Monday October 26 Ag News - Cattle on Feed, Cold Storage, Red Meat, & Milk Prod Reports - LENRD Meeting Recap - Main Street Index Drops - NE Sheep and Goat Conf Preview - NASS Error on NE, KS Corn - and more!

United States Cattle on Feed Down Slightly
    
Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.4 million head on October 1, 2026. The inventory was slightly below October 1, 2025. The inventory included 7.07 million steers and steer calves, up slightly from the previous year. This group accounted for 62 percent of the total inventory. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.30 million head, down 1 percent from 2025.

On Feed, by State      (1,000 hd  -  % Oct 1 '25)
Nebraska .........:      2,550          100        
Iowa ................:        670           97      
Kansas ...........:      2,380           99     

Placements in feedlots during September totaled 1.78 million head, 12 percent below 2025. Net placements were 1.73 million head. Placements were the lowest for September since the series began in 1996. During September, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 360,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 260,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 385,000 head, 
800-899 pounds were 422,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 255,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 95,000 head.

Placements by State  (1,000 hd  -  % Sept '25)
Nebraska .........:      490            84          
Iowa ................:       70            92            
Kansas ............:      420            90        

Marketings of fed cattle during September totaled 1.52 million head, 7 percent below 2025. Marketings were the lowest for September since the series began in 1996. Other disappearance totaled 49,000 head during September, 4 percent below 2025.

Marketings by State  (1,000 hd  -  % Sept '25)
Nebraska .........:      400            90      
Iowa ................:       68            92     
Kansas ............:      350            89       



USDA September 2026 Cold Storage Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers on September 30, 2026 were down 1 percent from the previous month but up 3 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were down 1 percent from the previous month and down 1 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were down 1 percent from the previous month but up 9 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were down 12 percent from last month but up 7 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on September 30, 2026 were down 2 percent from the previous month and down 5 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were up 2 percent from the previous month but down 5 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were down 9 percent from last month and down 5 percent from September 30, 2025.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on September 30, 2026 were down 1 percent from the previous month but up 2 percent from September 30, 2025. Butter stocks were down 5 percent from last month but up 16 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks on September 30, 2026 were down slightly from last month and down 3 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were up 17 percent from last month and up 3 percent from a year ago.



Commercial Red Meat Production Down 4 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.32 billion pounds in September, down 4 percent from the 4.51 billion pounds produced in September 2025.

Beef production, at 2.04 billion pounds, was 6 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.30 million head, down 7 percent from September 2025. The average live weight was up 14 pounds from the previous year, at 1,447 pounds.

Veal production totaled 1.7 million pounds, 13 percent below September a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 7,900 head, down 15 percent from September 2025. The average live weight was up 8 pounds from last year, at 359 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.27 billion pounds, down 3 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.6 million head, down 3 percent from September 2025. The average live weight was up 1 pound from the previous year, at 287 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 9.8 million pounds, was down 5 percent from September 2025. Sheep slaughter totaled 176,000 head, 5 percent below last year. The average live weight was 109 pounds, unchanged from September a year ago.

By State      (million lbs.  -  % Sept '25)
Nebraska ......:     616.7         96       
Iowa .............:     753.6        100       
Kansas .........:     477.4        106       

January to September 2026 commercial red meat production was 38.9 billion pounds, down 2 percent from 2025. Accumulated beef production was down 5 percent from last year, veal was down 23 percent, pork was up slightly from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 9 percent. 



July-September Milk Production up 2.3 Percent

Milk production in the United States during the July - September quarter totaled 59.5 billion pounds, up 2.3 percent from the July - September quarter last year. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.72 million head, 39,000 head more than the April - June quarter, and 172,000 head more than the same period last year.

Q3 Milk Prod by State (mil. lbs. - % Sept '25)
Nebraska ............:       307.0         0.7      
Iowa ...................:     1,527.0         1.3      



LENRD Board approves funding for water projects

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors conducted their October meeting last week and approved the use of funding to move important water projects forward.

The first water related project up for discussion was the consideration of a Scope of Work provided by Long Spring Consulting to conduct a Stream Depletion Sensitivity Analysis for the LENRD’s Groundwater Model. In preparation for the calculation of the next increment of available depletions for the Lower Platte River Management Plan the Nebraska Department of Water Energy and Environment (DWEE) will be using the model to calculate stream depletion factors and boundary locations within the LENRD.

LENRD General Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “There’s a need to better understand and refine the stream depletion analysis to resolve these issues before producing a more reliable final delineation of hydrologically connected areas within the LENRD.”

The primary objectives of this work are to:
• conduct a sensitivity analysis of streambed hydraulic conductivity to address the noise and mass-balance issues observed in the current depletion results;
• analyze the relationship between evapotranspiration and stream depletion in the flagged areas of the model; and
• analyze the pumping layer assignment used in the cycle-well analysis.

District staff offered the recommendation to utilize locally budgeted funds to facilitate this work, but it was decided by the Board to accept the Scope of Work, contingent on the commitment of 50% of the cost from DWEE. Bruckner indicated that he would contact the Director, Jesse Bradley, to ask for financial commitment from DWEE on behalf of the LENRD.

Also discussed, and approved, was the acceptance of a funding agreement between the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) for the implementation of the Village of Craig Regionalization Project. The village approached the Logan East Rural Water System (LERWS), (which is owned and operated by the LENRD), several years ago requesting the option of connecting to LERWS. After several years of effort, a grant funding offer was provided in the amount of $1.5 million which can be used to offset expenses incurred by LERWS in facilitating the connection. The Board authorized the General Manager to sign and accept the agreement on behalf of the LENRD. Bruckner added, “While there are still many important decisions and steps that lie ahead, the availability of these funds is crucial in ensuring that this endeavor can move forward to the next level.”

In other business, the LENRD accepted a bid from Trees Are Us in Hemingford, NE to purchase a new tree planting unit for $9,500, which will be used to replace an older unit. The Board also approved the 2027 meeting schedule, making one change via an amendment to the schedule initially presented by staff.



Supply Chain Disruptions Push Rural Mainstreet Index Lower
Ag Equipment Dealers Under Financial Stress

According to the October survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) sank below growth neutral for the fifth time in the past six months.  Readings range between 0 and 100 with 50.0 representing growth neutral.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for October fell to 42.5, the lowest reading since July of this year and down from 44.7 in September.

“Supply chain disruptions stemming from the Iran conflict have produced record high prices for diesel fuel and fertilizer, pushing the overall index lower. Almost half of bank CEOs expressed backing for federal farm support programs, such as the recent $8 billion program announced by President Trump,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Farming and ranchland prices: For the fifth time in the past six months, the farm and ranchland price index climbed above growth neutral. The farm and ranchland index increased to 50.3 from 50.1 in September.

“Farm and ranchland values have been holding up much better than farm and ranching income, due to a more positive long-term economic outlook for U.S. agriculture,” said Goss.

Bankers were asked to name the top non-farmer, non-rancher investor in local farmland. Overwhelmingly, 65% of bankers named local investors, composed of 25% retired farmers/ranchers and 40% other local business investors.

Farm equipment sales: The October farm equipment sales index increased to a weak 36.8 from September’s 25.0.

“This is the 38th straight month that the equipment sales index has fallen below growth neutral. Approximately, 28% of bankers named local agriculture equipment dealers as bearing the greatest financial stress from weakness on the farm/ranch economy,” said Goss.

According to trade data from the International Trade Association (ITA), regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first eight months of 2026 were $7.6 billion, compared to the same period in 2025 of $7.3 billion, for a gain of 3.6%. Even with the expansion, 2026 regional exports of agricultural goods and livestock were 2.8% below 2024 for the same period. A 60.4% slide in the 2024-26 export of agriculture and livestock to China was the prime factor accounting for the 2024-26 export slump.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The state’s Rural Mainstreet Index for October dropped to 31.6 from September’s 43.3. The state’s farm and ranchland price index for October fell to 39.4 from September’s 48.6. Nebraska’s new hiring index slumped to 41.6 from 48.0 in September. According to trade data from the ITA, Nebraska exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first eight months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, slumped by $178.2 million for a 20.1% fall. The greatest downturn in Nebraska ag exports was to Canada with a 28.7% drop from 2025 to 2026. 

Iowa: October’s RMI for the state rose to 47.6 from 44.6 in September. Iowa’s farm and ranchland price index for October increased to 55.4 from 50.0 in September. Iowa’s new hiring index for October climbed to 57.6 from 49.4 in September. According to trade data from the ITA, Iowa exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first eight months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, expanded by $124.8 million for a 9.9% gain. The greatest upturn in Iowa ag exports was to Mexico with a 12.3% gain from 2025 to 2026.

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



Nebraska Sheep and Goat Producers Annual Conference Set for Nov. 6–7 in North Platte

Sheep and goat producers will have an opportunity to learn from fellow producers, Extension specialists and industry professionals during the Nebraska Sheep & Goat Producers Annual Conference, Nov. 6–7, 2026, in the North Platte area.

The two-day conference combines producer tours with educational sessions addressing many of the management and marketing decisions facing sheep and goat operations. Topics include livestock marketing, sheep and goat meat markets, feeder lamb nutrition, feeding ewes and does before kidding, risk management, animal health, fly and lice control, production systems and marketing.

The conference begins Friday, Nov. 6, with two producer tours. The first stop, at 1 p.m., will be Nebraska Prime Lamb LLC near Hershey, operated by the Monheiser family. The second tour begins at 3 p.m. at Back to Grass Nebraska near Brady, operated by Steve and DeAnn Vaughn. Their operation uses holistic and rotational grazing practices and has been rebuilding after the Cottonwood Fire affected their ranch, fencing, stored hay and livestock.

Friday concludes with the Nebraska Sheep and Goat Producers annual meeting at 5 p.m. at Pals Brewing/North Platte Stockyards.

Saturday's program begins with breakfast at 8 a.m. at North Platte Stockyards. Educational sessions include Randy Fisher discussing factors that help producers market their livestock; Jennifer Lutes, University of Missouri Extension, discussing who buys sheep and goat meat; and Ryan Spurling, South Dakota State University, presenting programs on feeder lamb nutrition and feeding ewes and does before kidding.

Additional presentations will cover risk management protection for sheep and goats, Pipestone production systems, testing for OPP/CAE, Johne's disease and Q fever, and fly and lice control. David Boxler with Nebraska Extension will address fly and lice control in sheep and goats. The afternoon will also include a marketing panel featuring producers and industry representatives.

