Wednesday August 05 Ag News - Farmer Sentiment Rebounds - NE Grazing Exchange - Bosshammer Celebrates 30 Years at NBC - 2 NE Teams Make Ag Innovation Semi-Finals - Ethanol Demand Increases at Home and Abroad - plus more!

After 3 months of decline, farmer sentiment rebounds in July

After three consecutive months of decline, farmer sentiment rebounded as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reported an increase of 13 points in July to 126. The Current Conditions Index increased 20 points to 122, while the Future Expectations Index rose 11 points to 129. High input costs remained producers’ top concern, with 46% identifying them as the biggest challenge facing their operation. When asked about the biggest challenge to success over the next five to 10 years, 30% of respondents cited crop or livestock prices. The survey was conducted among 405 farmers across the nation from July 13-17.

The Farm Capital Investment Index also ended a three-month decline, with July’s survey reading at 50. While most producers said their current financial position has not improved over the past year, they expressed greater optimism about the months ahead. Thirteen percent of respondents reported being better off financially than a year ago, and nearly one-quarter expect their operation’s financial position to improve over the next 12 months.

Beyond crop and livestock prices, producers identified farm transition (17%) and cost control (16%) as the second- and third-highest concerns over the next five to 10 years. Other major issues included financial considerations and weather at 13%, trade at 7%, and government policy at 3%. These priorities also shaped producers’ educational interests, with marketing emerging as the top risk management education need for 44% of respondents, far outpacing financial and strategic risk management.

“Stronger crop prices during the survey period likely contributed to the improvement we observed in both farmer sentiment and the Farm Capital Investment Index,” said Michael Langemeier, the barometer’s principal investigator and director of Purdue’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. “At the same time, producers continue to wrestle with high input costs and uncertainty about future crop and livestock prices. The strong interest in marketing education reflects the need for strategies to help producers navigate an increasingly uncertain pricing environment.”

As preparations for cash rent negotiations begin, most corn, soybean, wheat and cotton growers in this month’s survey expect rental rates to remain stable in 2027. Nineteen percent of respondents anticipate cash rents will increase, compared with 7% who expect a decline. Among those expecting higher rents, increases of 5% to 10% were most anticipated.

The July survey also explored producers’ expectations for agricultural exports and foreign markets. Producers remain cautiously optimistic about U.S. agricultural exports. Forty-two percent of respondents expect agricultural exports to increase over the next five years, compared with 13% who expect exports to decline. A majority of producers (56%) believe new foreign export markets for U.S. agricultural goods are likely to open during that period, though this optimism has moderated from last July, when 64% expected new market opportunities.

Producers were somewhat less optimistic about farmland values in July. The Short-Term Farmland Value Expectations Index fell 6 points to 118, while the long-term index declined 14 points to 152. Respondents identified alternative investments, net farm income and interest rates as the factors they expect to have the greatest influence on farmland values.

Since July 2025, producers have been asked whether they think the U.S. is headed in the “right direction” or on the “wrong track.” Fifty-four percent of respondents said they believe the U.S. is headed in the right direction, up slightly from 53% in June and 52% in May, but below the 71% average recorded during the last six months of 2025.



President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska
 
FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from May 15-18, 2026.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding in Buffalo, Fillmore, Gage, Howard, Jefferson, Nemaha, Thayer and Thurston counties.

Andrew P. Meyer has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.



Hefty Seed Company 2026 Summer & 2027 Preview Meeting
Nielsen Center West Point, NE 68788
Lunch Starting at 12:30 PM

Featured speakers include Darren Hefty, Matt Thompson & Glenn Herz.  

Topics include:
WEED CONTROL. Is it just me or is waterhemp everywhere now and it seems like almost nothing post-emerge will control it? We’ve seen failures in thousands of fields this summer, but we’ll talk about what IS working and how you can get ahead of the toughest weed issues on your farm in corn, soybeans, and wheat yet still keep your costs down as much as possible. Will new Convintro help?

INPUT COSTS FOR THE 2027 GROWING SEASON. We are expecting lower herbicide and fungicide costs for the 2027 growing season! What will happen with seed and fertilizer costs?What can be done to minimize input use and costs yet still maximize yields?
    
SEED TRAITS. When will Vyconic soybeans comeout? Should I stick with XtendFlex or Enlist or should I switch things up? Are conventional corn and soybeans realistic options with all the weed and insect issues outthere?

INDUSTRY NEWS. Will Roundup and Gramoxoneremain on the market? Why is there so much negative press about agriculture when the U.S. has more food than ever, while still at the lowest cost in the world, and at the same time farmers have reduced erosion, fertilizer applied per bushel, and most any other environmental concern?

FERTILITY. Now that soil test costs have been reduced, should more testing be done? How should I fertilize in fields I don’t soil test? What’s the best way to vary rates and put fertilizer only where it needs to be? Are micronutrients very important or should I just focus on N, P, & K? What have we learned over the last year from soil test results from hundreds of farmers in this region?
RSVP

RSVP by calling the West Point office at 402-372-9900.



Nebraska Grazing Exchange Strengthens Producer Connections and Supports Livestock Resilience

The Nebraska Grazing Exchange, an online platform connecting livestock producers with landowners offering forage, plays an increasingly important role in improving grazing access, supporting livestock health, and strengthening community collaboration across Nebraska.

A Central Hub for Grazing Coordination
Using an interactive map, the website, nebraskagrazingexchange.com, displays available grazing sites statewide, allowing producers to search by location, forage type, or grazing season. Landowners and livestock producers can post listings and communicate directly through the platform.

Because signing up and creating listings is completely free, producers of any size, from small family operations to large herds, can quickly access forage opportunities without cost barriers. This accessibility helps ensure that the tool remains widely adopted across the state.

The system supports cattle, sheep, goats, and mixed herds, and helps match those animals with forage sources such as crop residue, cover crops, perennial pastures, and native rangeland. This strengthens livestock diets and offers more flexibility throughout changing seasonal conditions.

Benefits for Livestock and Land
Integrating livestock with cropland and grassland systems boosts both animal health and soil function. Grazing cover crops and crop residue improves soil structure, enhances nutrient cycling, and reduces weed pressure. Seasonal strategies, such as fall residue grazing or summer cover crop grazing, help producers maintain herd nutrition while simultaneously improving land management and extending forage availability.

Producers also benefit from practices like bale grazing, which improves manure distribution, reduces confinement stress, and provides consistent winter feed without depending heavily on stored forages.

Importance of the Grazing Exchange During and After Fire Events
When wildfires or other natural disasters damage grazing lands, producers often face sudden forage shortages, livestock displacement, and infrastructure loss. The Nebraska Grazing Exchange offers a critical safety net in these situations by providing a fast and organized way to identify alternative grazing sites.

The platform helps producers identify landowners with intact fencing, water systems, and pasture infrastructure, making herd relocation safer and more efficient. This reduces the risks associated with makeshift setups and ensures animals receive the proper nutrition and care during recovery.

Equally important, the Grazing Exchange becomes a focal point for community support. Landowners from across the region can quickly offer grazing opportunities, and producers needing assistance can locate those options in one centralized place. This statewide network strengthens resilience, reduces long-term economic impacts, and helps livestock operations continue functioning even as damaged pastures recover.

How to Sign Up and Create Listings
    Visit the registration page by clicking the “Register” link on the Nebraska Grazing Exchange website, nebraskagrazingexchange.com.
    Complete a simple form with your name, email, and a chosen password.
    Agree to the Terms & Conditions to activate your account.  
    After registering, log in to post a listing, either for available forage (as a landowner) or for livestock availability (as a producer). You can include details like forage type, grazing season, herd size, and location.
    Use the map interface to view existing listings, send messages to connect, and set up grazing agreements.

Registration and use of the platform are completely free, ensuring easy access for producers and landowners of all scales.

Strengthening Nebraska’s Agricultural Community
By improving access to forage, supporting livestock nutrition, and serving as a central communication tool during emergencies, the Nebraska Grazing Exchange enhances resilience for both producers and landowners. It promotes sustainable grazing, healthier soils, and effective recovery strategies when unexpected disruptions occur.

Through its combination of digital tools, statewide participation, and practical resources, the Nebraska Grazing Exchange continues to support Nebraska’s livestock industry and the communities who depend on it.

This Nebraska Recovery Roundup Update is brought to you by Nebraska Extension and the Center for Agricultural Profitability to provide timely information for producers and communities recovering from wildfire. Each installment highlights available resources and practical steps to support recovery. Follow the series and find wildfire recovery resources on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, https://cap.unl.edu/recovery. 



Ann Marie Bosshamer Marks 30 Years with the Nebraska Beef Council

The Nebraska Beef Council is proud to celebrate Executive Director Ann Marie Bosshamer as she marks 30 years of dedicated service to Nebraska's cattle producers and the beef industry.

Bosshamer joined the Nebraska Beef Council on August 7, 1996, beginning a career that has included nearly every facet of Beef Checkoff promotion. Starting in consumer information and channel marketing, she served in several leadership roles before being named Executive Director in 2006. Throughout her career, Bosshamer has been dedicated to building beef demand through promotion and education.

"Ann Marie has been an amazing advocate serving Nebraska's cattle producers with passion and integrity," said Rosemary Anderson, chairwoman of the Nebraska Beef Council.  “Her ability to connect with consumers, build partnerships, and represent Nebraska on the national stage has certainly made a positive impact. We are extremely grateful for her continued dedication to our industry."

Over the past three decades, Bosshamer has helped lead hundreds of consumer promotions, educational programs and marketing initiatives. In her early years, she was often found handing out beef samples in grocery stores, grilling hamburgers during Beef Month celebrations or providing youth education explaining how beef is raised.

"As I look back, some of my favorite memories are those grassroots promotions where we simply had the opportunity to talk with people about beef," Bosshamer said. "Whether we were serving samples in a grocery store or grilling burgers in a parking lot, those conversations reminded me that every interaction was a chance to build trust in our product and the families who raise it."

As part of the council’s outreach programs, Bosshamer helped educate registered dietitians and health professionals about beef's nutritional benefits, welcomed international trade teams to Nebraska, and became one of the state's most recognizable voices promoting beef through thousands of radio and television commercials.

"I've been incredibly fortunate to spend my career telling the story of beef," she said. "We have such a great product that is both nutritious and delicious. Combine that with the great people who raise our product and there really is nothing that compares to beef."

Bosshamer has also represented Nebraska well beyond state lines. She has served on numerous national Beef Checkoff committees and advisory groups, helping shape programs that benefit producers across the country while becoming a trusted mentor and resource for fellow industry leaders.

Her career has coincided with many defining moments in the beef industry including the 2003 BSE outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, she has witnessed significant advancements in beef quality, nutrition research and consumer demand that have strengthened the industry's future.

Raised on a farm near David City, Nebraska, Bosshamer credits her upbringing for instilling the values that have guided her career.

"My passion for this industry started long before my first day at the Beef Council," she said. "Growing up on the farm, I watched my dad pour his heart into caring for livestock and the land. That gave me a deep appreciation for the people behind our industry, and I've always viewed my role as helping tell their story."

While she is proud of the many successful campaigns and programs the Nebraska Beef Council has delivered over the past 30 years, Bosshamer says the relationships she has built are what she treasures most.

