Monday October 19 Ag News - Pillen in West Point to Highlight ONE RED - AgCeptional Conference Nov 20 in WP - ARC, PLC Info Meetings Set - Nebraska to Receive $917M in Safety Net, Conservation Payments - Export Exchange Wraps Up in Seattle - and more!

 Pillen Highlights Program to Help Farmers Improve and Protect Water 

Friday, Governor Jim Pillen highlighted one of the opportunities in Nebraska’s ONE RED initiative: the ONE RED Ag Data Bank and Grants Program. He shared details of the program at a news conference held on farmer Scott Knobbe’s property near West Point and was joined by Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) Director Jesse Bradley and Nebraska Corn Board Director of Innovation and Stewardship Rachael Whitehair.

The ONE RED Ag Data Bank and Grants Program has roughly $195 million in funds aimed to provide grants to farmers to adopt new technologies and practices that improve water management, nutrient efficiency, and soil health while improving farm value. Farmers are eligible for these grants after they have enrolled in the state’s secure Ag Data Bank.

“ONE RED Ag is about giving Nebraska farmers more choices, not more mandates,” said Gov. Pillen. “It gives Nebraska farmers a voluntary pathway to access information, technology, financial incentives and trusted local support, all while maintaining ownership of their data and control over their decisions.”

The program is administered by DWEE, and the agency is partnering with the state’s Natural Resources Districts and other local support to roll out the program. These local partners, referred to as Approved Service Providers (ASP), will work with interested farmers during Data Bank enrollment and during the grant application processes.

“NRDs and other ASPs work with Nebraska farmers every day and understand the state does not have one-size-fits-all needs or solutions,” said Dir. Bradley. “We can build on partnerships already in place to expand access to technologies that can help farmers manage nutrients and water more effectively.” 

The ONE RED Ag Data Bank and Grants Program builds on foundation laid by the Governor’s Water Quality and Quantity Task Force, which issued its final report and recommendations in March 2026. The Task Force identified the need to assist farmers with implementing new technology to protect and improve the state’s water resources.

In addition to the Task Force, the ONE RED Ag program also incorporates aspects of the state’s Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) Program. Funded by $1 million from the Nebraska Corn Board, the NUE Program will pay farmers for their efficient use of nitrogen.

“Improving efficiency directly impacts a producer’s bottom line,” said Dir. Whitehair. “Through the NUE program, we’re benchmarking nitrogen use and rewarding farmers already leading in precision application. Feedback from NRD staff and producers will continue to improve this program. The goal is more value from every pound applied while protecting Nebraska’s water.”

Enrollment for the ONE RED Ag Data Bank will open in November. Farmers can express their interest now by sharing their contact information at OneREDAg.com. When enrollment opens, a local ASP will contact those interested to begin the process.

“ONE RED Ag is ultimately about opportunity,” added Gov. Pillen. “We’re investing in Nebraska agriculture because we believe in Nebraska farmers and want to make sure they have the tools and opportunities to succeed for future generations.”




AgCeptional Conference Set for Nov. 20 in West Point

Agricultural producers, rural community members, and others working in agriculture and related industries are invited to attend the 2026 AgCeptional Conference on Friday, Nov. 20, at the Nielsen Community Center, 200 Anna Stalp Ave., in West Point, Nebraska.

The conference will bring participants together for a full day of learning, networking and connection, featuring a keynote presentation, three workshop sessions and opportunities to engage with other participants from across Nebraska and the surrounding region.

Registration and networking will begin at 8 a.m., with the conference opening at 9 a.m. The morning opening session will include the presentation of the Spotlight Award, recognizing an individual who has made a meaningful contribution to agriculture and community, followed by the keynote presentation from Lauren Bondy.

Bondy is a transformational keynote speaker, retreat host and community facilitator who helps people stop shrinking and start showing up fully and unapologetically. Her presentation will address the challenges many rural leaders face today, including burnout, the pressure to prove their worth and questions about whether their work, voice and story still matter. Through relatable storytelling and practical action steps, Bondy helps audiences reconnect with clarity, confidence and purpose.

Following the opening session, attendees will have three opportunities to choose from a variety of educational workshops. The conference offers 12 total workshop options, allowing participants to select sessions that best fit their interests and needs.  

The AgCeptional Conference will conclude with a Shop Small Kickoff beginning at 3:30 p.m., giving attendees an opportunity to support local businesses and continue connecting with others following the conference.

AgCeptional Conference
Date: Friday, Nov. 20, 2026
Location: Nielsen Community Center, 200 Anna Stalp Ave., West Point, NE 68788
Registration: $45 through Nov. 1; $60 beginning Nov. 2; $30 for high school and college students

Organizations interested in sending students, clients or employees can request a custom promotional code to simplify registration. Individuals can register themselves using the organization’s code, and following the conference, the organization will receive an invoice for all registrations made using the code.

Businesses and organizations are also invited to support the conference through sponsorship opportunities. The sponsorship deadline is Oct. 26, 2026.

Additional conference information, workshop details and registration information are available on the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website https://wia.unl.edu/agceptional/.

All attendees are welcome to participate regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status.



WEST POINT AND WISNER-PILGER TAKE TOP HONORS AT FFA NORTHEAST AREA LAND JUDGING CONTEST IN SCRIBNER

The FFA Northeast Area Land Judging Contest was held Wednesday, October 7 in Scribner.  Teams from West Point and Wisner-Pilger High Schools finished in first place.  The event was split into a morning and an afternoon contest, due to the large number of students competing from 27 high schools across the northeast region.  In the morning division, West Point took first place with a top score of 1241 points.  Team members competing were:  Mason Toelle - 326, Riley Kaup - 307, Graidy Tusha - 305, and Jaxon Pierce - 303.  In the afternoon contest, Wisner-Pilger took first place with a top score of 1189 points.  Team members were:  Chesney Ruskamp – 309, Jentrye Frederickson – 306, Ramsey Arduser – 292, and Jacey Dimon – 282.

In the morning contest, Battle Creek placed second with a score of 1073.  Third place went to Lakeview with a score of 1046.  Norfolk came in 4th place with 978.  In the afternoon contest, North Bend came in second with a score of 1104.  Winside was in third place with 1079 points.  Fourth place went to Lyons-Decatur Northeast with a total of 915 points.  The top 8 teams advanced to the State Competition held in Beatrice on October 14.

The top 5 individuals in the morning contest were Mason Toelle, Riley Kaup, Graidy Tusha, Jaxon Pierce, and Austynn Batenhorst – all from West Point.  The top 5 individuals in the afternoon contest were Carter Krause of Winside, Austin Stuenkel of North Bend, Chesney Ruskamp of Wisner-Pilger, Tate Penke of Oakland-Craig, and Jentrye Frederickson of Wisner-Pilger.

The contest was hosted by Muller Farms of Scribner.  The judging site provided good soil diversity and landscape positions.  The contest prepares students for making informed decisions regarding soil utilization in the future.

The 27 schools competing in the contest were:  Arlington, Bancroft-Rosalie, Battle Creek, Blair, Elkhorn Valley, Homer, Howells-Dodge, Lakeview, Laurel-Concord-Coleridge, Leigh, Logan View, Lutheran High Northeast, Lyons-Decatur Northeast, Newman Grove, Norfolk, North Bend, Oakland-Craig, Osmond, Pender, Randolph, Scribner-Snyder, Stanton, Tekamah-Herman, Wayne, West Point, Winside, Wisner-Pilger.

The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Scribner High School, and the Nebraska FFA State Land Judging Committee organized and sponsored the contest.

STATE CONTEST: The Lower Big Blue NRD hosted the State Land Judging Contest in Beatrice on October 14, with 151 students competing from 43 schools across the state.  From the northeast area, West Point finished in 8th place with a total of 1117 points – team members:  Mason Toelle – 304, Riley Kaup – 278, Graidy Tusha – 276, and Jaxon Pierce – 259.  In the individual scores, Dylann Ott from Wisner-Pilger finished in 10th place with a score of 327.




Nebraska Extension, FSA to Hold Meetings on ARC, PLC Enrollment Ahead of Dec. 11 Deadline

A series of in-person meetings across the state will detail 2026 and 2027 Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for farmers and other agricultural professionals. The series is hosted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability and USDA Farm Service Agency in Nebraska.

The election and enrollment period for ARC and PLC for the 2026 crop year is now open through Dec. 11. The 2027 crop year period will be open from Nov. 2 through March 15. 

Both programs are administered by the USDA Farm Service Agency to help offset changes in either revenue or price for specific crops. During the meetings, Nebraska Extension experts and representatives from Nebraska FSA will review what producers need to know as they work with their local FSA office and detail the important factors to consider before an election and enrollment decision.

Schedule and Registration Information:

November 4, 2026
Bridgeport: Nov. 4, 9 to 11 a.m. at the Prairie Winds Community Center, 428 N. Main St. Register online or call Nebraska Extension in Morrill County at 308-262-1022.

Norfolk: Nov. 4, 9 to 11 a.m. at the office of Nebraska Extension in Madison County, 1305 S. 13th St. Register online or call Nebraska Extension in Madison County at 402-370-4044.

Ithaca: Nov. 4, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center, 1071 County Road G. Register online or call ENREEC at 402-624-8000. (Light refreshments sponsored by Farm Credit Services of America)

November 5, 2026
Beatrice: Nov. 5, 9 to 11 a.m. at the office of Nebraska Extension in Gage County, 1115 W. Scott St. Register online or call Nebraska Extension in Gage County at 402-223-1384. (Light refreshments sponsored by Farm Credit Services of America)

Ainsworth: Nov. 5, 10 a.m. to noon at the Ainsworth Conference Center, 606 E. 4th St. Register online or call Nebraska Extension in Brown County at 402-387-2213.

