Tuesday April 28 Ag News - Crop Progress Report - Ag equals 44% of NE Economic Output - Schuler Red Angus wins Leopold Conservation Award - UNL Researchers Advance Bird Flu Vaccine - and more!

 Nebraska Crop Progress and Condition Report

Planting progress across Nebraska accelerated sharply during the past week, but the latest USDA Crop Progress report shows dry soil conditions remain the central storyline across the Great Plains. Keep in mind data was compiled as of Sunday, April 26 before a round of rain showers.

Corn planting in Nebraska reached 26 percent complete by April 26, well ahead of the five‑year average of 16 percent. Soybean planting also surged to 19 percent, more than double the normal pace for late April. Producers reported 5.9 days suitable for fieldwork, allowing planters to roll across much of the state.

Despite the strong progress, soil moisture remains limited. Nebraska topsoil moisture is rated 43 percent very short and 30 percent short, while subsoil moisture is 40 percent very short and 40 percent short. Those conditions increase concerns for crop emergence and early‑season development if rainfall remains scarce.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 4.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 26, 2026, which is 2.0 days more than last year. Topsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent very short, 8 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 14 percent surplus. Corn planting in Iowa reached 22 percent complete, which is 10 percent behind last year when 32 percent of the crop had been planted. Soybean planting reached 11 percent, which is 12 percent behind 2025, when 23 percent of the crop had been planted. Oats planting reached 74 percent, 5 percent behind last year when 79 percent had been planted.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

U.S. corn planting moved slightly ahead of last year's pace and the five-year average last week, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released on Monday. Winter wheat conditions remained unchanged from the previous week at 30% good to excellent, NASS reported.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 25% of corn was planted nationwide as of Sunday, 3 points ahead of last year's 22% and 6 points ahead of the five-year average of 19%. 
-- Crop development: 7% of corn had emerged as of Sunday, 2 points ahead of last year's 5% and 3 points ahead of the five-year average of 4%.

SOYBEANS
-- Planting progress: An estimated 23% of intended soybean acreage was planted as of Sunday, 6 points ahead of last year at this time and 11 points ahead of the five-year average of 12%. 
-- Crop development: 8% of soybeans had emerged as of Sunday, 6 points ahead of last year and 7 points ahead of the five-year average of 1%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: An estimated 35% of winter wheat was rated poor to very poor as of April 26, up 16 percentage points from 19% a year ago, according to NASS.
-- Crop development: 34% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 9 percentage points ahead of last year's 25% and 13 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 21%. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Planting progress: 19% of the crop was planted nationwide as of April 26, 9 percentage points behind last year's pace of 28% and 3 percentage points behind the five-year average of 22%. 
-- Crop development: 5% of spring wheat was emerged as of Sunday, equal to last year and 1 percentage point ahead of the five-year average of 4%.



Agriculture’s Contribution to Nebraska Economy  

Production agriculture and food-related industries are responsible for 44% of Nebraska’s economic output, tying Iowa as the most agriculturally dependent state in the U.S. The agriculture and food sectors in Nebraska also contribute around 546,000 jobs and $38.19 billion in wages. The estimates come from the Feeding the Economy Report released by the American Farm Bureau Federation in March. Nationwide, the agriculture and food sectors support nearly 49 million jobs, or roughly 30% of total U.S. employment.

The Feeding the Economy Report captures the contributions of all facets of agriculture and food production and distribution. First, it includes direct economic activity related to farms, ranches, and food-related industries, including manufacturing, wholesaling and retail where agricultural products are processed, distributed, and sold. Second, it captures the industries that supply inputs, like equipment manufacturers, fertilizer producers, transportation providers, and financial services. Finally, it analyzes how wages earned throughout the supply chain are spent in local economies, supporting restaurants, health care, housing, and other services. Capturing all these impacts, the study found food and agriculture are responsible for 20% of the country’s economic output.

Food & Agriculture Share of the Economy - by State
Nebraska - 44%
Iowa - 44% 
South Dakota - 41% 
Kansas - 32%
Minnesota - 25%
Missouri - 24%

The study is another in a long line of analyses which highlight the importance of agriculture to Nebraska. Abygail Peterson, economist for Nebraska Farm Bureau, captures agriculture’s role well when she said, “With nearly half a million jobs impacted by agriculture, this industry is vital to so many families and communities.” As such, it is important to see the sector continue to grow and prosper. Doing so will boost Nebraska’s economic growth and prosperity.



Flood and Neguse Re-Introduce Bill Supporting Precision Ag Research

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) partnered with colleagues in the House to re-introduced the “Precision Agriculture Workforce Training and Development Act.” This bipartisan legislation encourages the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to invest in hands-on, precision agriculture programs for students.

“Nebraska continues to be at the forefront of precision ag research,” said Congressman Flood. “As universities and colleges expand these programs, the USDA should be there to support this growing field. Thank you to Rep. Neguse (CA) for joining this effort to modernize our ag economy and better train the next generation of farmers and ranchers nationwide.”

The Precision Ag Workforce Development Act will add “Precision Agriculutre Workforce Development” to the USDA’s high priority research areas. Additionally, the bill provides special consideration for insitutions that offer cooperative education programs under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI).



Ricketts Introduces the Sound Science Act to Increase Transparency, Strengthen Science for Regulated Chemicals

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) Monday introduced the Sound Science Act.  This legislation would strengthen the science used for risk reviews and improve interagency coordination for chemicals regulated under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).  By strengthening the scientific basis for regulation and expediting the existing chemical review process, Americans can have access to updated and safe chemistries.  Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) is an original cosponsor.

"Nebraska farmers and ranchers depend on the EPA’s chemical review process for ingredients in livestock feed or in irrigation equipment.  Chemical determinations affect supply chains in Nebraska,” said Senator Ricketts.  “Too often, regulatory decisions are made without reflecting real-world impacts.  By using sound science and real-world risk profiles, we can have safer and advanced chemistries in the supply chain.”

The Sound Science Act would:
    Add new requirements to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) risk evaluations including:
        Ensure evaluations are focused on real-world risks and focus on those likely to result in unreasonable risk,
        Require the EPA to use the regulatory levels which have been developed by other Federal departments for issues within their statutory obligations rather than develop their own,
        Assume compliance with existing requirements from other federal agencies like from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA),
        Subject risk evaluations to interagency review like a regulation and extend public comment period to 60 days,
        Provide that other Federal agencies have a formal commenting period of 30 days to advise EPA of critical chemistries uses and supply chain impacts under their jurisdictions;
    Provide that any scientific assessment values developed by the EPA Administrator are directly subject to judicial review;
    Add new requirements under the Toxic Substances Control Act to add new elements to the scientific standards EPA must consider including:
        Evaluating whether any scientific assessment developed by the Administrator meets scientific standards under best available science and weight of the evidence instead of simply being deferred to by the EPA,
        Consulting with other Federal agencies and specialists on whether an EPA work protection standard is needed, and
        Requiring the evaluation of comments from other Federal departments;
    Add a new committee in-person peer review for risk evaluations under EPA’s Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals.

BACKGROUND
Currently, the Toxic Substances Control Act lacks consistent risk evaluation standards under the existing chemical program, provides limited coordination among federal agencies, and does not ensure timely review of chemicals.  This legislation would speed up the current chemical review process while implementing sound scientific standards.  The Sound Science Act reforms the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) by amending the existing chemicals review process under Section 6 and the scientific standards for chemical review under Section 26.



Schuler Red Angus Receives Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award

Schuler Red Angus of Bridgeport is the recipient of the 2026 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

The Butch and Susan Schuler family raise beef cattle and manage 20,000 acres at Schuler Red Angus in Morrill and Banner counties. The Schulers will be formally presented with the $10,000 award later this year.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Nebraska, the award is presented with Nebraska Cattlemen, Cargill, BASF, and the Nebraska Environmental Trust.

The award, given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, recognizes farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

“Schuler Red Angus represents the best of Nebraska ranching,” said Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen. “Across generations, they have remained dedicated to investing in our state’s agricultural community and its future. Our ability to provide world-class beef depends on producers like them, and we are grateful for their commitment to the long-term sustainability of our land and our industry.”

Nebraska landowners were encouraged to apply, or be nominated, for the award last year. Nominations were evaluated by an independent panel of Nebraska agriculture and conservation leaders.

ABOUT SCHULER RED ANGUS
David and Stephanie Schuler have spent their lifetimes watching their parents Butch and Susan make their ranch “more beautiful, efficient, and sustainable for the next generation.” 

Located in Nebraska’s Panhandle, Schuler Red Angus is known for supplying other ranchers with high quality live cattle and genetics. Equally impressive are the conservation efforts that have taken place on this unique landscape, diverse in its topography and ecological communities.

The Schulers have long been committed to improving the health and resilience of their 20,000 acres of pastures and irrigated cropland in Morrill and Banner counties. Investment in extensive water infrastructure has led to better distribution of grazing cattle.