"The people are what have made these 30 years so meaningful," she said. "I've had the privilege of working alongside incredible producers, dedicated board members, talented staff and outstanding industry partners. Together, we've accomplished so much, and I'm grateful for every opportunity I've had to serve Nebraska's beef industry."

As Bosshamer celebrates this milestone, the Nebraska Beef Council recognizes not only her years of service but also her lasting contributions to Nebraska agriculture and the producers she has proudly represented for three decades.

"Thirty years have gone by quickly, but I'm also excited about what lies ahead," Bosshamer said. "Consumer expectations continue to evolve, creating new opportunities to share beef's story and ensure a bright future for our industry."



10 Teams Seeking Top Prize in Ag Innovation Challenge
Two teams from Nebraska make the finals

Ten innovative startups focused on solving agriculture’s greatest challenges are seeking the top prize of $100,000 in the 2027 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is proud to promote rural entrepreneurship and agriculture innovation through the Challenge.

“Farmers and ranchers count on innovation to produce the safe and sustainable food, fuel and fiber our country relies on,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farm Bureau takes great pride in offering outstanding entrepreneurs an opportunity to showcase their technology and services that will help sow the seeds of a better, brighter future for all of agriculture.”

The Ag Innovation Challenge, now in its 13th year, is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their solutions to the dynamic challenges facing American agriculture. Farm Bureau is offering a total of $145,000 in start-up funds throughout the course of the competition.

The 10 semi-finalist teams encompass the breadth of American agriculture, spanning across different sectors and states. The semi-finalist teams are:

Nave Analytics – Nebraska - MAKING AGRICULTURAL IRRIGATION WATER USE MORE EFFICIENT - https://www.naveanalytics.com/ 
Our team has 25+ years of experience in R&D, field testing, deployment of data driven solutions within digital agriculture and previous startup experience. The Nave framework uses the latest data technology to fuse near real-time data with climate and crop modeling to produce the most accurate information possible. Data science techniques including uncertainty propagation and data assimilation to bring feeds from spaceborne, airborne, field based sensors and most importantly irrigation equipment together in a calibrated format allows us to utilize all the available information at once. Using these different data analysis techniques we are able to deliver accurate and cost effective solutions to our customers.

Seismi – Nebraska - Building the AI Data Platform for Animal Health - https://www.seismi.co/
Seismi's IoT devices are the first layer of a larger vision: collecting the world's most comprehensive proprietary dataset of animal health, from which we will train AI models that predict disease, forecast outcomes, and ultimately produce digital twins of individual animals tracked across their entire lives.

Other teams in the semi-finals include:
    Animal Deterrent Solutions – Texas
    Clean Label Solution – New York
    Clear Grain Co. – Kentucky
    Gilly – California
    Good Agriculture – Georgia
    Rootline Robotics – New York
    Swinergy – Minnesota
    URMRKT – Oklahoma

This fall, the competing semi-finalist teams will pitch their companies virtually as they look to advance to the final round held at the AFBF Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. The top four teams that advance from the virtual round will each receive $10,000. The final pitch competition will be held on Sunday, January 10th in front of a live audience of Farm Bureau members and industry representatives. The winning team will walk away with a $90,000 prize (total of $100,000), and runner-up will receive a prize of $15,000 (total of $25,000).

Farm Bureau recognizes and supports these cutting-edge businesses with generous funding provided by sponsors Farm Credit, Bayer, John Deere, Farm Bureau Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Google, T-Mobile, and ClearPath.

To learn more about the Challenge, visit fb.org/challenge.



Secretary Rollins Announces New Steps to Put Farmers First 

Tuesday, at Minnesota Farmfest, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced several steps that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking to support America’s farmers in response to ongoing challenges across the agricultural sector. These actions include a series of data modernization, payment flexibility, and enhanced crop insurance options to benefit farmers.

“When I travel across farm country, I hear the same message over and over: producers want a USDA that works for them. The Trump USDA is focused on making changes that improve the livelihood of our great farmers. I am pleased to announce three critical initiatives to support farmers and U.S. agriculture broadly,” said Secretary Rollins. “We’re modernizing how USDA serves farmers, providing commonsense flexibility when it’s needed most, and strengthening the risk management tools producers depend on. We will continue listening, acting, and putting Farmers First because that’s exactly what President Trump has directed us to do.”

Data Modernization:
Last month, Secretary Rollins announced that USDA is working on a Data Modernization Plan across multiple agencies that will be released later this year. The Research, Education, and Economics Mission Area, under the leadership of Under Secretary Scott Hutchins, will coordinate the effort across USDA.

Today, as the next step in this process, Secretary Rollins announced a series of listening sessions that USDA leadership will host across the country to hear directly from producers as this plan continues to take shape. These listening sessions are an important step in putting Farmers First, restoring producer confidence in USDA data as the gold standard, and increasing survey response rates. These listening sessions build off the Request for Information (RFI) published earlier this year where USDA sought public comment on data collection, analysis, and reporting. Locations where listening sessions will be held include:
    Indiana State Fair
    Wisconsin State Fair
    Penn State Ag Progress Days
    Illinois State Fair
    Dakotafest
    Missouri State Fair
    Iowa State Fair
    Nebraska State Fair
    Farm Progress Show

For additional information and details about a specific listening session, please email DataModernization@usda.gov.

Payment Flexibilities
While at Minnesota Farmfest, Secretary Rollins also announced the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) is authorizing Approved Insurance Providers (AIPs) to provide producers with up to 60 additional days to pay crop insurance premiums, administrative fees, and amounts due under Written Payment Agreements with scheduled premium billing dates between July 1, 2026, and September 30, 2026.

During this extended period, AIPs may waive interest charges. Interest will begin accruing for unpaid premium and administrative fees only after the end of the additional 60-day period or upon reaching the policy’s termination date, whichever occurs first.

To further support these efforts, RMA will defer collection of unpaid producer premiums and administrative fees from AIPs and waive associated interest beginning with the August monthly accounting cycle.

Prevented Planting Coverage
Additionally, RMA is reinstating the option for insured producers to purchase an additional 5% prevented planting coverage beginning with crops associated with the August 31, 2026, filing date for the 2027 and succeeding crop years. This added coverage enhances producers’ ability to manage risk in situations where extreme weather or other conditions prevent normal planting.

These actions underscore RMA’s commitment to supporting farmers and ranchers by providing needed flexibility and strengthening coverage options during a challenging period for American agriculture. AIPs will notify affected policyholders directly regarding these relief measures.

Producers should contact their local crop insurance agent or visit the RMA website for guidance on how these updates may affect coverage options.

RMA supports American agriculture by providing world-class risk management tools through Federal crop insurance and education programs, offering coverage for more than 130 crops and continuously improving policies based on producer feedback.



Iowa Corn Growers Respond to Senate Farm Bill, Welcomes E15/ICGA Priorities

Over the weekend, the U.S. Senate released its updated Farm Bill text, which includes a key provision for year-round, nationwide access to E15. In response, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa, Mark Mueller released the following statement: 

“The Senate Farm Bill’s inclusion of year-round E15 is a welcomed sight for Iowa’s corn growers, who have championed nationwide access to higher blends of ethanol for years. This progress not only drives demand for American corn, but it also lowers prices at the pump for consumers and strengthens our national energy independence. Iowa's drivers have already capitalized on E15 savings, seeing an average savings of 15 cents per gallon for a combined savings of more than $60 million across the state in 2025, and it is time all Americans have access to that benefit.  

"Beyond E15, several other critical Iowa Corn priorities earned a spot in the Senate draft. This includes the Fertilizer Transparency Act, a key effort ICGA helped champion alongside Senator Chuck Grassley and Representative Ashley Hinson to bring fair pricing and oversight to farm inputs. Along with an increase in USDA's MAP and FMD funding for trade promotion specifically with our partners from the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council and U.S. Meat Export Federation. It also includes an extension of the Genomes to Phenome research program. 

“We extend our sincere gratitude to Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst for their relentless leadership and advocacy. Their hard work has been instrumental in keeping E15 and other Iowa Corn priorities front and center in this bill. ICGA remains fully committed to working alongside Congress and our industry partners to push this legislation across the finish line for America’s farmers and families.” 



Demand Supports Milk Prices, Feed Costs Rising

Following months of slowing milk production growth, a larger milking herd and a rebound in component growth drove a 3.1% increase in component-adjusted milk production in May. But even as supplies grow, healthy demand both at home and abroad is helping to balance the market.

Exports rose 14% on a milk solids basis in May, boosted by a 102% increase in butterfat exports and 18% growth in cheese exports. Domestically, demand for dairy proteins like whey protein concentrates and nonfat dry milk are so strong that export availability is limited. Circana data indicates that consumers’ appetite for high protein dairy products at retail is virtually insatiable — sales of cottage cheese have risen 11% so far this year, and sales of Greek yogurt have increased 6%. While quick service restaurant foot traffic fell in May, limiting cheese use growth, full-service restaurant foot traffic continues to grow, supporting butter use even as cheese remains under pressure.

The most likely factor to change market direction is summer heat waves denting milk production growth in the United States and Europe. Milk collections fell almost 11% in France and 8% in Germany as they experienced extreme heat stress, potentially limiting EU milk production growth in the coming months. At home, beyond localized effects on dairy yields, drought is raising doubts about crop yields compounding the effect of low storage levels and renewed grain exports to China strain supplies. With feed costs increasing and the All-Milk Price easing as NFDM prices retreating from their Spring rally, current futures suggest DMC margins are poised to fall below the $9.50/cwt maximum coverage level from July to October.



Ethanol Blend Rate Shatters Record, as Cost Advantage Soars During Iran War
Scott Richman, Renewable Fuels Association Chief Economist

The average ethanol content of gasoline sold in the U.S. surged to a record 11.29% in May, as petroleum prices hit their highest monthly averages of the Iran war, according to data released Friday by the Energy Information Administration. Moreover, for the 12 months through May, the ethanol blend rate in gasoline rose to 10.57%, the highest annual share ever.
    
The increase was spurred by compelling ethanol blending economics. Ethanol was priced at a discount to gasoline blendstock of nearly $1.50 per gallon on average in May, based on futures contracts. Additionally, the price of renewable identification numbers (RINs), credits which are used for compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard, strengthened this spring and surpassed the price of ethanol for the first time ever. That is, since each gallon of denatured ethanol is sold with a RIN attached, the net price of the physical ethanol has effectively been negative.

The vast majority of gasoline sold in the U.S. contains 10% ethanol, a blend known as E10. During May, the ethanol content in E10 provided a fuel cost savings of $0.14 per gallon of finished gasoline, along with $0.21 of RIN value to the blender. In gasoline containing 15% ethanol, known as E15, the fuel cost savings was $0.21 per gallon, and the RIN value was $0.31.

The presence of ethanol has mitigated the increase in gasoline prices for all drivers. Those who have access to E15 in their areas have saved even more, as pump prices of E15 have typically been $0.20 to $0.40 per gallon lower than regular unleaded gasoline. It is clear from the increase in the national average blend rate to 11.29% that blenders, retailers, and consumers have responded to these compelling economics.

