balance (positive or negative) belongs to the farming activity.

The next challenge is the proper allocation of value from this balance to each crop using in the feedlot activity. Using the energy contribution of each feed ingredient to the diet, the allocation to each crop raised on the farm is obtained.

The examples I am using included three lots of cattle fed between the fall of 2025 and this summer. Cattle performed well in the feedlot, gaining at 3.7 lb daily for cattle starting at 600 to 700 lb and finishing at around 1,500 lb. As expected, feed conversion was great, under 6.4 lb feed per lb gain.

When assigning economic value to the farming activity after allocating off-farm costs and feedlot profit, corn ranged from $6.50 to $8.90/bushel or between 166% to 224% the value at the local grain market. At an average yield of 200 bushels to the acre and cost of $1,000 per acre, the farming operation received $1,300 to $1,780 per acre and made between $300 and $780 per acre because of the feedlot activity.

Similar values were assigned to high-moisture corn (between 170% and 230% of their market value). Interestingly, both crops used to provide fiber in the diet benefited greatly. Corn silage and hay value were over 216% and 144%, respectively, greater than their market value. This would imply that corn silage was valued at over $80 and hay at over $200 per ton, respectively.

This exercise can be applied to backgrounding or even cow-calf operations. Regardless of application, and despite the poor conversion efficiency (or any other perceived negativity including methane emissions), these are examples of how cattle operations improve the value of land and contribute to economic development.



KERNEL PROCESSING FOR QUALITY CORN SILAGE 
- Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator 

High value silage depends on maintaining chop quality throughout harvest. Do you know how to reliably monitor your silage quality?

Energy from corn silage comes in a large part from starch in the grain itself. After consuming, the outer seed coat impedes starch digestion.  To counter act this, many modern choppers are fitted with a kernel processor, that physically crushes or damages the grain and stalks, improving digestibility.  Correctly setting these rollers is critical.  Too close and machine wear increases, too far apart and the kernels aren’t broken and digestibility is decreased.  

To achieve high-quality silage, catching any problems with the processor as soon as possible is critical. To do this, grab a 32 oz. cup and at least once an hour during harvest, grab a sample from the pile.  

Next spread the sample out on a flat surface like a card table near the pile and go through the kernels.  Count all the kernels that are ½ or greater in size. You can also put the sample into a bucket of water.  The kernels will sink to the bottom and stalks and leaves will float.  Skim/drain off the top layer and again count any kernels that are ½ or greater in size.

For both methods, the goal is to have 2 or fewer whole or ½ size kernels in your count.  Anything over that and word can be passed to the chopper to adjust the processing.

For those who don’t have access to a kernel processer, keeping chop length short can help accomplish similar results.  Shortening chop length to 3/8 inch for machines without a processor will do more kernel damage and maintain similar fiber particle size.  For those whose priority is not particle size, mostly beef producers, dropping down to ½ inch chop length will damage even more kernels and provide the additional benefit of helping get a better pack.



CAP Webinar: Nebraska Cash Rents - Lease Deadlines, Rental Rates, and Fair Agreements
Aug 27, 2026 12:00 PM 

Nebraska landowners and tenants should begin reviewing their lease arrangements before the September 1 deadline for terminating or changing the terms of a verbal agricultural lease. This webinar will explain the deadline, examine the newly released USDA NASS county cash rental rates, identify changes from 2025, and demonstrate practical methods for establishing equitable cash rents for the 2027 growing season.

With Anastasia Meyer and Jim Jansen, Extension Agricultural Economists, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability.

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



New resource helps landowners navigate renewable energy lease agreements

Farmers and landowners are increasingly being approached about leasing land for solar, wind, and battery storage projects. According to the Center for Rural Affairs, these agreements can create opportunities to generate long-term, stable income from their property as renewable energy development grows.

A new fact sheet from the Center for Rural Affairs aims to help landowners better understand the leasing process.

“Renewable energy development can be a strong opportunity for rural landowners, but lease agreements are long-term commitments that deserve careful review,” said Laura Priest, policy associate with the Center. “Understanding each step of the process helps landowners protect their interests, set clear expectations, and build a productive relationship with developers.”

The fact sheet provides information on the renewable energy leasing process, from early conversations with a developer to site review, lease negotiations, construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning. 

The process often begins with an initial consultation, when a developer gathers basic information about the property. If the site appears to be a good fit, the developer may then conduct a more detailed evaluation of factors that will impact the success of the development.

“Marginal or lower-producing agricultural land may be especially well suited for some projects, allowing landowners to generate predictable payments over multiple years from acres that are less productive for traditional farming,” Priest said. “Projects can also incorporate dual-use solar practices that keep land in agricultural use through grazing, crop integration, or beekeeping.”

The fact sheet also highlights things to consider before entering into a lease option, notice of intent, or long-term agreement. Landowners are encouraged to ask questions, seek professional guidance, and understand that organizations can support them through the process.

“Clear communication from the beginning is key,” Priest said. “A strong agreement should address not only how the project begins, but how the land will be used, maintained, and restored over time.”

To read and download the fact sheet, visit cfra.org/publications. 



Reported Refinery Exemptions Could Undermine Domestic Soybean Demand

The Iowa Soybean Association is raising serious concerns over reported changes to small refinery exemptions under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) that could significantly reduce domestic demand for biofuels made from U.S. soybeans.

Reports indicate exemptions for the 2025 compliance year could exceed 1.8 billion Renewable Identification Number (RIN) credits, nearly twice the level the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency anticipated when establishing current biofuel blending requirements. If approved, the increased exemptions could eliminate an estimated 500 million gallons of biomass-based diesel demand and cost U.S. soybean farmers approximately $1 billion in lost revenue during a period of already tight profit margins.

“The strength of the U.S. soybean industry depends on maintaining and expanding domestic markets for soybeans and soybean oil and reducing our reliance on China,” says ISA President Tom Adam, a soybean farmer from Harper. “Iowa farmers need certainty that policies supporting domestic biofuel demand will be upheld.”

Adam says President Trump made the right call for farmers and rural America when he set the current renewable volume obligations. Backtracking on his commitment to the farmers who supported him would be devastating and felt for months and years to come.

“We urge the administration to maintain a strong RFS and ensure refinery exemptions don’t erode the demand created by increased biofuel volumes.”

For Iowa’s soybean farmers, maintaining strong domestic demand for soybean oil is critical. Biomass-based diesel represents an important market for Iowa-grown soybeans, supporting soybean prices, farm income and economic activity throughout rural communities. Iowa is the nation’s leading producer of biodiesel and soybean oil. In 2025, Iowa used 1.68 billion pounds of soybean oil to produce 224.5 million gallons of biodiesel. This volume is equivalent to nearly 144 million bushels of soybeans, or roughly 24% of the state’s total crop.