Collaboration with public and private partners has led to innovations in how to combat cheatgrass throughout the region. The invasive species from Eastern Europe found its way to western Nebraska and Wyoming. It chokes out native grasses, and its flammability is of grave concern to ranchers. Cheatgrass seeds are notorious for festering in the eyes of animals. Early each spring, cheatgrass grows, heads out to seed, and dies before livestock and wildlife can derive any nutrition.

Schuler Red Angus is one of the region’s first ranches to demonstrate the effectiveness of a herbicide with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. The herbicide prevents cheatgrass from going to seed for a couple of years, during which this time native grasses can get reestablished.

The Schulers treated 1,500 acres with cost-share assistance from the Nebraska Environmental Trust and Mule Deer Foundation, and self-funded treatment of another 1,000 acres. Livestock actively graze the treated areas, while leaving untreated areas with cheatgrass untouched. Schuler Red Angus hosts workshops to educate other ranchers about this research. 

The Schulers conserve water by having proper pressure and shutoffs on pipelines. Dry wells and broken windmills have been replaced with solar wells to provide water for cattle and wildlife on parts of the ranch that the pipeline does not reach. Some solar wells were relocated to create better grazing patterns across the ranch.

After every stock tank was fitted with a metal bird ladder, the Schulers noticed a large decline in bird deaths. At least one water tank is left full for wildlife even when cattle are not grazing that area. Likewise, in the absence of cattle, gates are left open for Mule deer, elk, antelope, and white-tailed deer to pass freely through the range.

Ranch employees and interns are supplied with a tool kit that includes new rubber plungers, floats, chains, and tools needed to fix overflowing stock tanks. Pipelines are set to the correct horsepower and water pressure to ensure minimal energy consumption.

Dead and downed trees near creeks are used to created windbreaks, which provide shelter for animals to live in through hard cold spells. Keeping logs and debris out of the creek’s running water also eliminates log jams and murky, slow-flow zones.

David and Stephanie say their parents have led by example when it comes to caring for the land. While logging thousands of miles aboard an ATV to check, move, and care for cattle, Butch is known to return each time with wire, trash, or a rock that didn’t belong in the prairie.

Through acts great and small, the Schulers demonstrate a land ethic that reflects deep caring for their landscape and community.

ACCOLADES
“Supporting the Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award reflects Cargill’s commitment to responsible stewardship of the land that sustains our food system. We’re proud to partner with Sand County Foundation in recognizing conservation leaders who are helping nourish the world in a responsible and sustainable way,” said Katrina Robertson, General Manger, AVP of Cargill Beef in Schuyler, Nebraska.

“These award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO. “Their dedication to conservation is both an inspiration to their peers as well as a reminder to all how important thoughtful agriculture is to clean water, healthy soil, and wildlife habitat.”

“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of the award recipients,” said John Piotti, AFT President and CEO. “At AFT we believe that exemplary conservation involves the land itself, the practices employed on the land, and the people who steward it. This award recognizes the integral role of all three.”

“Schuler Red Angus is a shining example of environmental stewardship working in tandem with modern innovation. Raising Red Angus cattle while also responsibly managing the land for multiple species of wildlife takes dedication. This multi-generational family works with the land instead of against,” said Laura Field, Nebraska Cattle Executive Vice President.

“Supporting sustainable practices in agriculture helps shine a light on the good work being done by the Schuler family in Nebraska. We applaud their commitment and dedication,” said Jessica Monserrate, Head of Sustainability, BASF Agricultural Solutions.

The 2025 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award recipient was Diamond Bar Ranch of Stapleton. To view profiles of all award recipient since 2006, visit www.sandcountyfoundation.org/Nebraska.

Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award in Nebraska is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Cargill, BASF, Nebraska Environmental Trust, Nebraska Cattlemen, Farm Credit Services of America, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service of Nebraska, Audubon Great Plains, Green Cover Seed, Nebraska Partners for Fish and Wildlife, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Sandhills Task Force, University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Natural Resources, and World Wildlife Fund-Northern Great Plains.

For more information on the award, visit www.leopoldconservationaward.org.



HUSKER RESEARCHERS DEVELOP PROMISING NEW VACCINE AGAINST BIRD FLU

Researchers at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln have developed a vaccine approach that shows promise in protecting against highly pathogenic bird flu, demonstrating strong efficacy in both mice and cattle.

Avian influenza, or H5N1, has disrupted agricultural systems globally, leading to the culling of more than 166 million commercial poultry birds in the United States since 2022. In 2024, the virus spread to dairy cattle — an unprecedented interspecies transfer — and subsequently caused illness in about 70 farm workers with close contact to infected animals.

The vaccine research was led by virologist Eric Weaver, professor of biological sciences and director of the Nebraska Center for Virology, along with postdoctoral fellows Joshua Wiggins and Adthakorn Madapong in the School of Biological Sciences. Their findings are forthcoming in NPJ Vaccines. The new vaccine platform is designed to protect against multiple H5N1 strains and to generate immunity in both the bloodstream and the respiratory tract.

The vaccine was tested in mice and dairy calves, producing strong immune responses and complete protection against severe disease in preclinical models. The results suggest the approach could offer protection for livestock, particularly because there are currently no licensed H5N1 vaccines for cattle.

Weaver said the team built on earlier work from his lab when the cattle outbreak began.

“I had started working on this as a potential problem in 2005, but the last publication was around 10 years ago,” he said. “When the outbreak began, my hope was that this would cycle through dairy cattle and be gone, but that didn’t happen. It got progressively worse, and I was worried.”

Working with the Animal Care Team at Nebraska, the researchers obtained calves for testing in early 2025. The calves were vaccinated at one week of age using a combination of intramuscular and intranasal delivery and received a booster four weeks later. In a separate experiment, vaccinated mice were fully protected against lethal infection from multiple H5N1 strains.

“The idea was that if we put it intramuscularly, we can prevent it from spreading in the body, and then a mucosal aspect, intranasally, would prevent it from spreading from animal to animal,” Weaver said.

With these new findings, Weaver is seeking funding and potential partnerships to further evaluate the vaccine, including development of a multispecies option. Protecting cattle from H5N1 could reduce economic losses for producers while limiting opportunities for the virus to adapt and spread to humans.

“We’d like to have a vaccine for the farm and the farmer, and everything shows that this would be an effective vaccine platform for humans, as well,” Weaver said.

As diseases continue to cross species barriers, Weaver said research like this will be critical to protecting Nebraska and the global community.

“Historically, these things will move into other species if there is extended contact long enough for the evolution to occur,” he said. “Influenza A viruses have never been an issue in cattle, but it is now, and it’s not going away.”



More Butter and Cheese In Cold Storage
Fred Hall, Dairy Field Specialist, ISU Extension

U.S. dairy inventories showed mixed movement in the latest USDA Cold Storage report, signaling a market that remains well supplied in some categories while tightening in others. Stocks held in refrigerated warehouses as of March 31, 2026, reflect seasonal shifts in milk production and processor demand as the industry transitions into spring.

The amount of butter inventory at the end of March was 288.8 million pounds, compared to 256.2 million pounds in February.  The March butter stocks were lower than a year ago, when there was 323.1 million pounds in cold storage.

Cheese inventories presented a more balanced picture. Total natural cheese stocks in cold storage increased modestly from February but remained lower than the same period last year. American-style cheese inventories also showed slight tightening on an annual basis, while stocks of other cheese varieties continued to fluctuate with production schedules and export demand. USDA data indicated that total natural cheese holdings were up about 1 percent from the previous month but down 2 percent from March 2025.

For dairy producers, lower year-over-year cheese inventories may be viewed as supportive for Class III milk pricing, especially if demand remains steady through spring and early summer. Cheese stocks are closely monitored because they often serve as an indicator of whether production is outpacing consumption. When inventories remain manageable, markets tend to interpret this as a sign of balanced supply.

Dry dairy ingredients continue to play an important role in overall inventory trends. While the Cold Storage report focuses primarily on refrigerated inventories, broader USDA dairy product data suggests milk powder and whey markets remain influenced by export demand and international competition. U.S. processors continue adjusting production to meet shifting global needs for skim solids and protein ingredients.

The March inventory picture highlights a dairy market that is neither oversupplied nor severely constrained. Butter inventories appear available, cheese stocks remain relatively balanced, and demand continues to absorb a large share of production. For producers, these figures suggest that dairy product movement remains healthy despite broader economic uncertainty.

Looking ahead, traders and producers will watch upcoming milk production reports alongside future cold storage data to determine whether inventory levels continue tightening into summer. Seasonal milk growth, export performance, and domestic consumer demand will remain key drivers influencing dairy product prices in the months ahead.



Millions-strong Farmer Coalition Urges Prop. 12 Relief in Farm Bill

The National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation, representing more than 5 million members, led a coalition urging Congress to provide regulatory certainty for farmers across the country forced to comply California Proposition 12—and the impending patchwork of differing state laws that could ultimately impact prices for consumers.
 
Taking their concerns directly to congressional leadership, a coalition of nearly 400 agricultural groups sent a letter to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), detailing robust arguments opposing the extraterritorial state law.

    The massive problems caused by Prop. 12 cannot be solved via regulation or executive order—it is solely Congress’ authority and responsibility to provide a solution, as noted in the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court decision.  