If the blend rate achieved in May were sustained for a full year, ethanol consumption would be 15.4 billion gallons, assuming gasoline usage equal to the 2025 level. This is over a billion gallons more than actual ethanol consumption last year. It also exceeds the 15-billion-gallon implied conventional renewable fuel requirement that EPA has set for the RFS during the last few years, and it is close to the implied requirements the agency set for 2026 and 2027 that included reallocation of volumes lost to 2023-2025 small refinery exemptions. Robust RFS volume obligations are the primary reason RIN prices have risen in 2026, and a significant increase in ethanol consumption would be expected to result in a substantial easing of prices of so-called D6 RINs, the category of RINs associated with corn ethanol. Refiners who have complained about high RIN prices should welcome this prospect.

Unfortunately, an anachronistic legal provision limits the ability of retailers to offer E15 in the summertime in conventional gasoline areas, which account for roughly two-thirds of U.S. gasoline consumption. Over the last few years, retailers have had to rely on EPA to provide a series of waivers allowing continued sales. This has kept them from offering E15 more widely.

This can be solved by the passage of commonsense legislation permanently allowing year-round sales of E15. On May 13, the House of Representatives passed the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act (H.R. 1346), which would accomplish this. Separate legislation that would allow year-round E15 sales is currently being considered as part of the Senate version of the farm bill.

From a market perspective, there has never been a better time for E15 legislation. While the media have focused on disruptions in flows of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz, the more acute tightness in world markets is for refined products. And it’s not just a problem for other countries; as of last week, U.S. gasoline stocks were 7.5% below year-ago levels. This is likely to cause high retail gasoline prices to persist. On the other hand, ethanol prices remain at a discount of more than $1 per gallon to gasoline blendstock, and RINs continue to bolster blending economics. For both American consumers and fuel suppliers, now is the time for Congress to pass legislation unleashing E15.



June a Robust Month for U.S. Ethanol and DDGS Exports

U.S. ethanol exports accelerated 9% to 206.1 million gallons (mg) in June, driven by substantial gains across several key markets. Canada remained the leading destination for denatured fuel ethanol, with total exports edging up 2% to 78.0 mg. Exports to the European Union—led by the Netherlands—surged 56% to 61.1 mg, continuing to reinforce strong demand for undenatured ethanol. Together, Canada and the EU accounted for more than two-thirds of total U.S. ethanol exports during the month. Other major destinations included Colombia at 18.9 mg (+74% from May), the United Kingdom at 14.9 mg (+51%), and Mexico at 7.5 mg (+112%). Meanwhile, exports to both Brazil and India remained essentially nonexistent. Through the first half of 2026, U.S. ethanol exports totaled 1.21 billion gallons, running 12% ahead of the same period last year.

The U.S. recorded zero imports of foreign ethanol in June. Year-to-date imports totaled just 462,120 gallons, down 87% from the same period in 2025.

June exports of dried distillers grains (DDGS), the animal feed coproduct generated by dry-mill ethanol plants, climbed 2% to an 8-month high of 1.10 million metric tons (mt), supported by stronger shipments to several leading markets. Exports to Mexico increased 10% to 231,951 mt, the highest volume since January 2025. Shipments to Indonesia surged 22% to a record 166,925 mt, while exports to Vietnam rose 19% to 134,284 mt, approaching a three-year high. Offsetting some of those gains, exports to South Korea declined 20% to 110,555 mt. Collectively, these four markets accounted for roughly six out of every ten metric tons of DDGS exported in June, with the remaining shipments distributed across 30 additional countries. For the first half of 2026, U.S. DDGS exports reached 6.16 million mt, up 15% from the same period last year.



National FFA Reaches Record 1.05 Million Student Members Across Nearly 9,600 Chapters

National FFA Organization continues its record-setting growth with yet another increase in membership over last year. The nationally recognized school-based student leadership development organization recorded 1,053,847 student members during the 2025-2026 school year in 9,591 active student chapters. These members live in all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“Seeing FFA continue to grow is a powerful reminder that students everywhere are looking for opportunities to lead, build meaningful skills and prepare for their futures,” said Scott Stump, chief executive officer of the National FFA Organization. “We are incredibly proud to support these members and to see our chapter network expand across the country. This growth would not be possible without the agricultural educators, advisors, alumni and partners who help ensure more students can experience the life-changing impact of FFA.”

FFA reaches middle and high school students in rural, suburban and urban communities across the country. Formerly known as “Future Farmers of America,” FFA was founded in 1928 and focuses on leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

Additional FFA Membership Stats, 2025-2026:
    Student Membership: 1,053,847 (+1.1% from last year)
    Student Chapters: 9,591
    Alumni Membership: 840,865
    Alumni Chapters: 2,147
    Top states with largest membership numbers:
        Texas 
        California
        Georgia 
        Florida
        North Carolina
    Top states for % membership increase compared to last year:
        New York
        Puerto Rico
        Maine

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,053,847 student members as part of 9,591 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Tuesday August 04 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - E15 Sales in Nebraska Jump 45% - USMCA Omaha Roundtable - Flame Weeding Wksp at ENREEC - Soybean Crush Up in June, Corn Down Slightly - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Statistics - Aug 02

                               Very Short     Short    Adequate     Surplus
Topsoil Moisture .......:    33          37            29              01    
Subsoil Moisture .......:    38          35            26              01    

                              .....  Last year   Last week   This week   5YrAve
Corn Silking................:        86            79             89            91
Corn in Dough............:        37            18              38            38
Corn Denting............:        01            NA              01            02
Soybeans in bloom.....:        81            85              90            89
Soybeans setting pods.:        53            39             61            60
Winter Wheat Harvested:     90           92              96            91

                                              VP       Poor       Fair        Good       Excellent    
Corn Condition Rating ...:     05          12         29           42             12
Soybean Condition Rating    03          08          32          47             10
Pasture Conditions ..........:    44          27          22           07             00    



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 5.7  days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Aug. 2, 2026. This is 1.9 days more than last year, when there were 3.8 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 10 percent very short, 25 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 10 percent very short, 27 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. 

Corn silking reached 93 percent, which is 2 percentage points ahead of last year. Forty-eight percent of Iowa’s corn crop has reached the dough stage, which is 2 percentage points behind last year. Four percent of corn reached the dent stage, which is 4 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 80 percent good to excellent. 

Soybeans blooming reached 88 percent, which is unchanged from last year. Sixty-one percent of soybeans were setting pods, which is 2 percentage points behind last year. Soybean condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. 

Eighty-seven percent of oats have been harvested, which is 25 percentage points ahead of last year. Oats condition rated 82 percent good to excellent. 

Pasture condition rated 67 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

Corn condition ratings continued to decline for a second consecutive week as good-to-excellent ratings fell, while soybean ratings held steady, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn silking was pegged at 90%, 4 percentage points ahead of last year's 86% and 3 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 87%. Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 43%, 3 percentage points ahead of last year's 40% and 5 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 38%. Corn dented was estimated at 6%, 1 percentage point ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 5%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 61% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition, 2 percentage points below the previous week of 63% and 12 percentage points below last year's 73%. Fourteen percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, 2 percentage points above the previous week's 12% and 7 percentage points above the previous year's 7%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans blooming was pegged at 88%, 4 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 84%. Soybeans setting pods were estimated at 62%, 6 percentage points ahead of last year's 56% and 7 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 55%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 63% of soybeans that had emerged were in good-to-excellent condition, steady with the previous week and 6 points below the previous year's 69%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Harvest moved ahead 5 percentage points last week to reach 86% complete nationwide as of Sunday. That was 1 percentage point ahead of last year's 85% and steady with the five-year average.

SPRING WHEAT
-- Crop development: Ninety-eight percent of spring wheat was headed, 3 percentage points ahead of last year's 95% and 1 percentage point ahead of the five-year average of 97%.
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest jumped ahead 3 percentage points last week to reach 5% complete as of Sunday. That was 1 percentage point ahead of last year's pace of 4% and 3 percentage points behind the five-year average of 8%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 55% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, up 2 percentage points from the previous week's 53%. 



Nebraska's E15 Sales Surge as Farmer-Funded Infrastructure Pays Off

Nebraska drivers bought more gallons of E15 fuel in 2025, a nearly 45% jump from the year before, according to the Nebraska Department of Revenue's 2026 Report of the Statewide Ethanol Blend Rate. The increase comes as Nebraska corn farmers continue to invest checkoff dollars in the fuel infrastructure needed to make higher ethanol blends available at more pumps across the state.
 
E15 gallons sold rose, even as overall motor fuel gallons sold in the state held steady. That growth reflects a fuel market shifting toward higher blends, and a return on the investments Nebraska corn farmers have made for years to get E15 in front of more drivers.
 
"Nebraska corn farmers have invested checkoff dollars in the infrastructure it takes to get higher ethanol blends to the pump, and these numbers show that investment is paying off," said Matt Sullivan, farmer from Superior, Nebraska and district 2 director for the Nebraska Corn Board. "Every gallon of E15 sold is a direct result of retailers having the equipment in place to offer it, and as farmers, we are proud to help make that possible. This kind of growth is exactly the direction we need."
 
This growth does not happen at the pump alone. For multiple years, the Nebraska Corn Board has funded its Ethanol Infrastructure Grant Program, offering fuel retailers up to $50,000 per location to install the equipment needed to offer E15 and other higher blends. The grants paid for through the corn checkoff help offset the cost of converting a standard pump into one capable of dispensing E15, E30 or E85, lowering the financial barrier for retailers across the state to add higher blends to their offerings. NCB is again offering infrastructure grants and encourage retailers to contact the NCB office for additional information.
 
The 2025 numbers show that investment translating into gallons sold. As more retail locations have added blender pump capability through the grant program, Nebraska drivers have had more places to choose E15, and they are choosing it in greater numbers every year.
Statewide, Nebraska's overall ethanol blend rate ticked up to 9.6% in 2025. The E15 growth reported this year moves the needle and shows what's possible when infrastructure keeps pace with demand.
 
Nebraska ranks among the nation's top corn-producing states, and ethanol remains one of the largest markets for the state's corn crop. As E15 availability expands, Nebraska corn farmers see it as both an economic win for drivers at the pump and a win for the farms growing the corn behind it.



Nebraska Policy, Trade and Ag Leaders Call to Strengthen and Renew USMCA at Omaha Roundtable

Last week, Farmers for Free Trade continued its national USMCA Roundtable Series at the Omaha Chamber of Commerce, bringing together a cross-section of Arizona agriculture, trade, policy, and business leaders to make the case for strengthening the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, following the US not renewing the deal, triggering a yearly review of the agreement. 

The Omaha Chamber of Commerce, the Nebraska Pork Producers Association, the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, and the Nebraska Soybean Association supported the event. 

Congressman Bacon opened the event, underlining the importance of the agreement for Nebraska's economy.  Congressman Bacon also highlighted the importance of free trade broadly: “Free trade, we know, gives the best quality products at the best price in the most efficient manner. And anytime you impede that, you decrease one of those areas. You lose quality, or you can lose price, or you can lose efficiency. And so free trade makes us competitive. " The Governor also stressed that tariffs are “not productive or not helpful for particularly the Midwest,"  given how much the region produces in agriculture. 

