Thursday July 23 Ag News - Pasture Heat Stress - Landlord-Tenant Wksps Locations Added - NeCGA urge Fertilizer Ind. Investigation - Milk Prod Up 2.4% in Q2 - Fertilizer Prices Drop - Ethanol Prod Rebounds - CME Launches Ag Index, Sorghum Basis Futures - and more!

PASTURE HEAT STRESS 
- Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator 

Heat stress is often talked about with feedlot cattle, but animals on pasture can be at risk too. All livestock can struggle when high temperatures, humidity, low wind, and warm nights stack together.

During a heat wave, water is the first place to start. During hot weather, livestock water demand can increase quickly. Check water sources before a heat event, not after animals are already stressed. Make sure tanks are clean, water flow is adequate, and animals have enough space to drink without crowding. Weak flow or limited tank space can lead to bunching, and bunching adds heat.

Shade can help, but only if it is used well. Natural shade from trees can be valuable, but it can also concentrate animals in one area. If shade is limited, cattle may bunch tightly, reduce airflow, damage grass, and avoid grazing. When possible, make sure water, shade, and grazing areas are not pulling livestock into one small spot during the hottest part of the day.

Air movement is also important. Wind helps animals cool themselves. Pastures with draws, heavy tree cover, or low areas may have less airflow, especially on still, humid days. Watch where animals are spending time and whether they have room to spread out.

Fly control also plays a role. Flies and other pests can cause cattle to bunch, stomp, and stand instead of grazing or resting. Good fly control will not eliminate heat stress, but it can reduce one more reason animals crowd together.

Finally, avoid handling, hauling, or rotating livestock during the heat of the day. If animals need to be moved or worked, do it early in the morning and keep it quiet and low stress.

Signs of heat stress include open-mouth breathing, heavy salivation, restlessness, bunching, and crowding around water or shade. Once severe signs appear, options are limited.



2026-2027 Landlord/Tenant Cash Rent Workshops - Locations Added

Wondering whether your cash rent reflects current land values, or whether your lease agreement covers you if something goes wrong? A new series of workshops across Nebraska this fall and winter is built to answer those questions.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability will present a series of 2026-2027 landlord/tenant cash rent workshops for Nebraska landowners and operators, beginning in August 2026.

The workshops will cover current Nebraska cash rental rates and land values, best practices for agricultural leases, and other land management considerations. The meeting will also include discussions on managing financial and legal risk, providing attendees with an opportunity to have their land questions answered. 

Extension agricultural economists Anastasia Meyer and Jim Jansen will lead the presentation. Both are with the Center for Agricultural Profitability.

Schedule and Registration Details
    Fremont: Aug. 13, 1-4 p.m., at the office of Nebraska Extension in Dodge County, 1206 W. 23rd St. Refreshments sponsored by Peoples Company. Register by Aug. 12 at 402-727-2775. 
    Grand Island: Aug. 18, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., at the office of Nebraska Extension in Hall County, College Park, 3180 U.S. Highway 34. Lunch sponsored by Peoples Company. Register by Aug. 17 at 308-385-5088.
    Lincoln: Aug. 20, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., at the office of Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County, 444 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A. Lunch sponsored by Peoples Company. Register by Aug. 19 at 402-441-7180.
    Geneva: Aug. 25, 1-4 p.m., at the Geneva Public Library, 1043 G St. Refreshments sponsored by Peoples Company. Register by Aug. 24 at 402-759-3712.
    Columbus: Aug. 26, 1-4 p.m., at the office of Nebraska Extension in Platte County, 2715 13th St. Refreshments sponsored by Peoples Company. Register by Aug. 25 at 402-563-4901.
    Omaha: Sept. 1, 1-4 p.m., at the office of Nebraska Extension in Douglas-Sarpy Counties, 8015 W. Center Road. Refreshments sponsored by Peoples Company. Register by Aug. 31 at 402-444-7804.

A meal or snacks and refreshments will be offered at each meeting, sponsored by Peoples Company.

The meetings are free to attend, but registration is requested by the day before each workshop by calling the local Nebraska Extension office. 



Nebraska Corn Growers Insists on Prompt Investigation of Fertilizer Industry
 
The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA), along with 16 other state corn organizations, sent a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley and Ranking Member Richard J. Durbin urging for a quick investigation of collusive practices within the fertilizer industry.

In late May, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Andrew Fergusan called for an investigation of the fertilizer industry’s business practices. Shortly after, comments came from a senior official within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) “that a duopoly has been manipulating the market”.

“Nebraska’s farmers need this investigation completed quickly as planning for the 2027 growing season begins,” said Michael Dibbern, NeCGA board president and grower from Cairo. “It is imperative that competition within the fertilizer markets is restored along with some stability back within the agricultural economy.”



April-June Milk Production up 2.4 Percent

Milk production in the United States during the April - June quarter totaled 60.2 billion pounds, up 2.4 percent from the April - June quarter last year. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.67 million head, 44,000 head more than the January - March quarter, and 192,000 head more than the same period last year.

Nebraska.:    50,000 milk cows (unch from Q2'25)  -   315,000,000 lbs prod. (+0.3% from Q2'25)      
Iowa .......:   245,000 milk cows (+2000 from Q2'25) - 1,551,000,000 lbs prod. (+1.0% from Q2'25)     



New Poll Finds Iowa Voters Reject the Save Our Bacon Act
Press Release

Iowa voters oppose the Save Our Bacon Act by nearly a two-to-one margin, according to a new statewide poll conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy, and released today by Farm Action Fund, a farmer-led nonpartisan organization dedicated to building a fair, competitive, resilient and healthy agricultural food system. The poll was first covered by Politico’s Weekly Agriculture newsletter. 

The survey of 625 registered Iowa voters, conducted July 6-8, found that 45% of Iowans oppose the legislation while just 23% support it. Opposition spans every congressional district, age group, party affiliation, and among both men and women. Among voters who had already heard of the bill before being polled, opposition climbs to 60%. 

The Save Our Bacon Act, which passed the U.S. House in April as part of the House Farm Bill (H.R. 7567), would prohibit states from enforcing many of their own standards governing the production and sale of agricultural products, overriding state laws approved by voters and legislatures. 

“Iowa voters have sent an unmistakable message: they don’t want Washington and a China-owned pork giant overriding the standards set by states,” said Joe Maxwell, president of Farm Action Fund and a fourth-generation hog farmer. “They believe states—not powerful corporations or the politicians they fund—should have the right to set their own food and farming standards. Even in one of the nation’s leading pork-producing states, voters reject legislation that strips away states’ rights and undermines farmers who have already invested in meeting new market opportunities. Ashley Hinson is out of touch with her own constituents. Congress should listen to the 74% of Iowans – Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike – who want these decisions made close to home.” 