ISA urges the administration to reject any attempt to expand the use of small refinery exemptions that would undermine the RFS, reduce biofuel demand and negatively affect soybean farmers.



Massive Refinery Exemptions Would Undo Progress Under Trump’s 2026-2027 RFS Blending Levels

This week biofuels markets have been thrown into chaos over rumors that the EPA may grant nearly double the forecasted amount of refinery exemptions (SREs) from the 2025 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) blending levels. In March, the EPA forecasted less than one billion gallons of exemptions for 2025, but now it now has been reported the agency plans to exempt 1.8 billion gallons. Such an action would undermine the progress made since President Trump finalized record RFS blending levels in March.

“President Trump rightly garnered much praise in March by finalizing the most robust RFS blending levels in history,” said Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association. “To reverse course now by granting massive levels of unjustified refinery exemptions would be bad policy, bad economics, and bad for farmers. We are hoping this is just another false rumor floated in the media to roil the markets so some credit trader can try to make a buck. But if there is substance behind the rumors, it is not too late to change course and to commit to a robust RFS – a commitment President Trump made in March, a commitment that is working, and a commitment that EPA should not undermine.”

In March, EPA announced that it would clear a backlog of refinery exemption requests from the previous administration covering the 2023-2025 compliance years. The agency adopted a Dept. of Energy methodology to evaluate the requests. In order to minimize the damage to renewable fuel producers, the EPA agreed to reallocate 70% of the exemptions to the remaining obligated parties. At that time, renewable fuels supporters argued for 100% reallocation and few, if any, refiner exemptions. However, combined with record-breaking RFS blend levels for 2026-2027, most biofuels supporters remained generally positive.

“If a new methodology is adopted that grants nearly all refinery exemption requests for the 2025 compliance year, that would equate to roughly one billion lost biofuel gallons,” said Shaw. “And the damage wouldn’t stop there. Applied to 2026-2027, it would mean nearly a billion lost gallons each year going forward as well. So-called record-breaking RFS levels don’t mean a thing if they are reversed through unjustified refinery exemptions. IRFA members urge President Trump to throw this rumor on the ash heap of history, to stand by his commitment to American farmers, and to order the EPA to deny the baseless claims of economic harm by some refiners at a time of record refinery profits.”

Since the EPA finalized the RFS blending levels for 2026-2027 in March, there has been a strong resurgence of biodiesel production in Iowa and around the country, with record production during the last few months. The strong RFS rule that Trump finalized was having an undeniably positive impact.

“Since President Trump put the RFS back on track in March, it has been doing exactly what it was supposed to – driving demand for biofuels. Both biodiesel and ethanol demand hit records this year. In Iowa, we had biodiesel plants that were shuttered or running at very reduced rates. Today they are producing at full capacity, buying soybean oil from our farmers, and hiring back workers that had been let go. It would be reckless and almost unimaginable to pull the rug out from under this success story at the request of a handful of oil refiners that are certainly not suffering from economic hardship during this time of high oil and fuel prices.”



ASA Sounds Alarm: Soybean Farmers Cannot Afford Another Blow to Domestic Demand

The American Soybean Association is sounding the alarm over reports that small refinery exemptions for the 2025 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) compliance year could far exceed previous government projections, delivering a major blow to domestic biofuel demand when U.S. soybean farmers can least afford it.

Recent reports and analysis indicate small refinery exemptions from RFS compliance year 2025 could total more than 1.8 billion Renewable Identification Number (RIN) credits under a newly revised methodology being developed. Such a massive volume of RFS compliance exemptions would be nearly double what the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had assumed when it published the final 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligation Rule. The final biofuel blending rule published earlier this year by the Trump Administration included historic increases in biofuel volumes, boosting domestic demand for biofuels and U.S. soybeans. ASA applauded President Trump and EPA for supporting policies that drive demand, encourage industry investment, and improve local on-farm basis.

If EPA approves small refinery exemption petitions at levels that significantly exceed EPA’s earlier assumptions embodied in current biofuel blending rules, the result will be long-term damage that effectively undercuts the positive actions taken by the Trump Administration. The significant increase in biofuel volumes exempted from the RFS could eliminate around 500 million gallons of biomass-based diesel demand, cost U.S. soybean farmers approximately $1 billion in lost revenue, and put oil refiner interests ahead of farmers, rural communities, and expanded domestic biofuel supplies.

“At a time when soybean farmers are already struggling to support our farms, we cannot afford for the rug to be pulled out from under one of our most important sources of domestic demand,” said ASA Vice President Dave Walton, a soybean farmer from Iowa. “The Trump Administration has been tirelessly supporting policies that expand markets for biofuels made from U.S. soybeans, and we cannot reverse course just as the biofuel industry is beginning to realize the benefits. Domestic biofuel policy succeeds when it supports American farmers producing American energy, not when it gives oil refiners another break at a time when they are experiencing record profits. We hope the President and White House maintain their commitment to U.S. farmers and reject proposed actions that destroy these newly expanded markets in exchange for a giveaway to oil refiners.”

Biomass-based diesel provides a critical and growing domestic market for soybean oil, supporting soybean prices, rural jobs, and economic activity across the country. The reported small refinery exemption actions would run counter to the administration’s stated goals of strengthening American energy dominance, expanding domestic energy production, and supporting rural economies. American-grown biofuels diversify the nation’s fuel supply while creating a reliable domestic market for U.S. agriculture.

ASA has long advocated for the denial of compliance waivers, or small refinery exemptions, which erode the integrity of the RFS by reducing biofuel demand and impacting farmers by lowering the value of soybean crops.

ASA is urging President Trump and officials in the White House to reject any proposal that seeks to broaden the formula used to determine refinery exemptions from biofuel blending requirements in a way that would hurt farmers and erase demand for biofuels. Instead, ASA urges the administration to maintain exemptions no greater than what the EPA estimated using historically backed market data when it published the current biofuel blending rule. 



NFU Urges White House to Reject Small Refinery Exemptions

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew gave the following statement Tuesday regarding reports that the Trump Administration would be issuing Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) exemptions for small refineries.

“Every small refinery bypass is another market stolen from farmers. While oil companies post record profits, family farmers face record losses. The White House needs to reconsider this potential action and choose family farmers over big oil.” 

Tuesday August 25 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - Gillespie Soil Health Fund Grants Available - Mote inducted into NE Pork Prod Hall of Fame - SCN PI88788 Resistance - USDA to buy Pork - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress: Corn, Soybean Development Remains on Track in Late August

Nebraska's corn and soybean crops continued progressing near or slightly ahead of typical late-August development last week, while sorghum remained somewhat behind its usual pace. Corn was generally on track through the dough and dent stages, though maturity continued to lag, while soybean development was slightly ahead of average as the crop began transitioning toward maturity.