The Congressman was joined by a panel of Nebraska ag and industry leaders: Heath Mello, President & CEO, Omaha Chamber of Commerce; Seth Mitchell, Executive Director, Nebraska Pork Producers Association; Kaitlin Taylor, Director of Public Policy, Nebraska Corn Growers Association; Lucas Miller, President, Nebraska Soybean Association; and Brian Kuehl, Executive Director of Farmers for Free Trade. 

The discussion centered on the value USMCA has delivered to Nebraska's ag economy. The panelists emphasized that Mexico and Canada are Nebraska's top or near-top trading partners across nearly every commodity. The speakers also noted that USMCA is particularly important now when growers are already struggling with economic uncertainty.  

Panel highlights:
Seth Mitchell, Executive Director of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association, stressed that "trade isn't just a policy discussion" but directly shapes the value of every hog sold, noting that nearly a third of US pork production is exported, generating over $66 per pig and supporting 155,000 jobs. Mexico and Canada are the top and fourth-largest export markets for US pork, together accounting for nearly half of all exports, and rank as Nebraska's third- and fourth-largest trading partners.. Because USMCA was in place, he said, pork was "largely excluded from retaliatory tariffs," which he called proof of the agreement's value, which helped the industry recover from a recent downturn in 2023 and 2024. He called on USMCA to stay in place and "preserve what is already working."

Kaitlin Taylor, Director of Public Policy for the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, stated that she "can't emphasize just how much this agreement means to our growers," noting that Mexico is the top destination for US corn and Nebraska white corn specifically. Canada is also the top market for US ethanol. These markets are vital given that Nebraska is "a major player in this country in terms of corn production.. She warned that losing Mexico and Canada as markets would create a "very dire situation" that many don't yet grasp, especially since growers are already facing "negative or little to no return margins" for multiple consecutive years. She insisted the stakes go beyond statistics but about protecting the livelihood of growers and their families. 

Lucas Miller, President of the Nebraska Soybean Association, is a fifth-generation farmer near Randolph, Nebraska, and understands the stakes for a successful USMCA. He stated that "we're looking for a renewal, not a renegotiation," noting that Mexico has become the number two market for US soybeans since USMCA took effect six years ago. He also discussed how the industry broadly benefits from the agreement, including affordable fertilizer imports from Canada. Raising new tariffs on those inputs, he warned, would only drive up production costs further. Echoing the panel's emphasis on stability, he argued that farmers plan far in advance and need long-term certainty, concluding that "a sixteen-year agreement definitely does that."  



Nebraska Flame Weeding Workshop - 2026

The Nebraska Flame Weeding Workshop will present results from 15+ years of research conducted by the teams of Stevan Knezevic, professor of agronomy and horticulture specializing in weed science, and George Gogos, professor of mechanical engineering. This work is also documented in over 20 scientific publications, 100+ abstracts presented at many regional, national and international meetings, and a patent for flaming  equipment.

Attend a full day Workshop, Wednesday, August 20, 2026, Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC), University of Nebraska, Ithaca, NE 68033.

Participants will learn how to properly flame all major Midwestern weeds in eight agronomic crops – field corn, sweet corn, popcorn, soybean, sorghum, alfalfa, sunflower and wheat.

Propane fueled flame weeding is an acceptable method for weed and pest control in organic farming. It is also gaining interest among conventional producers due to the increase in weed resistance and costs of GMO crop seeds.

Propane doses for weed control and crop tolerance data will be presented. Four row flamers with patented hoods for broadcast and banded flaming will be demonstrated along with flaming treatments applied at several crop growth stages in corn and soybean.

Several local organic farmers will share their experience with flame weeding on their farms.

Registration: https://web.cvent.com/event/e366dba5-44c0-4945-a069-f0435cfca42c/summary

$150 binder and lunch provided. 

$15.00 Guest lunch fee for spouse/co-worker's. 

Cancellations will not be eligible for a refund.




ISU to Exhibit Resources, Agricultural Research at 2026 Farm Progress Show

Iowa State University will feature cutting-edge farmer resources and agricultural research at the 2026 Farm Progress Show, Sept. 1–3 near Boone. Farmers, ag retailers and all attending are encouraged to visit the Iowa State exhibit, bring their questions and meet with researchers and specialists.

This year’s exhibit covers a wide range of topics, including artificial intelligence, nitrogen management and various decision-making tools, giving visitors a chance to connect one-on-one with content experts.

“We’re always excited to exhibit at the Farm Progress Show and showcase topics that matter to the farmers attending. Some of our displays cover issues farmers are already dealing with, while others might introduce something they haven’t thought about yet," said Jay Harmon, associate dean in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and director for agriculture and natural resources with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Our faculty and staff always enjoy hearing what’s on farmers’ minds — what's important to them and what they need to succeed. We’re here to serve, and we hope you’ll stop by, even if it’s just for ice cream and a visit.”

Content focus areas include:
    Artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture: web-based app for Midwest pest, disease and weed identification 
    Crop issues: disease-related decision tools
    Farm well-being: farm stress management resources for farmers and families 
    Horticulture: vegetable production, plant and insect diagnostics and turfgrass management
    Soybean research: plant stress sensors and robotics
    Nitrogen management: N-FACT (Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Consultation Tool)
    Prairie strips and pollinators: conservation practices that support water quality and habitat
    Mushroom cultivation: growing information for an emerging hobby or potential supplemental enterprise
    Weather resources: tools within the Iowa Environmental Mesonet and a precipitation reporting network

Iowa State-affiliated departments and centers represented include ISU Extension and Outreach, the Translational AI Center, Crop Protection Network, Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic, Iowa Soybean Research Center, Iowa Nitrogen Initiative, Science-Based Trials of Rowcrops Integrated with Prairie Strips (STRIPS) and the Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium.

The Iowa State University exhibit space can be found at the corner of Seventh Street and Central Avenue.



Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle meeting returns to Iowa

The premier national event in beef cattle reproductive management returns to Iowa this year, hosted by the Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University. The 2026 Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle meeting is set for Nov. 10-11 in Des Moines at the Holiday Inn Des Moines- Airport/Conference Center. The meeting is organized by the Beef Reproduction Task Force.

IBC specialist and task force member Garland Dahlke said Iowa is a prime location for this annual meeting because of the sheer number of cows in the state and surrounding region. ARSBC was first held in Iowa in 2016, with 249 attendees from 29 states.

“We consistently hear from producers looking for scientifically sound practices to reach their breeding goals,” he said. “The goal of this task force and the ARSBC meeting is to get producers the information and tools they need to get more females bred to the ideal sire at the right time.”

The ISU extension and outreach beef team worked with the task force to develop this year’s schedule, and ISU extension cow-calf specialist Randie Culbertson said the conference was created with U.S. beef industry professionals in mind.

“We wanted to make this conference applicable to everyone working in cattle reproduction across the region and successfully incorporated timely topics from excellent speakers,” she said.

Attendees can expect this 1½ day conference to tackle a wide range of topics. Estrus synchronization, embryo transfer, sexed semen, natural service herd sire management, and breeding a more efficient cow are just a few of the sessions. See the full schedule, hotel and registration information on the program website.  

The conference will be held Nov. 10 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Nov. 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The early registration rate is set at $200 until Sept. 15, when it increases to $250. Late registration, from Oct. 26-Nov. 11, increases to $300. This program has been submitted for RACE approval (not yet approved) for 12 hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval. Students can contact Beth Reynolds at bethr@iastate.edu for a $50 discount code to use during registration. Those who prefer to call in to register or want to pay by check should contact ISU Registration Services at 515-294-6222 or email registrations@iastate.edu.

The Beef Reproduction Task Force is a multi-disciplinary group formed by research and extension faculty members from universities across the U.S. with a focus on beef cattle reproduction, management and reproductive technologies.

The Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University was established in 1996 with the goal of supporting the growth and vitality of the state’s beef cattle industry. It comprises faculty and staff from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, and works to develop and deliver the latest research-based information regarding the beef cattle industry. For more information about IBC, visit www.iowabeefcenter.org.



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

Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 6.53 million tons (218 million bushels) in June 2026, compared with 6.39 million tons (213 million bushels) in May 2026 and 5.91 million tons (197 million bushels) in June 2025. Crude oil produced was 2.53 billion pounds, up 3 percent from May 2026 and up 8 percent from June 2025. Soybean once refined oil production at 2.02 billion pounds during June 2026 increased 5 percent from May 2026 and increased 12 percent from June 2025.

Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 520 million bushels in June 2026. Total corn consumption was down 1 percent from May 2026 but up 5 percent from June 2025. June 2026 usage included 92.2 percent for alcohol and 7.8 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.83 million bushels, up less than 1 percent from May 2026 and up 25 percent from June 2025. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 467 million bushels, was down 1 percent from May 2026 but up 4 percent from June 2025. Corn consumed in June 2026 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 92.6 percent and 7.4 percent, respectively.

Flour Milling Products 
All wheat ground for flour during the second quarter 2026 was 222 million bushels, up slightly from the first quarter 2026 grind of 222 million bushels but down less than 1 percent from the second quarter 2025 grind of 223 million bushels. Second quarter 2026 total flour production was 103 million hundredweight, up 1 percent from the first quarter 2026 and up 1 percent from the second quarter 2025. Whole wheat flour production at 4.21 million hundredweight during the second quarter 2026 accounted for 4 percent of the total flour production. Millfeed production from wheat in the second quarter 2026 was 1.59 million tons. The daily 24-hour milling capacity of wheat flour during the second quarter 2026 was 1.59 million hundredweight.




NCGA Letter Supports Action on Senate Farm Bill

The president of the National Corn Growers Association sent a letter today to the leadership and members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry expressing support for the Agricultural Act of 2026, the farm bill “2.0” that the committee is considering. The letter encouraged action by week’s end.
 
“Corn growers recognize there are limited legislative days remaining in this Congress for the farm bill and E15 to pass and be signed into law," Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower wrote in the letter. “With these views considered, NCGA urges the Committee to advance the farm bill this week ahead of the planned August recess.” 
 
Bower was particularly effusive in the letter as he addressed the inclusion of language in the bill that would allow for the year-round sale of fuels with 15% ethanol blends or E15.
 
“This deregulatory action will help corn growers and the rural economy during this difficult time and will also address issues around affordability by lowering prices at the pump,” he said. “NCGA is extremely grateful that year-round E15 is included in the Agricultural Act.”   
 
The letter also highlights specific policy details that are of interest or importance to corn grower members contained in the legislation.



Farm Bureau Encourages Senate Passage of Reconciliation Package Including Economic Aid

Following the U.S. House of Representative’s approval of a budget resolution that includes $12 billion in much-needed economic aid for farmers and ranchers, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall sent a letter today to Senate leadership encouraging the chamber to advance the budget resolution.

“Due to persistent financial challenges across the agricultural economy, the President has called on Congress to deliver additional farmer assistance this year, and the House of Representatives answered the call with $12 billion for U.S. agriculture in reconciliation,” Duvall wrote in the letter. “American Farm Bureau Federation supports the advancement of this Budget Resolution in the Senate, which will provide critical relief to enhance the farm safety net.

“We are grateful to the House for acting to deliver needed relief for agriculture, and for the Senate’s consideration of this Budget Resolution. We recognize that the cumulative losses for agriculture due to sustained economic pressures far exceed $12 billion and urge continued work to address these losses.”