Saturday activities will take place at North Platte Stockyards and the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center, 402 W. State Farm Road in North Platte. The program is scheduled to conclude at 4:30 p.m. with evaluations and drawings.

Registration for Nebraska Sheep & Goat Producers members is $40 in advance or $50 at the door. Non-member registration is $90 in advance or $100 at the door

For more information, contact Melissa Nicholson at ne.sheep.goat@gmail.com or 308-386-8378. Registration is available through the Nebraska Sheep & Goat Annual Meeting Registration page.

The Nebraska Sheep & Goat Producers Annual Conference provides producers an opportunity to see local operations, hear from specialists and fellow producers, and gather information they can apply to livestock production, management and marketing decisions. 



NEFB Hosts Thune, Ricketts, and Flood in Washington County

The farm of Washington County Farm Bureau members Greg and Patti Hoegermeyer was the site of roundtable last week focused on growing Nebraska's cattle herd, as well as other agricultural issues. The event was hosted by Nebraska Farm Bureau and the Nebraska Cattlemen featuring Senate Majority Leader John Thune (SD), Senator Pete Ricketts, and Congressman Mike Flood. The event was largely focused on Sen. Ricketts' "Rebuild the American Cattle Herd" plan, which provides nine policy proposals to build the U.S. cattle herd and protect producer profitability. Congressman Flood also provided an update on his work supporting a new Farm Bill and boosting biofuels production in Nebraska. It was a great opportunity to hear from Leader Thune discuss his efforts in the One Big Beautiful Bill to largely exempt agriculture from federal estate taxes and his work to get a new Farm Bill to President Trump's desk.



Trump Puts Year-Round E15 in the Spotlight During Sioux City Visit

Last week, President Donald Trump reaffirmed his support for permanent, year-round E15 during a rally in Sioux City, bringing renewed attention to an issue that remains a priority for Iowa’s renewable fuels industry. Speaking to supporters at Sioux Gateway Airport, Trump highlighted his Administration’s emergency waiver easing nationwide summer E15 sales and said he wants to make that access permanent.

“We also gave Iowa an emergency waiver to sell E15 all year round. And with Ashley in the Senate, we will make it year-round E15. We’ll make it permanent. We’ll get it done, right,” Trump said. Link

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) says the next step is turning that commitment into permanent, nationwide access so consumers, retailers and fuel producers can plan for the future without relying on temporary waivers.

“It's encouraging to hear the president reaffirm his commitment to year-round E15, but we need Congress to pass legislation removing the unnecessary barrier to summer E15 sales,” said Monte Shaw, Executive Director of IRFA. “Iowa has already seen the benefits of expanded E15 sales, and consumers in every state deserve consistent access to lower-cost, American-made E15. We have the ethanol, we have the demand and we have the support to move this forward. Congress needs to get it across the finish line and make year-round E15 available nationwide.”

With the expansion of E15 access in Iowa, sales have been setting records. 2026 E15 sales are on track to set a record by a massive margin to the point where E15 may displace E10 as the number one selling fuel during the year.



Corn Growers Respond to NASS Report Correction

The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) announced today that it corrected corn data in its September 2026 Crop Production report, following concerns raised about the October 9 Crop Production Report. NASS indicated it found a processing error that affected September corn plant populations, ear counts, yields, and production for Kansas and Nebraska. In response to these developments, Matt Frostic, Michigan farmer and National Corn Growers Association president, released the following statement:  

“Recent reports by NASS have cost corn growers BILLIONS of dollars in market value, at a time when profit margins were already marginal, at best, and the cost for fuel and other inputs are at all-time highs. Corn prices dropped in conjunction with the release of recent reports and have only continued to drop. An error of this magnitude is unacceptable, and only further erodes farmer confidence in the agency’s ability to produce statistically sound and accurate reports.  

“NASS needs to seriously examine the processes and procedures that led to this mistake and take immediate action to prevent it from occurring again. We are anxious to meet with the service to understand their plans for improvement and how they intend to rebuild farmer confidence in these reports.”  



Scott Outlines Priorities For Checkoff’s Next Chapter

Corey Scott began her tenure as president and CEO of Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) with a focus on strengthening relationships across the industry, keeping the checkoff relevant to consumers and building on opportunities to grow demand for U.S. dairy.

Scott began her new role Oct. 12, succeeding Barbara O’Brien, who is retiring after 25 years with DMI, including five years as president and CEO. Scott shared her priorities during the 2026 Joint Annual Meeting of the United Dairy Industry Association, the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board and the National Milk Producers Federation, held Oct. 20-21 in Kissimmee, Fla.

The meeting brought together more than 730 dairy farmers and industry representatives under the theme “U.S. Dairy: Committed. Resilient. Ready.”

Scott emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication with farmers and importers, and hearing what is going well, what is challenging and what they want to see from the checkoff.

“Very early in my career, I had the opportunity to engage with dairy farmers, and they welcomed a young lady from the East Coast who knew nothing about agriculture to their kitchen tables, to talk about their way of life – the good, the bad and the ugly,” Scott said.

“It’s still about that kitchen table. What I ask of you going forward is that you continue to share with me what’s impacting your life, what’s going well, what’s challenging and the

things we do that you like or don’t like. I’m here to represent you and all of your neighbors.”

In response to a farmer’s question about what she hopes to accomplish, Scott outlined three goals for the next three years.

Her first is for every farmer and importer to understand and confidently explain at least one valuable element of how checkoff dollars are spent. She wants farmers to be able to share that information with their local boards and neighbors and explain how national checkoff work complements the efforts of local, state and regional organizations.

“I want your neighbors to be able to hear it, understand it and believe in it,” Scott said.

Her second goal is to make DMI a great place to work, with employees who understand the organization’s purpose and are passionate about serving farmers and importers through promotion and research.

Scott’s third goal is to increase dairy consumption.

“I want every person who can consume dairy to be consuming one more serving a day,” she said.

Scott highlighted the importance of understanding what consumers want from food and recognized factors such as taste, texture, clean labels and protein. She said these elements are “natural to dairy” and used a hockey analogy to emphasize the need for having a vision for the checkoff.

“Are we going to where the puck is, or are we going where the puck is going?” she asked. “And that’s a question that I’m hopeful, in three years, I can stand up here and say, ‘We are going where the puck is going.’”

Building on Strong Foundation
O’Brien’s leadership helped guide DMI’s work and she is confident in Scott and the organization’s ability to continue serving dairy farmers and importers.

“Every CEO inherits an organization, and every CEO has the responsibility to leave it stronger,” O’Brien said. “This is not a story about what one CEO accomplished. It is a story about what farmers have built over decades and our readiness for what comes next.”

O’Brien emphasized the importance of aligning checkoff investments around shared priorities, measuring results and directing farmer and importer resources toward the opportunities with the greatest potential.

“Every dollar has an opportunity cost,” she said. “Every new investment means something else receives less. And as the opportunities grow larger, our choices become even more important.”

Marilyn Hershey, a Pennsylvania dairy farmer and chair of the DMI Board of Directors, said the checkoff remains committed to conducting research, promotion and collaboration across the dairy industry.

Reflecting on the meeting’s theme, Hershey said DMI’s leadership transition represents an important step in continuing that work. She welcomed Scott to the role and expressed confidence in the organization's future.

“Corey, welcome. We are very excited for this next chapter of DMI,” she said.

Hershey also emphasized the importance of continuing to invest in dairy research and promotion, particularly as farmers face changing market conditions and the industry expands processing capacity to meet growing demand.

“The importance of our promotion dollars working remains as critical as ever,” Hershey said.

O’Brien closed her remarks by thanking farmers, the DMI staff, researchers, health professionals, customers and industry partners who will carry the checkoff mission forward.

“To the farmers (and importers) across this country who invest in the checkoff, whether you’ve been in a checkoff meeting or not – thank you,” O’Brien said. “You give this organization its purpose.”



99th National FFA Convention & Expo Brings Nearly 73,000 to Indianapolis, Setting the Stage for the 100th in 2027

The 99th National FFA Convention & Expo welcomed 72,907 FFA members, advisors and supporters to Indianapolis last week for four days of celebrating achievements, exploring careers and serving the host community. This year’s theme, “Evolve, Engage and Empower,” reflected an organization that has grown alongside agriculture for nearly a century and now includes more than 1.05 million student members.

National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization with 9,591 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. FFA transforms the lives of middle and high school students through a combination of hands-on agricultural education, work-based learning, and leadership and life skills development.

“This week, we watched our members do more than earn recognition,” said Christine White, chief program officer of the National FFA Organization. “They lifted each other up, shared what they’ve learned and gave back to the community. As we head into our 100th year, it’s clear the future of agriculture is in capable hands. These students will carry what they experienced in Indianapolis back to their chapters and communities, and that’s where the real impact begins.”

Throughout the event, more than 13,500 students and teachers attended 154 workshops at the Indiana Convention Center. Those included 115 student workshops with 12,747 attendees and 39 teacher workshops with 788 attendees. At the National FFA Expo, members explored more than 350 careers in agriculture. 

Members also put leadership into action through service. More than 3,200 delegates and students served at 27 local nonprofits across the greater Indianapolis area as part of the convention’s Days of Service. 

The Chapter Connect program also brought together members from rural, suburban and urban communities to learn from one another.

On stage at Lucas Oil Stadium, members were recognized for the work they’ve done in their classrooms, chapters and communities. A total of 5,818 American FFA Degrees, the organization’s highest honor, were awarded. Another 236 Honorary American FFA Degrees went to individuals who have supported FFA and agricultural education. Members and chapters were also recognized for individual and collective achievements throughout the week.

During the final session of the convention, the 2026-27 National FFA Officers were elected. This team of six will lead the organization into its centennial year:
    Josie Jennings of Ohio was elected national president. She is a member of the Global Impact FFA Chapter.
    Cameron Addington of Minnesota was elected national secretary. He is a member of the Cannon Falls FFA Chapter.
    Aiden Manley of Kentucky was elected eastern region vice president. He is a member of the Menifee County FFA Chapter.
    Joshua Nelson of Idaho was elected western region vice president. He is a member of the Troy FFA Chapter.
    Jazmin Palma of North Carolina was elected southern region vice president. She is a member of the Uwharrie Charter Academy FFA Chapter. 
    Teagan Erbele of North Dakota was elected central region vice president. She is a member of the Napoleon FFA Chapter. 

The convention brings an estimated $42 million in economic impact to Indianapolis each year. The National FFA Convention & Expo will continue to be held in Indianapolis through 2040.