Hardin County farmer John Gilbert said this legislation threatens not only his premium market for the pigs raised on the farm, but also endangers the safety of the food system for all Iowans. Gilbert said, “This anti-Prop 12 bill is so broadly worded that many other laws regulating farming and food safety are likely to be nullified. Why? All because the pork monopolies and foreign packers won't take the 'No' from the U.S. Supreme Court which said Prop 12 is legal. Instead they have bought politicians like Ashley Hinson to do their bidding. Iowans deserve better than Big Pork’s gaslighting and deception about who this bill hurts, and who reaps the benefits. My independent hog farm is benefitting and so are many others.” 



ASA Applauds Efforts to Restore Prevented Plant Buy-Up Option

The American Soybean Association applauds Secretary Brooke Rollins and Senator John Hoeven for their efforts to restore the prevented plant buy-up option under the federal crop insurance program. ASA has long advocated for restoring this important risk management tool and appreciates USDA's commitment to working toward its return.

"Crop insurance is the cornerstone of the farm safety net, and restoring the prevented plant buy-up option will provide farmers with greater certainty as they navigate increasingly unpredictable weather and challenging economic conditions," said Scott Metzger, ASA President and Ohio soybean farmer. "We appreciate Senator Hoeven's leadership and Secretary Rollins' commitment to this effort."

ASA looks forward to continuing to work with USDA until this important protection is restored. 



Fertilizer Prices Continue Downward Trend

Retail fertilizer prices tracked by DTN for the second full week of July 2026 continue to fall compared to last month. Mostly lower prices have been present for six straight weeks now, according to DTN price data. Six fertilizers were lower in price compared to last month while the remaining two were slightly higher for the fifth consecutive week. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more. Four of the six nutrients with less expensive prices had substantial price moves lower.

Leading the nutrients lower was UAN32 and anhydrous. UAN32 was 15% less expensive than last month with an average price of $465/ton, while anhydrous was 11% lower than last month with an average price of $967/ton. Anhydrous was back under the $1,000/ton level for the first time in 17 weeks. The third week of March was last time the nitrogen fertilizer price was three digits. Also, considerably lower were both urea and UAN28. Urea was 7% lower compared to last month with an average price of $682/ton while UAN28 was 6% less expensive with an average price of $480/ton. Urea dropped below the $700/ton level for the first time in 17 weeks as well.

The remaining two fertilizers were just slightly less expensive compared to a month ago. Potash had an average price of $494/ton and 10-34-0 was $719/ton.

Two fertilizers were slightly more expensive compared to last month. DAP had an average price of $911/ton while MAP was $958/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.74/lb.N, anhydrous $0.59/lb.N, UAN28 $0.86/lb.N and UAN32 $0.73/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. Potash is 3% higher, urea is 4% more expensive, both UAN32 and 10-34-0 are now 7% higher, DAP is 12% more expensive, MAP is 13% higher, UAN28 is 15% more expensive and anhydrous is 26% higher looking back to last year.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 7/17/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending July 17, ethanol production rebounded 5.2% to 1.09 million b/d, equivalent to 45.95 million gallons daily. Output was 1.5% higher than the same week last year and 3.2% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate ticked up 0.1% to 1.09 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.69 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks rose 0.4% to 24.5 million barrels. Stocks were 0.2% more than the same week last year and 4.2% above the five-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the Gulf Coast (PADD 3) and West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, strengthened 1.2% to 8.95 million b/d (137.53 bg annualized). Yet, demand was 0.2% less than a year ago and 2.6% below the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol swelled 3.5% to 938,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.42 bg annualized and the largest weekly volume since mid-May 2025. Net inputs were 2.3% more than year-ago levels and 2.6% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports sprang 95.1% to 158,000 b/d (6.6 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



CME Group's New Agriculture Index Delivers Unified Price Benchmark for the Global Farm Economy

CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, today announced the launch of its Agriculture Index, a broad-based price benchmark designed to track the aggregate performance of five sectors fundamental to the global farm economy.

The index, which will be updated monthly, integrates futures prices from Grains, Oilseeds, Livestock, Dairy and Lumber. These components allow the benchmark to comprehensively track structural changes in supply chains, shifting industrial demand and changing consumer habits impacting the cost of farm goods around the world.

"Agriculture doesn't move one commodity at a time–and neither should the benchmarks that track it," said John Ricci, Managing Director and Global Head of Agricultural Products at CME Group. "By aggregating futures prices across five sectors on a single platform, the CME Group Agriculture Index gives producers, traders and analysts a more complete read on the farm economy and where it's headed."

The index methodology is designed to provide a fair representation of commodity costs, neutralizing price differences between delivery months for futures contracts and applying appropriate weightings across different markets.

The Agriculture Index complements the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide, monthly measure of 400 producers' sentiment and outlook on the agricultural economy.

For more information on the CME Group Agriculture Index, please visit https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/agriculture/agriculture-index. 



CME Group Launches Sorghum Basis Futures to Meet Global Feed, Export and Biofuel Demand

CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, today announced plans to launch Sorghum basis futures. Trading is expected to start on August 24, 2026, pending regulatory review.

Sorghum is a versatile commodity uniquely positioned to meet global demand from the domestic feed industry, the international export market and, more recently, biofuels.

The new basis contract reflects the price difference between sorghum and corn, two types of grain used in animal feed as well as ethanol feedstock. Sorghum's premium over corn usually signals international demand driving values higher. A deep discount compels domestic buyers to shift feed rations toward cheaper sorghum.

"While sorghum prices tend to track corn closely over extended macroeconomic cycles, geopolitical events and regional supply shifts can disrupt that relationship," said John Ricci, Managing Director and Global Head of Agricultural Products, CME Group. "In recent years, the sorghum-to-corn cash spread has experienced considerable volatility, swinging from sharp premiums to steep discounts. The Sorghum futures contract will provide market participants a precise instrument to hedge that basis risk."

The contracts will be physically delivered, with grain being loaded out by truck or rail from a network of elevators in Kansas, the nation's largest sorghum-producing state, by using the established Kansas City Hard Red Winter Wheat delivery network.

CME Group achieved record quarterly volume of 2.1 million contracts for Agricultural products in Q2 2026. Corn futures and options reached record open interest of 4.1 million contracts in Q2 2026, with the second highest quarterly volumes on record at 695,000 contracts traded.