The letter also details some of the factors influencing the farm economy, including historic inflation in production expenses and persistently low commodity prices.

“These factors have contributed to multiple years of losses for U.S. agriculture, which has made it increasingly difficult for farm families to stay afloat,” Duvall wrote. “U.S. agriculture delivers the food, fuel, and fiber that Americans rely on every day. Farmers are leaders in their communities and serve as the backbone of America, boosting our rural economy and protecting our food supply. We greatly appreciate your continued leadership and support of American agriculture, and we respectfully urge your support to bring relief for farmers and ranchers during this prolonged downturn in the farm economy.” 



NPPC’s Marotz, Zieba on Trade Mission to Philippines
 
National Pork Producers Council Vice President Todd Marotz, chief production officer for Wakefield Pork in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, and NPPC Vice President of Government Affairs Maria C. Zieba were in the Philippines last week on a trade mission with Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen and a number of Cornhusker farmers.

The delegation met with Philippines government officials and representatives of the Meat Importers and Traders Association and the Philippine Association of Meat Processors Inc., or PAMPI, as well as with H.E. Lee Lipton, the U.S. ambassador to the Philippines. The group also toured a meat processing plant in San Fernando, about 40 miles north of Manila, and met with officers of the Federation of Pork Producers of the Philippines (PROPORK).

Marotz spoke at the PAMPI general membership meeting, where he noted the longstanding partnership between the U.S. meat sector and the Philippine meat processing industry. He also pointed out that the U.S. and Philippines pork industries benefit from – and need – predictable trade policies.

“We know that businesses perform best when policies are rooted in transparency, science, and predictability,” said Marotz. “Stable trade policies help advance our industry by encouraging investment, long-term supply relationships, food affordability, and manufacturing competitiveness.”

NPPC has worked for years with the U.S. and Philippines governments to expand access for U.S. pork to the Philippines market. It strongly supports the U.S.-Philippines Trade and Investment Framework Agreement and the Philippines’ favorable trade treatment under the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences.

The Philippines is an important market for the U.S. pork industry. Last year, America’s pork producers shipped more than $133 million of product to the island nation. For the past several years, the Philippines has been battling African swine fever, so it relies on the United States to meet its growing consumer demand for pork and expanding foodservice and processing sectors.



Growth Energy Statement on EPA 2023-2024 SRE Decisions

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, issued the following statement after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its decision on six small refinery exemption (SRE) petitions under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Specifically, EPA granted one full exemption (100%) and two partial exemptions (50%) for the 2024 compliance year, and then deemed one petition for 2024 and two for 2023 ineligible.

“Small refineries should only be granted exemptions when they can demonstrate that the RFS has caused them true disproportionate economic harm,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We continue to closely evaluate these decisions to ensure they do not undermine investments made in biofuels, agriculture, and our rural economy because of the RFS. Today's decision highlights the critical importance of SRE reallocation in any future RVOs." 



USDA Announces August 2026 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

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

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

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for August 2026 are as follows:        
    Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 5.250%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 6.000%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct, Joint Financing): 4.000%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 2.000%
    Emergency Loan (Amount of Actual Loss): 3.750%   

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

Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.  
    Commodity Loans (less than one year disbursed): 5.000%       
    
Farm Storage Facility Loans:  
    Three-year loan terms: 4.125%  
    Five-year loan terms: 4.250%  
    Seven-year loan terms: 4.375%  
    Ten-year loan terms: 4.500% 
    Twelve-year loan terms: 4.625%  
    Sugar Storage Facility Loans (15 years): 4.875%  

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



AgroLiquid Adds Humic and Fulvic Products to Help Growers Maximize Yield Potential

AgroLiquid has announced the addition of six humic, fulvic and sugar products – acquired as part of its purchase of Monty’s Plant Food – to its crop nutrition portfolio. The products will give AgroLiquid retail partners and the growers they serve new tools to improve nutrient efficiency, build healthier soils and maximize yield potential.

“Humic and fulvic products are a natural complement to a high-efficiency fertility program,” said Stephanie Zelinko, national agronomist at AgroLiquid. “They help growers get more out of every nutrient they apply by improving availability and uptake while still feeding the soil and driving long-term productivity. These products come with decades of performance behind them, and we’re excited to put them to work alongside AgroLiquid’s existing lineup.”

The additions pair Monty’s proprietary humic and fulvic technology with AgroLiquid’s high-efficiency crop nutrition programs. The new offerings include:
● Monty’s Liquid Carbon – A liquid soil conditioner that improves soil structure, supports nutrient availability and promotes long-term soil health.
● Monty’s Surge XD – Features proprietary humics and fulvics to improve nutrient uptake through plant tissue and help maximize every application.
● Monty’s Drivas – A premium, pure fulvic additive that increases nutrient availability and uptake while supporting plant growth and crop response.
● Monty’s Agri-Sweet FG – A refined sugar that feeds beneficial soil microbes, improving nutrient availability and soil activity.
● Monty’s Dri-Carbon – A concentrated humic soil conditioner that enhances soil biology, nutrient availability and overall soil performance.
● Monty’s Premium Blend – A versatile starter fertilizer designed to promote rapid emergence, strong root development and early season vigor.

Company leadership sees the new products as an extension of AgroLiquid’s overall mission of prospering the farmer.

“We are committed to bringing crop nutrition technologies to our grower customers that wouldn’t otherwise be available to them,” said Nick Bancroft, CEO of AgroLiquid. “When growers have the right tools, they see it where it matters most, in stronger plants, healthier soils and better returns at harvest.”

The products are now available through AgroLiquid’s retail network across much of the United States, subject to state registration. For more information about AgroLiquid products and services, visit AgroLiquid.com

Monday August 03 Ag News - NE Farmer Elected Chair of USGBC - Pillen Wraps Up Trade Mission - USDA Ag Land Value Highlights - 1776 Pork Chop Salute at Iowa State Fair - Senate Farm Bill Progress - Classical Scrapie Confirmed in US - and more!

Reiners Elected U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council Chairman During Annual Summer Meeting

The delegates of the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) elected Jay Reiners of the Nebraska Corn Board as chairman of its USGBC Board of Directors at its 66th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting held in Milwaukee, WI, last week.

“Coming from Nebraska, American agriculture has always been in my blood, and I’ve felt a responsibility to represent agricultural resilience and innovation for a very long time,” Reiners said.

“I truly appreciate you trusting me to lead this outstanding organization in the role as your chairman.”

Reiners lives near Juanita, Nebraska, where he farmed corn and soybeans with his wife for 35 years. He is now retired from farming but is still active in the industry as a consultant. He previously served on the Council’s Western Hemisphere A-team and Asia A-team for four years each and was the chairman for the Nebraska Corn Board.

Reiners shared his goals for the year and unveiled his chairman’s theme, Feeding and Fueling the World, during his incoming remarks.

“We have a responsibility to feed and fuel the world, and we ensure that our products – U.S. corn, sorghum, barley, ethanol and DDGS – are the best in the world and keep getting better,” Reiners said.

“It’s an honest picture of what we contribute – not just in the United States but around the world through the exports we send to those who want and need them.”

In addition to Reiners, the delegates elected Jay Fischer of the Missouri Corn Growers Association as vice chairman and Jon Rosenstiel of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board as secretary-treasurer. Jennie Schmidt of the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board was re-elected and Mike LeFever of Colorado Corn Promotion Council was elected as at-large directors.

The newly elected sector director is Hagan Rose from Eco-Energy as the ethanol sector director and Adam Schindler of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program was reelected as the sorghum sector director and Josh Roe of Kansas Corn Commission was reelected as the state checkoff sector director.

The USGBC Board of Directors now includes:
    Jay Reiners, Nebraska Corn Board: Chairman
    Jay Fischer, Missouri Corn Growers Association: Vice Chairman
    Jon Rosenstiel, Illinois Corn Marketing Board: Secretary-Treasurer
    Mark Wilson, Illinois Corn Marketing Board: Past Chairman
    Jennie Schmidt, Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board: At-Large Director
    Mike LeFever, Colorado Corn Promotion Council: At-Large Director
    Dylan Rosier, Missouri Corn Merchandizing Council: At-Large Director
    Greg Alber, Iowa Corn Growers Association: At-Large Director
    Sean Broderick, CHS: Agribusiness Sector Director
    Hagan Rose, Eco-Energy: Ethanol Sector Director
    Jolene Riessen, Iowa Corn Growers Association: Corn Sector Director
    Adam Schindler, United Sorghum Checkoff Program: Sorghum Sector Director
    Josh Roe, Kansas Corn Commission: State Checkoff Sector Director
    Matt Horlacher, Washington Grain Commission and Cold Stream Malt & Grain: Barley Sector Director
    Ryan LeGrand, U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council: President and CEO

Find more information about the 66th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting on social media using the #Grains26.



Governor Pillen Concludes Successful Trade Mission to Japan and the Philippines 

Last week, Governor Jim Pillen concluded a highly productive trade mission to Japan and the Philippines. Priorities for the mission included (1) promoting Nebraska beef, pork, and wheat; (2) expanding markets for Nebraska ethanol; and (3) identifying opportunities for Nebraska to produce energy for Asian customers.
 
“Nebraska is investing in relationships with reliable U.S. allies in Asia, like Japan and the Philippines, while reducing dependence on Communist China,” said Gov. Pillen. “Japan routinely ranks among Nebraska’s top customers for beef, pork, and other agricultural products. Meanwhile, the Philippines has a fast-developing market economy and a growing appetite for U.S. food and fuel. The trade mission strengthened Nebraska’s position as a supplier of choice for key customers in both countries.”
 
The final day of the trade mission was packed with events. On Wednesday morning, Gov. Pillen and State Senator Rita Sanders met with San Miguel Corporation, a major conglomerate with approximately 60,000 direct employees. The company has more than 100 facilities in the Asia Pacific and imports food products from Nebraska.
 
“It was an honor to represent Nebraska in the Philippines and to showcase all that our state has to offer,” said Sen. Sanders. “The trade mission was a great way to raise our state’s profile and to tout our global leadership in food and ethanol production. The Filipino people are delightful, and I am grateful for the warm hospitality we received everywhere we went.”
 
Gov. Pillen also had a high-level meeting on Wednesday with Sharon Garin, Secretary of the Philippines Department of Energy. Leaders of Nebraska ethanol companies joined Gov. Pillen to highlight Nebraska’s low-carbon advantage in biofuel production.
 
“There is immense potential for Nebraska’s ethanol plants to meet the fuel needs of the Philippine market,” said DJ Eihusen of Chief Ethanol. “Additionally, there are great opportunities for Nebraska ethanol to partner with global energy producers. The carbon we’re capturing can be used to make cleaner gases that meet the energy needs of customers in Asia.”
 
In the afternoon, Governor Pillen joined U.S. Ambassador Lee Lipton at the World Food Expo, which has been the most attended food and hospitality event in the Philippines for 20+ years. Together, they joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of a brand-new booth to promote U.S. products. During the expo, Gov. Pillen and the Nebraska Beef Council took part in a live cooking demonstration to provide Filipino customers with a taste of high-quality Nebraska beef.
 