The 100th National FFA Convention & Expo will take place in Indianapolis from Oct. 27-30, 2027. The national convention in 2027 will kick off a yearlong celebration honoring a full century of premier leadership, personal growth and career success through FFA. Visit convention.ffa.org for more information about the next convention, and visit www.ffa.org/100th-anniversary to learn how FFA is celebrating the past and inspiring the future.



Trump Administration Announces $5 Billion SPUR Guaranteed Loan Program to Expand Processing for American Ranchers and Fishermen

Friday, President Donald J. Trump announced the launch of the America First Seafood Strategy (PDF, 8.5 MB) and several actions the Trump Administration is taking to support the American seafood industry. Among these actions is the announcement that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making at least $5 billion available in loans through the Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers (SPUR) Guaranteed Loan Program to expand, improve, and diversify the processing capacity of American meat, poultry, and seafood.

“From our crabbers in Alaska, to the lobstermen in Maine, to the great shrimpers in the Gulf of America, our nation is blessed with incredible men and women who work to bring this bounty to our plates. The Trump Administration has recognized their incredible efforts and is working to provide all the necessary tools for them to succeed with our America First Seafood Strategy,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “Today’s announcement expanding funding opportunities for seafood processing from USDA highlights our commitment to building out the resources needed for American seafood products to be readily available for consumers. We look forward to continuing to serve American fishermen through the USDA Office of Seafood we created earlier this year, building on President Trump’s America First vision.”

Earlier this year, President Trump signed Executive Order 14424, Promoting Fair Competition in Livestock Markets and Expanding Market Access for American Meat Producers, to support American ranchers by reducing barriers to processing their product for sale to consumers. As directed in the Executive Order, USDA is taking actions to establish the SPUR Guaranteed Loan Program for small and regional beef processors to help continue operations, expand their footprint, and increase diversity of animal proteins being processed.

Additionally, President Trump signed Executive Order 14276, Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness, that directed the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, to develop and implement an America First Seafood Strategy to promote production, marketing, sale, and export of American seafood and strengthen domestic processing capacity.

In addition to supporting implementation of these two Executive Orders, the launch of the SPUR Guaranteed Loan Program is another step USDA is taking to support small, independent, and regional meat and poultry processing plants and advance the Rancher First Initiative announced last month that puts American ranchers back at the center of our nation’s food supply.

Further, the inclusion of seafood processing in the SPUR Guaranteed Loan Program is an important step towards integrating the seafood industry into USDA programs following the creation of the USDA Office of Seafood earlier this year.

The SPUR Guaranteed Loan Program will provide a 90 percent loan guarantee to commercial lenders, enabling them to offer financing to eligible borrowers to expand, improve, and diversify their processing capacity for American meat, poultry, and seafood. The maximum amount that a borrower may receive is $175 million and loans under this program may allow for a two-year deferral of principal and interest payments.

This program will be available to federal and state-chartered banks, savings and loan associations, farm credit banks with direct lending authority, and credit unions. The organizations eligible to apply to these lenders for a guaranteed loan are businesses, nonprofits, cooperatives, Indian tribes, and state and local government organizations.

For more information about the SPUR Guaranteed Loan Program, please contact your local USDA Rural Development office. To apply for this program, lenders can follow the instructions at https://www.rd.usda.gov/onerdguarantee.



Secretary Rollins and NASA Administrator Isaacman Sign MOU to Advance USDA Data Modernization Plan

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator Jared Isaacman last week signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and NASA that will strengthen USDA’s data quality and help ensure that American farmers and ranchers benefit from and have access to cutting-edge technologies.

Effective immediately, both Departments will work together to guide cooperation on integrating Earth observation, geospatial analytics, and statistical methodologies in support of agricultural statistics and aligned with USDA’s ongoing data and technology modernization efforts.

“American farmers are the best in the world and deserve any solution we can leverage, even when it is out of this world. I am proud to announce that USDA will now work with Administrator Isaacman and NASA to utilize the full power of technology, research, and development to fortify U.S. agriculture,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “With this unprecedented partnership the Trump Administration is committing to a bright future of research and tech opportunities that will enhance USDA acreage and yield estimation and drive profitability for American agriculture.”

The partnership between the two Departments is long-standing, but new opportunities to improve crop performance for Earth and space-based goals were initiated in December 2025, when President Trump issued Executive Order 14369, “Ensuring American Space Superiority.” At that time, NASA and USDA began to explore creative new ways to improve American and global agriculture, observe the environment, and contribute to better human health.

“NASA develops some of the most advanced sensing, computing, and analytical capabilities in the world, and we should put those tools to work wherever they can deliver meaningful outcomes for the American people,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “By combining NASA’s Earth observation data and technical expertise with USDA’s knowledge of American agriculture, we can improve the information available to farmers and ranchers, strengthen our understanding of crop conditions and natural hazards, and pursue new high-risk, high-reward ideas that advance both science and American competitiveness.”

The scope of cooperation under this MOU may include, but is not limited to, agricultural statistics, remote sensing science, modeling, geospatial data engineering, and super intelligence/machine learning (SI/ML) supported by the participants. As priorities evolve, additional areas of cooperation may be identified.

Areas of cooperation include:
    Mission/Data Alignment: Regular technical exchanges to align USDA statistical requirements with NASA Earth science missions and data products (e.g., satellite observations, model outputs, and derived geophysical variables).
    Data Access & Infrastructure: Discussions on scalable access patterns to NASA archives, cloud‑native geospatial formats, application programming interfaces (APIs), and workflow orchestration that enable USDA production operations.
    Methodology & Validation: Joint technical reviews of algorithms for crop condition indicators, yield models, planted/harvested area estimation, and disaster impact assessment, including approaches to bias correction, uncertainty quantification, and validation using statistically sound frames and ground data.

This list is not intended to be exhaustive, and the participants intend to work together to investigate opportunities for collaboration under this MOU.

This effort supports the USDA Data Modernization Plan (PDF, 5.3 MB) launched by Secretary Rollins last month to put Farmers First, reduce unnecessary burdens on producers, and improve the timeliness, accuracy, and usefulness of the agricultural data that inform decisions across American agriculture.

Thursday October 22 Ag News - NE Soybean Bd CASE Celebrates 10 Years - IFBF Annual Convention Registration is Open - Fertilizer Prices Move Mostly Higher - Ethanol Production Hits 5 Week High - USDA, FBI Webinar on Fraud Prevention - and more!

Yardage revisited
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

Recently, I was calculating potential returns to retain calves on a backgrounding diet. Hypothetically, calves would be weaned in November and sold sometime in January. Calves would be appraised at $436/cwt as 5-wt and $379/cwt at 7-wt. The gross margin would be $253 per head.

Whenever we think of these options, the first thing that comes to mind is feed cost. Considering recent corn grain price trends and the effects of drought on forage prices, thinking of feed costs first is important. A diet containing (dry basis) 50% corn grain, 15% distillers grains, 32% hay and 3% supplement would cost $255/ton dry matter. At a rate of gain of 2.38 lb., a steer consuming 17.85 lb. dry matter would require $143 return to pay for the feed. That leaves $110 for the rest of expenses to get this steer to 700 lb.

What all goes into yardage then? Facilities depreciation, labor, and equipment costs (one could use rental rates to get a direct figure) and interest.

Using custom rates published by University of Nebraska or other universities, one can get a good idea of the rental rates for equipment needed to feed cattle and manage their pen environment. When the operation has the option to use manure derived from the cattle feeding operation, one can credit the value of manure as fertilizer. Yet, before this is done, the cost of bedding, scraping, and hauling manure must be included.

As the reader may have already determined, determining yardage cost is not easy. This is why I recommend using custom rates and a decent idea of hours involved in various operations around the feedlot to estimate yardage.

A crude example of the potential misconception in determining yardage cost is derived by simply estimating that it takes about one individual to feed and manage 1,000 head in a feeding operation. If we use custom rates to guide our idea of labor rates, then we simply divide the labor cost for an 8-hour day by 1,000 head for a per head daily yardage cost. Assuming that the payrate for general labor at the feedlot is $20, then the daily labor rate per head is $0.16 ($160 a day divided by 1,000 head).

Most tractor-driven equipment including mixers, scrapers, payloaders, etc. with 150 or greater HP costs $150/hour to rent. The implement, whether it is a mixer or even a manure spreader, costs about $3,000 a month to rent or close to $20/hour if operated 40 hours a week. So, nearly every hour operating equipment to feed cattle or manage pens costs $170.

Basing time calculations for feeding or managing pens is not easy for operations feeding fewer than 1,000 head because of the economies of scale. Yet, assuming a 0.25-hour daily feeding schedule and a 0.25-hour cleaning schedule (derived from dedicating 1.75 h a week for cleaning) for every 1,000 head adds $85 daily to yardage or $0.085/head.

Mileage rates for tractors are between 15 to 20 liters per hour. Using the 0.5 hours estimated above to manage 1,000 head daily results in an additional $54 of cost or $0.05/head.

Lastly, but not least, interest rates are affecting yardage calculations significantly. A $2,500 investment in a calf or yearling will cost $0.30 daily in interest at 8% rate.

Additionally, producers should consider adding a depreciation figure to yardage calculations to cover repair or replacement costs. The value of this depreciation cost is dependent on replacement cost not on initial cost of the facility. In most cases, depreciating a facility for 20 years with little to no salvage value results in yardage costs of $0.05 to $0.25 depending on the type of facility.

Adding the components of yardage cost using $0.16 for labor, $0.085 for equipment, $0.05 for fuel, $0.30 for interest, and $0.10 for depreciation results in $0.695 per head. If this value is applied to the example above, then another $44 is subtracted from the remaining margin permitting a net return of $66.

Calculating yardage costs is not easy. Keeping track of hours spent feeding cattle, managing bunks, and using custom rates to determine yardage is a simple alternative to guide this calculation. The alternative to not determining yardage costs is to permit the facility (and ourselves) to be worn out and to lose our capital over the long run. 



Ten Years. 100 Teachers. Thousands of Students.

For 10 years, the Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) has invested in Nebraska agricultural education through support of Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) teacher professional development. Since 2017, NSB has funded CASE experiences and soybean curriculum development for 100 agricultural educators, creating resources that continue to reach students across the state.

While the investment begins with teachers, the real impact happens in the classroom. CASE-trained educators are developing soybean-focused lessons that help students connect science, technology, engineering and math concepts to Nebraska's most important crops. Through hands- on activities, students gain a deeper understanding of soybean production, food science, agribusiness and value-added products while building critical problem- solving and analytical skills.