North Platte: Nov. 5, 2 to 4 p.m. at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center, 402 West State Farm Road. Register online or call Nebraska Extension in Lincoln County at 308-532-2683.

November 6, 2026 
Kearney: Nov. 6, 9 to 11 a.m. at the office of Nebraska Extension in Buffalo County, 1400 E. 34th St. Register online or call Nebraska Extension in Buffalo County at 308-236-1235.

The meetings are free to attend but registration is requested by calling the local extension office or signing up on the form https://cap.unl.edu/farmprograms/#register.



USDA Boosts Nebraska Agricultural Economy Through $917.4 Million in Safety Net and Conservation Program Payments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is delivering approximately $917.4 million in farm safety net and conservation program payments to Nebraska farmers, ranchers and landowners. USDA recently announced nationwide historic safety net assistance totaling $13.8 billion in gross payments through the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2025 crop year and an additional $1.8 billion in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) annual payments for 2026.

“These dollars help producers and landowners in Nebraska cover operating expenses, purchase supplies and equipment, and do business with local companies, creating a positive economic ripple effect throughout our rural communities,” said Hilary Maricle, FSA State Executive Director in Nebraska. “It's a tremendous investment in Nebraska agriculture and, collectively, in American agriculture.”

ARC and PLC Working Families Tax Cuts Act Improvements
The Working Families Tax Cuts Act (WFTCA) strengthens ARC and PLC beginning with the 2025 crop year, including higher statutory reference prices and improvements to the effective reference price calculation. Additionally, for the 2025 crop year only, producers automatically receive the higher payment rate of either ARC or PLC, regardless of their program election. The WFTCA also increases the ARC and PLC payment limit from $125,000 to $155,000, starting with the 2025 crop year with annual adjustments based on inflation. The payment limit for the 2025 crop year is $160,000. Nebraska is issuing a total of $832.5 million in ARC and PLC payments for 2025.

The following crops in Nebraska triggered a 2025 ARC or PLC payment in one or more counties: barley, large chickpeas, small chickpeas, canola, corn, dry peas, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, safflower, seed cotton, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat.

Producers receiving ARC and PLC payments are reminded that this does not account for payment limitation reductions and the 5.7% sequestration rate required by statute that will be applied to all ARC and PLC payments. ARC-County (ARC-CO) payments are based on county-level revenue and therefore trigger at the county level. FSA will issue payments to eligible producers as calculations are completed.

Also, the ARC and PLC election and enrollment period for the 2026 crop year opened Sept. 16 and runs through Dec. 11, 2026, and for the 2027 crop year from Nov. 2, 2026, through March 15, 2027.

The WFTCA added an additional 30 million new base acres to farms nationwide. Because eligible acres exceeded the nationwide 30-million-acre cap, FSA applied an across-the- board, prorated reduction of 3.69% to all newly allocated base acres. In Nebraska, 1.9 million additional base acres were added. These additional base acres impact ARC and PLC starting with the 2026 and future crop years, further improving the farm safety net.

Through annual election and enrollment on covered commodities, ARC and PLC protect producers from substantial declines in crop prices or revenues. PLC provides income support when the effective price for a covered commodity falls below its effective reference price. ARC provides income support when actual crop revenue falls below a guaranteed level. Depending on the coverage elected, ARC protection is based on either county-level revenue or the revenue of an individual farm.

Producers with questions about ARC or PLC enrollment or 2025 crop year payments should contact their local FSA county office.

CRP Acres and Impact
CRP payments to agricultural producers and private landowners for 2026 cover almost 2.4 million acres currently under active CRP contracts in Nebraska. FSA will issue $84.9 million for these Nebraska contracts. These annual rental payments are made to eligible landowners who establish long-term, resource-conserving vegetative covers. CRP payments support participating landowners while protecting natural resources, enhancing wildlife habitat and strengthening rural economies.

Grassland CRP continues to play an important role in working lands conservation. Following 2026 enrollment, Grassland CRP is expected to account for more than 40% of all CRP enrolled acreage nationwide including 1.8 million acres in Nebraska, helping ranchers conserve valuable grasslands while maintaining livestock grazing and haying operations. 



Crop Insurance Workshop in Grand Island to Cover RMA Update, Markets and Trade

Crop insurance agents, agricultural lenders and producers can hear directly from USDA’s Risk Management Agency and get a read on markets, trade and weather at Nebraska Extension's 2026 Crop Insurance Workshop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 4 at the BigIron Events Center, 690 E. Stolley Park Road in Grand Island. Registration and coffee begin at 8 a.m.

The program is built for the people who advise farmers and ranchers on risk, including crop insurance agents, lenders, commodity brokers, professional farm managers, crop consultants, grain merchandisers and financial advisers. Producers who want to apply the same information to their own operations are welcome.

Two Risk Management Agency officials are on the agenda. Collin Olsen, director of the agency’s Topeka regional office, will deliver the RMA update, and Ken Selzer, associate administrator of RMA, closes the day with the keynote.

Cory Walters, professor of agricultural economics at Nebraska, will cover the market outlook. Lia Nogueira, associate professor of agricultural economics at UNL, will discuss trade and tariffs. Don Day Jr., president and meteorologist at DayWeather Inc., will walk through current climate trends. William Meade of CropBot.Ai will open the morning with a session on artificial intelligence.

Continuing education credits have been applied for in Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota.

Registration is $115 and rises to $130 five days before the workshop. Cancellations five days out qualify for a 50% refund. Register here https://cvent.me/xmo7Lm or call 402-472-4923. Details and the full agenda are at cropinsure.unl.edu.



Global Supply Surge Presents Both Risks and Opportunities For Expanding Iowa Dairy Industry
Fred Hall, Iowa State University Dairy Field Specialist

Iowa dairy producers are navigating a shifting marketplace as strong international output pushes global milk supply higher, according to data in the October 2026 Ornua Global Dairy Market Report.

Annual global milk production is forecast to grow by 2.2% in 2026 before moderating to a 1.0% growth rate in 2027. Despite recent drought challenges in Europe, resilient flows across key international production regions continue to expand overall supply.

Key Global Market Takeaways:
    U.S. Expansion Holds Steady: Domestic milk output rose 1.7% in July and August, backed by higher milk solids. Annual U.S. supply is projected to grow by 2.2%, driven by strong beef crossbreeding prices and expanding processing capacity.
    International Record Highs: New Zealand output remains at record levels—up 2.4% in volume and 3.4% in solids—due to favorable pasture conditions. South American producers, particularly Uruguay (+12% year-to-date), report sharp gains.
    European Resilience: The EU annual production forecast has been revised back up to +1.9% following stronger-than-expected fall flows in France and Germany, despite localized summer drought losses in Ireland.
    Pricing & Demand Pressures: While skim milk powder (SMP) and cheese posted price gains through September, significant Q4 price surges remain unlikely. Near-term demand growth faces headwinds from inflation, consumer price sensitivity, and cooling export demand.

What Global Trends Mean for Iowa Dairy Producers
As global supplies expand and export demand cools, Iowa dairy operations are uniquely positioned—yet face crucial operational decisions. Recent findings in the Iowa Dairy Industry Report highlight several key structural shifts and strategic impacts for local operations:
    Capitalizing on Regional Processing Expansion: With major regional investments in cheese processing capacity a part of the $13 billon national processing investment, Iowa has climbed into the top 10 dairy-producing states nationally, expanding its herd to roughly 245,000 cows. Local producers can leverage this processing demand to cushion against broader global export slowdowns.
    Focusing on Component Pricing over Pure Volume: As global markets face heavy liquid supply and price sensitivity, revenue is increasingly driven by milk solids (fat and protein). Iowa farms focusing on high-component herds stand to capture substantial premiums offered by domestic processors.
    Managing Margin Squeezes & Input Costs: While softening feed grain prices offer ration relief, non-feed input costs—including fuel, machinery, and milk-hauling—remain elevated. With global milk production increases expected to cap price spikes around $19.85–$20.00/cwt, producers must manage tight operating margins.
    Navigating Tight Heifer Supplies: High beef prices continue to encourage beef-on-dairy crossbreeding. While providing strong short-term revenue, national replacement heifer inventories remain tight, making strategic herd retention and culling vital for long-term farm stability.

Looking ahead, the Ornua report notes that weather disruptions—including potential El Niño impacts—could still introduce volatility into early 2027 supplies. Iowa producers are advised to utilize risk management programs, such as Dairy Revenue Protection (DRP) and Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC), plus optimizing forage strategies to maintain financial resilience.



Council Signs MOU With BioPower Energy, Generating U.S. Corn Demand

Friday at Export Exchange 2026, U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) Chairman Jay Reiners signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with BioPower Energy, a joint venture of Quazar Investment and Petron Scientech that plans to build, own and operate a fully integrated biorefinery in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The MOU signified BioPower Energy’s intention to procure 50 to 100 percent of its feedstock needs from U.S. suppliers with an initial guaranteed minimum floor of one million metric tons (39 million bushels) in purchases annually. 

BioPower Energy Solutions CEO Sameer Salgar signed the MOU with Reiners and U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service Deputy Administrator for Trade Policy and Geographical Affairs Chris Riker observed the ceremony.