“Nebraska beef is tasty, nutritious, and known for being produced in keeping with the highest biosecurity protocols,” said Rosmary Anderson, a board member of the Nebraska Beef Council. “As the Philippines’ middle class grows, more families are buying beef—and in greater quantities. Nebraska is in a wonderful position to be a preferred provider to Philippine importers as they seek to meet rising demand for beef.”
 
An evening reception hosted by the USDA, followed by a dinner with the Philippines’ Meat Importers and Traders Association, capped off the Nebraska delegation’s mission to the Philippines.
 
“Nebraska grows things and makes things that are in demand worldwide,” said Gov. Pillen. “It’s amazing to see Nebraska-made products featured on shelves and in restaurants halfway around the world. I’m very pleased by the connections we made, and the opportunities we opened, that will help Nebraskans do even more business with Japan and the Philippines.”



Free Farm and Ag Law Clinics Set for August, September

Free legal and financial clinics are being offered for farmers and ranchers across the state in August and September. The clinics are one-on-one in-person meetings with an agricultural law attorney and an agricultural financial counselor. These are not group sessions, and they are confidential.

The attorney and financial advisor specialize in legal and financial issues related to farming and ranching, including financial and business planning, transition planning, farm loan programs, debtor/creditor law, debt structure and cash flow, agricultural disaster programs, and other relevant matters. Here is an opportunity to obtain an independent, outside perspective on issues that may be affecting your farm or ranch.

Clinic Dates
August:
    Monday, Aug. 10 — Sidney
    Tuesday, Aug. 11 — Alliance
    Tuesday, Aug. 11 — Ogallala
    Wednesday, Aug. 12 — Scottsbluff
    Tuesday, Aug. 25 — Norfolk

September:
    Tuesday, Sept. 1 — Fairbury
    Tuesday, Sept. 15 — Broken Bow
    Tuesday, Sept. 29 — Norfolk

To sign up for a free clinic or to get more information, call the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline at 1-800-464-0258.

Funding for this work is provided by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and Legal Aid of Nebraska.



USDA Agricultural Land Values Highlights

The United States farm real estate value, a measurement of the value of all land and buildings on farms, averaged $4,500 per acre for 2026, up $150 per acre (3.4 percent) from 2025. The United States cropland value averaged $6,020 per acre, an increase of $190 per acre (3.3 percent) from the previous year. The United States pasture value averaged $2,000 per acre, an increase of $80 per acre (4.2 percent) from 2025.

Years...............................:    '22         '23          '24         '25        '26       % '25-'26  
Nebraska Overall............:  3,450     3,820     4,080     4,250     4,400      3.5   
Nebraska, all cropland ..:  5,520     6,150     6,540     6,800     6,960      2.4  
     Irrigated ....................:  7,310     8,020     8,550     8,850     9,200      4.0  
     Non-irrigated ............:  4,420     5,000     5,350     5,600     5,650      0.9  
Nebraska Pasture............:  1,140     1,300     1,400     1,510     1,590      5.3   

Iowa Overall...................:  8,880     9,250     9,420     9,790    10,100      3.2   
Iowa Cropland................:  8,830     9,410     9,800    10,300    10,700      3.9   
Iowa Pasture...................:  3,000     3,170     3,500     3,650     3,800      4.1   

Total Value of Farmland and Buildings (millions of dollars)
Nebraska .......................: 129,204   151,800   168,080   179,520   186,575     3.9   
Iowa ..............................: 224,084   266,400   277,500   282,600   292,721     3.6   



1776 Pork Chop Salute to Celebrate America 250 During Iowa State Fair
    
For generations of fairgoers, a visit to the Iowa State Fair has been synonymous with one specific food item: the Pork Chop on a Stick ™. The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) sells tens of thousands of them each year during the fair. This summer, that tradition will take on an extra measure of patriotic pride as the Iowa Pork Producers Association presents the 1776 Pork Chop Salute – A Taste of America 250.

On Sunday, Aug. 16, IPPA will give away 1,776 Pork Chops on a Stick™, beginning at 11 a.m. Fairgoers looking for the 1776 Pork Chop Salute Giveaway should enter the Pork Tent building from the north side near the Animal Learning Center. The giveaway is limited to one pork chop per customer and will continue while supplies last.

The promotion is designed to commemorate the nation's semiquincentennial while recognizing the farm families who have helped feed America for generations. Just as the country reflects on 250 years of history, Iowa pig farmers continue a tradition of producing safe, wholesome pork while strengthening their local communities and supporting one of the state's most important industries.

“The Pork Chop on a Stick™ has become one of the most iconic traditions at the Iowa State Fair, so it's only fitting that we use it to help celebrate America's 250th anniversary,” said longtime Pork Tent Committee member Dave Moody, a Story County pig farmer. “This is our way of thanking fairgoers while celebrating the farmers who raise high-quality pork every day. There's nothing better than sharing a great Iowa pork chop, and I think the 1,776 people who receive one will remember this as a fun part of their State Fair experience.”

Along with the 1776 Pork Chop Salute, the Iowa Pork Producers Association is providing an exciting new way to enjoy this classic Iowa State Fair tradition. Every Pork Chop on a Stick™ will be smoked over applewood, bringing the unmistakable aroma and flavor that only natural hardwood can provide. It's a return to authentic barbecue traditions while continuing our commitment to serving premium Iowa pork.

While the giveaway on Sunday, August 16 takes place inside the Pork Tent, the Pork Chop on a Stick™ is available for purchase at two locations during the Iowa State Fair: the Iowa Pork Producers’ Chop Shops. One Chop Shop is located right next to the Pork Tent on the east end of the Grand Concourse. The other will have a new, high-profile location on the Grand Avenue Concourse. The former "lower Chop Shop," previously located near the Swine Barn, will now be situated next to Barksdale's State Fair Cookies, just southwest of the Grandstand.

“We are sad to be further away from our exhibitors in the livestock barns, but we are excited to be able to offer our delicious pork products to more fairgoers with this new location,” said Hope Brecht, consumer outreach director for the Iowa Pork Producers Association.  

Fairgoers can also take home a limited-edition America 250 pork-themed souvenir cup, available free with the first 6,500 drink purchases at the Pork Tent, beginning on August 13.

The Iowa Pork Producers Association looks forward to welcoming fairgoers from across Iowa and beyond, August 13-23 at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines. 



ASA Appreciates Senate Ag Committee Commitment to 5-Year Farm Bill

Ahead of a legislative markup of the Agricultural Act of 2026, the American Soybean Association shared appreciation for the Senate Agriculture Committee’s continued work in finalizing a comprehensive five-year farm bill that strengthens the farm economy. The revised farm bill released by Chairman John Boozman includes key priorities for U.S. soybean farmers and makes important investments in the farm safety net, conservation, rural development, research, and market opportunities for soybean farmers.

“America’s soybean farmers need the certainty that only a five-year farm bill can provide,” said ASA President and Ohio farmer, Scott Metzger. “Chairman Boozman’s proposal includes important improvements that strengthen the farm safety net and invest in the long-term success of U.S. agriculture. We urge Congress to get a five-year farm bill across the finish line this year.”

ASA is hopeful the Senate Agriculture Committee will advance the legislation before the August recess and urges Congress to enact a comprehensive five-year farm bill before the end of the year.

The Agricultural Act of 2026 includes several ASA-supported provisions, including legislation to advance plant biostimulants, expand conservation technical assistance, improve fertilizer research, strengthen rural broadband deployment, increase access to technical service providers, and support precision agriculture technologies. The bill pursues market expansion opportunities by reauthorizing international food assistance programs and improving programs that support innovative new uses for U.S. soy. The Agricultural Act of 2026 also addresses complex issues important to farm bill stakeholders more broadly, like authorizing a permanent waiver for the sale of year-round E15 and including a one-year delay in state cost-sharing requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. 



NCGA Welcomes Farm Bill Progress

The Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Saturday released Farm Bill “2.0” text that includes language on several of NCGA’s Farm Bill priorities as well as expanding consumer access to fuel with 15% ethanol blends. In response to this development, Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower released the following statement: 
 
“We thank Chairman Boozman and Ranking Member Klobuchar for their leadership in ongoing Farm Bill negotiations and are looking forward to  the committee consideration planned for next week.  
 
“We are extremely grateful that year-round E15 continues to be part of the conversation. This is a top priority for corn growers, who greatly need expanded sources of demand, like the kind year-round E15 would offer. We will continue to review the released text to evaluate its impact on corn growers and importance for agriculture.”



NCGA Urges Thune to Prioritize Budget Reconciliation Legislation 

The leader of National Corn Growers Association sent a letter Friday to Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) urging him to prioritize consideration and passage of the budget reconciliation legislation that would provide additional and much needed short-term assistance for agriculture.
 
“Swift consideration and passage of the budget resolution by the Senate Budget Committee will ensure this critical assistance provides relief for America’s farmers as soon as possible,” Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower wrote. “This year is expected to be the fourth consecutive year of net income losses for corn growers with an expected loss of nearly $150 per acre.”

Bower noted that the United States Department of Agriculture has proven that the administration can deliver authorized assistance timely and accurately. “Corn growers applauded President Trump for the administration’s budget supplemental request which includes economic and disaster assistance for farmers and calls for permanent year-round sales of E15,” the letter said. “NCGA supported the successful passage of the budget resolution by the full U.S. House of Representatives.”



USDA Confirms Detection of Classical Scrapie in Sheep

Friday the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed classical scrapie in a sheep slaughtered in a facility in Oregon. The NVSL will conduct tissue‑matching and parentage testing on the affected sheep and two additional animals accompanying the affected sheep.

APHIS and state animal health officials recently initiated an investigation to determine the flock of origin. Scrapie is a neurodegenerative and chronic disease that affects small ruminants with a fatal outcome. The affected animal did not have an ear tag, which may limit traceability. Scrapie is typically contracted during pregnancy and newborn lamb periods, which is why locating the flock of origin is so essential to the investigation. This case highlights the critical importance of strong animal identification practices nationwide.

“The importance of official scrapie tags cannot be understated,” said Cindy Wolf, DVM and American Sheep Industry Association’s (ASI) Animal Health Council co-chair. “These tags have made trace back to the flock of origin possible in order to stop further spread,” added Roselle Busch, DVM and ASI Animal Health Council co-chair.  

The investigation stems from a component of the National Scrapie Eradication Program called Regulatory Slaughter Surveillance, where brains from adult sheep and goat are examined by USDA. The positive animal was QQ (at codon 171) for scrapie resistance (susceptible genotype). Breeding for natural resistance is an additional important effort for long-term success of the “scrapie-free” status. Prior to this confirmation, the United States had gone more than five years without a case. The United States was positioned to meet the World Organisation for Animal Health’s (WOAH) seven‑year benchmark for self‑declared scrapie freedom in January 2028. Unfortunately, this confirmed detection could reset the timeline.

APHIS expects minimal impact on international trade. Most countries restrict live animal exports only from affected flocks or premises, and products such as wool remain unaffected.

USDA provides tools and reinforces key practices to help producers protect their flocks and advance scrapie eradication efforts nationwide:
    Ensure sheep purchased outside of slaughter channels have flock of origin scrapie tags. This would include breeding ewes, rams, and other life stages for grazing.
    Use of genetically resistant breeding stock, significantly reducing disease susceptibility. More info here.
    Robust surveillance participation, including submission of clinical suspects and routine monitoring.
    Continued partnership with APHIS and state animal health officials to support investigation and long‑term freedom efforts.