Pasture and range conditions improved from the previous week but remained a significant concern, with nearly two-thirds of the state's acres still rated poor or very poor. Sorghum conditions also remained relatively weak compared with corn and soybean, with only about one-third of the crop rated good or excellent. 

Soil moisture improved somewhat following recent rainfall, particularly at the surface, though subsoil moisture remained limited across much of the state. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 19% very short, 24% short, 53% adequate and 4% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 26% very short, 31% short, 42% adequate and 1% surplus.

For the week ending Aug. 23, there were 4.6 days suitable for fieldwork.

Field Crops Report:

Corn
    Dough: 84% — ahead of 80% last year and equal to the five-year average.
    Dented: 46% — equal to last year but behind the five-year average of 48%.
    Mature: 3% — behind 5% last year and the five-year average of 6%.
    Condition: 5% very poor, 12% poor, 28% fair, 40% good, 15% excellent.

Soybean
    Setting Pods: 93% — ahead of 88% last year and the five-year average of 91%.
    Dropping Leaves: 5% — ahead of 0% last year and the five-year average of 4%.
    Condition: 3% very poor, 9% poor, 24% fair, 49% good, 15% excellent.

Sorghum
    Headed: 82% — behind 84% last year and the five-year average of 89%.
    Coloring: 32% — equal to last year and the five-year average.
    Mature: 1% — equal to last year and the five-year average.
    Condition: 5% very poor, 20% poor, 40% fair, 32% good, 3% excellent.

Pasture and Range
    Condition: 35% very poor, 29% poor, 27% fair, 9% good, 0% 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 Weekly Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 5.2 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Aug. 23, 2026. This is 0.4 days less than last year, when there were 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 3 percent very short, 16 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 11 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 21 percent short, 66 percent adequate, and 8 percent surplus. 

Ninety percent of Iowa’s corn crop has reached the dough stage, which is 3 percentage points ahead of last year. Forty-seven percent of corn reached the dent stage, which is 5 percentage points ahead of last year. One percent of corn has reached maturity, which is 2 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. 

Soybeans setting pods reached 88 percent, which is 1 percentage point behind last year. Soybean condition rated 77 percent good to excellent. 

Ninety-seven percent of oats have been harvested, which is 1 percentage point ahead of last year. 

Pasture condition rated 65 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

The national corn crop continued its downward trend last week, with its good-to-excellent rating dropping 3 percentage points, while soybean ratings also declined, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 86%, 5 percentage points ahead of last year's 81% and 4 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 82%. Corn dented was estimated at 45%, 3 percentage points ahead of last year's 42% and 4 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 41%. Corn mature was pegged at 6%, steady with last year's pace and the five-year average.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 57% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition, down 3 percentage points from the previous week of 60% and 14 percentage points below last year's 71%. Seventeen percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, 2 percentage points above the previous week's 15% and 9 percentage points above the previous year's 8%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans setting pods were estimated at 91%, 3 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 88%. Soybean dropping leaves were pegged at 6%, 2 percentage points ahead of last year and the five-year average of 4%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 60% of soybeans were in good-to-excellent condition, 1 percentage point below the previous week's 61% and 9 percentage points below the previous year's 69%. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest moved ahead 21 percentage points last week to reach 62% complete as of Sunday. That was 11 percentage points ahead of last year's pace of 51% and 10 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 52%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 51% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, down 1 percentage point from the previous week's 52%. 



Funding Available for Soil Health Projects Through Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund

Farmers, educators, students and organizations working to advance soil health and regenerative agriculture are encouraged to explore grant opportunities available through the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund. Applications for the current grant cycle are due Thursday, Oct. 1.

Grants of up to $2,500 are available to support education, research and practical projects related to soil health and regenerative agriculture in Nebraska and surrounding states. Areas of interest include no-till farming, cover crops, water conservation, tree conservation and other practices that improve soil health.

Grantworthy activities may include educational events and programming for youth, farmers, ranchers and others involved in agriculture; reimbursement of training expenses for farmers seeking to improve land stewardship; and on-farm or ranch research designed to evaluate and improve soil health practices.

Previous grants have supported FFA and student research projects, producer-led innovation and on-farm research, soil health field days and demonstrations, regenerative agriculture conferences and other educational programs.

Established in 2021, the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund honors Gillespie, a lifelong farmer and longtime no-till practitioner and advocate known locally as “Dan, the Tree Man.” The fund is affiliated with Nebraska Community Foundation and supports efforts to expand soil health education and practical adoption of regenerative agriculture.

Applications for the fall grant cycle must be submitted by Oct. 1. Learn more about the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund https://www.nebcommfound.org/give/dan-gillespie-soil-health-fund/ and download the grant application.



Benny Mote inducted into the Nebraska Pork Producers Association Hall of Fame

Benny Mote, an associate professor and swine Extension specialist at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, was named the 2026 inductee to the Nebraska Pork Producers Association Hall of Fame for his dedication to advancing Nebraska’s pork industry through research, education, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to producers.

Mote has earned a reputation for translating cutting-edge research into practical solutions that improve productivity, profitability, and animal care. His work has advanced swine genetics, sow longevity, precision livestock technologies, biosecurity, and foreign animal disease preparedness, ensuring Nebraska producers have the tools to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Beyond his research, Mote has made an extraordinary impact through Extension. He has helped lead Nebraska’s Pork Quality Assurance Plus® program by training advisors, personally certifying producers, and strengthening educational efforts that have reached thousands of pork producers across the state. He has also helped producers develop Secure Pork Supply plans, coordinated dozens of educational articles for Pork Talk magazine, served as a trusted speaker at industry meetings across the country, and partnered closely with the Nebraska Pork Producers Association as an ex-officio board member since 2016 to deliver practical, research-based education. His commitment to youth development through programs like Nebraska 4-H Farrowed & Owned has inspired the next generation of pork producers and agricultural leaders.

Those who know Mote recognize not only his expertise, but also his humility, collaborative spirit, and producer-first mindset. He has built lasting relationships across the industry by listening first, working alongside producers, and ensuring his research addresses real-world challenges.



Reinke’s E3 Pivot Wins “Irrigation Innovation of the Year” in 2026 AgTech Breakthrough Awards

Reinke Manufacturing, a global leader in irrigation systems and technology, has been selected as winner of the “Irrigation Innovation of the Year” award for the E3™ center pivot. The 7th annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards honors innovators driving sustainable solutions in the global agricultural and food technology markets today.

Reinke built its E3 center pivot system to meet the challenges growers face to conserve water and increase yields. The patented design is engineered to deliver consistent, efficient water application across diverse field conditions and set a new standard for accuracy, reliability and efficiency in mechanized irrigation.

“Innovation only matters when it solves a real problem for growers,” said Chris Roth, president of Reinke. “E3 was designed from the ground up to give growers precision control over their water application; setting a new standard for how irrigation systems perform in the field. To be recognized with an AgTech Breakthrough Award affirms what our team set out to build—equipment that helps growers maximize yield potential while conserving one of their most valuable resources.”