“This MOU is an outstanding example of international collaboration that benefits all parties. The Council is proud to be part of this joint effort to promote the continuous and stable growth of U.S. corn purchases while helping provide renewable fuels and reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the UAE and markets around the world,” Reiners said.



Record-Breaking Export Exchange 2026 Draws To A Close

Export Exchange 2026, sponsored by the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC), Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), concluded Saturday with a focus on new products, sustainability and the superior value of U.S. corn.

Export Exchange is a biannual event allowing buyers and sellers of U.S. corn, distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), sorghum and other commodities to network and gain a better understanding of the needs of buyers around the world and the caliber of supply the U.S. provides.

Speakers during the last day of the event illustrated numerous reasons why U.S. commodities offer the best advantage to global buyers and how its scalable and transparent export system provides direct access to satisfy grain needs around the world.

“Whether you’re heading home or out to see the U.S. value chain up close in one of our partner states, we appreciate you spending time getting to know the U.S. commodities we are so proud of. We hope you leave us with no doubt that superiority of U.S. products is just that... superior,” said Ryan LeGrand, USGBC president and CEO.

"This edition of Export Exchange shattered previous records with more than 500 attendees from 48 countries. Your participation demonstrates international understanding of the level of service you get when you buy U.S. grains and their co-products."

Additional concluding presentations included a dive into details about new co-products in the market by Distillers Technology Council Executive Director Joe Ward; a look into how the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) works to expand U.S. agricultural exports with USDA International Trade Specialist Collin Bradley; and a panel discussion about U.S. corn’s superior performance and value moderated by USGBC Manager of Global Strategies and Trade Mark Sevier.

Thirteen trade teams visited key corn value chain stakeholders prior to Export Exchange, and at the conclusion of the conference seven more groups will head out across the country to observe farming operations, explore DDGS production at ethanol plants, view port facilities and more to build their networks with U.S. suppliers.

These groups include:
Bangladesh: heading to North Dakota, Oct. 18-21
China: heading to Texas, Oct. 18-21
China and Mongolia: heading to Kansas, Oct. 18-21
Latin America: heading to Ohio, Oct. 18-21
South Korea: heading to Minnesota, Oct. 18-21
Southeast Asia: heading to Nebraska, Oct. 18-21
Southeast Asia: heading to Indiana, Oct. 18-21

More information is available at reg.eventmobi.com/export-exchange-2026 or on social media at #ExEx26.

Friday October 16 Ag News - Biofuels Roundtable held near Louisville - NeFB-PAC Endorses Candidates - Iowa Farmers Save on Crop Ins w/ Cover Crops - Ethanol Production Hits 4 Week High - Fertilizer Prices Move Higher - and more!

Fischer, Energy Secretary Talk Biofuels with Ag Industry

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) and U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright visited with ag producers from across Nebraska to discuss E15 and the cost of fuel. The roundtable was hosted by the Nebraska Farm Bureau with Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) also in attendance.

“E15 is one of the most direct ways we can provide relief at the pump,” Fischer said. “Secretary Wright understands a diverse energy mix of oil, gas, renewables, nuclear, and biofuels makes the United States stronger and more resilient during market disruptions. I’m glad he had a chance to hear firsthand from Nebraska’s producers about the challenges they face.”

“We held a productive meeting with Nebraska’s farmers where we discussed the Trump administration’s commitment to doing everything we can to lower the cost of energy, including supporting Nebraska’s growing biofuels industry,” Wright said. “It’s no coincidence that in a state with such hardworking Americans and leaders, growth and prosperity are surging.”

Fischer secured a provision in the Farm Bill allowing for the year-round sale of E15. The Farm Bill advanced out of the Senate Agriculture Committee on September 16, 2026.

President Donald Trump has urged Congress to approve the permanent, year-round sale of E15.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Announces Additional Candidate Endorsements, Supports Amendment No. 1

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB), the state’s largest general agriculture organization, has announced additional candidate endorsements for the Nebraska Legislature, public power boards, and a natural resources district board, along with support for Amendment No. 1.

Endorsements made by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) reflect candidates’ positions on agriculture and rural issues and input from Farm Bureau farmer and rancher members. Legislative endorsements also consider recommendations from district evaluation committees.

“Our members look for leaders who listen, understand the challenges facing agriculture, and work to strengthen their communities,” said Katie Olson of Atkinson, chair of NEFB-PAC and first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau. “These candidates recognize that decisions about taxes, electricity, and natural resources directly affect farm and ranch families and the communities where they live and work.”

NEFB-PAC endorsed the following incumbent legislators seeking reelection:
           Legislative District 40 — Barry DeKay
           Legislative District 44 — Teresa Ibach

NEFB-PAC also endorsed the following candidates for public power and natural resources district boards:
           Nebraska Public Power District, Subdivision 2 — Bill Tielke
           Northeast Public Power District, Subdivision 8 — Kevin Connot
           Lower Platte South Natural Resources District, Subdistrict 2 — Mark Patton

In addition, NEFB-PAC supports Amendment No. 1, a constitutional amendment that would extend Nebraska legislators’ term limits from two to three consecutive terms.

“Amendment No. 1 would give voters the option to retain experienced legislators for an additional term while keeping term limits in place,” Olson said. “We believe this change would help preserve institutional knowledge and give lawmakers more time to understand complex issues affecting agriculture and Nebraska’s economy.”

As a reminder, below is the complete list of candidates endorsed by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) for the 2026 general election:

Federal Offices
            U.S. Senate — Pete Ricketts
            Congressional District 1 — Mike Flood
            Congressional District 2 — Brinker Harding
            Congressional District 3 — Adrian Smith

Constitutional Offices
            Governor — Jim Pillen
            Secretary of State — Scott Petersen
            State Auditor — Mike Foley
            State Treasurer — Joey Spellerberg
            Attorney General — Mike Hilgers

Nebraska Legislature
            LD 2 — Dean Helmick
            LD 4 — R. Brad von Gillern
            LD 6 — Patrick Leahy
            LD 12 — Merv Riepe
            LD 14 — Bill Bowes
            LD 16 — Ted Japp
            LD 18 — Taylor Royal
            LD 22 — Dawson Brunswick
            LD 24 — Jana Hughes
            LD 30 — Cally Ideus
            LD 32 — Mark Schoenrock
            LD 34 — Loren Lippincott
            LD 36 — Rick Holdcroft
            LD 38 — Janell Anderson Ehrke
            LD 40 — Barry DeKay
            LD 41 — Joe Johnson
            LD 42 — Mike Jacobson
            LD 44 — Teresa Ibach

State Board of Education
           District 5 — Angie Eberspacher
           District 8 — Lou Ann Goding

University of Nebraska Board of Regents
           District 1 — Jeremy Hosein

Nebraska Public Power District
           Subdistrict 2 — Bill Tielke

Local Races
          Northeast Nebraska Public Power District — Kevin Connot
          Lower Platt South NRD — Mark Patton

Support Amendment 1
          A constitutional amendment to increase term limits from two to three consecutive terms for state legislators.



NWB Announces November Meeting

The Nebraska Wheat Board (NWB) will hold its next meeting Friday, November 20, 2026 at CLAAS located at 8401 S 132nd St Omaha, NE. The meeting will begin at 12:45 PM central time.

During the meeting, the NWB will receive reports from members on committee activities as well as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Nebraska Wheat Growers Association. The board will also hear from the Wheat Foods Council and review and determine travel and participation in upcoming meetings and events.

The public is welcome to attend any open portion of the meeting. Interested individuals may contact the NWB office for a copy of the detailed agenda or for more information.

The Nebraska Wheat Board administers the wheat checkoff at 0.5% of net value of wheat marketed in Nebraska at the point of first sale. The board invests the funds into programs of international and domestic market development, policy development, research, promotion and education.



Secretary Naig Encourages Iowa Farmers to Plant Fall Cover Crops to Save Money on Crop Insurance

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is encouraging Iowa farmers to plant cover crops to improve water quality and soil health while saving money on next year’s crop insurance premiums. Through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s annual Crop Insurance Discount Program, farmers who plant eligible cover crops this fall can receive a $5 per acre discount on their 2027 crop insurance premiums.

The Crop Insurance Discount Program has no cap on the number of eligible cover crop acres that can receive the crop insurance discount. Farmers can plant cover crops this fall and then enroll those acres when the online application window opens December 1, 2026.

“For the past decade, the Crop Insurance Discount Program has provided another way to help farmers save money while putting more cover crops on the land. Farmers can plant now, and then enroll those eligible acres when the application window opens in December,” said Secretary Naig. “We have seen record interest in cover crops this fall, which is very encouraging as we work with farmers and partners to accelerate conservation and water quality progress across Iowa. Farmers have already enrolled nearly 1.4 million acres in our state cover crop cost-share program, more than double the previous statewide record, including more than 340,000 acres in the Greater Des Moines Watershed, which is more than triple last year. We are also encouraged to see many first-time users getting started with cover crops. That kind of momentum is exciting, and we want to keep building on it by giving farmers more options to put conservation practices on the ground.”

The online sign-up period will open Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2026, and close Friday, Jan. 22, 2027. Farmers can learn more about the program and sign up to receive reminders about the upcoming enrollment period by visiting CleanWaterIowa.org/cropinsurancediscount.

The Crop Insurance Discount Program is jointly administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA). To qualify, cover crop acres cannot be enrolled in other Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship or USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cost-share programs. Certain insurance policies, including Whole-Farm Revenue Protection or those covered through written agreements, may be excluded. Farmers should follow all existing farming practices required by their respective policies and work with their crop insurance agents to maintain eligibility.