    Prop. 12 has created uncertainty across rural America, especially on small and medium-sized farms, as they have less financial ability to retrofit barns to comply with the restrictive law. 

    There is significant bipartisan willingness to fix Prop. 12. 
    o    Trump administration Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said, “[Proposition 12] is not just affecting California. It’s affecting multitudes of other states, multitudes of other parts of the ag community, including our hog family farms.”  
    o    Biden administration Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said, “California’s Proposition 12 is not a narrow issue, nor is it a regional one. It goes to the heart of whether farmers across the country can operate under consistent, responsible, science-based standards—or be subject to a shifting patchwork of mandates they cannot control and cannot afford. When I served as Secretary of Agriculture the Supreme Court of the United States made clear, resolving these interstate challenges is the responsibility of Congress. I encouraged Congress to act then, and I am again encouraging Congress to act now. The farm bill presents a clear and immediate opportunity to provide that certainty and uphold the principles that have long sustained American agriculture and the affordability of our food supply.” 

    Laws like Prop. 12 do not improve animal welfare and lack scientific evidence.
    o    The American Veterinary Medical Association said, “the arbitrary housing requirements in Prop 12 do not objectively improve animal welfare and may unintentionally cause harm.” 

    Prop. 12 sets the stage for an unworkable 50-state patchwork of laws. 
    o    A proposal in Oklahoma would increase housing requirements beyond Prop. 12. This means that pork producers nationwide, regardless of whether they have converted to be Prop. 12-compliant, would yet again be out of compliance to access another state market.

    Farmers’ costs to house their animals are increasing.  
    o    Multiple university studies show that constructing new, Prop. 12-compliant barns can cost 25-40% more per sow than other housing styles, not including the estimated 15% higher operating costs per pig caused by reduced productivity. 

    Prop. 12 is responsible for declining food affordability as grocery story pork prices are skyrocketing.  
    o    North Dakota State University economists found that since Prop. 12 was implemented, prices for covered products in California have increased nearly 20% on average.  

    Prop. 12 leads to pork industry consolidation, as smaller farms close their doors because of the regulatory burdens and high costs of complying with Prop. 12.

The 2026 House Farm Bill protects everyone’s freedom to farm while also allowing states to act independently by allowing laws that regulate practices and impact commerce within their borders. California’s Proposition 12 goes beyond those protections and dictates practices in other states.
 
NPPC and almost 400 other agricultural groups stand up for the rights of all pork producers, regardless of size, and call on Congress to pass the House Farm Bill with a Prop. 12 fix. 




Fund Ag Export Promotion Programs, Says Coalition
 
The Coalition to Promote U.S. Agricultural Exports, which more than 130 other agriculture organizations, is urging the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee to include “full, mandatory” funding for two export promotion programs in the fiscal 2027 agriculture appropriations bill.
 
In a letter to Reps. Andy Harris (R-MD) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA), the chairman and ranking member, respectively, of the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, the coalition asked that funding continue for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program, “an investment which is making a difference.”
 
The coalition pointed out that private-sector investment through MAP is $2.50 for each $1 in federal funding, while FMD spending is $3.25 for each federal dollar appropriated. “Full funding for these programs is abundantly necessary,” said the coalition.
 
Exports add significantly to the bottom line of every U.S. agricultural producer. In countries around the world, MAP and FMD have helped promote U.S. farm products, which generated economic output of more than $362 billion in 2023, according to USDA. That means for every $1 of U.S. agricultural goods exported, $2.06 of domestic economic activity was generated.



Could Beef-on-Dairy Adoption be Leading to More Heifers on Feed?
David Anderson
Extension Specialist – Livestock and Food Product Marketing
Texas A&M University

Beef-on-dairy remains among the most discussed topics in the beef industry. Questions have been raised about the impacts of beef-on-dairy on beef production, which we discuss in a 2024 Cattle Market Notes Weekly article. A question that has received less attention, but we believe is just as important, is whether growth in beef-on-dairy has the potential to mask changes in cattle inventories in USDA NASS reports. Specifically, the January and July Cattle Inventory reports and the monthly and quarterly Cattle on Feed report. The objective of this article is to explain how beef on dairy could impact cattle inventory reporting. Specifically, we examine scenarios in which growth in beef-on-dairy programs may increase the number of cattle entering the beef supply and change the composition of those cattle.

Beef-on-dairy can affect beef supplies in two ways: the total number of cattle entering the beef supply and the composition of cattle in the U.S. beef supply. First, beef-on-dairy may change the number of cattle entering the beef supply chain by altering the relative value of dairy heifers. Historically, dairy heifers are valued highest as dairy cow replacements. Excess heifers, those in excess of dairy cow replacement needs entered the beef supply chain. However, growth in beef-on-dairy programs can increase the value of dairy heifers and bull calves as part of the beef supply chain. This could potentially influence heifer retention decisions in the dairy sector and affect the share of dairy heifers retained for herd replacement each year. Second, beef-on-dairy alters the composition of cattle by shifting dairy-origin calves that would traditionally enter the system as straight-bred dairy steers and heifers into a distinct beef-on-dairy category. This effectively creates a third class of animal in the beef production system alongside traditional straight-beef breed and straight-dairy cattle breed. Although we might argue that these are simply another cross bred type of cattle.

The data from the January Cattle Inventory report shows that from 2017 to 2026 the dairy cow herd has ranged from 9.34 million to 9.57 million head. At the same time, the ratio of dairy replacement heifers to dairy cows has declined from 50.7% in 2017 to 40.8% in 2026. While the dairy herd has been relatively stable during that time, the pool of heifers being held for dairy replacement has been shrinking. While some of this is likely due to producers more efficiently targeting heifer semen to the right cows, one must also think some of this is due to the potential value of those non-replacement dairy calves, many of which are now beef sired. The proliferation of information for better decision making on dairies has led to fine tuning the number of replacement heifers needed, especially given the cost of heifer development, and freeing up more beef sired calves for the record high calf market.

One industry report that the beef cattle sector pays close attention to, because of its implications for herd rebuilding, is the quarterly Cattle on Feed (COF) report from USDA-NASS. In the quarterly COF, published at the beginning of each quarter, cattle on feed inventories are reported separately for steers and heifers, and the key statistic discussed is heifers on feed as a percent of total cattle on feed. When heifer retention increases for the purpose of beef cow herd expansion, heifers represent a small share of total on-feed inventory. However, the reported number of heifers on feed does not distinguish between beef, dairy, and beef-on-dairy heifers. Higher adoption of sexed semen for dairy replacement heifers, combined with incentives to use more beef semen on dairy cows, has the potential to result in more calves born from dairy cows being placed on feed. A good portion of these are likely heifers, which suggest it could also inflate heifers on feed as a percent of total cattle on feed. If this were occurring, it could mask early signs of beef cow herd rebuilding.

The January 2026 COF reported that heifers on feed totaled 4.435 million head, or 38.7% of total cattle on feed. To estimate the potential impacts of beef-on-dairy and sexed-semen adoption, we subtract the estimated increase in heifers associated with increased adoption of both from total reported heifers on feed. A key challenge is that assumptions about beef-on-dairy and sexed-semen adoption rates are hard to pin down. Our baseline assumes a 50/50 steer-heifer dairy calf crop with no sexed semen and no beef-on-dairy. The increase in heifers is calculated assuming 75% adoption of sexed semen for dairy replacement heifers and 25% adoption of sexed semen for beef-on-dairy steers. Under these assumptions, we estimate that a little over 1.5 million dairy heifers enter feedlots annually, compared to a little less than 940 thousand under the baseline scenario. This implies an increase of approximately 600 thousand heifers entering feedlots each year relative to the baseline. After applying this adjustment, the implied beef breed heifers-on-feed total for January 2026 is 4.186 million head, or 36.6% of total cattle on feed. Even after adjusting for potential beef-on-dairy heifers it is still a relatively large number of beef breed heifers on feed and doesn’t really change drastically implications about herd expansion. For perspective, the estimated increase of roughly 600,000 heifers entering feedlots annually is large relative to recent changes in beef inventories. For example, the beef cow herd declined by about 1%, while beef heifer inventories increased by only about 41,000 head, suggesting these dynamics could meaningfully influence how cattle inventory data are interpreted.

Rather than focusing on any single assumption about adoption rates, Figure 2 calculates the combinations of sexed semen use that would generate the same adjusted heifer share of total cattle on feed. The line in the figure represents combinations of adoption rates that produce a heifer share of approximately 38.7%, which matches the heifer share implied by the January 2026 Cattle on Feed report. Points along the line yield the same implied heifer-on-feed percentage. Combinations above the line result in a larger adjusted heifer share, while combinations below the line result in a smaller share.

For example, if the industry adopts 70% sexed semen for dairy replacement heifers, then adoption of sexed semen for beef-on-dairy steers above approximately 42% would imply an upward adjustment in the heifer-on-feed percentage above 38.7%. Alternatively, adoption below approximately 42% would imply a heifer share below 38.7%.