Ashley Looper, agriculture educator at Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools, said the CASE experience helped her learn from experienced teachers while gaining classroom-ready resources.

"I learned a lot from attending the Intro to AFNR CASE. As ag teachers, we have a lot of resources available to us, but sometimes it can be overwhelming,"

Looper said. "This CASE institute gave me the chance to work with teachers who have taught this themselves and what works well in their classroom." Looper also appreciated the flexibility CASE provides. "I also appreciate how much it provides for you to use, but you also have the chance to add in your own lessons and
activities," she said.

That flexibility led to the development of several soybean-centered lessons. Students investigate soybean germination by testing how water and temperature affect seed growth and collecting data to determine ideal growing conditions. Through another lesson, students follow the journey from soybean oil to soy wax, creating their own soy candles while learning about value-added agriculture and product development. In a food science unit, students compare chocolate made with and without soy lecithin to understand the role soybean-derived ingredients play in everyday products.

At Hershey Public Schools, former agriculture educator Donavan Phoenix has used CASE training to bring soybean examples into plant science curriculum and make lessons more relevant to students.

"This training equipped me with curriculum, knowledge, skills and so much more on the topic of plant science," Phoenix said."I now feel that I am in the greatest position to teach plant science this school year."

Phoenix said soybean-based curriculum creates a natural connection between classroom learning and local agriculture. "I am also very excited that this professional development has given me the opportunity to teach about soybeans, a crop that my students are very familiar with," he said.

His curriculum modifications help students explore soybean plant anatomy, nutrient management, seed development and crop growth. Students calculate growing degree days, evaluate planting scenarios and use real-world production data to understand how weather and management decisions influence crop success.

"Originally, this lesson used tomatoes as an example; however, tomatoes are not grown on a large scale anywhere near Hershey, Nebraska," Phoenix explained." So, I decided to change tomatoes to soybeans, a crop that is grown and all my students are aware of." The result is curriculum that helps students see the science behind agriculture while better understanding the role soybeans play in Nebraska's economy and communities.

As the Nebraska Soybean Board approaches this milestone anniversary, the impact extends well beyond a single classroom. The soybean-focused curriculum developed through CASE training will continue benefiting educators and students for years to come. 



CAP Webinar: Making Every Acre Count: Connecting Wildlife Science with Agricultural Decisions
Thur Oct 29th - 12 noon

How can conservation fit the practical realities of working farms? The Applied Wildlife Ecology and Spatial Movement (AWESM) Lab at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln connects applied research, Extension, and partnerships to help landowners support agricultural production and wildlife conservation. 

This webinar will highlight research on perennial grasses for bioenergy and their potential to support grassland birds. With high input costs prompting scrutiny of less productive acres, we’ll explore how precision conservation can help identify where conservation practices may fit and how wildlife monitoring can evaluate their ecological benefits. We’ll also discuss a landscape learning network approach to track changes over time, share lessons, and adjust management based on evidence. 

We’ll focus on reducing barriers to adoption and helping producers evaluate conservation options that fit their land, operations, and goals. 

Presenter: Andrew Little, associate professor, landscape ecology and habitat management, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

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



Registration open for Iowa Farm Bureau's Annual Meeting & County Leadership Conference

Registration is now open for the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s (IFBF) 108th Annual Meeting, Dec. 8-9 at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines. Farm Bureau members and leaders can register to gain timely agricultural policy insights, explore practical on-farm uses for artificial intelligence, prepare for successful farm transitions and take part in leadership sessions, networking opportunities and awards recognizing county Farm Bureau achievements. 

“Iowa Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting gives members an opportunity to connect, gain actionable insight for their farms, and celebrate the people and achievements that strengthen our organization,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson. “We look forward to recognizing our county Farm Bureaus, Ag Leaders graduates and young farmer award recipients whose leadership demonstrates the strength of our grassroots organization.” 

On Dec. 8, county Farm Bureau leaders can attend sessions focused on creating a positive culture, strengthening engagement, building member value and navigating difficult moments with confidence.

Farmer and author Jolene Brown will share real-world lessons to help farm owners transfer knowledge and business assets to the next generation during the educational seminar, “The Positives of Passing It On,” at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 8.

During a breakout session at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 9, Paul Gormley, a growth project manager for Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research, will discuss practical ways farmers can use artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, support decision-making, analyze information and create new farm management opportunities. 

American Farm Bureau Director of Government Affairs Brian Glenn will provide an ag policy update covering the latest on farm bill negotiations, how the 2026 election changed the outlook in Washington and what farmers can expect from the 120th U.S. Congress, when it convenes in January 2027. 

A Dec. 8 celebration luncheon will feature graduates of Iowa Farm Bureau’s Ag Leaders Institute, a year-long program focused on building skills and knowledge in agriculture and communication. County Farm Bureaus and members will also be honored for their outstanding service to agriculture and their communities, as well as their efforts in recruiting new members.

Iowa Discussion Meet semi-finalists who advanced from preliminary rounds at the Young Farmer Conference earlier in January will compete in the finals during the afternoon of Dec. 8. The Discussion Meet is a cooperative-style dialogue on agricultural issues. The winner will be announced during the Young Farmer evening reception and will represent Iowa at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Convention in January. Three young farmers will be presented with the Young Farmer Leadership Award for their involvement with their local Farm Bureau, community service and commitment to their family farms.

On Dec. 9, Farm Bureau agencies, community partners and Distinguished Service to Agriculture (DSA) award recipients will be honored. President Johnson will deliver remarks, followed by a keynote from U.S. Air Force Veteran Mark Lindquist featuring lessons from his life and career. 

Lindquist’s life journey — from a South Korean orphanage to a Minnesota farm, U.S. Air Force serving during the war in Afghanistan and leading humanitarian missions in Ukraine today — shapes his message about service, perseverance and making a greater impact through life and work. 

A former sergeant in the United States Air Force, Lindquist is a motivational speaker and world-touring entertainer who has performed live for over 4 million people in 27 countries and all 50 states. He has been on a self-directed humanitarian mission to Ukraine since March 2022, delivering more than $15 million worth of aid to those in need in eastern Ukraine. He has received a medal for outstanding volunteerism from the chairman of the Parliament of Ukraine, and his work has been featured in major media outlets worldwide. 

“We are honored to welcome Air Force veteran Sergent Mark Lindquist as this year’s keynote speaker,” said Johnson. “His stories of perseverance, humanitarian service and sacrifice will offer a powerful message that resonates.”

The annual meeting will conclude with a voting delegate session at 12:30 p.m. Dec. 9, including elections for Iowa Farm Bureau vice president, director in district 5, 7 and 9, AFBF voting delegates and an Iowa Farm Bureau internal study committee member.

For the full agenda and registration details, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com/annualmeeting.



Cattle Producers Welcome Increased Market Transparency 

This week, Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins announced important updates to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service’s (AMS) Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR) cash cattle reports. These updates serve as an important step in supporting the U.S. cattle industry and addressing ongoing confidentiality challenges in negotiated cattle trade reporting. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association appreciates the efforts of Secretary Rollins and USDA to increase the amount of data that is publicly reported while maintaining confidentiality requirements. This announcement helps improve transparency and provide more market information to cattle producers.  



UAN32, UAN28 and Anhydrous Lead Fertilizer Prices Higher

Fertilizer prices continue to be mostly higher, according to prices tracked by DTN for the second week of October 2026. For the third week in a row, seven fertilizers were higher looking back to last month while just one nutrient was slightly lower. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Three fertilizers had a considerable price increase. UAN32 was 6% more expensive looking back a month. The nitrogen fertilizer had an average price of $486/ton. Both anhydrous and UAN28 were 5% higher compared to the prior month. Anhydrous had an average price of $987/ton, while UAN28 was $441/ton. The remaining four nutrients' prices were just slightly more expensive. DAP had an average price of $937/ton, MAP $981/ton, potash $503/ton and urea $674/ton.

One fertilizer's price was just slightly less expensive looking back a month. 10-34-0 had an average price of $702/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 fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. DAP is 2% higher, potash 3% is more expensive, UAN32 is 4% higher, both MAP and 10-34-0 are 5% more expensive, UAN28 is 7% higher, urea is 13% more expensive and anhydrous is 18% higher looking back to last year.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 10/16/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending October 16, ethanol production accelerated by 2.7% to a 5-week high of 1.09 million b/d, equivalent to 45.95 million gallons daily. Output was 1.6% lower than the same week last year but 1.8% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate increased 1.6% to 1.06 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.22 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks sprang 2.6% to 24.6 million barrels. Stocks were 12.0% more than the same week last year and 14.0% above the five-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the East Coast (PADD 1).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, leapt 6.8% to an 8-week high of 8.98 million b/d (138.07 bg annualized). Demand was 6.2% more than a year ago and 1.1% above the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol slipped 0.9% to 891,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.70 bg annualized and the lowest weekly level since mid-April. Net inputs were 2.2% less than year-ago levels and 2.3% below the five-year average.

Ethanol exports increased 9.1% to 132,000 b/d (5.5 million gallons/day). It has been more than three years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Join a USDA and FBI Webinar for the Produce Industry on Fraud Prevention
 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is partnering with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to host a webinar on fraud prevention for produce‑industry members. USDA continues to encourage industry members to be aware of sophisticated imposter‑fraud schemes targeting buyers, sellers, and transporters across fruit and vegetable supply chains. Recent allegations reported to USDA’s Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) Division reflect a nationwide pattern of fraudulent procurement attempts involving spoofed identities, falsified credentials, altered email domains, and deceptive trust‑building tactics.

This webinar is part of ongoing coordination between USDA and FBI to strengthen industry awareness and prevention efforts through outreach and information sharing.
Webinar Details

Title: USDA–FBI Produce Industry Fraud‑Prevention Briefing
Presenter: Wade A. Greening, Supervisory Intelligence Analyst & Private Sector Coordinator, FBI Omaha Field Office
Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026
Time: 1:30 PM EST
Webinar Link: https://www.ams.usda.gov/content/join-usda-and-fbi-webinar-produce-industry-fraud-prevention Microsoft Teams (Meeting ID: 279 834 785 666 187 and Passcode: wM6LK3aD)



Innovation Never Stops Returns for Season 2, Bringing More Industry Insights and Expanded Educational Resources  

Helena Agri-Enterprises announced Wednesday the Emmy-nominated documentary series Innovation Never Stops will return for a second season at the 99th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana. Alongside the new season, Helena is introducing expanded classroom resources and a grant opportunity to help educators bring agricultural innovation into the classroom. Debuting in November, the new season will continue giving teachers and students an inside look at the people and technologies shaping modern agriculture.