For a decade, the Crop Insurance Discount Program has offered Iowa farmers an additional incentive to plant cover crops and has become a model for similar programs in other states and at the federal level. More than 2,500 Iowa farmers have enrolled more than 2.1 million acres of cover crops through the program to date.

The Crop Insurance Discount Program is part of Iowa’s ongoing implementation of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy and is one of many programs available to help farmers add conservation practices to their land.

To learn more about conservation and water quality efforts in Iowa, visit CleanWaterIowa.org.



Iowa Farm Bureau to bring 'Roots of Freedom' experience to America's Harvest Festival

Iowa Farm Bureau, a lead sponsor of America’s Harvest Festival celebrating America250, will bring its “Roots of Freedom” Discovery Zone to the Iowa State Capitol on Oct. 24. This interactive experience celebrates Iowa agriculture, recognizes the farmers and agricultural leaders who have helped shape our state and nation and invites visitors to discover the many ways Iowans rely on agriculture every day.

Using special decoder glasses, guests will uncover hidden messages and learn how family farms make many essential everyday products possible. Visitors can also test their conservation knowledge with a hands-on matching game that explores the practices Iowa farmers use to protect the land and water quality. The first 1,000 participants to complete the experience will receive a free “Roots of Freedom” drawstring bag, while supplies last.

“Agriculture is one of the enduring strengths of our nation, sustained by the soil we tend, the food we grow and the people who build for future generations,” said Brent Johnson, Iowa Farm Bureau president and fifth-generation farmer. “With only two percent of Americans making their living farming, America’s Harvest Festival celebrates more than our history. It’s a chance to recognize the people whose work continues to shape our communities and celebrates the spirit of innovation and resilience that has sustained Iowa family farms for generations.”

America’s Harvest Festival will be held from 1 p.m. until dusk and will feature free live music, family-friendly activities, numerous food vendors and more than 70 interactive exhibits and displays. For more information about this free event, visit www.AmericasHarvestFest.com. 




Attendees Arriving For Export Exchange 2026

More than 400 international buyers and end-users of coarse grains and their co-products from more than 50 countries are arriving in Seattle, Wash., this week for Export Exchange 2026, ready to meet with nearly 300 U.S. suppliers and service providers across the value chain.

Co-sponsored by the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC), Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), Export Exchange 2026 offers attendees an unparalleled opportunity to meet and build relationships with domestic suppliers of corn, distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS), sorghum, barley and other commodities.

“U.S. farmers and agricultural producers depend on export markets to maintain strong demand for their products, making each iteration of Export Exchange a crucially important event for the industry at-large,” said Jay Reiners, Nebraska farmer and USGBC chairman.

“The Council strives to be a reliable partner for producers and customers by offering trade teams for buyer groups and by providing technical education to help potential buyers better understand how to procure and use U.S. grains to meet the needs of their country’s consumers.”

In addition to the networking opportunities for international and domestic attendees to build their business connections, the event boasts six general sessions with impactful industry leaders sharing their perspectives on U.S. feed grain quality and global market factors.

Reiners will also sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with BioPower Energy, a joint venture of Quazar Investment and Petron Scientech that plans to build, own and operate a fully integrated biorefinery in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Friday. The MOU will signify BioPower Energy’s intention to procure 50 to 100 percent of its feedstock needs from U.S. suppliers. 

The Council organized 20 trade teams to show international buyers and end-users aspects of the U.S. value chain to strengthen their understanding of U.S. crop quality and logistical safety protocols. Thirteen trade teams arrived in the U.S. before Export Exchange and visited corn-growing states during harvest, explored DDGS production at ethanol plants and viewed port facilities. After the event, the remaining seven trade teams will leave for post-conference tours.



ASA, Ag Groups Push for Ibach Confirmation

ASA, state soybean affiliates, and more than 130 agricultural organizations are urging the Senate to swiftly confirm Greg Ibach as USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. In a letter this week, the broad agricultural coalition called for bipartisan action to fill the critical trade position as farmers face economic uncertainty and continued challenges in export markets.

The letter highlights Ibach’s experience breaking down trade barriers, expanding market access, and promoting U.S. agricultural products. Ibach served as USDA under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs during the first Trump administration and as Nebraska’s longest-serving director of agriculture.

ASA CEO Stephen Censky expressed strong support for Ibach’s nomination in a statement last month, citing his firsthand understanding of farmers’ needs and proven record of advancing U.S. agricultural trade. Censky emphasized the importance of Ibach’s leadership and urged the Senate to confirm him as soon as possible.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 10/9/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending October 9, ethanol production climbed 1.1% to a 4-week high of 1.07 million b/d, equivalent to 44.73 million gallons daily. Output was 0.8% lower than the same week last year but 1.2% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.9% to 1.04 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.96 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks rose 0.8% to 23.9 million barrels. Stocks were 5.8% more than the same week last year and 10.9% above the five-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the Midwest (PADD 2) and West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, fell 4.1% to 8.41 million b/d (129.25 bg annualized), the lowest weekly volume since the end of February. Demand was 0.6% less than a year ago and 5.2% below the five-year average.

Conversely, refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol ticked up 0.2% to 899,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.82 bg annualized. Still, net inputs were 1.7% less than year-ago levels and 1.2% below the five-year average.

Ethanol exports declined 27.1% to a 6-week low of 121,000 b/d (5.1 million gallons/day). It has been more than three years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



UAN32 Leads Fertilizer Prices Higher Again in First Week of October

Average retail fertilizer prices continued to move slightly higher during the first week of October 2026, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. Seven fertilizers were more expensive compared to last month, while the remaining nutrient was slightly lower. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Once again, one fertilizer posted a substantial price increase. UAN32 was 6% more expensive than a month earlier, with an average price of $485 per ton. Six fertilizers were slightly higher compared to a month ago. DAP had an average price of $934 per ton, MAP $979/ton, potash $502/ton, urea $672/ton, anhydrous $977/ton and UAN28 $442/ton. Potash moved back above the $500-per-ton mark for the first time since the second week of August 2024, when it averaged $501 per ton.

The remaining nutrient was slightly less expensive than a month ago. 10-34-0 had an average price of $702 per ton.

On a price-per-pound-of-nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.73/lb.N, anhydrous $0.60/lb.N, UAN28 $0.79/lb.N and UAN32 $0.76/lb.N.

All eight major fertilizers are now more expensive than they were a year ago. DAP is 2% higher; potash and UAN32 are each 4% higher; 10-34-0 and UAN28 are each 5% higher; MAP is 6% higher; urea is 12% higher; and anhydrous is 20% higher compared to last year.



ASI Prepares to Present Lamb Import Injury Testimony to the U.S. International Trade Commission

Today, October 16, 2026, the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) will present testimony documenting the serious injury to American lamb producers caused by lamb imports to the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) at a formal hearing.

America’s lamb producers and processors have faced mounting pressures from rapidly increasing imports, negatively impacting rural communities and domestic food production. ASI, with legal counsel Kelley Drye and Warren LLP and economists at Georgetown Economic Services LLC, collected market data, import trend analysis, and documented financial injury on domestic producers. On July 13, 2026, USTR Ambassador Greer requested that the ITC initiate a new Section 201 safeguard investigation into imports of lamb meat into the United States

Since the ITC’s last 201 investigation on lamb meat in 1999, imports of lamb meat have surged from a share of just over 30% to more than 70% today. This increase has resulted in lost sales, revenues, and market share as imported lamb meat significantly undersold American lamb with low-priced imports, particularly from Australia and New Zealand.

While consumer demand for lamb meat grew from 2020 to 2024, U.S. growers’ production declined during the same period. Imports gained sales and market share at the direct expense of U.S. growers by undercutting American prices.

Last week 68 members of congress signed on to a bipartisan, bicameral letter in support of American lamb growers and processors during this global safeguard investigation. The letter urged the Commission to carefully consider the data and testimony regarding the significant challenges faced by American sheep producers and recommend a remedy providing meaningful relief to American lamb producers and processors.

“American lamb producers and processors have endured years of surging imports that have taken a devastating toll on their livelihoods,” said Mike Michener, ASI executive director. “Tomorrow, ASI will present the cold, hard data demonstrating how increased imports have come at the direct expense of American farmers and ranchers. We believe the evidence makes a compelling case for meaningful safeguard relief that will give American lamb producers the opportunity to compete fairly, rebuild their industry, and secure its future for generations to come.”

Thursday October 15 Ag News - NE Lvst Custom Rates Survey Open - CAP Webinar on PRF Ins - NC Meeting in WP - Carroll Restaurant Named Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin - Milk Production Update - and more!

Nebraska Livestock Custom Rates Survey Open Through Dec. 15

Nebraska producers and service providers who perform or pay for livestock-related custom work can help set the state’s next custom rate benchmarks by completing a survey open now through Dec. 15, 2026.

The Center for Agricultural Profitability at Nebraska conducts the survey every two years and will publish the results in early 2027. Glennis McClure, an extension farm and ranch management analyst who leads the survey and report, said it gives producers, lenders and custom operators a current reference point for what others in their part of the state are charging and paying.

“Nebraska Extension regularly fields questions on prevailing rates for livestock services, and the published ranges and averages are only as good as the number of operations that respond,” McClure said. “That makes participation from across the state’s districts important, particularly from those doing the work and those hiring it done.”

The survey is open to anyone on either side of a custom arrangement. Individual responses are anonymous and confidential. Only district and statewide ranges and averages appear in the report.

The survey is at go.unl.edu/2027CR.