The new Sorghum basis futures contracts will be listed and subject to the rules of CBOT. For more information on these products, please visit  https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/agriculture/grains/sorghum. 



NSP Chair Amy France statement on proposed CME sorghum futures contract

In response to CME Group’s announcement of a proposed sorghum futures contract, National Sorghum Producers Chair Amy France, a Kansas farmer, issued the following statement:

“Today’s announcement of a sorghum futures contract should be an exciting development for our industry. However, our responsibility is to look beyond the announcement and ensure the proposed product works for sorghum farmers. Significant questions remain.

Growers, through sorghum organizations like NSP, provided recommendations for more appropriate delivery points and other safeguards to support contract liquidity, but those recommendations are not reflected in the proposed CME product, which relies on a wheat-market model.

As implementation moves forward, we will continue advocating for improvements, seeking answers to outstanding questions and ensuring producers have the information they need to understand the product and its potential impact.”



USDA Asks Partners to Develop AI Solutions to Accelerate Crop Innovation

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking steps to speed up progress in plant science by calling on universities and stakeholders to help build new AI tools that can translate the huge amount of germplasm data the agency collects.

Through the Genesis Mission and the Agriculture Advanced Research and Development Authority (AgARDA), USDA is expected to launch an Agricultural National Science & Technology Challenge later this year. The Challenge will ask innovators to create practical solutions that pull together different types of information—like images, field data, and lab results—so scientists can quickly spot important plant and seed traits and develop crops that are more resilient and productive.

“USDA is taking concrete steps to give scientists the modern tools they need to innovate agricultural solutions from the vast plant data that they collect,” said REE Under Secretary and USDA Chief Scientist Dr. Scott Hutchins. “When our partners help us to solve agricultural challenges by using AI tools, we’ll unlock faster discoveries with germplasm data and grow better crops that strengthen our food system for many future generations.”

The Genesis Mission, launched in November 2025, is a national effort coordinated by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to leverage artificial intelligence to accelerate scientific discovery. The Mission will bring together America’s scientists, top innovative businesses, world-renowned universities; and data repositories, production plants, and national security sites — to use AI tools to solve the nation’s most complex science and technological challenges. Challenge teams will have access to the American Science and Security Platform, DOE-built shared infrastructure that will connect datasets, scientific instrumentation, and AI tools to accelerate discovery.

Wednesday July 22 Ag News - Precision Cons. Mgt. Expands in Eastern NE - NeFB Foundation Adds 3 to Board - New ISU Guide on Optimizing Silage Quality - Report Shows Pressure on IA Ag Economy - New USB CEO Knupp - and more!

Free Conservation Program, Precision Conservation Management, Expands in Eastern Nebraska

Precision Conservation Management (PCM) is expanding its Nebraska presence with the addition of two new regions, bringing the program’s free, one-on-one farm data analysis to grain producers in Northeast and Southeast Nebraska for the first time.

PCM has been serving Nebraska farmers in the Gothenburg and York regions for several years in partnership with the Nebraska Corn Board and local Natural Resource Districts. The addition of the Norfolk and Beatrice regions means more Nebraska producers now have direct access to a local PCM specialist who can analyze their field data and help farmers make decisions grounded in profitability, not guesswork.

PCM was created by IL Corn in 2015 to utilize field-level data to analyze the financial outcomes of tillage, nitrogen management, and cover crop decisions, providing farmers with a clear picture of how these practices impact their bottom line. Participating in PCM is free thanks to support from partners like the Nebraska Corn Board. There are no requirements to change farming practices, and all farm data is immediately anonymized upon enrollment.

"The growth of the Precision Conservation Management Program in Nebraska means farmers have greater access to resources that help them farm better using data-driven conservation tools," said Rachael Whitehair, director of innovation and stewardship for the Nebraska Corn Board. "At a time when farmers need to know their best and most efficient options, PCM is a tool that helps lead them to success."

In addition to one-on-one specialist support, enrolled farmers gain access to cost-share and incentive programs through PCM as well as advice on other programs they might be eligible for. Enrollers also receive an annual Resource Analysis and Assessment Plan (RAAP) report each February, providing a field-by-field breakdown of financial and environmental outcomes of in-field practices.

Meet the New Specialists

Frank Lammers — Norfolk Region
Frank Lammers brings a background in agronomy and hands-on farm experience to his role as PCM’s Conservation Specialist for the Norfolk region. Based in Northeast Nebraska, Frank works with producers to use field-level data to evaluate conservation practices against real profitability outcomes. Living and working on a farm himself, he brings a practical perspective that resonates with producers who want answers grounded in how things actually work in the field.
Email: lammers@precisionconservation.org

Tyler Ottensmeier — Beatrice Region
Tyler Ottensmeier brings more than 11 years of agricultural financial services experience to his role as PCM’s Conservation Specialist for the Beatrice region. His background as an agricultural loan officer gives him a firsthand understanding of how farm financial decisions get made and what it takes for a practice change to make economic sense. Tyler also operates a cow-calf and farming operation in Southeast Nebraska, keeping him closely connected to the producers he serves.
Email: tottensmeier@precisionconservation.org

How to Get Started
Nebraska grain farmers interested in enrolling in PCM can visit precisionconservation.org/farmers to learn more and fill out a brief interest form. A PCM Specialist will follow up to walk through the enrollment process.

Precision Conservation Management (PCM) is a program of the Illinois Corn Growers Association that connects grain farmers with free, one-on-one conservation support. PCM’s regional Conservation Specialists use field-level data to help farmers evaluate the profitability of tillage, nitrogen management, and cover crop practices — with no cost to enroll and no requirement to change farming practices. PCM currently operates in Illinois, Nebraska, Kentucky, and Missouri. Learn more at precisionconservation.org.



THREE NEW LEADERS BRING EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE TO THE NEBRASKA FARM BUREAU FOUNDATION BOARD

The Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) Foundation has appointed three new members to its board of directors, adding experience in production agriculture, agribusiness leadership, and agricultural education from across the state.

The new board members are Shana Beattie of Dawson County, Jerry Darnell of Scotts Bluff County, and NEFB Promotion and Engagement Chair Karen Grant of Madison County.

“Shana, Jerry, and Karen have all spent years giving back to agriculture, not just working in it,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation. “Their experience supporting education, youth programs, and leadership initiatives in their communities will help guide the Foundation’s work across Nebraska.” 



Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory Open House set for August 19

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory (GSL) will host its annual open house Wednesday, Aug. 19, near Whitman. The event is open to cattle producers and industry professionals interested in the latest beef industry updates and current GSL research.  

Registration begins at 7:45 a.m. Mountain time and will be followed by a weather outlook presentation.

Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions, learn about ongoing ranch research and hear from University of Nebraska–Lincoln researchers, educators and specialists.  

The open house will feature keynote speaker Nicki Nimlos, rangeland management specialist with University of Wyoming Extension, who will discuss carbon markets and opportunities for ranchers and landowners.  

The program will also include a cattle market update and a producer panel discussion on the realities of ranching in 2026.  

Registration is free, and lunch will be sponsored by Merck Animal Health. Participants are asked to RSVP by Aug. 14 to ensure an accurate meal count.  

Located in the Nebraska Sandhills, the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory spans Grant, Hooker and Cherry counties. The former Rafter C Ranch was leased by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln from the University of Nebraska Foundation in 1981 to serve as a hub for research in the Sandhills.

GSL plays a key role in developing environmentally and economically sustainable plant and animal production systems for the Nebraska Sandhills. Research conducted at the laboratory integrates ranch economics across a variety of disciplines, and the annual open house provides an opportunity to share those findings with producers and community members from across the state.

To register for the open house and view the itinerary, visit go.unl.edu/gslopenhouse. 




New Comprehensive Resources Guide Dairy Producers From Field to Feed Bunk for Optimized Corn Silage Quality

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Dairy Team has published a four-part publication series designed to help Midwest dairy producers enhance herd health and productivity through efficient corn silage management. The publications are available for download at no cost from the ISU Extension Store. 

Corn silage is a foundational diet component for most conventional dairy herds, and its quality directly impacts cattle performance and farm profitability. Dairy producers use corn silage because it is an energy-rich feed that promotes optimal herd performance and provides consistent nutrition and feed stability.

Each publication in the series covers several important aspects of corn silage for dairy cattle: 
    “From Field to Storage: Laying a Proper Foundation for Corn Silage”
    “Corn Silage Storage: Preserving Quality, Minimizing Losses”
    “Sustainable Solutions: Using Cover Crops in Forage Inventory”
    “Feed Center to Feed Bunk: Best Practices for Corn Silage Feeding”

The first publication, “Laying a Proper Foundation for Corn Silage,” focuses on the critical step of harvesting silage in the field to storing it. It outlines using the “milk line” to identify optimal harvest maturity and managing nitrate levels in drought-stressed crops by adjusting cutting height. “Preserving Quality, Minimizing Losses” explores methods for minimizing dry matter losses during the storage phase, including understanding stages of fermentation to prevent spoilage and achieving optimal density. 

The final two publications, “Using Cover Crops in Forage Inventory” and “Best Practices for Corn Silage Feeding,” provide a starter guide for integrating cover crops into dairy forage systems and managing silage from the feed center to the bunk, with an emphasis on safety and feed consistency. 

“With corn silage harvest just around the corner, now is the time for producers and their consultants to prepare for a successful harvest season,” said Gail Carpenter, assistant professor and extension dairy specialist at Iowa State. 

For more information, access the publications on the ISU Extension Store or contact Carpenter at 515-294-9085  ajcarpen@iastate.edu.



New joint study from Iowa Farm Bureau, Iowa State University & Iowa Bankers Association shows pressure increasing across ag economy, concerns on impacts beyond farm gate
Net Farm Income Drops 53% Over Two-Year Period 2022-2024

Iowa’s agricultural economy is several years into a downturn, with net farm income falling 53% from 2022 to 2024 as record-high input costs, depressed grain markets and trade uncertainty put mounting pressure on farmers, rural businesses and communities, according to a new joint study released today by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), Iowa State University (ISU) and the Iowa Bankers Association during Iowa Farm Bureau’s Economic Summit. The study, 2026 Iowa Agricultural Outlook: The Pressure is Rising, finds that negative margins are increasing farmer financial vulnerability across the state. 

Iowa’s crop farmers are facing a third consecutive year in which costs are generally outpacing prices. Corn and soybean production costs have increased 37% and 36%, respectively, since 2021, with the largest increases tied to machinery charges and seed, chemical and fertilizer expenses. Crop input costs are expected to remain uncomfortably high due to broader economic uncertainty and ongoing conflicts abroad, adding further pressure to already-tight margins. 

While today’s conditions do not yet mirror the severity of the 1980s farm crisis, both short- and long-term challenges loom large. “The clearest warning sign is a steady tightening across the farm economy with impacts felt well beyond the farm gate,” said Christopher Pudenz, Ph.D., Iowa Farm Bureau economics and research manager. “Agriculture remains one of Iowa’s largest economic drivers, accounting for roughly one-fifth of the state’s annual GDP, so a prolonged downturn can quietly weaken the workforce, erode the tax base and slow commerce across rural communities.”

John Crespi, Ph.D., director of the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD) at ISU agrees. “The usual impacts to net income seem to have their cycles, but if anything typifies the recent years, it’s uncertainty and its impact on profits. Inflation, tariffs, trade, labor, the Farm Bill, the Iran War, screwworm all add to uncertainty, all add to risk, making it harder to plan for the long term,” said Crespi. 

Signals from land values and lending environment
For Iowa row crop farmers, lower commodity prices and stubbornly high production costs are gradually tightening liquidity among mid- and large-size farms in 2026. Data shows the share of financially vulnerable farms has risen from 7.7% in December 2022 to 19% in December 2025 — though that share remains below the levels seen in the late 2010s.  Since farmers rely on yearly operating notes to run their operations, this financial pressure leaves less room for weather, market or policy surprises.

“Despite multiple years of challenging economic conditions, Iowa farmers have shown remarkable resilience,” said Adam Gregg, president and CEO of the Iowa Bankers Association. “Through it all, Iowa banks continue to be important financial partners to the farmers they serve, providing access to credit and flexible terms to navigate today’s ag economy.”

Resilient Iowa farmland values continue to support farmer balance sheets, collateral positions and borrowing capacity. According to the 2025 ISU Land Value Survey, 40% of respondents expect Iowa land values to decline over the next year, while 82% expect land values to increase over a five-year timeframe, reflecting both near-term pressure and longer-term confidence in Iowa farmland.

Livestock production provides rare opportunity for profitability
Several Iowa livestock sectors have provided rare opportunities for positive returns, helping offset deeper losses in parts of the farm economy. The cattle market, in particular, has been one of the lone bright spots in Iowa agriculture, with record estimated monthly cattle feedlot returns in 2025. Even so, strong demand and pricing, combined with low inventory, have driven up replacement costs for feeder steers and limited farmers’ ability to grow their herds.