This approach shifts the emphasis away from identifying a single assumed adoption rate and instead highlights the tradeoff between dairy replacement and beef-on-dairy adoption. Because no comprehensive industry-wide data exist documenting adoption of sexed semen for either dairy replacements or beef-on-dairy programs, presenting the results in this way allows us to evaluate how alternative combinations of adoption rates would affect the implied heifer share, without requiring a definitive assumption.

Beef-on-dairy and the use of sexed semen in the dairy industry both have implications for the beef industry, particularly for how cattle inventories are interpreted in USDA-NASS reports. As an example, we have shown how these changes in the dairy industry might impact the quarterly estimate of heifers on feed in the USDA-NASS COF report. This is something that analysts need to keep in mind when they interpret the gender breakdown from these quarterly reports. An additional issue is that beef-on-dairy cattle are not always easily distinguishable from straight-beef cattle once they enter feedlots. As a result, simply reporting beef-on-dairy cattle as a separate category in existing USDA reports is not a straightforward solution to what we believe is a potential measurement and interpretation problem in these reports. This is a separate issue that is worth having its own article.  

Monday April 27 Ag News - LENRD April Meeting Notes - USDA Moves More Research to US-MARC Clay Center - 2nd SDRP Payments Expected - Cold Storage Summary - and more!

 Collaboration to Keep Battle Creek Flood Conversation Moving Forward Discussed at LENRD April Board Meeting

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District continues to work towards finding a solution for flooding issues in the City of Battle Creek.

At the Board of Directors Meeting on Thursday, April 23, Directors agreed with staff’s recommendation to create a committee for Battle Creek flood mitigation. The committee will consist of Directors appointed by the Chairman (less than a quorum) and representatives from the City of Battle Creek. They will work together to define goals and priorities, utilizing the available programs from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to be considered in formulating a possible recommendation for flood mitigation for the community.

Directors also heard and voted on Urban Conservation Assistance Program and Recreation Area Development Program applications.

The Urban Conservation Assistance Program provides technical and financial assistance to government entities such as cities, counties, villages, and schools, to help prevent or control erosion, flooding, and related resource concerns in urbanized areas while the Recreation Area Development Program provides financial assistance to acquire land rights, design, establish, develop, and improve public recreation areas.

Ultimately, seven Recreation Area Development Program Applications were approved for funding totaling $150,000.00.

Connor Bladwin, Groundwater Management Area Specialist, gave a presentation on his participation with Nebraska Water Leaders Academy. The Academy, established in 2009, provides learning opportunities focused on cooperative approaches to solving Nebraska’s water issues. It is made up of men and women from every corner of Nebraska who meet in a year-long program to learn the principles of first-rate leadership and about the vital role of rivers, streams and aquifers in Nebraska. It is supported through the Water Futures Partnership-Nebraska with University of Nebraska-Lincoln partnering to provide program curriculum. Bruckner, General Manager, was a member of the inaugural Nebraska Water Leaders Academy.

Baldwin also updated the Board on the status of outstanding Management Area Reports from the 2025 growing season as well as producers who had not yet completed Nitrogen Certification. He explained that staff are more lenient with annual reporting this year due to the change to the new reporting system and bugs encountered during the reporting period. As of the meeting, all producers had secured Nitrogen Certification.

To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local District can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Thursday, May 28th, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live. 



Fischer Welcomes USDA Announcement to Relocate Research Project to Clay Center

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, welcomed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s announcement that the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center will be expanding its federal research capabilities by receiving additional employees and projects to the state. Under the plan, Nebraska will gain one research project and a total of 10 employees.  

“This move by the USDA is one that will benefit Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers,” Fischer said. “I welcome this announcement by the department, which is a real effort to place folks in the field, closer to those who are impacted by their work. I look forward to seeing this move finalized. I want to thank Secretary Rollins and Undersecretary Hutchins for their leadership on this issue. I’ll continue working with them to advance Nebraska’s priorities.”

USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) recently announced the relocation of research projects across the country. This is an effort to move projects closer to the stakeholders they serve and allow ARS researchers with more opportunities to engage directly with farmers and ranchers. 



USDA Issues Second Supplemental Disaster Payment to Farmers, Extends Program Application Deadline to August 12

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins Friday announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is maximizing disaster assistance support for producers by issuing a second Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) payment to eligible producers who have approved program applications for losses due to natural disasters in calendar years 2023 and 2024. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has already provided $6.7 billion in SDRP payments to eligible producers. Additionally, USDA is extending the program deadline to give producers and FSA more time to address any program application changes that could impact payments. The original April 30 deadline has been extended to Aug. 12, 2026, for SDRP Stage 1 and Stage 2.

Initial SDRP payments were factored at 35%, but after further analysis, USDA is increasing the payment factor to 70%, meaning producers with approved applications will receive an additional 35% of their calculated SDRP payment. Future SDRP payments will also be made using a 70% payment factor.

“President Trump is the most pro-farmer President of our lifetime, and through his leadership, the Administration is supporting farmers through unprecedented international market access, lowered taxes, and improvements to the farm safety net with the Working Families Tax Cuts. By extending the program deadline and making available this additional payment, we are continuing to put farmers first during this difficult farm economy,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “To help secure the economic viability of disaster-impacted farmers, we’re taking deliberate steps to provide stronger, more meaningful financial support for our nation’s agricultural producers.”

Over the past year, the Trump administration and USDA, under the leadership of Secretary Rollins, have supported U.S. farmers and ranchers with over $17.9 billion in supplemental disaster assistance mandated by Congress in the American Relief Act, 2025. To date, USDA has provided over $6.7 billion in SDRP payments, $9.3 billion through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program and nearly $1.9 billion through the Emergency Livestock Relief Program.

Additionally, through recent efforts to provide economic relief as the Trump administration works to open new markets, FSA has made over $10 billion in payments, to date, through the Farmers Bridge Assistance program with more assistance on the way for specialty crop producers. Since 2025, through permanent programs, FSA has provided over $2.0 billion in disaster assistance, $5.3 billion in commodity price support, $3.1 billion in safety net assistance, and $685 million through conservation programs.

All in all, this administration has put Farmers First with over $39.1 billion in economic support needed to recover from market and weather-related financial hardships beyond their control, protect our natural resources and keep their operations moving forward.

SDRP Stage 1
The first stage, announced in July 2025, remains available to producers who received an indemnity under crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) for eligible crop losses due to qualifying 2023 and 2024 natural disaster events.

SDRP Stage 2
Stage 2 of SDRP covers eligible crop, tree, bush and vine losses that were not covered under Stage One program provisions, including non-indemnified (shallow loss), uncovered and quality losses.

Eligibility
Eligible losses must be the result of natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2023 and/or 2024. These disasters include wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze (including a polar vortex), smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying drought, and related conditions.

To qualify for drought related losses, the loss must have occurred in a county rated by the U.S. Drought Monitor as having a D2 (severe drought) for eight consecutive weeks, D3 (extreme drought), or greater intensity level during the applicable calendar year.

FSA is establishing block grants with Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, and Massachusetts that cover crop losses; therefore, producers with losses on land physically located in these states are not eligible for SDRP program payments.

More Information
For more information on SDRP, please visit fsa.usda.gov/sdrp.



USDA Cold Storage March 2026 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers on March 31, 2026 were down slightly from the previous month and down 2 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were down 2 percent from the previous month and down 3 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were up 2 percent from the previous month and up slightly from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were up 5 percent from last month but down 13 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on March 31, 2026 were down slightly from the previous month and down 5 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were down 3 percent from the previous month and down 3 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 9 percent from last month but down 9 percent from March 31, 2025.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on March 31, 2026 were up 1 percent from the previous month but 
down 2 percent from March 31, 2025. Butter stocks were up 13 percent from last month but down 11 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks on March 31, 2026 were down 6 percent from last month but up 4 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were down 9 percent from last month and down 8 percent from a year ago.



USDA Dairy Products 2025 Production Summary

Total cheese production, excluding cottage cheeses, was 14.8 billion pounds, 4.0 percent above 2024 production. Wisconsin was the leading State with 24.6 percent of the production.

Italian varieties, with 6.33 billion pounds were 5.1 percent above 2024 production and accounted for 42.8 percent of total cheese in 2025. Mozzarella accounted for 79.1 percent of the Italian production, followed by Parmesan with 8.3 percent and Provolone with 6.2 percent. Wisconsin was the leading State in Italian cheese production with 28.4 percent of the production.

American type cheese production was 5.83 billion pounds, 4.6 percent above 2024 and accounted for 39.4 percent of total cheese in 2025. Wisconsin was the leading State in American type cheese production with 18.2 percent of the production.

Butter production in the United States during 2025 totaled 2.39 billion pounds, 6.7 percent above 2024. California accounted for 28.4 percent of the production.

Dry milk powders (2025 United States production, comparisons with 2024)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 1.66 billion pounds, up slightly.
Skim milk powders - 504 million pounds, down 15.9 percent.

Whey products (2025 United States production, comparisons with 2024)
Dry whey, total - 845 million pounds, down 1.0 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 1.14 billion pounds, up 2.6 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 502 million pounds, up 2.1 percent.