Nebraska custom rates reports are available at cap.unl.edu/customrates. For more information, contact Glennis McClure at gmcclure3@unl.edu or 402-472-0661.



CAP Webinar: Making PRF Insurance Work: Risk Protection Strategies and Performance
Oct 22, 2026 12:00 PM 

Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) Insurance has become an important risk management tool for livestock producers facing increasing precipitation variability. This presentation examines how PRF insurance works, evaluates alternative coverage strategies, and analyzes historical performance across Nebraska. Using examples from Nebraska grids and recent state and national program data, the presentation provides practical insights into using PRF insurance to manage forage production risk and increase financial resilience.

Presenter: Jay Parsons, Professor, Farm and Ranch Management Specialist and Director of the Center for Agricultural Profitability

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



Nebraska Cattlemen to Host Feedlot Council Meeting in West Point

Nebraska Cattlemen is inviting feedlot operators to a series of meetings next month to discuss industry policy, market outlooks and production issues. TaraLee Hudson, director of producer relations and engagement, says the meetings are open to current members, prospective members and former members.
 
Meetings are scheduled November 10th in West Point, November 11th in McCool Junction and November 12th at North Campus in Curtis. Meals begin at six p.m., followed by speakers.

Attendees are asked to RSVP to Hudson by October 30th. She can be reached at 402-200-9856 or email thudson@necattlemen.org.



Wasted Grain Named Iowa's Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin
    
Wasted Grain in Carroll serves Iowa's best breaded pork tenderloin this year, according to the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA). The restaurant rose to the top of 464 restaurants nominated by Iowans this spring, then beat four other finalists to win IPPA’s 2026 Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin contest, announced during National Pork Month, better known as Porktober. 

    2026 Winner: Wasted Grain, Carroll — receives $500, a plaque, and an outdoor banner 
    Runner-up: Friends Hide-A-Way, Underwood — receives $250, a plaque, and an outdoor banner  

IPPA will present the award to Wasted Grain today at noon at the restaurant,1235 Plaza Drive in Carroll. 

A hometown favorite, recreated 
This year’s winning sandwich started as a memory. Co-owner Cory Handlos remembers eating tenderloins at Darrell's Place in Hamlin, a famous diner that won IPPA's inaugural tenderloin contest in 2003. For Handlos, it set the standard. Now, more than two decades later, the tenderloin it inspired has earned the same title. 

When Handlos and his wife, Missy, opened Wasted Grain on Mother's Day 2023, he knew the tenderloin had to be on the menu, and he knew how he wanted it to taste. 

"I've traveled around the country all my life, harvesting and farming, and I know what good food is," said Handlos, whose family raises pigs near Audubon. "I wanted that here at Wasted Grain. The pork tenderloin definitely had to be on the menu." 

The Wasted Grain team worked with him to recreate the tenderloin he remembered. Within the restaurant's first year, the recipe was set. 

Tasting the pork, not just the breading 
The key to the recipe was simple: tenderize the pork once instead of twice and add a couple of extra ounces of meat. Tenderizing twice made the cutlet wide and thin, so a bite was mostly bun and breading. Wasted Grain's version is still big enough to hang off the bun, but each bite balances bun, breading, and pork. 

"Otherwise, you're tasting breading, you're not tasting the pork," Handlos said. "Appearance matters too, so it still sits out past the bun. But the main thing is tenderizing it once to get the meat in the bun." 

That balance is exactly what the judges look for, and it stood out to them. 

“A lightly golden-brown breading with a moist and very tasty pork flavor, this breaded pork tenderloin hits the spot,” said Phil Carey, a finalist judge and retired chef and culinary instructor. “A very enjoyable sandwich to eat.” 

Each tenderloin is hand-breaded in the restaurant’s small kitchen using a recipe the team keeps under wraps. For the Wasted Grain team, getting it right comes down to care and consistency, whether it’s the tenderloin or anything else they serve.  

"We'd rather put out a good product and cook it the right way," said Jordan Hunter, general manager. "If we hear something isn't right on any item on our menu, we keep working on it until it is. That's what we did with the tenderloin, and we had no idea it would lead to this." 

How the contest works 
The contest begins each spring when Iowans nominate restaurants that serve a hand-breaded or hand-battered pork tenderloin on their regular menu. Eligible restaurants must keep regular, year-round hours. Food trucks, concession stands, seasonal businesses, and caterers can't compete. This year, Iowans submitted nearly 6,000 nominations for 464 restaurants across the state. 

After nominations closed June 1, IPPA's tenderloin committee selected the top 40 restaurants, including the top five from each of IPPA's eight districts. Pork producers then visited each one undercover, scoring pork quality, flavor, appearance, and overall experience. The five highest-scoring restaurants became finalists, and a final panel of judges, including a pork producer, a chef, an industry representative, and a food influencer, visited each one to choose the winner and runner-up. 

Wasted Grain's owners didn't campaign for the title. They shared the nomination link once on Facebook and say they had no idea they'd made the top five until the phone started ringing. 

One fan is celebrating, too. Sienna Becker of Carroll nominated Wasted Grain last spring and was randomly selected from those who nominated the winning restaurant. She won IPPA's $100 nomination prize. 

Customers have already driven up to three hours to try the sandwich. If last year is any guide, the attention will keep growing: 2025 winner Hometown Heroes in Grinnell saw its tenderloin sales increase 20 times after winning. 

This year's other restaurant finalists were: 
    Landmark Grill & Grind — Williamsburg 
    Sasquatch Jacks Hideaway Barroom & Grill — Waverly 
    Tin Roost — North Liberty 

Wasted Grain joins recent winners: 
    Hometown Heroes — Grinnell (2025) 
    Dairy Sweet — Dunlap (2024) 
    Cliff's Place — Manning (2023) 
    Lid's Bar & Grill — Waukon (2022) 
    Complete list of winners and finalists since 2003 

Celebrate at Pork Fest 
Wasted Grain is turning its annual fall festival into Pork Fest on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the restaurant. The celebration includes a mechanical pig ride, inflatables, pig-themed games, and live music. 

Starting at 4 p.m., the kitchen will serve only breaded pork tenderloins with a topping bar and sides. Diners can build their tenderloin however they like. 

With Iowa leading the nation in pork production, there's no better place to celebrate this hometown favorite.  

“We’re proud to keep Iowa’s breaded pork tenderloin tradition going strong,” said Kelsey Sutter, director of marketing programs at IPPA. “But it doesn’t stop there. From restaurant favorites to quick weeknight dinners to slow-cooked classics, pork is an easy, flavorful and affordable protein for families any time of day, all year long.” 



Upper Midwest Dairy Update: Production Rises as Global Expansion Puts Pressure on Commodity Prices
Fred Hall, ISU Extension Dairy Field Specialist

Milk supplies across the upper Midwest continue to trend higher, reflecting a broader national and international growth wave. According to recent dairy market data, world milk production is expanding at its fastest pace in over a decade, driven by robust output from the United States and European exporters.

Between January and August, the world’s five largest dairy exporters—the European Union, United States, New Zealand, Argentina, and Australia—pumped out nearly 211 million metric tons of milk, a 2.9% increase compared to the first eight months of the previous year. The U.S. has contributed nearly two-thirds of this recent growth.

Locally, the recent Dairy Market News reports milk supplies across the Central region and upper Midwest are steady to slightly higher, with spot loads of milk remaining readily available. Processing facilities are actively taking in heavy contracted cream volumes, while cream multiples soften nationwide. Despite persistently low butter prices—with CME Group cash Grade AA butter closing at $1.2750—regional butter manufacturers report that churns remain active and production holds steady. Inventories of 80% butterfat remain heavy, whereas 82% butterfat stocks are notably lighter.

In regional cheese markets, milk supplies are sufficient to support steady production. However, inventories of bulk and spot cheese remain heavy, keeping the overall market tone steady to weak. Spot Class III milk traded from $1.00-under to $4.00-over class. Cheese makers highlight strong interest in mozzarella and provolone, alongside mixed domestic demand and export sales influenced by ongoing freight and diesel costs.

Overall, surging global supplies of butterfat and cheese are keeping dairy commodity prices under pressure. CME spot Cheddar blocks and international cheese prices remain roughly 17% lower than a year ago, while CME spot butter has fallen 22% over the past 12 months. Upper Midwest producers are encouraged to monitor local basis levels and processing demands closely as global trade dynamics continue to shape regional markets.



Grants Announced to Support Specialty Crop Production in Iowa

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has awarded 13 Specialty Crop Block Grants to support education and outreach, research, and market development that benefits Iowa’s specialty crop producers, including Choose Iowa members.

“Specialty crop producers are finding new ways to grow, diversify and create value right here in Iowa, and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship wants to help continue that momentum,” said Secretary Naig. “These Specialty Crop Block Grants support research, education and outreach that spur innovation and help Iowa’s specialty crop producers tap into new markets. Not only do these investments strengthen our state’s agriculture-based economy, but they also provide more opportunities for consumers to buy Iowa-grown, Iowa-made and Iowa-raised food, beverage and horticultural products.”