“Supporting the next generation of ag innovators starts with educators,” says Bill Smith, National Integrated Marketing Manager with Helena. “Since its launch at the FFA Convention last year, Innovation Never Stops has reached 134 educators across 36 states with classroom-ready agricultural resources.” 

Innovation Never Stops takes viewers on a journey across the country, visiting laboratories, research facilities and diverse growing operations to reveal how Helena products come to life and drive progress. Told through the experiences of farmers and the Helena experts working alongside them, Innovation Never Stops explores agronomic challenges and uncovers solutions to define what it means to innovate. Throughout the series, what starts with an experiment at the Helena Products Group (HPG) Innovation Center in Tennessee goes through years of refinement before finding its place on a livestock operation in California or a fruit and vegetable operation in Michigan.  

Each episode includes companion curriculum designed to take lessons from the field to the classroom and broaden student knowledge of the industry and its impact on their lives. Lesson plans break down episodes into vocabulary, fun facts and discussion topics for youth, with the goal of introducing students to the world of crop science and ag business and the career opportunities they provide. New educator curriculum and interactive activities are now available, providing teachers with engaging, real-world tools to help students experience agricultural innovation firsthand. 

Along with new classroom materials, Helena will sponsor its 2nd Annual Innovation Grant. FFA chapters will be eligible to win this grant by participating in the AI360® simulation at booth 2672 during the FFA Convention this week. AI360 is a data and spatial information management platform, powered by AGRIntelligence®. Through the power of AI360, users can input key field attributes, access state-of-the-art processing technology and produce insights founded in strong agronomic principles and practices.  

Teachers are encouraged to sign up at helenaagri.com/innovation/ffa to claim their free materials before Season 2 of Innovation Never Stops drops in November. The program also extends beyond the classroom guide itself. Educators are invited to stay connected to future Innovation Never Stops resources and request a Helena representative to visit their classroom or FFA chapter to share field insights, lead demonstrations and discuss careers in agricultural innovation. 

Innovation Never Stops is a production of HPG, the research, development and formulation arm of Helena Agri-Enterprises. Season 1 and new episodes will be available on helenaagri.com/innovation.

Wednesday October 21 Ag News - UNL Initiative Supports Ag Tech - NeFB Leadership Academy 2027 - Volunteers Hit Record at Bourlag Dialogue - USDA Updates Cash Cattle Reporting - CAB Celebrates 48 Years - and more!

Fewer Areas in the 5-Area Price Series
Matthew Diersen, Risk & Business Management Specialist, South Dakota State University

A common benchmark for fed cattle prices is the 5-Area average. This is the series highlighted for live and dressed steers for In The Cattle Markets. The series covers the negotiated cash transactions made directly between feedlots and large packers. The large packers must report these trades under mandatory price reporting laws. However, this series does not include sales made using other alternative marketing arrangements, e.g., formula sales. The series also does not get shared if there are not enough parties to avoid confidentiality rules.

Confidentiality is why prices have not been broken out for Colorado, one of the 5 areas, for several years. During the past year, confidentiality has also meant that negotiated direct sales have not been reported daily or weekly for two other areas. The combination of Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico is one affected area. Kansas is the other area. That leaves Nebraska and the combination of Iowa and Minnesota as areas that currently dominate the 5-Area average.

During the first three quarters of 2026, the average negotiated cash volume from Nebraska was 22,600 head per week for all live and dressed purchases. That was followed by Iowa and Minnesota, with 21,000 head per week traded. Kansas averaged 7,000 head during weeks they had reportable prices. Finally, Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico averaged 3,000 head per week. Thus, in the fourth quarter, less than 20 percent of normal volume is being reported or contributing to the 5-Area average. The 5-Area is mainly reflecting the quality of cattle and seasonality pertinent to Interstate 29 from Sioux City, IA to Omaha, NE.

The correlation of observed negotiated cash prices has been high across the reported regions so far in 2026. Using the live price for steers grading “Over 80% Choice”, the correlations between the weekly 5-Area price and both Nebraska and Iowa/Minnesota prices were each 0.999. The correlation was slightly lower between the 5-Area and Kansas prices at 0.994. Even with fewer observations, the correlation between the 5-Area and Texas/Oklahoma/New Mexico prices was still 0.991.

In the short run and with the current market conditions, the lack of area-level reports does not seem to make much difference from a price standpoint. The “Over 80% Choice” weekly price is the settlement price for Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) for Fed Cattle. The further cattle are traded relative to their default location, the greater the potential basis risk for LRP. The volume of the 5-Area series would be affected and should not be compared to other periods to infer or substitute for any trend in marketings or slaughter activity. 



SPUR VENTURES STRENGTHENS NEBRASKA’S AG TECH ECOSYSTEM

Nebraska’s agricultural technology sector has strengths, but until recently it has lacked a key support: a connector institution that links producers with ag tech engineers, investors with tech innovators, and students with networking opportunities. It needs an institution, too, that educates students in ag tech entrepreneurship and validates the benefits from ag startups’ emerging technologies.

Spur Ventures, a University of Nebraska–Lincoln initiative, has stepped energetically into that multi-faceted role and will use its connecting power during AgConverge, an ag tech conference it will host in Grand Island Nov. 17-18.

“We’re a bridge, a platform, that connects different partners and resources through the university,” said Ankit Chandra, who leads Spur Ventures and is director and lecturer of entrepreneurship for the Department of Biological Systems Engineering. “We’re connecting producers, industry, startups, students, as well as regional ag innovation hubs funded by the National Science Foundation AgTech Engine.”

Started in May 2025, Spur Ventures is housed within the Department of Biological Systems Engineering and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Its mission: connect producers, startups, industry, investors and students to accelerate the development, validation and commercialization of agricultural technologies.

A multidisciplinary team assembled by Spur Ventures drafted a comprehensive report identifying the strengths and challenges of Nebraska’s ag tech sector. The analysis pointed to early-stage investment challenges — a common problem not just in the Midwest — and Spur Ventures is positioned to help through its connector mission.

“We’re connected to a lot of accelerators in Nebraska and in the region, so when we work with a startup company we make sure to connect them to relevant partners and investors,” said Chandra, who has wide experience working with ag tech startups in the United States and internationally.

Working with The Combine ag business incubator, Spur Ventures developed a detailed graphic showing the many components of Nebraska’s ag tech ecosystem, including startups (robotics, precision ag, ag biotech, animal health monitoring, ag marketplace tools), agribusinesses, investors, business incubators, support organizations, commodity boards and university programs.

Online registration is now available for the AgConverge conference Spur Ventures will host in Grand Island with support from the NSF AgTech Engine in North Dakota. The gathering will feature a wide range of ag tech events.

The conference’s Farm Tech Adoption Challenge, for example, will showcase one of Spur Ventures’ key aims: connecting engineers who design ag tech innovations with Nebraska producers.

“In ag tech, a lot of cool technologies are coming in play but in many cases they don't get adopted at the farm gate because they were not co-created with farmers,” Chandra said. “The engineers didn’t always understand farmers’ challenges.”

The Farm Teach Adoption Challenge will address that need by enabling volunteer panels of farmers and ranchers to hear pitches from ag tech startups. The Nebraska producers will then provide detailed, multi-round feedback.

That interaction “provides an active voice from the producers’ side,” Chandra said. “They can evaluate the technology and give feedback about whether it’s going to fit with their operations.”

Startups can see, for example, if the technology would fit the producer’s soil type and agroclimatic zone and whether it would be affordable.

As an incentive, AgConverge will provide a total of $6,000 in prizes for the top three producer panels participating in the event.

Spur Ventures, Chandra said, is not only “farmer-centric” but “student-centric.” The AgConverge event will include an ag tech student poster contest (undergraduate and graduate) with a total of $1,000 in prizes.

“We have a great panel of judges who are judging this poster competition,” Chandra said.

The Grand Island event also will provide students with extensive networking opportunities.

“They will get to connect with industry people where they can showcase what they’re working on,” Chandra said.

Ag tech entrepreneurship education is another student-focused priority for Spur Ventures.

“We teach a blend of ag engineering and entrepreneurship in a class called Engineering Entrepreneurship for Ag and Biotech,” Chandra said. “Within the class, a farmer comes with his problem statement and tells students the challenges he is facing. Based on those challenges, students work on a solution.”

Other activities at AgConverge will include a Women in Ag Tech panel, Convergence of NSF Innovation Engines panel, and a demonstration of ag tech robotics and technology. A panel will discuss industry-academia collaboration. Another will examine factors shaping the Midwest bioeconomy.

One of Spur Ventures’ ongoing efforts is independent, third-party validation for startups through its Spur Validation Sandbox Program that provides evidence-based evaluations of emerging agricultural technologies. The program assesses technical performance and practical considerations, including producer affordability. Nebraska producers provide data and feedback as part of the evaluations, along with input from faculty and students using university test beds and regional extension centers.

Spur Ventures publishes the validation results online, providing transparency and explaining the scope and limitations of each evaluation.

“We’ve established trust and relationships with farmers,” Chandra said. “That’s helped us in making the commercialization pathway easier for these startup companies,” since farmers can learn about them through the publicly available validation reports.

The process illustrates a central focus for Chandra and his colleagues.

“Trust is the main thrust for Spur Ventures,” he said.



Applications Open for NeFB 2027 Leadership Academy
 
Whether you've spent your whole life on a farm or ranch or built your career in agribusiness, there's always something new to learn about agriculture and the issues shaping its future.

That's something past participants have discovered through the Nebraska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy. But don't just take our word for it!

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy brings together 10 members each year to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their understanding of agriculture, and prepare them to become more effective advocates for the industry.

Throughout the program, participants have opportunities to:
    Develop leadership skills through educational sessions and experiences focused on personal and professional growth.
    Build connections with fellow farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness professionals from across Nebraska.
    Explore agricultural policy and gain a better understanding of the issues affecting Nebraska's farmers and ranchers.
    Travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with elected officials, engage in discussions about agricultural policy, and see the federal legislative process firsthand.

Who can apply?
The Leadership Academy is open to Nebraska residents who are current Nebraska Farm Bureau members and involved in production agriculture or agribusiness.