E3 is the first precision series of spans and end booms with uniform coupler spacing in 30- and 60-inch intervals to achieve uniform water application the entire length of the system. It exceeds USDA Center Pivot Evaluation and Design (CPED) water uniformity benchmarks and includes a suite of advancements that improve stability, reliability, and efficiency across terrains:
·       Precision system configurations: spans from 80’ to 220’ in 20’ increments (including the in-demand 175’) and inverted truss end booms from 10’ to 110’
·       ReinLock™ anti-racking truss system: engineered for superior strength and consistent span crown in challenging field conditions
·       Exclusive Reinke V-ring seals: maintain flow without reduction for powerfully precise watering

The mission of the annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards program is to recognize the innovators transforming the global agricultural and food production landscape through technology. From precision agriculture platforms and farm management software to AI-driven yield forecasting, soil and water sensing and synthetic biology innovations—these breakthrough innovations are enabling agricultural companies to operate more sustainably, feed a growing global population and shape the future of how the world grows and produces food.

“Some of the most consequential innovation in agriculture is in the hardware that has defined a category for decades, quietly re-engineered to do its core job better,” said Bryan Vaughn, managing director, AgTech Breakthrough. “Reinke stood out for rethinking the center pivot itself, engineering uniform water application into the structure of the machine rather than treating it as an add-on. E3 is a deserving winner of our 2026 “Irrigation Innovation of the Year” award.”

Now available to growers across the United States and Canada, with additional markets opening as the system rolls out worldwide, E3 is part of Reinke’s continued investment in precision irrigation technology to helps growers do more with less water.



Iowa Research Shows SCN Continues to Adapt to PI 88788 Resistance

Analysis of more than two decades of data collected by Iowa State University from farmers’ fields in Iowa reveals that soybean cyst nematode (SCN) continues to develop increased reproduction on PI 88788, the most widely used SCN resistance in soybean varieties. These findings highlight the need for a more diversified approach to SCN management to protect soybean yields.

Will virulence to PI 88788 continue to increase?
The analysis, recently published in Plant Health Progress, examined data from Iowa State University’s SCN-resistant soybean variety trials conducted across Iowa from 2001 through 2023. The work was funded by checkoff dollars from the Iowa Soybean Association. Results confirmed that trends identified nearly a decade ago have continued, with SCN virulence to PI 88788 resistance increasing at a rate nearly identical to what the researchers predicted in 2017.

The ability of SCN populations in the variety trial fields to reproduce on PI 88788 resistance increased approximately 2% annually from 2001 through 2023. Also, analysis of data from the experiments predicts that by the end of this decade, PI 88788 resistance may provide only about 40% control of SCN, resulting in average yield losses of approximately 9 bushels per acre, or 12% of yield potential, if current management practices do not change. Effective SCN resistance in soybeans provides 90% or more control of SCN.

“It’s interesting that predictions we made nearly a decade ago proved remarkably accurate,” says Greg Tylka, Iowa State University nematologist and co-author of the study. “SCN populations continue to adapt to PI 88788 resistance, and if we don’t diversify how we manage the pest, farmers can expect that trend to continue.” 

Why is monitoring Peking resistance more important than ever?
Peking is currently the only other SCN resistance breeding line used in soybean varieties available for Iowa. Although the researchers did not detect a significant statewide increase in SCN reproduction on Peking SCN resistance in the studies, they found more individual variety trial fields with elevated SCN reproduction on Peking between 2016 and 2023 (8 years) than during the previous 15 years of the study.

The findings highlight the importance of continued monitoring of SCN populations as use of soybean varieties with Peking resistance expands. The HG type test determines the percentage of SCN control provided by Peking, PI 88788 and five other SCN resistance breeding lines not currently available in commercial soybean varieties.

“We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes made with PI 88788,” says Tylka. “Another wholesale shift to a single resistance source, like Peking, is likely to accelerate adaptation by SCN populations. The goal is long-term management that preserves the effectiveness of all available resistance sources.”

The soybean industry has already begun increasing the availability of varieties containing Peking resistance, creating opportunities for farmers to adopt a more balanced management strategy. Instead of relying exclusively on one resistance source, experts recommend rotating soybean varieties with different sources of SCN resistance and incorporating additional SCN management tools, such as nematode-protectant seed treatments and nonhost crops, when appropriate. 

How can farmers avoid overreliance?
A balanced approach that incorporates both PI 88788 and Peking resistance could help slow the development of virulent SCN populations while maintaining yield performance and reducing SCN population densities over time, according to the study. 

“Soybean cyst nematode remains the most damaging soybean pathogen in North America, and it’s not going away,” Tylka says. “The good news is that farmers still have effective tools available today. By diversifying resistance sources and avoiding overreliance on any one strategy, farmers can reduce risk and help protect soybean yields for years to come.”

The researchers noted that although the experiments were conducted in Iowa, published survey data and observations from other Midwestern states indicate that increasing SCN virulence to PI 88788 is a regional issue, not one unique to Iowa. 

Experts with The SCN Coalition encourage farmers to test soil for SCN after harvest and enter those results into the SCN Profit Checker to better understand potential yield loss and profit risk.

For more information about SCN and management recommendations, visit https://www.thescncoalition.com/.



Iowa Pork Names Sadie Heath Programs and Events Manager
    
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) has welcomed Sadie Heath as its new Programs and Events Manager, bringing a lifelong connection to agriculture and a strong background in agricultural communications, outreach and marketing to the organization.

Heath grew up on her family’s third-generation dairy farm near Tony, Wisconsin, where she and her four siblings represent the fourth generation of the family operation. Her great-grandfather moved from Sioux City, Iowa, to Wisconsin in 1940 and settled at the farm’s current location in 1942.

In addition to its dairy herd, the family raises beef cattle and grows cash crops. Pigs have also been part of Sadie’s agricultural experience, with her family raising a small group each year for their own freezer.

Agriculture has been a constant throughout Sadie’s life. She began milking cows as soon as she was tall enough to reach the milking units and grew up taking on responsibilities ranging from caring for livestock to rock picking and driving tractors.

“Growing up on the farm taught me the value of hard work and gave me a strong appreciation for agriculture and the people who make it possible,” Heath said. “I’m excited to join the Iowa Pork Producers Association, learn more about the pork industry and put my education and agricultural background to work.”

Sadie graduated from Iowa State University in three years with double majors in Agricultural Communication and International Agriculture and a minor in Public Relations. Her college experience also gave her a global perspective on agriculture and food production through three study-abroad opportunities in Italy, France and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

She further developed her communications skills through internships in agriculture, communications and public relations, gaining hands-on experience in outreach, marketing and working with people throughout the agricultural industry.