ASI will continue working with APHIS and the Oregon Department of Agriculture to support the investigation. Finding this case demonstrates the strength and ability of this program to detect such rare disease and highlights the exceptional progress made possible by producer participation. Additional information about scrapie and APHIS’ eradication program is available at www.aphis.usda.gov.



Continued Growth of USDA’s Product of USA Label 

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced six additional meat and poultry companies have adopted USDA’s voluntary Product of USA (POTUSA) label, continuing the strong momentum behind the Trump Administration’s efforts to help consumers easily identify products that are truly born, raised, harvested, and processed in the United States.

As more processors adopt the Product of USA label, American families have greater confidence that when they purchase products bearing the claim, they are directly supporting American farmers, ranchers, processors, and rural communities.

"Product of the USA label is a win for American farmers, ranchers, processors, and consumers alike, and we are continuing to see companies respond to this demand," said U.S. Secretary Brooke Rollins. "American consumers want to know where their food comes from, and they deserve labels they can trust. Every new company that adopts Product of USA is helping strengthen rural America, create new market opportunities for U.S. producers, and make it easier for families to support American agriculture every time they shop."

The newest companies to adopt USDA’s Product of USA label include:
    Creekstone Farms – Kansas
    Caviness Beef Packers
    CS Beef Packers – Texas
    Greener Pastures – Texas
    Lone Star Beef Processors – Texas
    Claxton Poultry Farms – Georgia

The continued expansion of the Product of USA label complements President Trump’s and Secretary Rollins’ broader strategy to strengthen America’s livestock industry by supporting independent ranchers, family farmers, and domestic meat and poultry processors. By creating new market opportunities for products that are fully American from pasture to plate, USDA is helping producers and processors compete, grow, and meet rising consumer demand for American-raised meat.

The Product of USA initiative also complements USDA’s Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers (SPUR) Program, a $500 million investment to help eligible small- and mid-sized beef processors preserve and expand domestic processing capacity. Together, these efforts are strengthening America’s meat supply chain, expanding opportunities for U.S. producers, and increasing consumer access to high-quality American-raised products.

USDA continues to receive strong interest from processors across the country, with additional companies expected to adopt the Product of USA label in the coming months as consumer demand for authentic American-produced meat and poultry continues to grow.

Friday July 31 Ag News - Autonomus "Smart Feeding" Truck - ADM Expands Lincoln Soy Crush Plant - ISU Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days in Aug - IA Expands RFIP Program - and more!

Driving Innovation: Partnership Brings Autonomous Truck “Smart Feeding” to University of Nebraska

A recent partnership with ALA Engineering brought "smart feeding" to the Klostermann Feedlot Innovation Center (KFIC) at the University of Nebraska Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC) near Mead. Through collaboration with the Nebraska-based company ALA Engineering, the university integrated of autonomous feeding truck use into the feedlot. The technology aims at boosting feeding efficiency and tackling the issue of a limited workforce. 

Autonomous trucks and other upcoming technologies were demonstrated at ENREEC in conjunction with the AgTech Connect conference. Organized by The Combine, Nebraska's ag tech incubator and accelerator (based at Nebraska Innovation Campus in Lincoln), the conference brought together founders, investors, producers and industry partners for live technology demonstrations, expert-led roundtables, keynote speakers and startup showcases. 

The conference provided the opportunity to see cutting-edge ag technology operating in a real-world setting. Attendees also had the chance to see autonomous trucks, learn about UNL’s advanced feedlot technologies, and also hear brief talks on current and emerging challenges/technology in the beef industry. 

An ongoing challenge for feedyards is delivery of consistent rations. The other challenge is finding experienced labor. ALA Engineering identified the need for more than incremental fixes to existing equipment. This led to the development of autonomous feed truck technology to enhance reliability and efficiency. 

Jacob Hansen, CEO and co-founder of ALA Engineering, said that the goal of the autonomous feed truck is to augment, not replace, skilled labor and make feedyard operations more efficient. Hansen said, "The goal is to enhance the lives of both the livestock and the operators by enabling operators to engage in higher-value tasks." 

Drawing on his family’s experience in the industry, Austin Aulick, ALA CFO and co-founder, said, "Feed trucks and finding feed truck drivers are two crucial points cattle feeders depend on, and also two things that keep them up at night." 

The partnership with ALA Engineering is pivotal in demonstrating advancements beyond traditional feedyard feeding methods. ENREEC Director Doug Zalesky noted, "At ENREEC, we are just beginning to understand the use of autonomous feeding and what it might mean for the future. Demonstrating this new technology in an educational setting is crucial because it allows for unbiased comparisons. As part of our mission, we partner with industry leaders like ALA Engineering to learn about and advance new technology.” 

Galen Erickson, University of Nebraska cattle industry professor of animal science and beef feedlot Extension specialist, noted that utilizing the autonomous trucks is a perfect tie-in with the mission of the KFIC in demonstrating technologies and innovations. Erickson said, “The facility serves as a testbed for showcasing data needed by the industry to make sound technology adoption decisions. We are working with ALA and monitoring equipment on our regular trucks to observe how they are driven and operated. We look forward to being able to evaluate technologies like autonomous feeding in the future. Another reason to test new approaches relates to student education, allowing students to learn how to use these technologies.” 

Zalesky agreed that student experience is vital to prepare students for the workforce with industry-relevant information. He said, "Early access to technology significantly enhances the students' experience." 

Zalesky noted that robotics and advanced technologies are utilized for various tasks at ENREEC and by producers, such as weed management and planting, along with technologies designed for the autonomous monitoring of animal health. 

Erickson said, “I'm excited because, just like the industry, I think this has some application for operations that want to improve efficiency and improve accuracy. But more importantly, if you have trouble finding people, this may be a solution that will help ease that burden.” 

Looking to the future, autonomous technologies are expected to have a notable impact on agriculture. Hansen noted that vision systems are making a huge impact, and over the next decade he anticipates seeing more niche solutions, like autonomous feed trucks, making big impacts. 



ADM to Expand North America Crush Capacity Amid Strong Biofuel Demand

ADM, a global leader in innovative solutions from nature, today announced a series of investments designed to expand North American oilseed crush capacity and strengthen the company's ability to meet growing demand for renewable fuels and other vegetable oil markets.

“These investments reflect ADM's continued focus on targeted growth opportunities in areas where long-term demand trends are creating new opportunities for farmers and customers,” said Gary McGuigan, president of ADM’s North America Ag Services and Oilseeds business. “Strong demand – supported by biofuels policy in the U.S. – is driving opportunities for farmers and the broader American agricultural sector. By choosing to build on our existing footprint and adopting individualized enhancement plans for each facility, we’re ensuring that we are investing wisely and preserving flexibility while ultimately delivering a meaningful increase in capacity across our North American network.”

ADM expects to expand capacity by making targeted improvements to existing operations, allowing the company to increase throughput while building on established infrastructure. The company will initially focus efforts with investments at four U.S. production facilities:
    In Frankfort, Indiana, work will focus on storage improvements and optimization as well as multiple equipment upgrades. Work is expected to be completed in late 2028.
    In Deerfield, Missouri, investments will focus on unlocking capacity within conveying, flaking, extraction, and utility systems. Work is expected to be completed in late 2028 or early 2029.
    The company’s crush plant in Lincoln, Nebraska, will receive meal storage enhancements as well as debottlenecking improvements designed to eliminate current restraints. Work is expected to be completed in late 2028.
    The Spiritwood, North Dakota, facility operated through the Green Bison joint venture with Marathon Petroleum Corporation will benefit from operational optimization and select equipment improvements. Work is expected to be completed in mid-2028.

These investments are designed to unlock approximately 700,000 metric tons of additional annual crush capacity across the four facilities, equating to more than 25 million bushels of new demand for American farmers.

In addition, the company is actively evaluating several other North America crush locations for similar future investments.

These projects follow on other recent investments to enhance ADM’s U.S. footprint, including upgrades at its Clinton, Iowa, corn facility and capacity expansions at its elevator in Optima, Oklahoma.

“These investments will help connect more American farmers to growing domestic and global markets while strengthening the infrastructure that supports U.S. agriculture,” McGuigan added. “We're proud to continue investing alongside the farmers, communities and colleagues who make these operations successful.”



Nebraska Recovery Roundup: Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund

As many are recovering from the worst wildfire disaster in Nebraska’s history, it is awe inspiring to witness the ways people from the across the state, country, and the globe are banding together and showing their support for producers in the Beef State. The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund (NCDRF) has received more than $2.2 million from more than 2,570 donors across Nebraska, 48 states, and five countries. To every individual, family, business, and organization that gave — thank you. Your support is helping Nebraska’s beef cattle producers recover, rebuild, and move forward after the devastating wildfires.

What to Know About Applying for Relief
The NCDRF will close for donations and relief applications on Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026. 100% of the donations will be distributed to impacted producers and membership in NC is not required for applicants to receive relief. Once the fund is closed, applications will be reviewed by a committee convened by the NCDRF and eligibility of expenses will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Funds are not distributed until the applications period closes and all applications are reviewed.

Funds will only be distributed to producers who experienced property loss or damage in areas where a fire was reported through the Nebraska Emergency Management Association (NEMA) Watch Center. As of July 28, 2026, the following counties have been reported through the NEMA Watch Center:
    Arthur County (Morrill, Vasa fires)
    Blain County (Road 203 Fire)
    Buffalo County (Elm Creek & Odessa fires)
    Cherry County (Ashby, Anderson Bridge fires)
    Custer County (Pressey Fire)
    Dawes County (Ash Pole, Clay Creek fires)
    Dawson County (Cottonwood Fire)
    Fillmore County
    Frontier County (Cottonwood Fire)
    Gage County
    Garden County (Morrill, Minor fires)
    Grant County (Ashby, Minor fires)
    Holt County (Peterson Fire)
    Jefferson County
    Keith County (Morrill Fire)
    Lincoln County
    McPherson County (Daly Fire)
    Morrill County (Morrill Fire)
    Nemaha County (Peru Fire)
    Richardson County
    Saline County
    Seward County
    Sheridan County (Ashby Fire)
    Sioux County (South Fork, Log Road fires)
    Thomas County (Road 203 Fire)

Applicants may submit documentation for agriculture-related expenses not paid for by insurance or other governmental sources related to fencing, pens, agricultural structure repair, feed, livestock removal, or other necessary agricultural-related costs directly related to rebuilding from the natural disaster. Applicants must demonstrate expenses and losses incurred were related to agriculture production and directly caused by recent wildfires in the state of Nebraska.

Applications must be completed and have all required documentation to be considered. Documentation can include copies of receipts for purchases of supplies, invoices for repairs, photos of the damage, and more. Please include losses of livestock, fence - miles or feet, land damage – specify grazing, crop, or haying loss, veterinary costs, feed costs/feed loss, and more in the description of impacts and loss to operation. If you need additional space to list damages, please include your additional list with the application.

For any questions, please contact the Nebraska Cattlemen office at (402) 475-2333 or email disasterrelief@necattlemen.org.