“While some farmers have seen positive returns on cattle, strong demand amid low herd numbers and rapidly rising replacement costs have limited those opportunities,” said Pudenz. “This positive run has helped offset losses for some farm families, but we’ve talked to several Iowa cattlemen with empty feedlots because of high replacement costs and uncertain market conditions.”

Long-term trade projections
In 2024, Iowa ranked second among all states in total commodity export value at $13.7 billion, underscoring the importance of strong, reliable trade agreements for farmers and the markets they serve. Corn and soybeans remain Iowa’s dominant crops and are especially dependent on export markets. While U.S. corn exports are projected to be strong in the 2025 crop year, export strength alone has not been enough to offset high production costs, lower crop prices and continued uncertainty in key soybean markets, including China.

Iowa farmers are on the front lines of trade disputes because of their reliance on commodity exports. Agriculture-focused countries, especially those producing commodities directly targeted by retaliatory tariffs, are particularly vulnerable to trade disruption and market uncertainty.

As the U.S. works to secure agreements with trading partners, global competition continues to intensify, underscoring the importance of strong, reliable export markets. From 2025 to 2050, U.S. net exports of corn are forecast to fall slightly, while Brazilian net exports are expected to increase by nearly 20 million metric tons.

“Iowa agriculture depends on strong markets here at home and around the world,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson. “Access to global customers supports farm income, local jobs and the broader rural economy. When agriculture is under pressure, the effects are felt across Iowa — from small businesses and rural communities to the state’s overall economic strength. That is why this study is so important: it helps quantify what farm families are experiencing and why Iowa’s agricultural economy matters to every Iowan.”



United Soybean Board Announces Courtney Knupp as Incoming CEO

The United Soybean Board (USB) is pleased to announce that Courtney Knupp will join the organization as its chief executive officer starting October 1. Knupp currently serves as director of global supply chain at the National Security Council. USB’s board of farmer-leaders, representing more than 30 states, ratified the decision at its July board meeting in Indianapolis.

“Courtney is the right leader at the right time to advance the work of the Soy Checkoff℠ and our vision of delivering sustainable soy solutions to every life, every day,” said Brent Gatton, chair of the United Soybean Board. “She brings the strategic vision, deep agricultural understanding and proven leadership our farmer-leaders set out to find, along with a genuine commitment to increasing return on investment for U.S. soybean farmers. We look forward to the momentum she will bring to our mission.”

Knupp brings nearly two decades of experience spanning agriculture, international trade, public policy and market development. She currently serves as director of global supply chain at the National Security Council, coordinating U.S. policy to strengthen the resilience of the agriculture and food sectors, and previously served as senior policy advisor to the U.S. Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Agriculture on trade and food safety. Her checkoff and export experience includes serving as vice president of international market development at the National Pork Board, where U.S. pork exports grew to $8.6 billion, and as director of global animal and aquaculture nutrition at the U.S. Soybean Export Council, where she led strategy to increase the value of U.S. soybean and soybean meal exports. Earlier in her career, Knupp held chief of staff roles at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, led international trade policy for the National Pork Producers Council and held commercial roles at BASF and Elanco Animal Health. She grew up on her family’s farm in Iowa, where she remains engaged, and earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business and international agriculture from Iowa State University.

“Soy touches every life, every day, from the food we eat and the feed that powers animal agriculture to fuel and industrial uses,” said Knupp. “The checkoff exists to deliver value back to the farm gate, and that mission is personal to me. I grew up on our family farm in Iowa, where we still grow soybeans, and it is an honor to work alongside USB’s farmer-leaders, staff and partners to position U.S. Soy for success in a competitive global marketplace.”

USB board members and staff outlined their CEO criteria, emphasizing leadership, strategic acumen, staff and program management, and a strong connection to agriculture and soy. In interviews with the search and selection committees, comprising farmer-leaders, Knupp surpassed those expectations.

Knupp will relocate to the United Soybean Board’s headquarters in Chesterfield, Mo. Knupp will remain a federal employee until early September and has recused herself from soybean matters. Her anticipated start date will be October 1.



Ambassador Greer Signs the U.S.-Jordan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade

Tuesday, Ambassador Jamieson Greer joined Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah in signing the United States–Jordan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade.

“President Trump is deepening our economic and strategic partnerships in the Middle East, reaching deals to unlock new opportunities for American exporters,” said Ambassador Greer. “Today’s signing secures substantial purchases of U.S. goods and eliminates barriers facing American workers and manufacturers. I thank my counterparts from Jordan for their commitment to achieving fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade with the United States, particularly as we face common threats in the region.”

Tuesday July 21 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress & Condition Report - Jobman Elected to NCGA - ICGA/ICPB Election Results - Scoular to Pay $10M in Foreign Bribery Case - EPA Farm, Ranch Advisory Committee - Canada Sec 338 Tariffs - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Statistics - July 19

                               Very Short     Short    Adequate     Surplus
Topsoil Moisture .......:    26          39            34              01    
Subsoil Moisture .......:    33          38            28              01    

                              .....  Last year   Last week   This week   5YrAve
Corn Silking................:        52            26              60          59
Corn in Dough............:        09            01              06            08
Soybeans in bloom.....:        58            65             69            68
Soybeans setting pods.:        15            11              23          25
Sorghum headed ........:        14           08              16            11    
Winter Wheat Harvested:     45           42             59            58

                                              VP       Poor       Fair        Good       Excellent    
Corn Condition Rating ...:     02          07         26           42             23
Soybean Condition Rating    01          06          25          44             24
Pasture Conditions ..........:    35          33          24           08              00    



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending July 19, 2026. This is 2.4 days more than last year, when there were 4.3 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 7 percent very short, 26 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 27 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. 

Corn silking in Iowa reached 72 percent, which is 14 percentage points ahead of last year. Eight percent of Iowa’s corn crop reached the dough stage, which is 8 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 80 percent good to excellent. 

Soybeans blooming reached 70 percent, which is 3 percentage points ahead of last year. Soybeans setting pods reached 34 percent, which is 3 percentage points ahead of last year. Soybean condition rated 79 percent good to excellent. 

Oats headed reached 99 percent, which is unchanged from last year. Thirty-nine percent of oats have been harvested, which is 6 percentage points ahead of last year. Oats condition 83 percent good to excellent. 