As Programs and Events Manager, Heath will help coordinate IPPA programs and events that connect Iowa pig farmers with fellow producers, industry partners and consumers.

“We’re excited to welcome Sadie Heath to the Iowa Pork team,” said Pat McGonegle, CEO of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “Her strong agricultural background and enthusiasm for working with farmers make her a great fit for our organization. She understands agriculture firsthand, and we look forward to the energy and perspective she’ll bring to our programs, events, and the county organizations and producers we serve.”

While dairy cattle may have been the primary livestock on her family farm, Sadie already has a few memorable experiences working with pigs.

“I’ve been covered in pig manure a time or two after a pig decided to run between my legs and tip me right over,” she said. “So, I guess you could say I’ve already had some hands-on experience in the pork industry!”

Sadie Heath joins IPPA at its Clive office and looks forward to building relationships with Iowa pig farmers and others throughout the state’s pork industry.



USDA Announces $156 Million Food Purchase to Support U.S. Producers and Strengthen America’s Food Supply 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Monday announced its intent to purchase up to $156 million in agricultural commodities from American farmers and producers to distribute to schools and food banks across the country.

These purchases are being made through USDA’s authority under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935 and will assist producers and communities in need. With this action, the Trump Administration is bolstering American prosperity by supporting American agriculture, rural communities, and those in need of nutrition assistance.

Agricultural Marketing Service Section 32 Purchases
USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) continuously purchases a variety of domestically produced and processed agricultural products. These “USDA Foods” are provided to USDA’s Food and Nutrition Administration (FNA) nutrition assistance programs, including schools and food banks that operate The National School Lunch Program and The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and are a vital component of the nation’s food safety net.

USDA AMS will purchase $156 million of the following commodities:
    Canned Peaches: $4 million
    Concord Grape Juice: $20 million
    Fresh Mandarins: $25 million
    Pork Products: $27 million
    Prunes: $5 million
    Raisins: $25 million
    Walnuts: $30 million
    Wild-Caught Shrimp: $20 million



NPPC Applauds USDA Purchase of U.S. Pork for Food Assistance Programs
 
National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Washington County, Iowa, issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a pork purchase for federal food assistance programs under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935.

“More high-quality, wholesome and nutrient dense protein is on its way to American schools and food banks across the country thanks to this purchase of U.S. pork. America’s pork producers applaud USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and the administration for this significant step in what is a challenging market -- and for recognizing the needs of farm country and Americans who deserve reliable sources of good food go hand in hand.”

Section 32 authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make commodity purchases, entitlement purchases, and disaster assistance — using funds appropriated annually from U.S. customs receipts — to encourage the continued domestic consumption of products. USDA annually buys pork and other commodities for federal food programs, including school breakfast and lunch programs.



USDA Cold Storage July 2026 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers were down 3 percent from the previous month but up 2 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were down 2 percent from the previous month and down 4 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were down 3 percent from the previous month but up 9 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were down 31 percent from last month but up 14 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on July 31, 2026 were up 2 percent from the previous month but down 4 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were up slightly from the previous month but down 6 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 5 percent from last month and up slightly from July 31, 2025.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on July 31, 2026 were down slightly from the previous month but up slightly from July 31, 2025. Butter stocks were down 3 percent from last month and down 3 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks were up 12 percent from last month but down 1 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were up 6 percent from last month but down 10 percent from a year ago.



USMCA Negotiations Must Resume

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall commented today on the breakdown of trade talks between the United States and Canada, and the imposition of additional damaging tariffs.

“Canada has been one of the most important trading partners for U.S. agriculture since our first free trade agreement in 1989. We are concerned that talks with our northern neighbor around a resolution to Section 338 tariffs have fallen apart in the midst of the USMCA review. We strongly urge the U.S. and Canada to return to the negotiating table and find a resolution.

“Our strong agreements with Canada and Mexico have eliminated nearly all tariffs for U.S. agriculture, allowing the majority of our farm products to enter those markets duty- and quota-free. Additional tariff escalations and subsequent retaliation will hurt U.S. agriculture at a time when farmers and ranchers are already struggling.

“Agricultural exports are a critical component of farm success. More broadly, they create a positive ripple effect across the economy. That’s why we need a de-escalation of tariffs and a renewal of the USMCA that maintains duty-free market access for U.S. agriculture.”



USDEC, NMPF Thank Administration for Maintaining Pressure on Canada to Resolve USMCA Dairy Concerns

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) expressed their strong appreciation to the Trump Administration for its continued focus on using all available trade tools to resolve outstanding U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) dairy market access issues with Canada. With a 50 percent tariff on certain Canadian imports taking effect on Saturday, the organizations urged Canada to return to the negotiating table and prevent further escalation.

"We appreciate the Administration's persistence in standing up for American dairy producers and exporters who have waited far too long for Canada to live up to its promises," said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. "Canada has had plenty of chances to fix its unfair market access practices and close the loopholes it's used to dodge its dairy commitments under USMCA. This weekend's action makes clear that patience has run out. We look forward to continuing to work with the Administration until Canada resolves these issues and America's dairy farmers and exporters see the full benefits USMCA promised."

"This action sends an unmistakable message that Canada's ongoing disregard for its USMCA dairy commitments carries real consequences," said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. "It's time for Canada to stop looking for workarounds and instead sit down in good faith to resolve these outstanding USMCA dairy implementation issues. Canadian retaliation would only serve to force the United States’ hand in escalating its leverage. The objective should be for both our countries to prevent increased friction and build on the progress made through weeks of negotiations."

Under USMCA, Canada committed to providing meaningful additional duty-free access for U.S. dairy exports through a series of tariff-rate quotas (TRQs). Canada's administration of those TRQs has repeatedly resulted in chronic underfill. In addition, Canada has continued to exploit loopholes to sidestep USMCA disciplines on dairy protein exports. NMPF and USDEC have consistently urged the Administration to prioritize resolution of both issues as part of the ongoing USMCA Joint Review and continue to call on Canada to come to the table and negotiate in good faith.



Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City Launches Agricultural Advisory Council

As part of its Center for Agriculture and the Economy, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City has established an Agricultural Advisory Council.

The Agricultural Advisory Council will offer insights into emerging economic trends and issues in agriculture, advise on strategic direction and priorities of the Center, and help strengthen connections between the Center and key stakeholders. The Council will meet twice a year.