Frozen products (2025 United States production, comparisons with 2024)
Ice cream, Regular (total) - 845 million gallons, down 9.2 percent. 
Ice cream, Lowfat (total) - 381 million gallons, down 21.5 percent. 
Sherbet (total) - 25.0 million gallons, down 5.7 percent. 
Frozen Yogurt (total) - 34.1 million gallons, down 3.9 percent. 



NCBA Members Bring Cattle Industry Priorities to Washington During Legislative Conference

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), and its nationwide network of state affiliates, concluded its 2026 Legislative Conference this week, bringing together cattle producers from across the country to advocate for policy solutions that strengthen America’s cattle industry and rural communities. Throughout the conference, producers met with federal officials and engaged directly with policymakers on Capitol Hill to ensure the voice of cattle producers is heard in Washington.

“NCBA’s Legislative Conference is where grassroots policy meets action,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver, a Virginia cattle producer. “Our members traveled to Washington to share real-world perspectives from their operations and reinforce why strong, commonsense policies are essential to keeping family farms and ranches viable for the next generation. From protecting animal health to advancing regulatory reform, NCBA members are leading the charge on behalf of the entire cattle industry.”

During their time in Washington, NCBA members emphasized several top policy priorities, including:
    Delisting the gray wolf and passing the Pet and Livestock Protection Act
    Advancing passage of a new Farm Bill
    Supporting funding for research, management, and control of the Longhorned tick and the diseases it carries

In addition to Capitol Hill meetings, NCBA members participated in discussions with key federal agencies. Producers met with officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including the Food Safety and Inspection Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and Agricultural Marketing Service, as well as representatives from the Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine and the Environmental Protection Agency. U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach addressed attendees, discussing the impact of the Working Families Tax Cuts and economic support for rural America. Producers also received a demonstration of new tools from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service designed to enhance transparency and market opportunities within the cattle industry.

The Legislative Conference is a cornerstone of NCBA’s grassroots advocacy efforts, connecting cattle producers through NCBA and its state affiliates with policy makers in Washington, D.C. This producer-led engagement reinforces the organization’s role as the definitive voice of the U.S. cattle industry and ensures real-world perspectives from cattle operations are part of the policy process. 

Friday April 24 Ag News - Investment in 2026 Crops - Beef Value Cuts - USDA FSIS Reorganization - Commercial Red Meat Production Climbs 2% - and more!

Nebraska Corn Farmers Investment Continues to Increase with Higher Input Prices for 2026 Growing Season

According to the March Prospective Plantings report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Nebraska corn farmers are expected to plant 10.3 million acres of corn in 2026.

If realized, that would represent an economic investment of nearly $3.8 billion into the state’s economy over a two-month period, based on crop budgets from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The 2026 planting season reflects a 26% increase in investment compared with previous years, despite fewer projected acres.

The estimate includes input costs such as seed, fuel and fertilizer, but excludes land, labor and equipment costs.

“We are not immune to the continued pace of high input prices, fertilizer consolidation and the impact of international conflict, all of which are contributing to negative margins for corn farmers,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board. “Even so, farmers remain committed to planting high-quality crops, which requires a significant investment of time, energy and resources.”

Nebraska farmers typically begin planting corn in mid-April and aim to finish by mid-May, weather permitting. Planting timing and pace can significantly affect crop yields, soil health and overall farm productivity.

The latest USDA Crop Progress report, released April 20, shows Nebraska farmers are in the early stages of planting, with 8% of corn planted, compared with the five-year average of 5%.

“As farmers, our role is to produce the highest-quality product to benefit consumers both domestically and internationally,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board and a farmer from Giltner, Nebraska. “Given today’s economic challenges and uncertainty, it’s critical that we remain diligent and thoughtful in our decision-making on the farm.”



Underutilized Beef Cuts That Deliver Value & Flavor
Adam Wegner - Nebraska Beef Council 

When it comes to putting delicious, satisfying meals on the table, beef offers far more than just the familiar steaks and roasts. In fact, some of the most flavorful and economical options in the meat case are also the most underutilized. With a little know-how, these cuts can deliver incredible taste, versatility and value for any home cook. 

Beef Round
Cuts from the round, like Top Round Steak, Bottom Round Roast and Eye of Round, are standout budget-friendly choices. These cuts are typically lean and affordable, making them ideal for everyday meals. While they may be less tender than premium steaks, simple techniques like marinating, slow-cooking or slicing thinly against the grain can transform them into tender, flavorful dishes. 

Sirloin Tips
Another often-overlooked group includes sirloin tip cuts, such as Sirloin Tip Steak and Sirloin Tip Roast. These cuts are not only economical, but incredibly versatile. With minimal knife work, these cuts are perfect for kabobs, stir-fry, sandwiches or roasted and carved for family dinners. 

Less Tender - Big Flavor
For those willing to explore a bit further, cuts like brisket, chuck short ribs and flank steak offer rich, beefy flavor and shine when prepared with the right cooking method. Slow-cooking or braising allows these hardworking muscles to become tender and juicy, while grilling or stir-frying (especially after marinating) highlights their bold taste. 

Something New
Even newer or lesser-known cuts such as the Flat Iron, Denver Steak and Sirloin Bavette are gaining popularity for their balance of tenderness, flavor and value. These “hidden gems” prove that trying something new can elevate your meals without stretching your budget. 

What makes beef truly shine is its versatility. From hearty slow-cooked comfort foods to quick weeknight stir-fries or grilled favorites, one cut can often stretch into multiple meals. Leftovers can easily be repurposed into tacos, salads, sandwiches or pasta dishes making beef a smart and delicious choice for today’s busy families.



USDA Announces Food Safety and Inspection Service Reorganization, Establishes National Food Safety Center in Iowa

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Thursday a reorganization of the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to modernize operations, streamline support functions and better align the agency with the nation’s agricultural landscape.

As part of this effort, USDA will establish a new National Food Safety Center (NFSC) in Urbandale, Iowa, which will serve as the primary hub for FSIS administrative, technical and support operations.

“This is about building a stronger, more resilient food safety system for the country. By establishing a National Food Safety Center in Iowa and expanding our scientific capabilities, USDA is ensuring that the Food Safety and Inspection Service is positioned where it can best support American agriculture and protect public health,” said Secretary Brooke L. Rollins. “This is on top the last year of work at the Department to put science and safety first at FSIS. President Trump is committed to ensuring American consumers have the safest, most abundant, and affordable food supply in the world. We are ensuring the American people can trust their food is safe and healthy with gold standard processes and inspections. These changes reflect our commitment to modernizing the Department while staying focused on delivering results for the American people.”

“We are taking a hard look at how FSIS operates and making targeted changes to improve how the agency functions day to day,” said Deputy Secretary Stephen A. Vaden. “Consolidating support operations in Iowa, strengthening scientific work in Georgia, and aligning staff with mission needs will reduce duplication and improve accountability. This approach ensures that resources are used efficiently while maintaining the high standards the public expects from our food safety system.”

“FSIS is a field-based public health agency, with the vast majority of our workforce serving on the frontlines in establishments across the country,” said Administrator Justin Ransom. “This reorganization strengthens how we support those employees by bringing key training, policy, and technical expertise into closer alignment with their work. The National Food Safety Center will help us better prepare and support our workforce while also creating new opportunities to attract and develop the next generation of food safety professionals.”

Establishing a Central Hub for Food Safety Operations
FSIS will repurpose existing USDA space in Urbandale, Iowa, to establish the new National Food Safety Center (NFSC), which will become the agency’s largest office in the United States with approximately 200 employees.

The NFSC will serve as FSIS’ primary location for headquarters support functions, including resource management, training, food safety education, financial operations, information technology and administrative services. By consolidating these functions in a centrally located hub, FSIS will reduce duplication, improve coordination and expand access to career opportunities for employees across the country.

The establishment of the NFSC marks a significant shift in the agency’s operational footprint, placing key functions closer to the agricultural and food production systems that FSIS regulates and supports.

Expanding Scientific Leadership in Georgia
FSIS will also establish a Science Center in Athens, Georgia, building on its existing Eastern Field Services Laboratory and expanding its capabilities in microbiology, chemistry and epidemiology.

The Science Center will strengthen FSIS’ scientific leadership and ensure continued access to top-tier academic institutions, a robust public health workforce and key industry partners.

Aligning Workforce and Functions Nationwide
Under the reorganization, FSIS will relocate approximately two-thirds of its National Capital Region workforce to mission-critical locations, including the National Food Safety Center in Iowa and the Science Center in Georgia.

Approximately 200 positions will be relocated from Washington D.C, while roughly 100 positions will remain to support congressional engagement, policy development and interagency coordination.

FSIS will also establish a presence in Fort Collins, Colorado, for staff supporting international activities, further aligning the agency with USDA’s broader geographic footprint.

Maintaining Continuity in Food Safety Operations
The reorganization does not impact FSIS’ frontline inspection workforce which represents 85 percent of employees and operates across more than 6,800 regulated establishments.