Nebraska Farm Bureau covers most program expenses, including in-state programming and the trip to Washington, D.C. Participants or their county Farm Bureau are responsible for just $200.

Applications are due Nov. 1!

If you're ready to learn more about agriculture, meet others who share your interests, and find new ways to get involved, they'd love to see you apply https://www.nefb.org/get-involved/leadership-development/leadership-academy.



Nebraska Sorghum updates delivery map

Nebraska Sorghum expanded its interactive delivery map, making it faster for farmers to find nearby buyers and check cash prices. The updated map shows more than 70 delivery locations operated by 18 elevators and ethanol plants in Nebraska and neighboring states.

During the map’s first season last year, Tyler Bose of Arcadia used it to find a buyer paying about 30 cents more per bushel than his usual elevator.

“It’s worth checking your options before you haul. Even if you have a buyer you typically use, it pays to see what other locations are offering. If the price difference covers the extra trucking costs and you still come out ahead, it’s worth considering another delivery location,” said Bose, Nebraska Grain Sorghum Board vice chair.

Ahead of this year’s harvest, Nebraska Sorghum added features to make the map easier to use. Farmers can search by city or ZIP code, view locations in a list and sort buyers by distance using their current location. Each listing includes contact information, directions and a link to the buyer’s current cash bids.

“Harvest is a busy time for farmers, and we want to make finding delivery locations and checking cash prices as easy as possible,” said Nebraska Sorghum Executive Director Kristine Dvoracek Jameson. “We hope these updates make the map even easier to use, whether farmers are planning their next load from the combine or checking prices from the cab of their semi.”

Nebraska Sorghum will continue updating the map as delivery locations change. Farmers can report missing or outdated locations through the “Submit a Location” feature. Cash bids and delivery details may change, so farmers should contact buyers directly to confirm current information.

The updated delivery map is available at nebraskasorghum.org/delivery-locations. 



Volunteers Pack 990,864 Meals To Take GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS Title for the Most Hunger Relief Meals Packaged in One Hour

More than 1,000 volunteers are officially the new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title holders for the most hunger relief meals packaged in one hour, packaging 990,864 meals and surpassing the previous record of 530,064.

The attempt, led by the World Food Prize Foundation and Meals from the Heartland, closed the opening day of the 2026 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, as the World Food Prize marked its 40th anniversary.

"Iowa has always known how to roll up its sleeves and get the job done, and tonight our volunteers did exactly that,” said Thomas Vilsack, CEO, World Food Prize Foundation. “Packaging almost a million meals in one hour is a world record, but more importantly, it's thousands of people who will have nutritious food for a year."

Each meal packed by volunteers contains rice, soy protein, dehydrated vegetables and essential vitamins and minerals, providing six nutritious servings that can be prepared with boiling water. Sixty tables, each staffed by 16 volunteers, produced more than 43 boxes of meals per table in just one hour. Each box contains four large bags, totaling 216 individual meals. Half of the meals will be distributed across Iowa, with the remainder reaching communities around the world. Together, the meals are expected to provide approximately 2,037 children with nutritious food for an entire year.

"Records are exciting, but what matters most is where these meals go next,” said Chuck Current, Executive Director, Meals from the Heartland. “Every package our volunteers filled tonight will reach a child or family who needs it, here in the United States and around the world."

The record attempt was made possible by sponsors including Cargill, Growth Energy, Holganix, NCMIC, Niman Ranch and Purdue. 

The record was verified on site by an official Guinness World Records adjudicator, Thomas Bradford.

The Borlaug Dialogue continues through October 22 at the Iowa Events Center.



Corn Growers React to Harvest Fuel Relief Announcement; Say Farm Economy Requires Long-Term Solutions

President Donald Trump announced on Monday night that the U.S. Department of Agriculture will create the Harvest Fuel Relief program. The $8 billion program will be designed to provide farmers with assistance to help mitigate the high cost of inputs, including diesel fuel. In response to the announcement, National Corn Growers Association President Matt Frostic released the following statement.
 
“We appreciate the administration recognizing how the high cost of inputs, especially diesel fuel prices during harvest time, is adding to the economic pain of America’s farmers. Corn growers are eager to learn more details about the Harvest Fuel Relief program design and implementation for the 2026 crop year.  
 
“As we work to tackle the many economic challenges facing growers and rural communities, we urge Washington to focus on durable, bipartisan, long-term solutions that will result in lasting improvements to the farm and national economy. Such solutions include passing legislation that will allow for the year-round sale of E15, renewing the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, taking actions to improve access to new markets for U.S. farmers, like maritime and sustainable aviation fuel, and passing a robust farm bill. We will continue to work with Congress and the administration to get these priorities over the finish line this year.”
 
The Harvest Fuel Relief program will be administered by the Farm Service Agency. USDA has indicated that commodity specific payment rates will be released in November and pre-filled applications will be available in January 2027.  



Farm Bureau Appreciates $8 Billion in Harvest Fuel Relief for Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on President Trump’s announcement to provide $8 billion in relief for farmers facing higher diesel prices this fall.

“Farmers and ranchers welcome the administration’s announcement of $8 billion in relief through the Harvest Fuel Relief program to help farmers struggling with high diesel prices. We appreciate President Trump and Secretary Rollins recognizing that higher diesel prices have squeezed farmers’ bottom lines. By building on the Farmer Bridge Assistance program, USDA will be able to quickly deliver this relief to farm country.

“We look forward to working with the president and USDA to ensure specialty crop growers, livestock producers, fishermen and others get the support they need so they can continue growing the food America’s families rely on. We also value the president’s continued support for Congress passing a modernized farm bill, allowing year-round E15 and addressing agriculture’s labor needs.”



USDA Updates its Cash Cattle Market Reports to Advance Transparency

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins Tuesday announced an update to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service’s (AMS) Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR) cash cattle reports as part of the Department’s broader effort to implement two of President Trump’s Executive Orders on “Supporting American Ranchers” and “Promoting Fair Competition in Livestock Markets and Expanding Market Access for American Meat Producers” to bring greater transparency to cattle market cash reporting.

“President Trump tasked our agency with bringing clarity and consistency to cattle markets and protecting rancher viability, and today's action is one of several steps we are taking to deliver on that promise,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “Maintaining reliable and transparent price information is critical to a well-functioning cattle market.  We are making these changes to address those challenges and make the best use possible of the market information that AMS gathers.”

Negotiated cash cattle trade has declined significantly as cattle industry procurement practices have shifted toward formula-based purchasing methods. Cash purchases accounted for more than 50 percent of transactions in 2005 but fell to less than 18 percent in 2025. Because cash purchases serve as the basis for many formula transactions, the decline in negotiated trade has reduced the number of reportable transactions and created confidentiality challenges that can limit the usefulness of existing price reports. This update supports USDA’s cattle and beef-market transparency objectives by providing producers, livestock sellers, packers, and other market participants with more meaningful information about negotiated cash cattle prices.

Beginning with the afternoon reports published on Monday, October 26, 2026, AMS will use data already collected through the LMR system to create an additional cash cattle regional report aggregating data from Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas. This does not require any additional reporting from covered packers.

For additional information about market information published by AMS, visit https://www.ams.usda.gov/market-news/livestock-poultry-grain#Cattle 



Certified Angus Beef Sales Resilient Amid Down Supply

Certified Angus Beef (CAB) closed its 48th year with more than 1.224 billion pounds sold globally. The result came despite the tightest supply since 2018, elevated beef prices and greater pressure on household budgets.

This year’s performance points to a marketplace that continued to make room for quality, even as higher prices weighed on end-users. Consumers are becoming more intentional about where, when and how they purchase quality beef, seeking confidence that every meal will be worth their investment.

"Certified Angus Beef has never been the work of one business or one part of the industry. It represents thousands of people who pull up a chair to the same table with a shared commitment to quality," says John Stika, president of CAB. "In a year marked by limited supply, record cattle values and greater pressure on consumers, our partners continued creating value and delivering the consistent eating experience people trust. Their collective commitment allowed us to celebrate another strong year while positioning the brand to meet the opportunities ahead."

The brand opened the fiscal year at a record-setting sales pace from October through February, the strongest start in its history. Year-end sales finished 0.9% below the prior year, but Certified Angus Beef ® Prime and value-added products hit record-setting performance.

CAB Supply Affected by Cowherd Decline
As national cowherd numbers decreased, number of carcasses qualifying for the brand also declined. Total Certified Angus Beef ® supply was down 6.1% with 5.42 million head achieving CAB qualification.

With a focus on the right genetics and management decisions, Angus ranchers continued to target the brand, impacting CAB supply and yielding grid premiums. The brand acceptance rate was up slightly to 37.8%, with Prime production also on the rise. Up approximately 7% this fiscal year, 845,000 carcasses qualified for Certified Angus Beef ® Prime. And Certified Angus Beef ® Prime sales responded, rising 12.3% to a record 63.3 million pounds.

Partners capitalized on opportunities beyond middle meats, expanding premium offerings through grinds, deli products, fully cooked items and other underutilized cuts. The result was more consumer choice and a stronger premium beef proposition across the marketplace.

"Every part of the supply chain plays a role in delivering excellence," says Bruce Cobb, executive vice president of production for CAB. "Farmers and ranchers remain engaged in strengthening the brand, responding to consumer signals and making the decisions necessary to produce high-quality beef."

Quality Wins in Any Market
In a year defined by tight supply and market volatility, the result remained clear: quality wins in any market.

Foodservice was a leading source of strength for the brand, resulting in a 1.7% increase in sales. Even as high beef prices raised menu costs, distributors and restaurant operators continued to protect quality and give diners a reason to return. The increase in sales was supported by demand for Certified Angus Beef ® Prime and operators looking to deliver a constant experience, knowing every dining occasion carried greater expectations.

Retail volume faced pressure as higher beef prices limited aggressive front-page promotions, down 1.2% in sales, with more than 528 million pounds of product sold. Rather than pull back from the beef category, the brand’s partners supported premium beef offerings through ground beef, value-added products and underutilized cuts, creating new ways for consumers to enjoy the beef’s quality, while delivering greater value across the carcass.

International business navigated uneven market conditions, including pressure in several of the brand’s largest markets, down 8.3% in total sales. Teams remained present with core partners while directing additional attention to countries where trade dynamics, exchange rates and consumer demand created stronger opportunities. The top three volume markets included Canada, South Korea and Mexico. Egypt experienced a record year, while Hong Kong, Taiwan, Colombia and Kuwait increased sales. Value-added product sales reached an all-time high, with growth across foodservice, retail and international markets, an increase of 8.6% in sales and more than 52 million pounds. The category addressed two persistent marketplace needs: dependable quality and greater efficiency.