Annual funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grants is authorized by the Farm Bill and provided through a partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). This year, Iowa received more than $435,000 through the federal grant program, and the funding will be distributed to the following grant recipients:

Iowa Specialty Crop Growers Association*
2027 Iowa Specialty Producers Conference

Iowa State University
Managing Soil pH for Iowa Specialty Crops

Iowa Valley Resource Conservation and Development
Alternative Farm Food Safety Assessments for Wholesale Customers

Iowa State University
Viral Threats to Iowa Apple Production: A Comprehensive Virome Survey of Malus Domestica

Iowa State University
New Shrubs for Iowa's Nursery Industry to Diversify the Landscape in the Upper Midwest

Iowa State University
Optimizing Fermentation of Iowa Specialty Fruits to Expand Value-added Opportunities

Practical Farmers of Iowa*
Cover Crops for Weed Suppression in Specialty Crop Systems

Iowa Wine Growers Association
Iowa Wine Growers Association Annual Conference

Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation
The Buzz About Bees: Pollinators and Specialty Crop Connections

Lutheran Services in Iowa*
Expanding Iowa's Access to Naturally Grown Vegetables and Farmer Market Opportunities

Iowa State University
Effects of Pre-harvest Conditioning on Sod Establishment under Deficit Irrigation

Iowa State University
Supporting Producers in Navigating Loans, Grants, and Funding Opportunities: Cultivating Capital, Train the Trainer and Producer Trainings

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Choose Iowa Grown Specialty Crop Products Campaign to Increase Consumer Awareness and Consumption of Local Iowa Agricultural Products



Dept. of Energy’s New 45Z Process Recognizes Biofuel Plant Innovation

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a new process for fuel producers to petition for an individual evaluation of their fuel production pathways when they are not covered by existing default carbon intensity (CI) rate tables. Because a plant’s CI score directly impacts its potential 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, the process creates an opportunity for producers to demonstrate how investments and innovations at their facilities are improving efficiencies and lowering CI scores.

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw issued the following statement:

“One size does not fit all. Today’s action by the DOE is good news for biofuel producers. While default values are a good starting point, they don’t tell the whole story. IRFA members are constantly innovating and investing in ways to lower their CI scores. Individual plants need an opportunity to demonstrate the improvements happening inside their plants and have that innovation rewarded.”



FFAR Research Explores New World Screwworm Vaccine 

To address the ongoing threats from New World screwworm, the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) and Medgene are investing $499,996 in a Rapid Outcomes from Agricultural Research (ROAR) grant to develop and test a vaccine that could help protect cattle from this harmful parasite.

Why it matters: New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of livestock, wildlife, pets and humans. Infestations can be severe and potentially fatal. Female flies can lay up to 400 eggs at a single site, and with a life cycle of about 15 days, the parasite can spread rapidly without effective controls.

“New World screwworm infestations can rapidly cause severe tissue damage and can be fatal within seven to 14 days if left untreated. The parasite threatens more than $100 billion in U.S. economic activity tied to the cattle and livestock industry alone,” said Dr. Jasmine Bruno, FFAR scientific program director. “We urgently need multiple tools to protect cattle and other vulnerable livestock. A vaccine could provide a critical additional layer of protection while complementing existing control efforts.”

The research: Led by Dr. Casey Wright, bacteriology development manager at Medgene, researchers are developing a vaccine that targets proteins New World screwworm larvae need to feed and develop. The goal is to trigger antibodies in vaccinated cattle that interfere with the larvae’s ability to feed on tissue and complete their life cycle.

Using Medgene’s scalable vaccine production platform, the team is vaccinating cattle, assessing safety and measuring their immune response to determine whether the vaccine should advance to field studies.

“This project is another great opportunity for Medgene to partner with FFAR and demonstrate how our platform technology can be leveraged to rapidly support the U.S. livestock industry with emerging threats,” said Dr. Wright. “With this project, we are excited to help veterinarians in the fight against New World Screwworm, just as we have done with other parasites.”

The potential: If successful, the vaccine could give producers another tool to protect cattle and limit New World screwworm’s spread. A vaccine could be particularly valuable in extensive production systems, where livestock are dispersed across large areas and frequent monitoring and treatment can be challenging. The approach would complement the sterile insect release program and other control measures by preventing larvae from successfully feeding and developing in cattle.

This research supports U.S. Department of Agriculture's research priority on Protecting the Integrity of American Agriculture from Invasive Species.

FFAR’s ROAR program rapidly funds research and outreach in response to emerging or unanticipated threats to the U.S. food supply or agricultural systems.



USDA Launches Export Grain Inspection Dashboard 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) Wednesday announced the launch of the Export Inspection and Weighing Dashboard, a new public facing visualization tool that modernizes how official U.S. export grain inspection volumes are reported to industry and the public.

FGIS currently publishes weekly export and weighing data through static reports posted to the AMS website. The new dashboard provides producers, grain handlers, exporters and other industry stakeholders with an easy-to-use, graphical interface that simplifies complex export grain inspection data, offering clearer insight into export pace, seasonality, regional performance and international market reach.

With this new tool, users can access:
    Interactive visualizations of weekly export grain inspection and weighing volumes
    Filtered views for calendar year, market year, grain type, and destination
    Year-over-year comparisons and multi-year trend analysis
    Quantity of export grain inspected and from which individual export port regions
    An intuitive global view of the U.S. grain export landscape

By presenting export grain inspection data in a clear, accessible and visually compelling format, the Export Grain Inspection Dashboard will improve decision-making for farmers, exporters, grain handlers, trade associations and policy partners. Publication of this dashboard aligns with USDA wide modernization goals and supports FGIS’s mission of providing transparent, reliable export reporting for the U.S. grain industry.



Education is a Cornerstone at CattleCon 2027
 
The cattle industry is constantly changing and the future rewards those who prepare. Stay ahead of market and industry shifts by attending CattleCon 2027, in downtown Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 2-4, with business meetings beginning Feb. 1. Education remains a cornerstone of the largest cattle industry event of the year, and CattleCon 2027 has a lot to offer.

“Invest in your future by attending CattleCon 2027,” said Gene Copenhaver, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association president. “Industry experts offer valuable insights that you can apply to your business, and the variety of education sessions provides you with practical information you can use to get ahead of what’s next.”

For more than 30 years Cattlemen’s College, sponsored by Zoetis, has provided cattle producers with valuable information to help improve their herds and businesses. This premier educational experience is open to all CattleCon 2027 attendees.

Cattlemen’s College educational sessions and live animal handling demonstrations cover a variety of important topics including business management, emerging trends, grazing, nutrition, herd health, succession planning, genetics and reproduction. Leading experts including Don Close, Terrain; Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University; Shannon Ferrell, Oklahoma State University; Troy Rowan, University of Tennessee; Kim Stackhouse-Lawson, CSU AgNext; and George Perry, Texas A&M University, among others, will share information that producers can use to make management decisions.

Carey Lohrenz, the first female F-14 Tomcat Fighter Pilot in the U.S. Navy, will headline the Cattlemen’s College general session on Wednesday, Feb. 3. The aviator and author will share her fascinating experiences operating in one of the world’s most challenging environments – an aircraft carrier.

Cattlemen’s College classroom sessions will be recorded and available for registered attendees to watch when they return home. Participants also have the opportunity to attend an in-person Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training and become certified. A new addition to the Demonstration Arena is a trailer where attendees can watch loading and transportation BQA principles in action.

In addition to Cattlemen’s College, there are numerous educational opportunities available on the NCBA Trade Show floor. Cattle Chats features 20-minute beef industry educational sessions. Attendees can also stop in the Learning Lounge to enjoy informal, face-to-face talks. A new trade show feature, Corral Conversations, takes learning to the next level during in-depth discussions with industry experts. The Marquee Stage also returns featuring a variety of speakers tackling topics such as reproductive technologies, vaccination programs, ag lending and crop protection.

Following CattleCon, the educational opportunities continue with a Grazing Management Workshop & Tour and Agricultural Tour on Friday, Feb. 5 available for an additional fee. These on-farm tours provide unique hands-on experiences for participants.

Cattle producers attending Cattlemen’s College are eligible for the Rancher Resilience Grant, which provides reimbursement for one full registration. For more information and to apply, visit www.ncba.org/producers/rancher-resilience-grant.

Stay ahead of what’s next and register today for CattleCon 2027 at https://convention.ncba.org/. 



Greeneye Technology Establishes North American Headquarters in Salina, Kansas Following Record 2026 Season

Greeneye Technology, a global leader in AI-powered targeted spraying technology, today announced it is establishing its North American headquarters in Salina, Kansas. The investment follows a 2026 season of expanded commercial use: Greeneye-equipped machines have sprayed more than 500,000 acres across 12 U.S. states with a weed detection accuracy rate of over 98%. Use of the system’s unique dual-line design achieved an average non-residual herbicide savings of 81%, saving an estimated six million gallons of chemical across field operations.

Greeneye’s 2026 season also marked significant progress in crop compatibility and strategic relationships. The Greeneye system now supports eight crop types: corn, soybeans, cotton, edible beans, wheat, barley, triticale, and sorghum—with oats, sugar beets, peanuts, and canola slated for introduction in 2027. The company also expanded its channel sales network, announcing the addition of new dealer partners, with more to follow in the coming months.

“Growers are seeing targeted spraying deliver measurable results on their fields,” said Nadav Bocher, CEO and Co-Founder of Greeneye Technology. “The conversation has shifted. More growers are asking how they can add targeted spraying to their operations, rather than if they should. The momentum we saw in our 2026 season shows why this is the right time to expand our North American presence and build the infrastructure to support the next stage of growth.”

The Salina headquarters will increase Greeneye’s capacity to serve its growing North American customer base, expand its team, and advance its technical roadmap. The company selected Salina for its location near growers in the agricultural heartland, access to land for product development testing, transportation routes, and proximity to university talent. The decision was supported by a broad coalition of civic, economic development, and business leaders who worked together to showcase the region as a place where the company could build, hire, and scale for the long term.