The inaugural members are:
Chris Abbott, Chief Executive Officer, Pivot Bio, Minnetonka, Minnesota
A.G. Kawamura, Founding Co-Chair, Solutions from the Land, Fullerton, California
Deanna Kovar, President, Worldwide Agriculture & Turf Division, Production & Precision Agriculture, and Americas and Australia, Deere & Company, Moline, Illinois
Bill Krueger, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Andersons, Inc., Maumee, Ohio
Dave McCarty, Co-Owner and Chief Financial Officer, McCarty Family Farms, Colby, Kansas
Seth Meyer, Director of the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
Gonzalo Petschen, President, Food North America, Cargill, Wayzata, Minnesota
Shari Rogge-Fidler, Executive Director, Farm Rescue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
John Steeves, Head of Rural Business, North America, Rabobank, Chesterfield, Missouri
Sheryl Wallace, Chief Executive Officer, Ardent Mills, Denver, Colorado

The Kansas City Fed established the Center for Agriculture and the Economy in October 2025, underscoring its longstanding focus on U.S. and global agriculture. The Center serves as a resource within the Federal Reserve System by providing timely analysis of industry developments, in-depth research on the agricultural economy, and ongoing engagement with industry participants to gain perspectives that inform deeper understanding of emerging developments and trends. The Center also supports Federal Reserve policymakers and senior officials as they evaluate economic conditions and determine monetary policy.

For more information about the Center for Agriculture and the Economy visit www.kansascityfed.org/center-for-agriculture-and-the-economy.

As the regional headquarters of the nation’s central bank, the Kansas City Fed and its branch offices in Denver, Oklahoma City and Omaha serve the seven states of the Tenth District: Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Wyoming, northern New Mexico and western Missouri.



Headline & Signals - Let Markets Work
Glynn T. Tonsor 
Department of Agricultural Economics
Kansas State University
    
It is rare for a 10-day period to hand the cattle industry a historic supply report, multiple packing plant capacity announcements, and a headline trade policy action. Sorting the signals from the noise matters. Each event has generated its own reaction, but viewed together they tell a coherent story about an industry (and society at large) working through historically tight cattle supplies and strong beef demand — and they point to a shared lesson.

Start with the fundamentals. While ever-boring to many, perennially-core fundamentals are just that – core and hard to ignore. USDA’s August Cattle on Feed report pegged the August 1st feedlot inventory at 11.1 million head, 2% above a year ago. More striking were July placements of 1.42 million head (down 11% from 2025) and July marketings of 1.62 million head (down 7%). Whether one labels the report “bullish” or simply “confirming,” it importantly documents scarcity of cattle. The pipeline behind the feedlot sector is getting thinner, and the industry’s adjustment given market signals is not new – it is working to get the most consumable beef from a shrinking volume of cattle. Specifically, KSU Focus on Feedlot data points to a 33% increase in added weight (539 to 719/lbs. added per steer) and 47 more days on feed (149 to 196 days) in 2025 than in 2010.

Next, harvest capacity. On August 13th, Tyson announced it will close its Joslin, IL beef plant (roughly 3,000 head of daily harvest capacity) and its Eagle Mountain, UT case-ready facility, while offering its Pasco, WA plant (about 2,000 head daily) for sale. Combined with the Lexington, NE closure (about 5,000 head daily) and JBS’s Souderton, PA closure (about 2,000 head daily), the industry is clearly in the process of removing shackle space. This is not surprising as the nation’s packing sector largely was built decades ago during a period of higher cattle inventories. Too much processing capacity chasing too few cattle produces sustained packer losses, and capacity is adjusting accordingly given market signals.

Finally, policy development. On August 21st, President Trump announced a 90-day waiver of out-of-quota tariffs on up to 300,000 metric tons (about 2.5% of annual beef consumed in the U.S.) of imported ground beef, asserting the product could be sold well below current market prices. While realization of key details (source countries, actual price details, timing, and whether that volume materializes or displaces volume that otherwise was coming) remains pending and unresolved, the aggregate impact on consumer beef prices is likely to be small. CME futures fell sharply on the news before recovering by the close - a simple yet clear reminder that policy surprises typically add volatility.

Here is a common thread: high cattle and beef prices, lower feedlot placements, and plant closure announcements reflect the market doing precisely what we may expect — signaling scarcity, rationing what is short in supply and desired by eligible buyers, and encouraging removal of what is long or excess in supply.

Record calf values are providing cow-calf producers with the strongest herd-rebuilding incentive most, if not all, have ever seen when considered on a traditional $/cow/year basis. Packer consolidation of harvest into fewer plants operating at higher volumes is the painful yet predictable response to overcapacity. Higher imported beef volumes, with or without tariff waivers, are how the market responds to strong U.S. consumer beef demand, high slaughter weights (yielding more trimmings to blend with imported lean beef), and shrinking feedlot inventories.

Meanwhile, even producers with an optimistic eye to the future considering herd expansion increasingly take pause given elevated uncertainty – an era of increased unpredictability is likely delaying and muting overall herd expansion interest. Similarly, in the future, if the herd has grown and the market signals a desire for additional packing capacity, then unpredictability may threaten to delay or mute investment interest. Stated simply, when adjusted for risk, uncertainty, and a general lack of comfort in predictability, the current and perhaps future interest in investment is below what many wish for.

The shared lesson - interventions that mute market signals may possibly offer short-run comfort to a subset of society, but they often slow the very adjustments (here herd and packing capacity right-sizing) that interventions claim to seek. Alas, history is filled with examples of “unintended consequences” that yield instructive lessons. My core takeaway from a memorable period of headlines is a familiar, albeit boring one: let markets work.

Monday August 24 Ag News - NE Women in Ag Launches Crop Ins. Course - NeFU Fall District Meeting Schedule - Trump Ground Beef Announcement, Reaction - Nigeria Opens to US Red Meat - Nematode Treats in Soybeans - and more!

New Online Course Helps Farmers Navigate Crop Insurance Options

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program is proud to announce the launch of a new online course, "Crop Insurance for Farmers," designed to give agricultural producers the knowledge and tools they need to better understand their crop insurance options and make informed risk management decisions.

Crop insurance is an important part of managing production and financial risk, but selecting the right coverage can feel overwhelming. This course breaks down the fundamentals of crop insurance into practical, easy-to-understand lessons that producers can apply to their own operations.

Participants will learn:
    Understand the roles of the USDA Risk Management Agency, Approved Insurance Providers, insurance agents and adjustors.
    Explore key concepts such as Actual Production History (APH), coverage levels, projected and harvest prices, guarantees, liabilities, premiums and indemnities.
    Compare major policy types, including Yield Protection and Revenue Protection, and explore how different coverage options work.
    Explore real-world scenarios to see how choices such as unit type and coverage level, along with changes in yields and prices, can affect crop insurance protection.

The course is designed to help producers become more confident when discussing crop insurance with their insurance agent and better understand how different choices may fit their operation.

Take advantage of this free online course, launching Sept. 1. Participants receive 60 days of access beginning on their enrollment date. Sign up today: go.unl.edu/cropins.

“Crop insurance can be an important risk management tool, but producers need to understand what they are buying and how their coverage works,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture Program. “This course is designed to give farmers the foundation they need to ask better questions and make more informed decisions.”

The material is supported by USDA/NIFA Award Number 2024-70027-42470. All attendees are welcome to participate regardless of race, gender or any other protected status.