While the fully cooked smoked Certified Angus Beef ® brisket led foodservice growth, the brand’s shaved steak and hot pot items contributed to growth at retail and internationally. Certified Angus Beef® Prime deli meats and prepared-food applications also extended the brand into new parts of the store. 



National Farmers Union Joins G7 Farm Leaders in Urging Action on Soaring Input Costs and Fair Markets

As G7 agriculture ministers met in Paris, National Farmers Union (NFU) yesterday joined leading farmers’ organizations from across the G7 countries in a joint statement calling on governments to confront rising input costs, strengthen fair and competitive markets and work with farmers as key partners in addressing global food security challenges. This effort builds on a previous statement outlining shared agriculture priorities among the world’s leading farm organizations earlier this year.

This statement comes as conflict in the Middle East and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz drive a new surge in energy and fertilizer prices, compounding pressure from tariffs, trade tensions, supply chain disruptions and increasingly frequent extreme weather. The organizations warn that farmers are struggling to maintain liquidity heading into the fall planting and input-purchasing season. 

"Family farmers in the United States and across the G7 are facing the same squeeze: input prices driven up by war, trade disruptions and a handful of corporations that control the fertilizer, seed and crop protection markets," said NFU President Rob Larew. "Farm organizations around the world are united in calling for real competition in input markets, stable and fair trade relationships, and policies that ensure farmers earn a fair price for what they produce. Our governments need to treat farmers as key partners to addressing these challenges.” 

The statement was signed by National Farmers Union along with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, Deutscher Bauernverband (Germany), FNSEA (France), Coldiretti (Italy), JA-Zenchu (Japan) and the National Farmers' Union of England and Wales. 



Show-Rite and MoorMan’s ShowTec unite under Hubbard brand portfolio

Hubbard is introducing its unified Show-Rite® portfolio, bringing together the proven performance of Show-Rite and the trusted heritage of MoorMan’s® ShowTec® in a comprehensive lineup of show feeds and supplements for swine, sheep, goats and cattle.

For generations, both brands have helped exhibitors, families, breeders and fitters achieve success in the show ring. The unified Show-Rite portfolio builds on that foundation, combining nutritional expertise, research and practical feeding experience to support the next generation of show livestock producers.

“We’re bringing together the strengths of two highly respected show feed brands to create an even stronger lineup for our customers,” said Show-Rite strategic partnership manager Todd Kennedy, who served on the cross-functional team that developed the unified portfolio.

The lineup reflects a collaborative effort by nutritionists, technical experts and sales team members from both brands. Their work focused on bringing together complementary products and feeding programs while maintaining the commitment to quality, consistency and animal performance that customers expect.

“By bringing these portfolios together, we have an opportunity to build an even stronger foundation for the next generation of show livestock producers,” said Krisha Geffert, Show-Rite sales manager, who brought more than 20 years of experience with the ShowTec brand to the project.

The portfolio is rolling out in phases starting later this fall. As the transition reaches their local markets, dealers and customers will begin seeing Show-Rite packaging and updates to selected product names and offerings. Sales and technical teams will help customers understand how their current products fit within the unified lineup and provide guidance on any recommended feeding adjustments.

Customers and dealers can expect:
    A comprehensive show nutrition portfolio. Feeds and supplements bring together the strengths of both brands to support livestock through each stage of development and preparation for the show ring.
    A continued commitment to quality and performance. Proven nutrition, research and practical feeding experience remain central to the portfolio.
    Combined expertise and local support. A unified team brings knowledge from both brands to help dealers and customers select products and build effective feeding programs.
    A foundation for continued innovation. The combined portfolio creates opportunities to build on established products with research and nutritional technologies that support animal performance.

Show-Rite is part of Hubbard, the flagship U.S. brand of Akralos, the joint venture formed by Alltech and ADM earlier this year. The partnership brings together Alltech’s science-driven nutritional technologies and ADM’s feed manufacturing capabilities with Hubbard’s longstanding expertise and local relationships.

“We know the trust customers place in these brands has been built over generations, and we take that responsibility seriously,” said Brian Gier, CEO of Akralos. “Our goal is to build on that legacy by combining proven nutrition, technical expertise and ongoing innovation to help customers continue feeding champions for years to come.”

Dealers and customers should contact their Show-Rite or Hubbard representative for product information and transition details specific to their location.

Tuesday October 20 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - Biochar Field Day near Lincoln - Pillen Fuel Supply Exec Orders - Trump Announces Harvest Fuel Relief Program - Bourlag International Dialogue Opens Today - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress: Soybean and Sorghum Harvest Remain Behind Schedule

Nebraska producers continued making harvest progress during the week ending Oct. 18, with 5.2 days suitable for fieldwork. However, harvest remains behind the five-year average for several major crops, particularly soybean and sorghum. Corn harvest reached 37%, while soybean harvest passed the halfway mark. Winter wheat planting is also nearing completion and has caught up with its usual pace.

Topsoil moisture supplies rated 6% very short, 18% short, 65% adequate and 11% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 13% very short, 21% short, 57% adequate and 9% surplus.

Field Crops Report

Corn
    Mature: 95% — equal to the five-year average.
    Harvested: 37% — behind the five-year average of 48%.
    Condition: 6% very poor, 15% poor, 34% fair, 33% good and 12% excellent.

Soybean
    Harvested: 52% — behind 71% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 3% very poor, 11% poor, 31% fair, 42% good and 13% excellent.

Winter Wheat
    Planted: 90% — equal to the five-year average.
    Emerged: 72% — slightly behind 73% for the five-year average.

Sorghum
    Mature: 84% — behind 92% for the five-year average.
    Harvested: 24% — behind 45% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 2% very poor, 16% poor, 44% fair, 33% good and 5% excellent.

Dry Edible Beans
    Harvested: 85% — equal to the five-year average. 

Pasture and Range 
    Condition: 28% very poor, 20% poor, 27% fair, 23% good and 2% excellent.

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



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 4.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Oct. 18, 2026. Topsoil moisture condition rated 3 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 24 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent short, 74 percent adequate, and 21 percent surplus. 

Ninety-eight percent of corn has reached maturity, which is even with the five-year average. Twenty-six percent of corn has been harvested, which is 24 percentage points behind the five-year average. Corn condition rated 72 percent good to excellent.

Ninety-seven percent of soybeans are dropping leaves, which is 2 percentage points behind the five-year average. Fifty-seven percent of soybeans have been harvested, which is 17 percentage points behind the five-year average. 

Pasture condition rated 73 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

U.S. corn and soybean harvests remain slightly behind their five-year averages, though soybean progress has nearly caught up, trailing the average by just 1 percentage point, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn mature was pegged at 95%, 1 percentage point behind the five-year average of 96%. 
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 44% of corn had been harvested nationally as of Oct. 18, 8 percentage points behind the five-year average of 52%. 
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 56% of the crop remaining in fields was in good-to-excellent condition, steady with the previous week. Seventeen percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, also steady with the previous week.

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 96%, 1 percentage point behind the five-year average of 97%.
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 64% of soybeans had been harvested as of Sunday, 1 percentage point behind the five-year average of 65%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting was estimated at 63% complete nationally, 6 percentage points behind the five-year average of 69%. 
-- Crop development: Winter wheat emerged was estimated at 39%, 4 percentage points behind the five-year average 43%.




Field Day to Expand Network, Redcedar-Derived Biochar Production

Nebraska researchers are taking biochar research from experimental plots to producer fields, connecting ranchers removing eastern redcedar with farmers who can put locally produced biochar to use.

Biochar is a carbon-rich, porous material produced through pyrolysis, a process that heats organic matter in a low-oxygen environment. Research at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln indicates that biochar can improve soil carbon and nitrogen retention, reduce organic waste, and improve soil water-holding capacity.

Eastern redcedar encroachment threatens native grassland ecosystems, reduces forage availability and increases wildfire risk. Converting removed trees into biochar offers a potential way to address these challenges while creating a valuable soil amendment.

Tree professionals, ranchers, farmers, educators and members of the public are invited to the second annual Biochar Field Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3 at a farm near Conestoga Lake by Denton, Nebraska.

The event will explore what biochar is, how it is used and how to produce it from removed eastern redcedar. Participants will also learn how biochar can improve soil health and support more resource-efficient crop production. 

Experts will demonstrate on-site biochar production using a mobile Charboss™ unit from Sandhills Biochar, providing guidance and educational opportunities throughout the process. 

“The field day is part of a broader effort to build a farmer-rancher network to scale up redcedar-derived biochar production and application,” said Michael Kaiser, associate professor in agronomy and horticulture.

Participants are encouraged to carpool, wear closed-toe shoes or boots, and bring water, lunch and a camp chair.

“We look forward to discussing and exchanging information and experiences on biochar production and application,” Kaiser said. 

Participants can register online https://forms.gle/aMxK6sRFoMiuHKer6.

The event is hosted by the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture and the Reinkordt Family and is organized in collaboration with the Nebraska Forest Service, Sandhills Biochar, and the Nebraska Biochar Initiative.

The field day is located at 9700 W. Pioneers Blvd., Denton, NE 68339.



Nebraska Cattlemen Political Action Committee Announces Support for Candidates

The Nebraska Cattlemen Political Action Committee (NC-PAC) announced its support for candidates running for the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, Nebraska’s Executive Offices, and the Nebraska Legislature in the 2026 general election.

Nebraska Cattlemen PAC supported candidates

Federal
U.S. Senate – Pete Ricketts*
Nebraska’s First Congressional District – Mike Flood*
Nebraska’s Second Congressional District – Brinker Harding
Nebraska’s Third Congressional District – Adrian Smith*

Nebraska Executive Branch
Governor – Jim Pillen*
Attorney General – Mike Hilgers*
State Auditor – Mike Foley*
State Treasurer – Joey Spellerberg*

Nebraska Legislature
LD 02 – Dean Helmick
LD 04 – R. Brad von Gillern*
LD 06 – Patrick Leahy
LD 12 – Merv Riepe*
LD 14 – Bill Bowes
LD 16 – Ted Japp
LD 18 – Taylor Royal
LD 20 – John Fredrickson*
LD 22 – Dawson Brunswick
LD 24 – Jana Hughes*
LD 26 – George Dungan*
LD 30 – Cally Ideus
LD 34 – Loren Lippincott*
LD 38 – Janell Anderson-Ehrke
LD 40 – Barry DeKay*
LD 42 – Mike Jacobson*
LD 44 – Teresa Ibach*
LD 46 – Danielle Conrad*
LD 48 – Brian Hardin*
*denotes an incumbent

The Nebraska Cattlemen PAC stated, “Nebraska’s beef cattle producers need leaders at every level of government who understand the issues facing agriculture and will stand up for our industry. We are pleased to announce our support for these candidates who we believe will best represent the needs and interests of our members, and who will help ensure Nebraska’s beef industry continues to thrive for decades to come.”