“Salina puts us close to the growers and agricultural communities we serve, with the space and connections to keep building,” said Keith Crow, General Manager for North America at Greeneye Technology. “We’re excited to grow our team here and explore opportunities to work with Kansas State University and the wider academic community. This headquarters gives us the ideal base for supporting customers and continuing to improve our technology portfolio.”

Greeneye’s AI-powered targeted spraying system uses computer vision and machine learning to instantly identify weeds and apply non-residual herbicide only where needed. Its dual-tank, dual-line configuration allows operators to broadcast residual herbicides while targeting non-residual herbicides in the same pass. The technology can be installed on existing commercial sprayers, giving growers an opportunity to adopt targeted spraying without replacing their equipment.

“We’re excited to welcome Greeneye Technology to Salina’s business community,” said Mitch Robinson, Executive Director of the Salina Economic Development Organization. “Greeneye is bringing proven advanced agricultural technology to a community that understands both farming and the work required to build and support equipment at scale. We look forward to helping the company grow its team and connections here.”

“Kansas is the heart of American farming and a crossroads for agricultural innovation and growth,” said Mike Beam, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture. “Greeneye’s decision to establish its North American headquarters in Salina brings new opportunities for collaboration while helping growers put practical technology to work in their fields.”

The company plans to begin hiring immediately, with an official ribbon cutting ceremony and opportunity to visit the facility slated for early next year. 

Wednesday October 14 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Info - CVA Returns $5.4M+ Thru Equity Redemptions - EPA Proposal for RVO Reallocation - Cover Crop, Manure Mgt Workshop in LeMars - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress: Harvest Gains Momentum, Still Behind Average

After weeks of wet weather, Nebraska producers made significant harvest progress with 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Oct. 11. However, soybean harvest remains well behind its usual pace, and corn harvest is also trailing normal. Winter wheat planting is nearing completion at 81%, only slightly behind the five-year average.

Topsoil moisture supplies rated 7% very short, 18% short, 59% adequate and 16% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 12% very short, 22% short, 55% adequate and 11% surplus.

Field Crops Report

Corn
    Mature: 91% — equal to the five-year average.
    Harvested: 27% — behind the five-year average of 35%.
    Condition: 5% very poor, 15% poor, 32% fair, 36% good and 12% excellent.

Soybean
    Dropping leaves: 95% — behind the five-year average of 97%.
    Harvested: 26% — behind 55% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 3% very poor, 11% poor, 31% fair, 42% good and 13% excellent.

Winter Wheat
    Planted: 81% — behind 85% for the five-year average.
    Emerged: 48% — behind 59% for the five-year average.

Sorghum
    Mature: 77% — behind 84% for the five-year average.
    Harvested: 17% — behind 30% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 6% very poor, 15% poor, 37% fair, 37% good and 5% excellent.

Pasture and Range 
    Condition: 26% very poor, 21% poor, 28% fair, 24% good and 1% excellent.

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

Editor’s note: Year-ago comparisons are unavailable because USDA NASS did not release Crop Progress reports during this period in 2025 due to a lapse in federal funding.




Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 5.5 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Oct. 11, 2026. Topsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 23 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 6 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 22 percent surplus. 

Ninety-five percent of corn has reached maturity, which is on par with the five-year average. Fourteen percent of corn has been harvested, which is 20 percentage points behind the five-year average. Corn condition rated 71 percent good to excellent. 

Ninety-four percent of soybeans are dropping leaves, which is 2 percentage points behind the five-year average. Thirty-one percent of soybeans have been harvested, which is 28 percentage points behind the five-year average. Soybean condition rated 69 percent good to excellent. 

Pasture condition rated 72 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

A week of dry weather helped farmers advance corn and soybean harvests, though both remained slightly behind the five-year average, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Tuesday. The report, which is normally released on Mondays, was delayed this week due to the Columbus Day holiday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn mature was pegged at 91%, steady with the five-year average.
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 33% of corn had been harvested nationally as of Oct. 11, 6 percentage points behind the five-year average of 39%. 
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 56% of the crop remaining in fields was in good-to-excellent condition, 2 percentage points higher than the previous week's 54%. Seventeen percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, 1 percentage point below the previous week's 18%.

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 92%, 2 percentage points behind the five-year average of 94%.
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 46% of soybeans had been harvested as of Sunday, 4 percentage points behind the five-year average of 50%. 
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 57% of soybeans were in good-to-excellent condition, steady with the previous week.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting was estimated at 51% complete nationally, 7 percentage points behind the five-year average of 58%. 
-- Crop development: Winter wheat emerged was estimated at 27%, 5 percentage points behind the five-year average 32%.



CVA Returns $5.47 Million to Member-Owner Through Equity Redemptions

The Central Valley Ag (CVA) is returning $5.47 million to patrons through revolving and age-based equity redemptions approved by the CVA Board of Directors.

The total includes $4.17 million in revolving equity redemptions for equity earned in 2014 and approximately $1.3 million in age-based equity redemptions to eligible patrons.

“Returning equity is an important part of delivering value to our member-owners and recognizing their continued investment in the cooperative,” said Nic McCarthy, CVA president and CEO. “Their support allows CVA to continue investing in the cooperative while returning value when our financial performance allows.”

As an owner of CVA, a member’s business is returned in the form of cash patronage or reinvested into the cooperative as equity. That equity is then used to strengthen and improve the cooperative’s ability to serve its members. When the cooperative performs well, the board may vote to issue revolving equity redemptions, providing cash back as a return on the member’s investment in the cooperative.

Age-based equity provides another opportunity for CVA to return value to eligible patrons. The $1.3 million in age-based equity included in this redemption is qualified and non-taxable.

“As a cooperative, our strength comes from the members we serve,” said Luke Carlson, CVA board chairman. “These redemptions are another way we can recognize that support while continuing to build a strong cooperative for the future.”

Revolving equity may be qualified or non-qualified, which will be indicated on the check stub. Qualified revolving equity will be nontaxable in the 2026 tax year, while non-qualified equity will be taxable.

When combined with expected patronage for the fiscal year ending Aug. 31, 2026, which is set to be paid in November 2026, CVA will continue to return significant value to its patrons. Investments made on behalf of members, along with their continued utilization, help strengthen the cooperative and its ability to serve member-owners into the future.



HUSKER RESEARCHERS EXPLORE HIDDEN NITROGEN, NEW WAYS TO REDUCE GROUNDWATER RISK
(updated with correct funding amount)

A University of Nebraska–Lincoln research team has received a three-year, $496,722 National Science Foundation grant to investigate an understudied reservoir of organic nitrogen that may shape groundwater quality long after nitrogen management strategies are in place. A separate five-year, $570,000-plus award from the Nebraska Corn Board will help the researchers evaluate approaches that may proactively reduce nitrate risk before it reaches groundwater.

Clean groundwater is vital to drinking water supplies, agriculture and rural communities, but nitrogen contamination remains a persistent challenge. About four out of five Nebraskans drink groundwater. Much of it sits beneath some of the most productive agricultural land in the world. Nitrogen fertilizer is a critical crop nutrient; however, when it leaves the root zone, it becomes a loss to the farmer and a concern for drinking water.

The puzzling part is what happens when nitrogen management practices are improved. Nitrate levels in some Nebraska wells continue to rise, even years after modern nutrient strategies to reduce excess nitrogen use have been implemented. A research team based at the Nebraska Water Center thinks the explanation lies in historical nitrogen stores buried in the deep vadose zone between the surface and the water table. The two new awards will support collaborative efforts to better understand these underground processes and evaluate proactive solutions.

Nebraska Water Center researchers have studied the vadose zone for four decades to understand how nutrients, including nitrogen, move from the land surface to the groundwater. The vadose zone is a critical region for the storage, transport and transformation of chemicals that can affect groundwater quality.

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient present in many forms and is applied as a fertilizer to crops like corn. While these plants take up the nutrients they need, any remaining nitrogen can convert into mobile nitrate. However, the process of particular interest to the Husker research team is if this mobile nitrate may react with soil carbon through microbes to become bound as organic nitrogen in the deeper soil layers. This reaction could potentially act as a slow-release reservoir that gradually breaks down and generates new nitrate years later in the deep vadose zone, moving toward the groundwater.

Nebraska Water Center researchers have found that organic nitrogen accounts for a large majority of total nitrogen stored in Nebraska’s deep vadose zone. While most studies of that underground nitrogen reservoir measure nitrate, the research team measures everything else, too.

“Most of the nitrogen down there isn’t nitrate at all,” said Arindam Malakar, assistant research professor at the Nebraska Water Center and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, who leads the new project and is part of the School of Natural Resources. “It’s organic nitrogen, locked in forms nobody has been counting. It can break down slowly and may keep making new nitrate long after the fertilizer is gone.”

In conjunction with the NSF funding, the research team is also investigating a novel nitrate remediation approach currently under development. The goal is reducing the amount of nitrate in the vadose zone that becomes a groundwater contaminant, entering drinking water sources and creating challenges for communities and well owners. The Nebraska Corn Board, through corn checkoff funds, has supported the project “Remediation of Nitrate Plume Within the Vadose Zone, Being Proactive to Protect Groundwater Quality,” with more than $570,000 across five years, subject to the board's annual proposal review and approval.

“The primary reason we want to do it is to reduce the cost of treating water,” Malakar said.