Register soon for Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days

Cattle feeders face constant change, risk and challenges. The Cyclone Cattle Feeders Days will help reduce some of the questions feeders have. The four programs, provided by Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University are designed to help answer questions feeders have on market volatility, new technologies to improve productivity, and current research topics. Programs are scheduled for Aug. 24-27 and will be held in four locations in Iowa.

Market volatility has always been a challenge in the cattle feeding industry, but with the current high prices for fed cattle the amount of risk from the time of purchase to finish can be several thousand dollars. Cody Weitzenkamp, market advisor for Balance4Ward will provide a market outlook as well as discuss strategies to help alleviate market volatiles and protect investments.

Manure is an inherent by-product of cattle feeding, so feeders need to optimize the amount and value of manure to benefit the cropping component of the operation. Dr. Dan Andersen, ISU Extension engineering specialist, will share strategies on managing the value of manure in different systems.

Dr. Aimee Lutz, ISU Extension feedlot specialist and director of the Iowa Beef Center, will share an overview of some of the opportunities to incorporate new and current technologies into cattle feeding operations. She will also discuss steps to consider when exploring new technologies and how they can benefit your operation.

Two researchers from the ISU animal science department, Dr. Stephanie Hansen and Dr. Nathan Smerchek, along with their graduate students, have kept the ISU Beef Nutrition Farm full and busy on new research projects. They will share results from several of their recent research projects including feeding Experior and vitamin and mineral supplementation impact on carcass quality, and how cattle feeders can benefit from ongoing research.

Rounding out the program will be David Trowbridge from Gregory Feedyards in Tabor, IA.  David has tested and incorporated multiple new technologies into his feedyard in southwest Iowa including the ability to evaluate individual feed and water intakes and daily weights, and he will share both the benefits he has seen from them as well as discuss how he decided to add or not add them to his feedyard.

The same program will be held at all four locations, starting at 10 a.m. and concluding at 3 p.m.
    Monday, Aug. 24 – Swan Lake Education Center, 22676 Swan Lake Trail Drive, Carroll
    Tuesday, Aug. 25 – Jones County Extension Youth Development Center, 800 N Maple Street, Monticello
    Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Public Safety Center, 432 Main, Osage
    Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sioux County Extension and Outreach Office, 400 Central Avenue NW, Suite 700, Orange City

Registration is $20 per person and is due by Aug. 17 through the hosting county extension office.

Each program will include a complimentary meal and time to interact with speakers and program sponsors: Balance4Ward, C-Lock, Elanco Animal Health, Merck Animal Health, Iowa Beef Checkoff, Performance Livestock Analytics and the Carroll, Jones, Mitchell and Sioux County Cattlemen’s Associations.

See additional information, including a complete agenda and registration, on the Iowa Beef Center website.

For more information, contact Wertz-Lutz at aimeewl@iastate.edu, Russ Euken, reuken@iastate.edu, or Denise Schwab at dschwab@iastate.edu.



Iowa Expands Access to Ethanol and Biodiesel with Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program

This week, Iowa's cost-share Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) awarded $1,426,732 in grants to 24 applicants to expand access to higher ethanol blends at retail sites. The program also awarded $604,212 in grants to 14 applicants to support biodiesel infrastructure projects.

“The continued strong interest in RFIP demonstrates the momentum behind expanding consumer access to higher biofuel blends across Iowa,” said IRFA Marketing Director Lisa Coffelt, who serves on the Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Board. “These investments help retailers upgrade their infrastructure while giving more Iowans the opportunity to choose cleaner-burning, lower-cost renewable fuels.”

To qualify for the program, retailers receiving funding for ethanol infrastructure must offer E15 or higher ethanol blends. Retailers receiving funding for biodiesel infrastructure must offer biodiesel blends of B11 or higher, with B5 permitted during the colder months.

To date, the program has granted over $67 million to help fund infrastructure across Iowa, allowing retailers to add necessary equipment to their stations to offer higher blends of renewable fuels. 

RFIB consists of voting members appointed by the Governor of the State of Iowa. 



USGBC Talk International Trade Policy, Commodity Demand

The second day of the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council's (USGBC's) 66th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting featured expert speakers about global trade policy developments and a panel discussion with local brewing industry leaders.

The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council's (USGBC's) 66th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting, held this week in Milwaukee, WI, continued Thursday with a slate of industry experts and policymakers highlighting crucial topics in agricultural exports to Canada, Mexico and Southeast Asia.

Thursday kicked off with commodity sector meetings, where growers and agribusiness leaders gathered to discuss the latest developments in their industries. 

Thursday also featured two general sessions, with the morning's focused on commodity utilization and demand. A panel of local brewers shared their perspective on the future of barley and malt and International Bunker Industry Association Chair Adrian Tolson shared insights into industry integration of sustainable marine fuel (SMF).

"The quality of U.S. malt is the most consistent I've experienced because of the amount of hands involved in getting it to me with the most care," said Kevin Wright, Third Space Brewing co-founder and brew master.

"You're getting a quality, consistent product that will deliver on the specifications you put forward. That's the huge advantage of U.S. malt."

Later, AGON Partner Kenneth Smith Ramos and PAA Senior Partner Dan Pfeffer dived deep into the U.S. agricultural sector's trade relationship with Mexico and Canada and what to expect in the coming years.

Finally, USGBC Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania Caleb Wurth presented trade policy news from his region affecting demand for U.S. agricultural goods.

The conference will conclude Friday with the Council's Board of Delegates meeting that will include financial, A-Team and sector reports and elections for open positions on the Council's board of directors.

Follow along on social media using the hashtag #Grains26.



Beef Quality Assurance Spanish Resources Available

The Beef Checkoff-funded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program provides best practices around cattle handling, facility management, cattle transportation, good record keeping and protecting herd health, which result in better outcomes for cattle and producers. Now, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, announces the release of many BQA resources in Spanish. Spanish BQA program materials are available at https://www.bqa.org/resources/recursos. 

“For more than 30 years, BQA has provided producers and the cattle industry the science-based information and tools we need to assure cattle well-being, beef quality and safety,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver. “Producers asked for these translated materials, and I’m glad we now have them available.”

The dedicated Spanish page of the BQA website features the following Spanish materials:
    BQA Certification
    BQA Transportation Spanish Certification online modules for both farmer/rancher and professional drivers
    Spanish National BQA Manual
    Spanish BQA Field Guide
    A Spanish playlist on the BQA YouTube page with helpful training resources
    BQA training materials available for Spanish-speaking trainers, or for anyone interested in hosting a BQA training fully in Spanish
    Forms and checklists

“’The Right Way is the Only Way,’ and these resources help us extend that message to everyone involved in making the U.S. cattle industry the best it can be,” Copenhaver said. 

For those interested in accessing materials or becoming BQA certified, in English or Spanish, visit www.bqa.org. This project was funded in part by a grant from the National Institute for Food and Agriculture Veterinary Services Grant Program awarded to NCBA, providing educational and teaching resources in Spanish to veterinarians and producers.



U.S., Mexican Dairy Leaders Deepen Partnership as USMCA Talks Continue

Dairy leaders from the United States and Mexico concluded the 2026 U.S.-Mexico Binational Dairy Summit today with a renewed commitment to strengthening collaboration between the two countries' dairy sectors, reaffirming shared priorities on trade, innovation and the future of dairy farming against the backdrop of U.S.-Mexico negotiations related to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Held July 29-31 in Querétaro, Mexico, the event brought together dairy industry leaders from the National Milk Producers Federation, the U.S. Dairy Export Council and leading Mexican dairy organizations to discuss issues affecting producers, processors and consumers in both countries.

Participants reaffirmed key principles as part of the eighth annual dairy binational event, supporting policies that promote dairy sector growth and competitiveness in both countries and encouraging continued dialogue and cooperation on issues of mutual interest. The organizations also adopted a new shared principle recognizing the importance of supporting the next generation of dairy farmers in both countries through the exchange of information and experience while creating new opportunities to collaborate on issues critical to the future of the dairy sector.

"The dairy trade relationship between the United States and Mexico is a true success story as our industries have grown in parallel for over three decades" Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF, said. “Central to that success is an open dialogue. We look forward to continuing work together to address shared challenges and develop our markets together.”

"Strong industry partnerships complement strong trade relationships," Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, said. "Our continued collaboration helps ensure dairy producers and processors in both countries are well positioned to meet growing demand and strengthen the dairy sector in the United States and Mexico. We appreciate Mexico hosting this important event and we look forward to maintaining this critical relationship to support our farmers on both sides of the border."

The organizations agreed to expand collaboration in the months ahead, with particular attention to supporting young dairy farmers, promoting dairy's nutritional benefits and maintaining open communication as the USMCA review process advances.

The summit followed the third round of U.S.-Mexico negotiations related to the USMCA, in which NMPF and USDEC participated as advisors to U.S. trade negotiators, underscoring the importance of continued industry engagement as the two governments work to strengthen the bilateral trading relationship.



Corteva to Bring Enclosa Herbicide to Soybean Farmers

Corteva continues to expand farmer and retailer access to new soybean herbicide options with the launch of Enclosa™ herbicide. The new herbicide will provide the first-ever combination of a proprietary encapsulated acetochlor (Group 15) and cloransulam (Group 2) to deliver exceptional weed control with up to four weeks of residual activity. Enclosa herbicide has been granted approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is now in the process of receiving state approvals.

“Corteva is at the forefront of soybean herbicide innovation,” said Drake Robards, Portfolio Marketing Lead, Soybean Herbicides, Corteva. “In the past few years, we’ve expanded our soybean herbicide portfolio to better meet the needs of farmers, maximize yield potential and optimize management decisions. The launch of Enclosa herbicide is the latest advancement that will give farmers an additional option for flexible and convenient control.” 

With the launch of Enversa™ herbicide in 2025, farmers experienced how the proprietary encapsulated acetochlor from Corteva moves quickly off plant tissue to drive to the soil, establishing a residual barrier against weeds. Building on the success of Enversa herbicide, Enclosa herbicide will feature a combination of encapsulated acetochlor and cloransulam in a convenient premix to provide farmers with residual and systemic control of more than 36 tough broadleaf weeds and grasses in pre- and post-emergence applications. 

“Multiple modes of action are more important than ever to effectively manage weeds and mitigate the spread of herbicide resistance,” Robards said. “We’ve seen the power encapsulated acetochlor brings to the tank. The addition of cloransulam will enable farmers to tackle tough weeds and reduce the threat of resistance.”

Enclosa herbicide will offer a wide application window to fit a variety of geographical herbicide programs and help farmers overcome challenging weather conditions. Flexibility goes beyond application timing, as the new herbicide will be a strong tank-mix partner for products containing metribuzin or sulfentrazone in pre-emergence herbicide systems and glyphosate or glufosinate in post-emergence programs. Enclosa herbicide also will be an excellent complement to Enlist One® herbicide, a benefit for farmers who plant Enlist E3® soybeans. Additionally, the new soybean herbicide will come in an easy-to-use liquid premix, delivering convenience at the tank.

Initial sales of Enclosa™ herbicide are anticipated later this year for use in the 2027 growing season. To learn more about Enclosa herbicide, talk with your local Corteva representative or visit Corteva.us/Enclosa.