Pasture condition rated 67 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

Soybean condition ratings improved for a second straight week, while U.S. corn conditions slipped, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn silking was pegged at 59%, 6 percentage points ahead of last year's 53% and 5 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 54%. Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 13%, steady with last year and 2 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 11%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 67% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition, 1 percentage point below the previous week of 68% and 7 percentage points below last year's 74%. Nine percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, 1 percentage point above the previous week's 8% and 3 percentage points above the previous year's 6%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans blooming was pegged at 66%, 6 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 60%. Soybeans setting pods were estimated at 32%, 8 percentage points ahead of last year and the five-year average of 24%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 66% of soybeans that had emerged were in good-to-excellent condition, 1 point above the previous week of 65% and 2 points below the previous year of 68%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Harvest moved ahead 7 percentage points last week to reach 74% complete nationwide as of Sunday. That was 2 percentage points ahead of last year's 72% and 3 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 71%.

SPRING WHEAT
-- Crop development: Eighty-six percent of spring wheat was headed, steady with last year's pace and 1 percentage point ahead of the five-year average of 85%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 53% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, down 5 percentage points from 58% the previous week. 



Nebraska Corn Congratulates Andy Jobman on Election to the NCGA Corn Board

Last week, farmers from across the country attended the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) Corn Congress in Washington, D.C. During the event, Nebraska corn farmer Andy Jobman was elected to NCGA’s Corn Board.

“I am humbled to join the National Corn Board and continue serving corn farmers across Nebraska and the country,” said Jobman. “My commitment to the National Corn Growers Association remains the same as it always has: to uphold NCGA’s tradition of excellence and expertise and to use the relationships, knowledge and perspective I have gained to serve American corn farmers for corn and country.”

Jobman is a fifth-generation farmer from Gothenburg, Nebraska. Alongside his parents, brother and sister-in-law, his wife Becky and their two sons, he operates a diversified crop and livestock operation producing food-grade white and yellow corn, soybeans and alfalfa while raising cattle. Their farm combines family tradition with innovative management through precision agriculture, conservation practices and on-farm storage to deliver high-quality products to customers year-round.

Jobman brings more than a decade of leadership experience at the local, state and national levels of the corn industry. He currently serves as chair of NCGA’s Risk Management Action Team and previously served as chair of the Stewardship Action Team. He is also a past president of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) and currently serves as chair of its Government Relations Committee.

“Andy has been a dedicated advocate for corn farmers and a respected leader within our industry for many years,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director for Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Corn Growers Association. “His experience, perspective and commitment to serving growers will make him a valuable addition to the National Corn Board. We congratulate Andy on this well-deserved achievement.”

Jobman’s three-year term begins Oct. 1, 2026. The election took place during NCGA’s 2026 Corn Congress. The event focuses on shaping policy, setting priorities and meeting with policymakers for the U.S. corn industry. Corn farmer delegates from across the country participated in the discussions and election.

Jobman will join fellow Nebraskans Jason Lewis, Dan Nerud and Jan tenBensel on the 15-member Corn Board. 



I-29 Moo University Beef On Dairy Dialogue Webinar Series Continues On August 26 With A Focus On The Effects Of Growth Enhancing Technology On Mineral Requirements In DXB Cattle

The I-29 Moo University Beef On Dairy Dialogue Webinar Series continues at 12 noon CDT on Wednesday, August 26 featuring Dr. Dathan Smerchek discussing the effect of growth enhancing technology on mineral requirement in beef cattle.

Trace minerals (TM) are an essential component of the ruminant diet. Although required in small amounts, this component of the diet is vital in supporting and enhancing cattle growth and ensuring the profitability of beef production. Historically, TM requirements were set to prevent deficiencies. These requirements significantly improved growth and reproductive performance. In the United States, the beef cattle industry continues to increase total beef production with a shrinking mature cow herd. From 1977 to 2007, a 44% increase in beef cattle growth rates occurred, and this trend has continued, as evidenced by the consistent, year-on-year increase in hot carcass weight. These improvements in growth and production are achieved through improved cattle genetics, precision nutritional strategies, increased days on feed, and improved use of growth-enhancing technologies. Growth-enhancing technologies such as steroidal implants and beta-adrenergic agonists are valuable tools that significantly improve growth performance, feed efficiency, and lean tissue accretion. Thus, cattle grow faster and more efficiently than ever and to heavier finished weights. Given that many TM requirements were established over 40 years ago, it is important to reevaluate whether these standards still meet the needs of the modern beef animal.

Dr. Dathan Smerchek is an Assistant Professor in Animal Science at Iowa State University, my appointment is primarily research focused. My research program is currently in the early stages of development, but the overall goal of my research program is to foster innovation within the beef industry through science-based approaches to improve precision livestock nutritional and technological management to influence sustainability, productivity, and profitability of the industry.

There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, registration is required at least one hour prior to the webinar. Register online at: https://go.iastate.edu/P4ZUFZ

For more information; in Iowa contact, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota contact, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; in Nebraska contact Kortney Harpestad at 402-472-3571; or in South Dakota contact, Warren Rusche, 605-688-5452.

I-29 Moo University is a consortium of Extension dairy and livestock specialists from the land-grant universities in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The I-29 Moo University is a multi-state learning collaboration and connects extension dairy staff with the dairy community to share research, information and management practices through workshops, webinars, e-newsletters, podcasts, and on-farm tours. University Extension and Outreach educational programs are supported by federal, state, and county funds, as well as grants, contracts, user fees, and donations. For more information about the I-29 Moo University Collaboration and programs visit www.i-29moou.com.



Iowa Corn Announces Election Results for 2026 Board of Directors

Iowa Corn announced Monday the 2026 Board of Directors election results for the Iowa Corn Growers Association® (ICGA) and Iowa Corn Promotion Board® (ICPB).  

Those elected as ICGA directors will continue to bring grassroots policy issues forward and be the collective voice for over 7,000 corn-farmer members lobbying on agricultural issues at the state and federal level. These individuals include:  
District 3: Ted Hamer 
District 4: Laura Foell* (Sac County)
District 9: Paula Ellis 
   *For those re-elected  

Since 1978, Iowa corn farmers have elected their peers to serve on the Iowa Corn Promotion Board to oversee the investment of funds generated by the Iowa corn checkoff. ICPB directors will continue to promote a thriving Iowa corn industry through research into new and value-added corn uses, domestic and foreign market development and providing education about corn and corn products. These individuals include:  
District 1: Gina White 
District 3: Jason Orr* 
District 6: Lance Lillibridge 
District 8: Blake Reynolds 
   *For those re-elected  

Both ICGA and ICPB are tasked with creating opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability. Elected directors will begin serving their districts on September 1, 2026. 