Rather than treating water after it reaches the aquifer, the work focuses on nitrate while it is still held in the vadose zone above the water table, which is expected to be more efficient and economical. Preliminary estimates suggest the approach could be less expensive than current water treatment processes that cities and communities use to treat groundwater to safe levels for drinking water.

Initial controlled laboratory studies have shown promising results. Researchers will next evaluate the approach across soil conditions representative of different landscapes across Nebraska and assess effectiveness, repeatability, environmental safety, feasibility and regulatory considerations before any potential field deployment.

Malakar said the appeal of the approach is timing.

“By the time you see nitrate in a well, the decision that put it there was made a long time ago,” he said. “Once it’s in the aquifer, you’re paying to take it back out.”

Malakar envisions a future where the technology is deployed across Nebraska, reducing the amount of nitrate in the vadose zone that becomes a contaminant in the groundwater. That is several years out and contingent on results at every stage, from laboratory experiments to controlled field testing. But if it works, the project’s success could reduce the treatment burden on communities that rely on groundwater.

To meet the research team and learn more about its vadose zone research, visit https://go.unl.edu/vadosestory.



Cover Crop and Manure Management Field Day To Be Held in Le Mars Nov. 3

Iowa Learning Farms will host a cover crop and manure management field day as part of their “Beyond the Basics: Advanced Cover Crop Series” in Le Mars on Tuesday, Nov. 3, from noon to 2 p.m. The event is open to farmers and landowners at no cost and includes a complimentary meal.

“Cover crops play a key role in ensuring healthy land and water resources in our state. Although livestock manure can add another moving piece, it also offers an opportunity to diversify nutrient sources needed for crop production,” said Mitch Harting, water outreach specialist with Iowa Learning Farms. “This field day will offer more insights into how cover crops and manure can be used together to maximize their benefits.”

The field day will feature Leah Ten Napel, field agronomist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, who will share the important role cover crops play on the landscape and how they can be integrated into a corn-soybean system. Daniel Andersen, associate professor and extension manure management specialist with Iowa State, will discuss how manure can be integrated into systems with living cover. The field day will also feature Tony Schroeder, local farmer and Plymouth County Soil and Water Conservation District commissioner, who will share about his experiences using cover crops and manure on his farm.

The field day will begin at the upper level of the Le Mars Convention Center, located at 275 12th St SE, Le Mars. It will continue at the Tony Schroeder Farm, located on the corner of K64 and 230th St. 

The event is open to farmers and landowners, though reservations are required to ensure adequate space and food. For reasonable accommodations and to RSVP, please contact Harting at 515-294-8912 or ilf@iastate.edu by Oct. 27. Attendees will be entered in a drawing for Iowa State Prairie Strips honey.

Iowa Learning Farms field days and workshops are supported by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. For more information, visit Iowa Learning Farms website https://www.iowalearningfarms.org/.  



ISA Welcomes EPA Proposal for Full Biofuel Reallocation

The Iowa Soybean Association Tuesday welcomes the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to fully reallocate renewable fuel volumes lost to 2025 small refinery exemptions under the federal Renewable Fuel Standard. Protecting the historic renewable fuel volumes established in the 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligation rule is critical to sustaining domestic biofuel demand and supporting Iowa soybean farmers as they navigate ongoing economic pressures and seek stronger markets for their crops.

“We thank Administrator Zeldin and the Trump administration for signaling their commitment to farmers by proposing to restore 100% of biofuel demand lost to 2025 small refinery exemptions,” said Lee Brooke, ISA president and soybean farmer from Clarinda. “Iowa farmers are navigating a challenging farm economy while bringing in this year’s crop. This proposal offers the potential for greater certainty and much-needed domestic demand for soybeans if finalized later this year. We’re encouraged by this step forward and urge the EPA to finalize the rule swiftly to help provide the market certainty farmers need.”



Iowa Corn Growers Welcome EPA Proposed  Ethanol Rule

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) thanks the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Trump Administration, and our champions in Congress for their support of Iowa’s corn farmers and the biofuels industry. Yesterday, Iowa Corn leaders met with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to ask for reallocation so biofuel demand would not be harmed.  Iowa Corn has worked for years pointing out to current and past administrations the negative impact of small refinery waivers.  Iowa Corn first pointed this out in a White House meeting in 2019 that small refinery waivers should be reallocated, so no harm is done to corn growers.  With a long road behind us, today, Administrator Zeldin announced a proposed rule that would reallocate 100 percent of the 2025 waived small refinery exemption volumes to the renewable fuel volume requirements.

ICGA President Steve Kuiper a farmer from Knoxville issued the following statement: “Iowa’s corn farmers welcome the EPA’s proposals to provide reliable opportunities for market access. As farmers harvest, we prove year after year that we can deliver a bountiful crop. The Trump Administration and EPA are sending a strong market signal that energy independence matters, while supporting farmers and biofuels producers.”

Iowa Corn requested that EPA finalize a proposed rule streamlining regulations around ethanol including E15 usage in existing infrastructure and supporting opening new markets in the marine industry such as maritime fuel.  Iowa Corn appreciates EPA Administrator Zeldin’s time he took to visit with Iowa farmers. 



IRFA Applauds EPA Draft Rule to Fully Reallocate Lost RFS Volumes From Refinery Exemptions

Tuesday, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin released a draft rule that fully reallocates volumes lost due to refinery exemptions (SREs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), marking an important first step toward ensuring the integrity of the RFS providing greater certainty for farmers and biofuel producers.

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw issued the following statement:

“Biofuels producers and farmers will sleep easier tonight knowing that the draft reallocation rule is moving quickly towards finalization. Today is a great first step, and we thank Administrator Zeldin and the EPA for sending a strong signal to farmers and biofuels producers that these gallons matter. Fully reallocating the lost gallons will ensure the robust 2026-2027 RFS blending levels remain intact, thereby supporting Iowa’s biofuels plants and providing the market certainty our industry needs to keep growing. We appreciate EPA’s action and look forward to submitting comments during the process. We hope the rule can be finalized expeditiously.”



ASA Backs EPA Proposal for Full Biofuel Reallocation

The American Soybean Association welcomes the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to fully reallocate renewable fuel volumes lost to 2025 small refinery exemptions under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Maintaining the historic renewable fuel volumes established in the 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligation rule is a priority for ASA as soybean farmers work to protect domestic biofuel demand amid continued economic pressures.

“ASA applauds Administrator Zeldin and the Trump Administration for keeping their commitment to farmers and proposing to restore 100% of biofuel volume impacted by 2025 small refinery exemption actions,” said ASA Vice President Dave Walton, an Iowa soybean farmer. “Soybean farmers are navigating a tough farm economy, and the administration’s strong domestic biofuel policies will continue to drive much-needed market demand in the U.S. We are encouraged by today’s proposal and urge EPA to get it across the finish line quickly.”

ASA urges EPA to finalize this supplemental rulemaking to reallocate biofuel volumes as quickly as possible.



Corn Farmers Thank EPA for Reallocation Announcement

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Tuesday that it is proposing to reallocate 100% of the difference between projected and actual exempted gallons lost to small refinery exemptions in the 2025 renewable volume obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard. In response to this development, Matt Frostic, Michigan corn farmer and NCGA president, released the following statement: 

"We are pleased to see that the administration has kept its pledge to protect farmers and biofuel producers while administering this critical program, and we appreciate that biofuel producers will be kept whole with the reallocation of all waived volumes.  

“Biofuels provide essential energy supplies for our nation, and corn farmers are proud to contribute to our nation’s energy security. We hope that the Renewable Fuel Standard and the small refinery exemption program are managed with certainty in the years to come."  

NCGA will submit comments to EPA ahead of the December 4 deadline. 



Stagnant Cutout Values
David Anderson, Extension Specialist – Texas A&M University

While cattle prices have declined sharply since July, the Choice boxed beef cutout value has seen little movement. The cutout value represents the value of the seven primal beef cuts in the proper proportion of the carcass. Cutout values are often used as a good representation of the wholesale value of the beef carcass. 

The Choice cutout declined from $397 per cwt the week before the July 4th holiday to $363 per cwt by the first week of August. Declining cutout values in the weeks following Independence Day are the normal seasonal price pattern. Cutout values tend to increase leading up to Labor Day, and they did this year, climbing back to a weekly average of $388 by late August, although the expected Labor Day price rally was muted. The Choice cutout has since remained in a range between $374 and $379. While the cutout remains at historically high levels, it has been below last year’s Labor Day surge. So, comparing to last year’s price levels is a bit misleading in that last September’s $413 per cwt price peak was a record high, except for two weeks in May 2020 when COVID shut packing plants. 

Among the primal cut values that make up the cutout, the primal rib is the only one climbing in value and hitting new highs for the year. The Choice Primal Rib value hit $667 for the week of October 2nd. The rib normally increases seasonally up to the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Wholesale ribeyes appear to be starting their pre-holiday run, with wholesale prices increasing almost $200 per cwt in the last 4 weeks to $1665 per cwt. 

Most of the rest of the primal cuts, round, brisket, plate, and flank, have been declining in value as they often do seasonally. The decline in the primal flank value has been especially striking, down 27 percent compared to a year ago and 36 percent lower than its peak in June. Flank values normally decline into fall, but this year’s decline has been much larger than normal. Primal chucks have averaged about $330 per cwt since early 2026. 

Where to From Here?
The Choice beef cutout tends to decline slightly in the fall. Beef production normally increases, and changing consumer purchases result in lower prices. This fall, continued tight beef supplies should keep the overall cutout value historically high. Given the normal seasonal pattern, it is difficult to see sharply higher cutout values boosting cattle prices.