Nebraska Farmers Union PAC Announces General Election Endorsements

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

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

Federal
Congress First District: Chris Backemeyer
Congress Second District: Denise Powell
Congress Third District: Mark Cohen
U.S. Senate: Dan Osborn
 
State
Governor: Lynne Walz/Ben Steffen
Attorney General: Jocelyn Brasher
Secretary of State: Sarah Slattery
Auditor of Public Accounts: Mike Foley*
 
Legislature
LD2:    Caitlin Knutson
LD4:    Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek
LD6:    Patrick Leahy
LD8:    Erin Feichtinger
LD10: Cindy Johnson
LD12:  Christy Knorr
LB14:  SuAnn Witt
LD16:  Cindy Chatt
LD18: Jess Goldoni    
LD20: John Fredrickson*
LD24: Jana Hughes*
LD26:  George Dungan*
LD30:  Janet Bock
LD32: Mark Schoenrock & Shay Smith
LD34:  Ben Blodgett
LD36: Darin Tompkins
LD38: Janell Anderson Ehrke
LD41: Jeremy Heneger & Joe Johnson
LD46:  Danielle Conrad*
 
Public Service Commission: Wendy DeBoer
 
Public Power Districts
Subdivision 1: Mary Harding*
Subdivision 2: Bill Tielke
Subdivision 7: Wayne Williams*
Subdivision 9: Jerry Chlopek*
Omaha Public Power District
Subdivision 1: Sara Kohen
Subdivision 2: Mark Gudgel
Subdivision 3: Carol Blood
 
Board of Regents
District 1: Brent Comstock
District 2: Elizabeth Butler
 
State Board of Education
District 5: Michaela Conway
District 6: Grady Erickson
District 8: Sherrye Hutcherson 
 
Natural Resource Districts
Lower Elkhorn NRD: Graham Christensen
Lower Big Blue NRD: Anne DeVries*
Lower Platte North NRD:
Subdistrict 8: Jerry Johnson*
Subdistrict 9: Larissa Schultz*
At Large: Thomas McKnight*
Lower Platte South NRD
Subdistrict 3: Melissa Baker*
Subdistrict 8: Tom Green*
 
County Commissioner
Lancaster Subdistrict 1: Sean Flowerday*
Lancaster Subdistrict 3:  Bryan Seck
Lancaster Subdistrict 5: Rick Vest*



Pillen Issues Executive Order to Meet Fuel Supply Demands

Monday, Governor Jim Pillen issued a new executive order to help meet fuel supply demands. Shortages have been reported by customers and retailers across the state for a variety of fuel types. Haulers have found themselves having to travel further distances to secure supplies and make those deliveries.

“A combination of factors, including global supply disruptions and the incredibly short and busy harvest season, has boosted demand across the board,” said Gov. Pillen. “This order will help ensure that Nebraska farmers, businesses and families have access to the fuel they need.”

The order (NO. 26-25) builds on a federal waiver issued Sept. 16 by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to relax hours-of-service requirements for interstate fuel truck drivers. The Governor’s order takes similar action but also allows vehicles to exceed weight limits by up to 10%. The Governor’s order is effective through Nov. 18.

Last month, Gov. Pillen issued a pair of executive orders to assist farmers confronted by high diesel costs. One increases the load capacity of trucks hauling seasonably produced products and livestock. The second order authorizes the use of red dye diesel and provides a state tax refund for using clear diesel in ag operations and vehicles.

Both of those orders are effective until Dec. 23.



Trump Administration Announces $8 Billion Harvest Fuel Relief Program

Monday, President Donald J. Trump, alongside U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will make $8 billion available for one-time payments to American farmers this harvest season to provide relief during temporary market disruptions and increased input costs.

“President Trump is the most pro-farmer president of my lifetime and he is continuing to put Farmers First every day,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “Today, I am proud to announce alongside President Trump more targeted relief is coming to our farmers through the Harvest Fuel Relief program. This $8 billion dollar investment will help bring certainty to our farmers during this harvest so they can continue to feed our nation.”

Similar to the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program, the Harvest Fuel Relief (HFR) program will provide simple, proportional support to producers using a uniform formula to cover a portion of modeled losses during the 2026 crop year. This national loss average will be based on FSA reported planted acres, Economic Research Service cost of production estimates, and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates yields and prices.

The $8 billion in payments provided through the Harvest Fuel Relief program are authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) Charter Act and will be administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

Commodity-specific payment rates for Title I commodities will be released in November. Payment methodology for other eligible commodities will be announced at a later date. Crop insurance linkage will not be required for participation in the Harvest Fuel Relief program; however, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the enhanced risk management tools included in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act to best protect against price risk and volatility in the future.

Producers of non-Title I commodities, including specialty crop growers and fishermen, are encouraged to provide data related to increased fuel costs to HarvestFuel@usda.gov for USDA’s consideration when determining payment rates.

Eligible producers are encouraged to create a Login.gov account in advance of the application period announcement. Pre-filled applications will be available online to producers with a Login.gov account linked to USDA.

The Harvest Fuel Relief program builds upon the Trump administration’s unprecedented support for America’s farmers. Earlier this year, the Farmer Bridge Assistance program delivered $12 billion in one-time bridge payments over 560,000 farmers across the country. Just two weeks ago, nearly $14 billion in gross payments were provided to producers through the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs through The Working Families Tax Cuts Act – an approximate $8 billion increase over what farmers would have received without the historic bill.

To see more of how the Trump Administration putting farmers first please visit: https://www.usda.gov/farmers-first.  



2026 Borlaug Dialogue Opens as World Food Prize Marks 40 Years in the Fight Against Hunger

The 2026 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue opens today, bringing together more than 1,200 leaders from more than 65 countries as the World Food Prize marked its 40th anniversary. The three-day Borlaug Dialogue will focus on the urgent action needed to protect and strengthen global food security, at a time when conflict, climate shocks and economic pressures are pushing more people into hunger.

“For 40 years, the World Food Prize has honored those who refused to accept hunger as inevitable. This year's Dialogue — deliberately themed ‘Before Hunger Wins’ — is a call to act with the same urgency," said Mashal Husain, President, World Food Prize Foundation.

Delegations from around the world are gathering at the Iowa Events Center to hear how collaboration and shared purpose can transform global food systems. 

Award-winning actor and activist Martin Sheen will open the Borlaug Dialogue with a keynote address about finding the next Norman E. Borlaug. Later in the day, actor, author and activist Nick Offerman will join regenerative agriculture leaders Mary Berry, Professor Robert Montgomery and farmer and author James Rebanks to explore how farming can restore land and feed the world.

2024 World Food Prize Laureate Cary Fowler will lead a high-level conversation on how today's conflicts are disrupting access to food, joined by 2010 Laureate David Beckmann, Henk van Duijn of the International Fertilizer Development Center, Michael Werz of the Council on Foreign Relations and Purvi Mehta of the World Food Prize Foundation Council of Advisors. Turner Foundation Chair Laura Turner Seydel will join Foundation CEO Thomas Vilsack to discuss why global cooperation on agriculture matters more than ever.

Marking the International Year of the Woman Farmer, farmers from Germany, the United States and Ecuador will share their experiences in a dedicated panel. Rockefeller Foundation President Dr. Rajiv Shah will present the Norman E. Borlaug Award for Field Research and Application, Endowed by the Rockefeller Foundation, to West African plant breeder Pamela Afokpe, and the 2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers, drawn from 30 countries, will be honored.

The opening day will close with an attempt to break the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most hunger relief meals packaged in one hour. In partnership with Meals from the Heartland, more than 1,000 volunteers will aim to package 600,000 meals, surpassing the current record of 530,064.

“This week, leaders from every corner of the food system are coming together to find solutions that work to the global food security crisis,” said Vilsack. “We have the science and the tools, and what we need now is the will to use them."

Over the next three days, the Borlaug Dialogue will welcome Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai; Her Serene Highness Princess Tatjana of Liechtenstein; and Hon. Dr. Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba, Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, among other esteemed guests. The week will culminate in the presentation of the 2026 World Food Prize to Huub Lelieveld, honored for his work establishing global food safety standards and harmonizing food regulations worldwide.



BASF announces EPA approval of Ridivex herbicide

Ridivex™ herbicide has received U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration and is planned to be available in 2027. Ridivex herbicide is currently not for sale and BASF is not accepting orders at this time.

Corn growers today are facing unprecedented weed pressure as resistant species continue to spread and intensify. Managing these tough‑to‑control populations often requires more passes, more products and more time – adding cost and complexity to an already demanding time of year. Resistant weeds not only threaten yield potential but also erode the effectiveness of single‑mode of action herbicides. Ridivex herbicide is purpose‑built to help growers stay ahead of resistant weeds and protect yield potential without compromise.

“Ridivex herbicide provides corn growers doing the Biggest Job on Earth with a powerful all-in-one early POST solution designed to stay ahead of weed emergence and maintain clean fields through critical growth stages,” said Jessica Dorsey, Product Manager for Corn POST Herbicides, BASF Agricultural Solutions. “Ridivex is the first corn POST herbicide innovation from BASF in over a decade, representing a defining moment in weed control and signaling the next era of performance for corn growers.”

A new standard in corn post-emerge herbicides, Ridivex herbicide provides:
Powerful knockdown: Consistent control of 200+ broadleaf weeds, enhanced dicamba transportation and performance from diflufenzopyr, and visible results in as little as four hours.

Long-lasting residual: Superior residual control of 80+ broadleaf and grass weeds for up to eight weeks, from the trusted Zidua® SC herbicide leader and partner in residual herbicides.

Convenient and complete: Triple threat against weeds with three effective active ingredients– diflufenzopyr, dicamba and pyroxasulfone. A built-in crop safener enhances crop safety for peace of mind.

For more information on Ridivex herbicide, contact your local BASF representative or visit agriculture.basf.us.