CAP Webinar: From Conventional to Organic: Managing Leases and Records
Sep 10, 2026 12:00 PM 

Transitioning to organic production requires careful planning beyond the field. This webinar will explore how the transition can affect farmland leases, responsibilities between landowners and tenants, and record-keeping requirements. Participants will learn practical strategies for maintaining records, and addressing organic production expectations in lease agreements.

With Shannon Sand, Extension Agricultural Economist, and Glennis McClure, Extension Farm and Ranch Management Analyst, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability.

Register at the webinar home page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



2026 NeFU Fall District Meetings    
    Meal on your own with meeting to follow.
    Open to the public. Bring a friend, neighbor, family member, or member prospect.
    Read Fall Meeting Checklist in advance. Prepare for election of officers & two  
        candidates to serve as delegates to NFU Convention. Get business done first.
    Recent NFU Fly-In report, election prospects, & state issues reports will be given.
    If possible, invite local candidates for a short talk and answer questions. 

NeFU District 6 Fall Meeting
Monday, September 21, 2026
6:00 Supper with Meeting to Follow
Pizza Hut, 1781 E 23rd Avenue S, Fremont, NE 68025
President: Paul Poppe (402) 380-4508
Director: Andrew Tonnies (402) 590-7096

NeFU District 7 Fall Meeting
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
6:00 pm Supper with Meeting to Follow
Perkins Restaurant, 1229 Omaha Avenue, Norfolk, NE 68701
President: Keith Dittrich: (402) 990-7570
Director: Art Tanderup: (402) 278-0942

NeFU District 5 Fall Meeting
Tuesday, September 29, 2026
5:30 Supper with Meeting to Follow
DaVinci's Restaurant, 745 South 11th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
President: Amy Svoboda (402) 817-9647 Cell
Director: Ron Todd-Meyer (402) 879-5800 Cell



Trump says 300,000 metric tons of beef will enter U.S. tariff-free

President Donald Trump says the United States will temporarily allow a significant increase in beef imports in an effort to bring down high ground beef prices for American consumers.

Trump announced Friday on Truth Social that the U.S. will allow up to 300,000 metric tons of product to enter the country over the next 90 days without an out-of-quota tariff.

Trump said the beef importers have committed to selling the product at 25% below current market prices.

He says the move will lower prices for working families while giving the domestic cattle herd time to rebuild.



Ricketts Issues Statement in Support of Nebraska Farmers and Ranchers

Friday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement in support of Nebraska farmers and ranchers:

“I appreciate the Administration’s work to lower grocery prices. Short term policy shifts do not equal long term solutions.  Flooding the market with lower quality beef compromises Nebraska farmers and ranchers.  They should be enabled to grow herd sizes and meet consumer demand.”



NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN DISAPPOINTED BY PRESIDENT TRUMP'S BEEF IMPORT STATEMENT

Friday, in response to President Trump's Truth Social post regarding beef imports, Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) President Craig Uden issued the following statement:

“The President’s statement on Truth Social today could not have come at a worse time for producers who are making critical decisions regarding heifer retention and herd expansion. Long-term market stability is imperative for herd expansion, and this type of short-term messaging hinders beef cattle producers by creating uncertainty instead of letting a cyclical market do its job.”



Statement by Mark McHargue, NE Farm Bureau President, Regarding Announcement of Tariff-Free Beef Imports

"Friday's announcement from President Trump unveiling the tariff-free importation of 300,000 metric tons of beef could not have come at a worse time for Nebraska's cow/calf producers. Right now, thousands of Nebraska ranchers are in the process of selling newly weaned calves and Nebraska remains ‘The Beef State’ with over 6.15 million head of cattle located in the state, second only to Texas. Unfortunately, the market's reactions to today's announcement are as troubling as they are predictable. At the producer level, this means lower prices at the time of year when millions of cattle producers are making marketing and herd retention decisions. At the consumer level, given that the United States imports around 2.5 million tons of beef product, most of it being lean trim for hamburger, it is doubtful this influx makes much of a difference on retail prices."

"At the same time, the strength of cattle markets is one of the few bright spots within agriculture, and even with strong prices, Nebraska cattlemen are making tough decisions given severe drought, wildfires, and higher input costs including hay and fuel. Temporary injections of tariff-free beef to ‘maybe’ address higher beef prices only creates short-term pain on feeder calf prices without long-term solutions for cattle producers. Supply and demand aren’t a far-reaching academic concept, it is the real-world scenario our cattle industry finds itself in, and short-sighted government policy only serves to provide long-term damage to an unbelievably complex beef supply chain."  



ICA RESPONDS TO ANNOUNCEMENT ON FOREIGN BEEF IMPORTS

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association President Craig Moss issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s post regarding beef imports:

"President Trump's announcement today about importing foreign beef is extremely disappointing to the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and its members. The President's comments and decisions have created unnecessary market volatility today. The drop in the markets will directly impact their profitability and bottom line, and in turn impacts decisions our producers are making about expanding their cattle herds. We believe the government should avoid intervention and let the market work,” said Craig Moss, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association president. “Members of the Iowa Cattlemen's Association have been reaching out to express their concerns. Just a week ago, many cattle feeders in the state lost one of their marketing options with the closing of Tyson’s Joslin plant; today they are taking another hit with this announcement. What we know is that consumer demand for the high-quality beef raised by U.S. producers has remained strong. Consumers have been willing to pay for beef. Simply put, it is supply and demand economics. Iowa’s cattle industry is uniquely positioned to play a significant role in expanding the nation’s cattle herd. There is no better place to grow than right here in Iowa. We have productive pastureland, forage and feed resources, strong crop and livestock integration, and the infrastructure needed to support that growth.”

As this story continues to unfold, the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association will remain diligent in advocating on behalf of our members and making their voices heard.



NCBA Statement on President Trump’s Truth Social Post

Friday, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Chief Executive Officer Colin Woodall issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s post regarding beef imports: 
 
“NCBA is disappointed by the President’s statement. While America’s cattle producers share the goal of keeping groceries affordable for consumers, flooding the market with government-subsidized, below-market beef is not the way to rebuild the American cattle herd. Cattle markets have already turned sharply lower this morning, to the detriment of farmers and ranchers. This is a critical time of year for cattle producers, as we approach the season where they are making decisions regarding their herds. Cattle farmers and ranchers are responding to strong market signals and historically high demand, and we are already working to rebuild after years of ongoing drought, high input costs and other challenges that have reduced U.S. cattle numbers. Today's announcement and other market interventions throw cold water on the prospect of herd expansion and sacrifices long-term stability for short term messaging.” 



Increased Beef Imports Could Create Long-term Damage

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on President Trump’s plan to import an additional 300,000 metric tons of beef in addition to already record-high beef imports.