Agricultural Company to Pay Over $10M to Resolve Foreign Bribery Case

The Scoular Company (Scoular), an agricultural supply chain company based in Omaha, Nebraska, will pay over $10 million to resolve an investigation by the Justice Department into a years-long scheme in which it relied on bribery of Mexican officials to deliver trains of goods across the U.S.-Mexico border. 

Scoular entered into a three-year deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) in connection with a criminal information filed in the Western District of Texas charging the company with one count of conspiracy to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).

“The Scoular Company used customs brokers as part of a long-running scheme at the Mexican border to pay more than $400,000 in bribes to Mexican officials,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.  “A portion of those bribes ultimately benefited people who helped operate a cartel, even though Scoular did not know about it.  This resolution shows that bribery and corruption not only undermine fair play and competition for Americans, but also hurt our national security interests in stopping the scourge of dangerous cartel activity.”

“Nothing crosses into or out of Mexico without the approval and payment to Mexican drug cartels.  American businesses that engage in any cross-border trade bear a significant amount of responsibility to do so without benefitting those cartels and without threatening our national security,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “The bribery scheme in which the Scoular Company engaged demonstrates the dangerous corporate corruption we in the Western District of Texas are committed to fighting on behalf of the American people.”

According to court documents, between 2013 and 2019, Scoular relied on multiple customs brokers to ensure that its shipments of corn and other products successfully crossed from the United States into Mexico. Under Mexican law, those shipments were subject to inspection for dirt, soil, and other impurities. To ensure that Scoular’s shipments successfully transited the border despite inspections that found such dirt, soil, and other impurities, Scoular authorized multiple third-party customs brokers to bribe Mexican officials at the border. At the direction of Scoular employees, and for Scoular’s benefit, those brokers paid bribes of approximately $2,000 per Scoular train and invoiced the bribes back to Scoular for reimbursement of reinspection fees, which Scoular paid. Scoular employees communicated about shipments and bribes via WhatsApp and other means. In total, Scoular authorized bribes of more than $400,000 and avoided fees and costs of more than $6.5 million.

As part of the DPA, Scoular agreed to pay a $9,769,521 criminal penalty and $414,351 in forfeiture. Scoular will also continue cooperating with the department in any ongoing or future criminal investigation arising during the term of the DPA. Further, Scoular has committed to implementing a compliance and ethics program designed to prevent and detect violations of the FCPA, and other applicable anti-corruption laws, throughout its operations. Scoular will periodically report to the department on remediation and implementation of compliance measures throughout the term of the DPA.

The department reached this resolution with Scoular based on a number of factors, including, among others, the nature and seriousness of the offense and the determination during the course of the investigation, that, unbeknownst to the company or its employees, a portion of the bribes paid in connection with Scoular’s shipments benefited persons associated with the criminal operations of a cartel operating at the U.S.-Mexico border. Scoular did not receive voluntary disclosure credit pursuant to the Department of Justice’s Corporate Enforcement and Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy, because it did not voluntarily and timely disclose to the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section the conduct described in the Statement of Facts. 

Scoular received credit for its cooperation with the department’s investigation, which included (i) conducting an internal investigation into the misconduct and providing evidence to the department, including detailed factual presentations; (ii) providing information and evidence to the department that identified those involved in the misconduct; (iii) producing and organizing materials in response to the department’s voluntary document requests, notwithstanding certain deficiencies in the early part of the investigation; and (iv) securing counsel for current employees.   

Scoular also engaged in timely remedial measures, including (i) increasing compliance sensitivity across the organization through enhanced business engagement; (ii) implementing the findings of an external compliance program maturity assessment and an anti-corruption risk assessment, including by restructuring its compliance function and incorporating senior leadership oversight across compliance and business activities; (iii) reducing operational risk by eliminating the use of customs brokers associated with reinspection fees in Mexico; (iv) strengthening risk-based review and monitoring procedures, and coordinating those efforts through the use of specific software tools; (v) updating and launching a revised Code of Conduct, along with several key policies and procedures related to its compliance program, including anti-corruption, bribery, conflicts of interest, and third party management; (vi) improving and implementing risk-based screenings and approval requirements for third-party providers; implementing anti-corruption and audit right provisions in third-party contracts; (vii) implementing revised financial controls procedures that relate to high-risk transactions, and (viii) providing general and targeted anti-corruption training to relevant personnel.

In light of these considerations, the criminal penalty reflects a 25% reduction from the bottom of the applicable guidelines range, and the term of the DPA is for a period of three years.

In a related case, a customs broker who paid bribes on behalf of Scoular, Carlos Leopoldo Alvelais, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the FCPA on Oct. 23, 2025. Sentencing in that case is scheduled for July 20.



EPA Announces New Members to the Farm, Ranch and Rural Communities Advisory Committee

Monday, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the appointment of 21 new members to the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee (FRRCC). The FRRCC provides independent policy advice and recommendations to the Administrator on crucial environmental issues affecting agriculture and rural communities. 

Mr. William Thomas McDonald, from Five Rivers Cattle Feeding LLC, has been appointed as chair, and Mr. Michael Crowder, from Brushy Creek Farms, will serve as vice-chair, leading the FRRCC’s work. Together, these members bring practical experience and represent a broad range of perspectives from academia, agriculture and allied industries, non-governmental organizations, and state, local and tribal governments. 

“The Trump EPA remains committed to ensuring American farmers and ranchers have a respected seat at the table in this Administration,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. “The members of the FRRCC bring real-world knowledge and firsthand experience from across the country. Their insights will be instrumental in helping the EPA develop practical, commonsense solutions that enhance our rural communities and support viable farming operations. Together, we will power the Great American Comeback by building stronger, more resilient rural economies while protecting our shared environment.” 

The FRRCC will continue to serve as a productive and valuable resource to the EPA. The committee will focus on several key priorities, including improvements to the technical assistance EPA provides to rural communities, outreach and education on advancing artificial intelligence for precision pesticide application and reduced chemical use in U.S. agriculture, and the critical balance between agricultural conservation, nutrient pollution reduction, and long-term farm viability. 