All food safety inspection activities and public health protections will continue without interruption, and the reorganization does not include any reduction in force. All FSIS employees will retain positions within the agency.

Delivering on USDA’s Modernization Effort
This reorganization advances USDA’s broader effort to align its workforce with available resources, eliminate unnecessary management layers and bring services closer to stakeholders.

By establishing the National Food Safety Center as a central hub for operations and expanding its scientific capabilities, FSIS is strengthening its ability to protect public health and ensure the safety of the nation’s food supply.



Commercial Red Meat Production Up 2 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.51 billion pounds in March, up 2 percent from the 4.42 billion pounds produced in March 2025.

Beef production, at 2.10 billion pounds, was 3 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.34 million head, down 6 percent from March 2025. The average live weight was up 45 pounds from the previous year, at 1,471 pounds.

Veal production totaled 1.7 million pounds, 16 percent below March a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 8,300 head, down 23 percent from March 2025. The average live weight was up 32 pounds from last year, at 359 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.40 billion pounds, up 7 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 11.0 million head, up 6 percent from March 2025. The average live weight was up 1 pound from the previous year, at 292 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 12.1 million pounds, was down 6 percent from March 2025. Sheep slaughter totaled 197,200 head, 1 percent below last year. The average live weight was 121 pounds, down 6 pounds from March a year ago.

By State          (million lbs.  -  % March '25)
Nebraska .........:     634.9          101       
Iowa ................:     783.7          108       
Kansas ............:     478.9          105       

January to March 2026 commercial red meat production was 13.2 billion pounds, down 2 percent from 2025. Accumulated beef production was down 6 percent from last year, veal was down 24 percent, pork was up 1 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 3 percent. 




Oil Corporations Attempt to Derail Legislation That Lowers Fuel Prices

The leader of the National Corn Growers Association today called out several major companies trying to derail legislation that would allow for the year-round sale of fuels with 15% ethanol blends, also referred to as E15. The proposed legislation, which enjoys the support of most of the petroleum industry, would also reform parts of the small refinery exemption program under the Renewable Fuel Standard.
 
“There is a tiny minority of major energy corporations – like Delek U.S. Inc., Cenovus Energy, CVR Energy, HF Sinclair, Parr Pacific Holdings and Suncor Energy Inc. – that are masquerading as small refineries to get Renewable Fuel Standard exemptions they don’t need,” said Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower. “Their greedy actions are holding up legislation that would help farmers who are struggling during tough economic times.”
 
Under the Renewable Fuel Standard, smaller refineries can ask for exemptions from blending fuel with ethanol, if they can demonstrate that compliance causes economic hardship. However, many so-called smaller refineries have sought exemptions over the years while also boasting multi-million or billion-dollar profits.  
 
This statement comes as NCGA and a broad coalition of farm, ethanol, and petroleum groups are pushing for an amendment to the Farm Bill that would remove an antiquated regulatory barrier in the Clean Air Act, allowing for the sale of E15 during the summer months.  
 
Bower also noted that the actions of the corporations are keeping gas prices higher for America’s drivers.  
 
“E15 saves consumers money at the pump, which is particularly important during the summer months,” Bower noted. “So, these billion-dollar companies are putting their interests above hard-working Americans trying to make ends-meet.”
 
The House is set to consider the amendment next week.



Broad Coalition Urges Congress to Advance Year-Round E15, SRE Reforms in Farm Bill

The American Petroleum Institute today issued the following statement from Vice President of Downstream Policy Will Hupman after a broad coalition urged Congress to include a bipartisan Farm Bill amendment led by Rep. Michelle Fischbach to allow year-round sales of E15 and provide targeted reforms to the Small Refinery Exemption (SRE) process under the Renewable Fuel Standard.

“At a moment when households are feeling the sharp pressure of energy prices, this amendment is critical to promoting affordability, providing clarity for energy producers and fuel retailers, and strengthening America’s farmers,” said Hupman. “It brings long-overdue certainty and predictability to fuel markets and expands fuel choice for American consumers.”

In a letter to lawmakers, a diverse coalition of fuel refiners, ethanol producers, agriculture stakeholders and fuel retailers highlighted the amendment as a pragmatic, market-based solution that advances consumer choice, strengthens fuel supply and provides durable regulatory certainty.

“Maintaining access to E15 year-round empowers consumers at the pump with more options, particularly during periods of tight supply and high fuel costs, while allowing refiners and retailers to meet the demands of the market,” the organizations wrote.

The coalition emphasized that inconsistent application of the SRE process has created unnecessary volatility and undermined confidence across the fuels marketplace. Targeted reforms would help ensure exemptions are granted as Congress intended while improving predictability for all participants.

“A clear and consistent approach ensures that exemptions are applied as Congress intended, while avoiding uncertainty that can disrupt fuel markets, undermine compliance planning and create volatility for producers and consumers alike,” the organizations wrote.

The groups noted the combined reforms would support rural economies, encourage investment across the supply chain and help mitigate price pressures for consumers.

The coalition called on Congress to include the amendment in the final Farm Bill.



Ethanol Policy Meetings In Portugal, United Kingdom Enhance Stakeholder Exposure To U.S. Biofuel

Last week, U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) Regional Ethanol Manager for the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (U.K.) and Canada Stephanie Larson and USGBC ethanol sector members met with public and private representatives in Portugal and the U.K. to improve U.S. ethanol’s market presence.

“In Portugal, the Council is seeking to learn more about the biofuels sector in the country, including the potential for ethanol in the Portuguese market as part of the country’s energy transition,” Larson said.

“This was also the Council’s first mission to the U.K. since the U.S.-U.K. Economic Prosperity Deal was announced in 2025, creating an opportunity to engage more directly with the market and identifying key individuals and organizations that can serve as a catalyst for changes in policy, especially for crop-based ethanol.”

Larson was joined by Kansas Corn CEO Josh Roe and POET Vice President of Corporate Affairs Doug Berven to offer a complete perspective of the U.S. ethanol industry during meetings.

Among the group’s agenda items in Lisbon were meetings with the National Association of Corn and Sorghum Producers (ANPROMIS), the National Entity for the Energy Sector (ENSE) and the National Laboratory of Energy and Geology (LNEG) to discuss the current state of biofuel use in Portugal.

Portugal is an E5 market but effectively blends at roughly three percent, although there is interest in moving to E10 that could stimulate demand for ethanol and create new market opportunities due to a lack of domestic production in the country.

The focus of meetings in London was sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), on-road applications and the potential for ethanol as a sustainable marine fuel, all points of interest for the U.K. government as it seeks to reduce the country’s carbon emissions.

The delegation first met with the U.K. Department for Transport (DfT) to hear updates on its expert working group exploring whether ethanol blending in petrol can be increased beyond E10 there along with the recent call for evidence on crop-derived SAF production under the U.K.’s SAF Mandate. Next, the delegation met with Valero Energy, a USGBC member, to discuss its work in the U.K. and EU and how it is preparing for potential new demand.

Finally, the team spoke to LanzaJet and Fuels Industry U.K. to discuss private sector preparation for higher SAF usage and how the U.S. ethanol industry can support the U.K.’s needs.

“The U.K. is a vital ethanol market for U.S. producers that still has a growing appetite, both in the potential for higher on-road blending rates and expanding demand areas like SAF and maritime,” Larson said.

“With the U.S. industry’s existing relationship with buyers and end-users in the U.K., supporting policy changes encouraging ethanol use will quickly create additional sales for U.S. producers.”



ASA, Soy State Affiliates Join Broad Push for Farm Bill Action

Next week, Congress is expected to take up the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. The American Soybean Association, along with soybean state affiliates, has joined hundreds of agricultural organizations urging House leadership to quickly advance a comprehensive, long-term farm bill.

In a letter signed by agricultural groups nationwide, stakeholders highlight bipartisan progress on “Farm Bill 2.0” and stress that a full, five-year bill is critical to maintaining the resilience, productivity, and global competitiveness of U.S. agriculture.

The push comes as economic pressures on farmers intensify. Rising input costs, including fuel and fertilizer, along with global uncertainty and supply chain disruptions, continue to challenge producers. The letter underscores the urgency for updated policy tools, noting the industry cannot continue to operate under outdated legislation.

ASA encourages policymakers to advance a strong, comprehensive farm bill that reflects current economic conditions and supports soybean farmers through an effective safety net, market opportunities, and long-term investments in U.S. agriculture. 



Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative urges swift action on the Farm Bill in the House

Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, the second largest dairy cooperative in the country based on milk volume, recently joined over 300 other agricultural organizations calling for swift action by the House of Representatives in moving the farm bill forward. In early March, the House Agriculture Committee approved the legislation with bipartisan action, with a vote of 34 to 17.

Edge and other organizations are urging House members to take timely and bipartisan action on the bill to finalize the remaining portions of the long-awaited farm bill.

“We are asking the House to take action on finalizing the farm bill, which is long overdue,” Heidi Fischer, president of the Edge board, said. “It has been nearly 8 years since a comprehensive farm bill has been passed. Much has changed in our industry since then. We need a comprehensive farm bill in place to provide certainty among farmers in these challenging times.”