“Farmers and ranchers are extremely disappointed to learn that President Trump plans to flood the American market with hundreds of millions of pounds of foreign-raised beef. The U.S. is already importing beef at record levels. This decision would be an unprecedented move and would translate to nearly an additional 60% increase in imports over the next 90 days.

“For almost a year now, we’ve been advising the administration that America’s ranchers are working to rebuild beef herds that had to be sold off due to drought. Despite high beef prices in grocery stores, prices paid to farmers and ranchers for their cattle have fallen sharply over the past two months, and beef packing plants are shutting down across the U.S. Further undercutting a fragile recovery by swamping markets with foreign products and attempting to manipulate prices threatens to wipe out any progress that has been made.

“We appreciate the president’s goal of reducing grocery costs, but short-term measures could have long-term negative effects for consumers and for ranchers who are making decisions on whether to retain or expand their herd. Growing dependence on foreign-grown food could ultimately lead to even higher grocery costs and reliance on other nations for our food security. We urge the president to strongly reconsider his plan.”



NFU Statement on Increased Beef Imports

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew today released the following statement after the Trump administration announced its plan to allow up to 300,000 metric tons of ground beef to be imported into the United States with lower tariffs over the next 90 days.

"Consumers deserve to know where their beef comes from, and American farmers and ranchers deserve credit for raising it. Imported beef is just a handout for monopoly meatpackers, who can mix cheap imported beef with American beef and pocket the difference, with no guarantee consumers ever see lower prices or ranchers see fair ones. Mandatory country-of-origin labeling fixes that: it holds packers accountable and lets the market work honestly for everyone. The Senate Agriculture Committee has already taken steps to advance it. Congress should finish the job and pass this commonsense, bipartisan policy now."



Nigeria Now Open to a Wide Range of U.S. Red Meat Products

In a significant market access win for U.S. agriculture, Nigeria is now open to a wide range of U.S. beef and pork products. While Nigeria previously accepted only a limited number of processed meat items, the USDA Export Library now states that U.S. red meat products can be exported to Nigeria unless they are specifically excluded.

Nigeria still does not accept beef or pork offal or bone-in hams. Smoked, dried and cured beef and pork products are also excluded. But beef cuts and all pork cuts except bone-in hams are now eligible to be shipped to Nigeria, which has the sixth largest population in the world at more than 240 million. It is the third largest economy in Africa, behind South Africa and Egypt.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom said this is an important breakthrough in a market that holds excellent long-term potential for the U.S. red meat industry.

“There are certainly challenges that must be overcome, and it will take some time to gain a foothold in the Nigerian retail and foodservice sectors,” Halstrom said. “But the first step in developing a new market is to secure meaningful access, and USMEF thanks the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative for their persistent efforts to open Nigeria and other promising markets throughout the world.” 



New Management Guides Help Soybean Farmers Combat Rising Nematode Threats

As soybean harvest approaches, farmers have a narrow, high-value window to uncover a hidden yield thief. Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) and other parasitic nematodes can cut yields sharply with no visible symptoms, and fall, right after harvest, is the best time to test soil and find out what's lurking. To help farmers act on that window, the Soy Checkoff is directing growers to the Soybean Nematode Management Guides, a set of science-based tools it helped fund to identify and manage four yield-robbing nematode species.

“Protecting soybean yield starts with knowing what's in your fields, and these guides put that knowledge directly in farmers' hands,” said Laurie Isley, United Soybean Board director and Michigan farmer. “As a farmer, I know how much an invisible pest like SCN can cost you before you ever see a symptom above ground. This is exactly the kind of practical, science-based tool your checkoff investment is meant to deliver.”

Nematode management isn't one-size-fits-all, as several species can infest soybean fields, each with distinct life cycles, symptoms and impacts on yield. Funded by the checkoff and developed by Extension plant pathologists and nematologists, the Soybean Nematode Management Guides provide soybean farmers with science-based tools to soil test and identify nematode infestations, develop tailored management strategies, and recover lost yield potential caused by:
    Soybean cyst nematode (SCN): Known as the No. 1 yield-grabbing pathogen of the soybean crop in North America, SCN causes up to 30% yield loss without demonstrating noticeable aboveground symptoms, leading to annual losses exceeding $1.5 billion.1
    Root-knot nematode (RKN): Another widespread threat, RKN species, including Southern RKN, can cause 25% yield loss in individual fields and is found in most soybean production regions in the U.S.
    Root lesion nematode (RLN): A collection of more than 100 species, RLN's impact on yield extends beyond soybeans. With a broad host range, RLN can also reduce yield in rotational crops, including corn, and lead to recurring economic losses.
    Reniform nematode: A significant pathogen in the southern U.S. for cotton and soybean farmers, reniform nematode can cause more than a 10% yield loss in individual fields.

Research conducted by The SCN Coalition of 271 farmers in southern soybean areas shows roughly 80% of farmers are aware of SCN and RKN, while other nematode species that impact soybean yield, like RLN and reniform, are less understood. When high numbers of these nematodes coincide with drought or other stressful environmental conditions, soybean yield reductions can become even more severe. Other research findings include:
        44% said they scout or conduct nematode soil sampling
        57% rely on aboveground symptoms to diagnose nematodes
        72% rely on crop rotation to manage nematodes
        65% support checkoff-funded research to develop new nematode management tools

“Thanks to efforts from The SCN Coalition, soybean farmers have been exposed to active SCN management messages, but nematode pressure doesn't stop there,” said Dylan Mangel, plant pathologist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “Addressing these lesser-known and still damaging nematode species helps farmers close information gaps and take a more comprehensive approach to protect yield from nematodes. It's also an opportunity for the Coalition to expand its reach and impact.”

While it's impossible to eliminate nematode pressure from an infested field, the Soybean Nematode Management Guides arm soybean farmers with multiple active management strategies shown to effectively reduce plant-parasitic nematodes' impact on yield.

“An integrated approach using multiple active management strategies can keep nematode populations low and protect soybean yield,” said Horacio Lopez-Nicora, soybean pathologist and nematologist at The Ohio State University. “By adopting a proactive, informed management plan and using the practices found in these management guides, farmers can reduce plant-parasitic nematode pressure and help protect soybean yield and overall crop productivity.”

“These management guides are designed with the farmers' needs in mind,” Isley said. In addition to step-by-step soil testing instructions and symptoms identification, the guides include management options like planting resistant soybean varieties, crop rotation, use of nematode-protectant seed treatments and other cultural practices that promote root health. “Along with working with your local agronomic expert, farmers can equip themselves with practices to manage nematode pressure to meet their soybean yield goals.”

Available online and for digital download, the four Soybean Nematode Management Guides are ready for use, putting the power of proven strategies in the hands of soybean farmers and their crop advisors to help actively manage these pests and protect yield.

Visit https://www.thescncoalition.com/field-guides/ to access the Soybean Nematode Management Guides.