The House is expected to take up the farm bill next week. If passed by the House, the next step will be action by the Senate.

“We need our representatives to pass a bipartisan supported bill that addresses the lingering unknowns of programs farmers count on,” Fischer said. “For dairy farmers, the farm bill is the backbone of federal dairy policy. It's important to pass the Farm, Food & National Security Act of 2026, which will give dairy farmers certainty, stability, and a workable safety net in an unusually volatile market.”

Included in the current House version is permanent authorization of the Dairy Forward Pricing Program, an important inclusion Edge brought forth to the House Ag Committee.

“We are pleased to see permanent authorization for this program included,” Fischer said. “Farmers use forward pricing to stabilize revenue for a portion of production, particularly in volatile markets where feed, labor, and energy costs are unpredictable.”

Thursday April 23 Ag News - UNL To Study Rancher Land Decisions - Q1 Milk Prod up @3% - Another move on Year-Round E15 - Red Meat Prod Falls 2% in '25 - ADM Columbus Recognized for Worker Safety - and more!

NEBRASKA RANCHERS SHARE LAND DECISIONS THROUGH UNL RESEARCH PROJECT

On Nebraska ranches where families have managed the same land for generations, decisions about grazing, infrastructure and stewardship are rarely made for a single season. Instead, they are shaped by decades of observation, evolving research and a deep sense of responsibility to the land.

Researchers at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are documenting those decisions as part of a $5 million research project focused on sustainable beef production and grazing systems.

The effort is part of Advancing Development of Assessments, Practices and Tools to Produce Beef in Grazing Systems, a five-year project led by Galen Erickson within the university’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

The interdisciplinary project brings together animal scientists, range scientists, remote sensing researchers and social scientists to develop tools that measure carbon sequestration in grazing systems while ensuring rancher perspectives remain central to the research.

As part of the project’s social science component, anthropologist Effie Athanassopoulos and rural sociologist Gwendŵr Meredith are speaking with ranch families across Nebraska to explore how management decisions evolve over generations.

“We’re talking with ranchers who have been on the land for generations and who are leaders in the industry,” Athanassopoulos said. “What has been especially striking is how environmentally conscious ranchers are and how deeply they care about the land.”

She said many ranchers describe themselves not simply as business owners, but as caretakers of the landscape.

“They see themselves as caretakers,” she said. “Their goal is to maintain the grasslands and pass them on to the next generation.”

Listening to multigenerational ranch families
The first round of interviews has focused on ranches near the Barta Brothers Ranch in the Sandhills, where many participating families have managed the same land for three or four generations.

Many of the ranchers interviewed are recognized leaders within the beef industry. Their insights offer a window into how knowledge is passed between generations and how producers adapt research findings within their own operations.

“We’re really trying to understand how ranchers make decisions,” Meredith said. “They’re constantly adapting based on weather, markets, family dynamics and what they observe on their land. It’s hard to be rigid because conditions change year to year.”

Connecting research and ranch management
For many ranchers involved in the study, collaboration with university researchers is a natural part of managing rangeland. 

Producers often attend field days, participate in demonstrations and observe research being conducted at sites like Barta Brothers Ranch. Over time, those interactions influence how ranchers adjust grazing systems, water distribution and pasture management on their own operations.

“They interact with the university and integrate research into their own lands,” Athanassopoulos said, describing it as “a conversation between science and practice.”

Those conversations help researchers understand how innovations move from research plots to working ranches.

Early interviews suggest that new practices often spread through relationships among producers and nearby research sites. Athanassopoulos and Meredith said ranchers described how ideas such as rotational grazing gained traction as producers observed research demonstrations and shared experiences within their communities.

Stewardship across generations
Across interviews, researchers have heard a consistent theme: Ranchers make decisions not only for current production, but for the long-term health of the land and livestock.

Infrastructure investments such as wells, pipelines and fencing are often evaluated based on how they improve grazing distribution and protect fragile landscapes.

At the center of those decisions is the recognition that ranchers are temporary caretakers of a long-lived ecosystem.

“They often describe themselves as stewards rather than owners,” Meredith said. “Their goal is to leave the land in good condition for the next generation.”

Expanding the research westward
After focusing initial interviews in the Sandhills, researchers plan to expand the project into western Nebraska to capture a broader range of landscapes and ranching systems.

Nebraska’s rangelands vary widely in climate, soils and vegetation, and those differences shape how producers approach grazing management.

Researchers will continue conducting interviews over the next several years while working to share the results through academic publications and public-facing projects, including a traveling museum exhibition highlighting Nebraska ranch families and the history of ranching in the state.

By documenting how ranchers adapt practices across these diverse environments, the research team hopes to better understand how science and producer knowledge can work together to support resilient grazing systems.

Ultimately, the project aims to ensure that rancher perspectives remain central to research shaping the future of beef production and rangeland stewardship.



Free Farm and Ranch Legal Clinics Scheduled Across Nebraska

Farmers and ranchers across Nebraska will have the opportunity to receive free, one-on-one legal and financial guidance through a series of upcoming clinics hosted by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline.

The clinics are designed for agricultural producers and their families, offering confidential sessions with an experienced agricultural law attorney and financial counselor. Organizers say the sessions are intended to help address a wide range of issues that may impact farm and ranch operations.

Common topics include succession planning, estate and real estate matters, financial and operational planning, beginning farmer programs, lease agreements, property rights, farm loans, USDA programs, and debtor-creditor law.

Each session runs approximately one hour, allowing participants to discuss specific concerns and receive individualized advice.

A clinic is scheduled locally in Broken Bow on Tuesday, May 12. Additional clinic dates and locations include:
    O’Neill — Tuesday, April 28
    Valentine — Tuesday, May 5
    Norfolk — Tuesday, May 26

The clinics have been offered in Nebraska since 1989 and are aimed at providing practical guidance and support to the state’s agricultural community.

There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. To sign up or get more information, individuals can contact the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline at 1-800-464-0258.

The program is sponsored by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture in partnership with the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline.



January-March Milk Production up 2.9 Percent

Milk production in the United States during the January - March quarter totaled 58.5 billion pounds, up 2.9 percent from the January - March quarter last year. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.61 million head, 50,000 head more than the October - December quarter, and 204,000 head more than the same period last year.

Q1 '26 Milk Production (mil lbs. - % Q1 '25)
Nebraska .................:       316.0        2.9      
Iowa ........................:     1,516.0       1.3      

March Milk Production up 2.4 Percent
Milk production in the 24 major States during March totaled 19.6 billion pounds, up 2.4 percent from March 2025. February revised production, at 17.5 billion pounds, was up 3.0 percent from February 2025. The February revision represented a decrease of 11 million pounds or 0.1 percent from last month's preliminary production estimate.

Production per cow in the 24 major States averaged 2,133 pounds for March, 7 pounds above March 2025. 

The number of milk cows on farms in the 24 major States was 9.18 million head, 188,000 head more than March 2025, and 8,000 head more than February 2026.

Iowa milk production in March 2026 was 527 million lbs.  -   up 1.2% from March '25.      



ICGA Applauds Year-Round E15 Amendment Inclusion in House Farm Bill

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) has advocated for year-round, nationwide E15 for more than 15 years—a goal that remains a top priority as farm families face tightening margins and market volatility. With the recent introduction of an amendment to the House farm bill that would permanently allow nationwide, year-round sales of E15, ICGA President Mark Mueller, a farmer from Waverly, issued the following statement: 

“This legislation is the common-sense step we’ve been working towards for a long time. Iowa corn growers need the stability that nationwide, year-round E15 provides. This is more than just policy—it’s a lifeline that’s going to help increase corn demand and allow many of us to continue farming. 

“This new proposal is a smart, pragmatic path forward, addressing past roadblocks that have previously stalled progress in Washington. E15 is win-win situation. It provides a more affordable, American-made fuel for drivers while supporting the farmers who grow it. It is a compromise that supports all stakeholders involved. 

“We appreciate Representative Feenstra and our entire Iowa delegation for their continued leadership as they push for passage of E15. They’ve stayed focused on our energy independence and fought hard to make sure Iowa farmers' voices were heard. Now, we ask that Congress work together to permanently pass this legislation." 



New Life in Year-Round E15 Effort as Compromise Introduced in House of Representatives

Wednesday, U.S. Reps Michelle Fischbach, Randy Feenstra, Stephanie Bice, and Adrian Smith introduced legislation which would permit the sale of E15 year-round nationwide. The legislation also requires EPA to finalize a pending rulemaking to recognize that E15 is compatible with existing infrastructure and equipment, which was originally introduced by Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst. 

“IRFA is thrilled to finally see this compromise legislation introduced,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. "We thank the E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council, chaired by Rep. Feenstra, for their work in getting us to this point. With high gas prices pinching the American consumer, it is beyond time for Congress to quickly pass E15 legislation that will reduce fuel costs while boosting demand for American farmers. Our message is simple: get this to the President’s desk immediately so  that he can sign it into law.” 

The legislation, which is proposed as an amendment to the House Farm Bill, also reforms the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) refinery exemption process by clarifying who qualifies as a “small” refiner beginning in 2028. Refiners meeting the new standard would receive an automatic 75 percent reduction in their RFS obligations. Larger refiners would be able to petition for RFS exemptions on an emergency basis. Going forward, RFS exemptions would not be reallocated.  
 
“The RFS exemption process has been abused for years, leading to market confusion and a massive number of lawsuits,” Shaw said. “This reform will relieve true small refiners and provide certainty for the marketplace. Gone will be large refining companies that plead for RFS exemptions from the EPA while at the same time boasting of record profits to their shareholders and the SEC.” 



ASTM Approves Updated Heating Oil Specification to Include Biodiesel Blends Up to B50 

Clean Fuels Alliance America welcomes the approval of the latest revision to ASTM D396, the standard specification for fuel oils, which now includes new grades for biodiesel blends containing 21% to 50% biodiesel by volume (B21-B50). The updated specification, ASTM D396-26a, marks a major milestone for the clean fuels industry and supports expanded use of higher biodiesel blends in heating applications.

The revision provides users and consumers of Bioheat® fuel with clear guidance on fuel properties and procedures needed to deliver the same or improved performance as fuels currently in use.

“In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states where Bioheat® fuel adoption continues to grow, the updated standard provides the technical foundation and industry data needed to support higher biodiesel blends in heating markets,” said Scott Fenwick, Technical Director at Clean Fuels. “The specification provides greater confidence in the performance, reliability and emissions benefits of blends up to B50.”

The revision passed through ASTM’s rigorous consensus balloting process with no objections, underscoring broad industry support and confidence in higher biodiesel blends. The approval reflects years of collaboration among Clean Fuels, the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA), leading equipment manufacturers including R.W. Beckett and Carlin Combustion, and other stakeholders who contributed the research, testing and technical data needed to support the specification.

"The recent approval of the ASTM standard to include blends of B50 biodiesel in liquid heating oil is another step forward in providing the American consumers with a high-quality, domestically produced, renewable energy source,” said Michael Devine, President of NORA. “This new standard represents a significant step forward, particularly at a time when increased domestic energy production is a must in the United States. On behalf of National Oilheat Research Alliance, we would like to thank all of the various stakeholders who worked tirelessly together to bring these new fuel blends to market."

Higher biodiesel blends offer benefits beyond carbon reduction, including improved air quality, lower particulate and sulfur emissions, and reduced heat exchanger maintenance. Advances in burner technologies, improved fuel quality, and innovations in cold weather additives continue to support broader adoption and reliable year-round performance. Feedstocks such as soybean oil also play an important role in delivering the quality and reliability needed for heating oil applications.

“With ASTM D396-26a now in place, the industry has a powerful new tool to accelerate adoption of higher biodiesel blends and expand the role of clean fuels in reducing emissions from home heating,” said Fenwick.



Commercial Red Meat Production Down 2 Percent in 2025

Total red meat production for the United States totaled 53.8 billion pounds in 2025, 2 percent lower than the previous year. Red meat includes beef, veal, pork, and lamb and mutton. Red meat production in commercial plants totaled 53.7 billion pounds. On-farm slaughter totaled 93.8 million pounds. 

Beef production totaled 26.1 billion pounds, down 4 percent from the previous year. Veal production totaled 30.0 million pounds, down 34 percent from last year. Pork production, at 27.6 billion pounds, was 1 percent below the previous year. Lamb and mutton production totaled 139.1 million pounds, up slightly from 2024.

Commercial cattle slaughter during 2025 totaled 29.8 million head, down 6 percent from 2024, with federal inspection comprising 98.2 percent of the total. The average live weight was 1,432 pounds, up 33 pounds from a year ago. Steers comprised 49.7 percent of the total federally inspected cattle slaughter, heifers 31.7 percent, dairy cows 9.0 percent, other cows 8.0 percent, and bulls 1.5 percent.

Commercial calf slaughter totaled 124,600 head, 41 percent lower than a year ago with 94.8 percent under federal inspection. The average live weight was 343 pounds, up 20 pounds from a year earlier.

Commercial hog slaughter totaled 128 million head, 1 percent lower than 2024 with 99.6 percent of the hogs slaughtered under federal inspection. The average live weight was up 1 pound from last year, at 289 pounds. Barrows and gilts comprised 97.5 percent of the total federally inspected hog slaughter.

Commercial sheep and lamb slaughter, at 2.26 million head, was up 2 percent from the previous year with federal inspection comprising 86.5 percent of the total. The average live weight was down 2 pounds from 2024 at 117 pounds. Lambs and yearlings comprised 93.4 percent of the total federally inspected sheep slaughter.

Red Meat Prod. (mil lbs. - 2025   -   2024) 
Nebraska .........:              7,758.2  -  7,976.0 
Iowa ................:              8,934.2  -  9,164.8 
Kansas ............:              5,569.3  -  5,805.4 

There were 1,127 plants slaughtering under federal inspection on January 1, 2026 compared with 1,089 last year. Of these, 937 plants slaughtered at least one head of cattle during 2025 with the 11 largest plants slaughtering 47 percent of the total cattle killed. Hogs were slaughtered at 786 plants, with the 15 largest plants accounting for 65 percent of the total. For calves, 1 of the 140 plants accounted for 38 percent of the total and 1 of the 693 plants that slaughtered sheep or lambs in 2025 comprised 13 percent of the total head.    

Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Texas accounted for 49 percent of the United States commercial red meat production in 2025, down 1 percent from 2024.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 4/17/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending April 17, ethanol production dropped 7.1% to an 11-week low of 1.04 million b/d, equivalent to 43.68 million gallons daily. Yet, output was 0.7% higher than the same week last year and 5.6% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 1.7% to 1.09 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.72 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks rose 0.9% to 26.9 million barrels. Stocks were 5.8% more than the same week last year and 7.0% above the three-year average. Inventories expanded in the East Coast (PADD 1) to a 1-year high and in the Gulf Coast (PADD 3) to a 6-year high but thinned across the other regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, nudged 0.4% lower to 9.06 million b/d (139.19 bg annualized). Demand was 3.8% less than a year ago and 0.7% below the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol improved 5.3% to 921,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.16 bg annualized and the highest weekly level since mid-September 2025. Net inputs were on par with year-ago levels and 1.6% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports increased 12.3% to an estimated 91,000 b/d (3.8 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Corn Refiners Association Recognizes Workplace Safety Award Winners

The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) today announced the winners of its annual Workplace Safety Awards, honoring CRA member company facilities that achieved high standards of safety performance in 2025. 

"Corn refining in the U.S. is one of the safest jobs in manufacturing, on par with office work. Today, we celebrate the leaders who have brought our industry to that position with awards that recognize their hard-earned progress," said CRA President and CEO John Bode. “Twenty years ago, our industry’s safety record was typical of heavy manufacturing. Now, it is among the safest in the manufacturing sector. This demonstrates what long-term commitment to worker protection and continuous operational improvement can achieve.”

CRA and its member companies are committed to continual improvements in safety and the advancement of worker protections. These awards reflect those commitments, recognizing facilities that have demonstrated sustained operational excellence, including achieving low incident rates and maintaining extended periods without workplace-related incidents.

In 2025, five companies representing 12 facilities earned a total of 25 workplace safety awards, reflecting sustained commitment by the industry to protecting employees and supporting the communities in which they operate:

CRA Incident Rate Excellence Award: Recognizes plants demonstrating an employee total recordable incident rate of 1.0 or less, while maintaining zero lost workdays and no workplace fatalities during the calendar year.
    Archer Daniels Midland
        Columbus, Nebraska
        Southport, North Carolina
    Cargill
        Hammond, Indiana
        Indianapolis, Indiana
        Paris, Illinois
    Grain Processing Corporation
        Muscatine, Iowa
    Ingredion
        Indianapolis, Indiana
    Primient
        Dayton, Ohio
        Lafayette, Indiana

1 Million Hours Award: Recognizes facilities operating for 1 million consecutive employee hours without an employee lost workday or workplace-related fatality.
    Archer Daniels Midland
        Columbus, Nebraska
    Cargill
        Indianapolis, Indiana
        Paris, Illinois
    Grain Processing Corporation
        Muscatine, Iowa

Zero Lost Workdays Award: Acknowledges facilities operating for a full calendar year without an employee lost workday or a workplace-related fatality.
    Archer Daniels Midland
        Columbus, Nebraska
        Southport, North Carolina
    Cargill
        Dayton, Ohio
        Hammond, Indiana
        Indianapolis, Indiana
        Paris, Illinois
        Wahpeton, North Dakota
    Grain Processing Corporation
        Muscatine, Iowa
    Ingredion
        Indianapolis, Indiana
        Winston-Salem, North Carolina
    Primient
        Dayton, Ohio
        Lafayette, Indiana 

CRA’s Workplace Safety Awards are based on rigorous, data-driven criteria and are supported by the association’s Workplace Safety Statistics Program, which provides a consistent framework for measuring, benchmarking, and improving safety performance across member facilities.