The members of the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Committee include: 
Carrie Vollmer-Sanders, Field to Market, Angola, Indiana
Chad Franke, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, Lander, Wyoming
Chris Tanner, Tanner Farms, Norton, Kansas
David Graybill, Red Sunset Farm, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania
Eric Orem, Oregon Department of Agriculture, Heppner, Oregon
James Henderson, Richfield Ranch Ag Ventures Inc., La Jara, Colorado
Jason Warren, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
Jeffrey Tiberi, Montana Association of Conservation Districts, Helena, Montana
John Klar, MAHA Farmers Hub, Brookfield, Vermont
Katherine English, Pavese Law Firm, Fort Myers, Florida
Michael Crowder, Brushy Creek Farms, Richland, Washington
Nocona Cook, Cook Farms, Cordell, Oklahoma
Rick Naerebout, Idaho Dairymen’s Association, Twin Falls, Idaho
Dr. Russell Hamlin, Grimmway Farms, Bakersfield, California
Ryan Schohr, Schohr Ranch, Chico, California
Dr. Stanley Culpepper, University of Georgia, Tifton, Georgia
Stephen Logan, Logan Farms, Giliam, Louisiana
Steve Keen, North Carolina Environmental Management Commission, Goldsboro, North Carolina
Stuart Swanson, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Galt, Iowa
Dr. Whitney Crow, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi
William Thomas (Tom) McDonald, Five Rivers Cattle Feeding, Dalhart, Texas

The selection process for new members began in December 2025, with EPA issuing a request for nominations that drew more than 90 applicants. The agency selected individuals from a highly qualified pool, ensuring representation across the country. Members were chosen for their expertise in key EPA priority areas, including water quality and regeneative  agricultural practices and represent a variety of agricultural sectors, rural stakeholders and geographies. 



Ambassador Greer Issues Statement on President Trump Imposing Section 338 Tariffs on Canada 

Monday, Ambassador Greer issued a statement after President Trump exercised his authority under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to impose additional 50 percent tariffs on Canada to offset Canada’s discriminatory treatment of U.S. exports.

“While the Administration continues to secure fair and reciprocal trade deals with our trading partners, Canada, unlike other partners and allies, continues to retaliate against the United States for its efforts to rebalance trade and protect U.S. industry in national-security sensitive sectors,” said Ambassador Greer. “Specifically, Canada has taken U.S. alcohol products off Canadian shelves, given better market access to dairy products from the European Union, and has put a cap on U.S. vehicle exports to Canada from companies reshoring to the United States. Today, President Trump took decisive action to hold Canada accountable for its retaliation and discrimination, delivering on his promise to correct trade imbalances and ensure fairness for American workers, farmers, and businesses.”  

Background: 
Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1338) empowers the President to, among other things, impose duties of up to 50 percent on imports of a foreign country to offset the burden or disadvantage from a foreign country’s unequal imposition on or discrimination against the commerce of the United States.  On July 20, 2026, finding that the public interest will be served by his actions, President Trump took three separate Section 338 actions to level the playing field for important American exports to Canada—motor vehicles, alcoholic beverages, and dairy.  To offset Canada’s unreasonable and discriminatory measures against these products, President Trump is imposing a 50 percent tariff on nearly $20 billion in imports from Canada, which will take effect in thirty days.



U.S. Dairy Industry Supports Administration’s Dedication to Defending U.S. Dairy Market Access into Canada

The White House announced earlier today that it is taking action to impose 50% tariffs on dairy imports from Canada to defend the rights of U.S. dairy exporters. The administration indicated it is invoking Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to “…hold Canada accountable for its retaliation and discrimination...” The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council support the administration’s efforts to identify all possible avenues to drive Canada to make the necessary changes to its protectionist dairy trade practices. 

"We appreciate the administration's commitment to standing up for dairy farmers and manufacturers eager to make full use of the market access commitments Canada made under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement [USMCA],” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, said. “For far too long, Canada has intentionally misused its tariff rate quota system to impede the full use of USMCA dairy quotas. It’s time for Canada to come to the table and resolve this and other USMCA dairy issues. We look forward to working with the administration to ensure that all the intended dairy benefits of USMCA are fully realized."

“Today’s assertive action by the administration makes clear to Canada that their dairy trade practices will no longer be tolerated,” Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF, said. “Canada simply cannot continue to discriminate against U.S. dairy farmers by effectively blocking negotiated access to its market. It is well past time for Canada to negotiate in good faith and tackle the outstanding USMCA dairy implementation issues to help drive a successful conclusion of the USMCA review.”

Under USMCA, Canada committed to providing important additional quantities of duty-free access for U.S. dairy product exports to its market through the creation of several tariff-rate quotas (TRQs). Regrettably, Canada’s decisions on how to administer those TRQs have resulted in persistent underfill, denying the U.S. dairy industry of the intended market access opportunities. Additionally, Canada has used loopholes to evade USMCA disciplines on dairy protein exports. Both topics are priorities NMPF and USDEC have urged the administration to resolve during the ongoing USMCA Review.



Keeping Replacement Heifers: Challenges and Opportunities
Hannah Baker 
State Specialized Extension Agent - Beef and Forage Economics
University of Florida / IFAS Extension

To keep or not to keep…that is the question facing many producers today when making the decision about weaned heifers. Many producers may wish they would have kept some heifers back two years ago to have calves to sell today, but record-high prices for feeder heifers are hard to pass on. Whether to retain or sell heifers is a long-term decision that depends on both market conditions and the resources available on an operation. Here are a few opportunities and challenges to consider.

Opportunity: While no one knows exactly how long today's strong cattle prices will last, current market fundamentals continue to support strong cattle prices. At the start of 2026, there were only 4.7 million beef replacement heifers available, the second-lowest inventory since the 1940s behind 2025 (4.6 million head). While beef cow slaughter has declined nearly 17% during the first half of 2026 after an 18% decline in 2025, reduced culling is only one part of herd expansion. Expansion also requires producers to retain more heifers, and those efforts have been slow. As a result, cattle supplies will remain tight, supporting strong prices until production increases substantially or beef demand weakens.

Challenge: Expanding the cow herd requires the resources to support additional females. Retaining heifers is a long-term investment that requires intensive management and significant costs, including nutrition, health, labor, breeding, and the expense of developing females that ultimately do not fit the operation. Resource availability is another key consideration. Although recent rainfall has improved pasture conditions in some areas, more than half of the country remains in drought, particularly across the Southeast and West. Additionally, high interest rates and concerns such as New World screwworm and pasture mealybug all add to the risk and uncertainty of investing in high-value breeding stock.

Considerations: Despite the challenges and high prices for weaned heifer calves, the expectation that strong calf prices may persist creates an opportunity to evaluate the economics of retaining heifers. However, those projections should include multiple market price and cost scenarios rather than assuming today's market conditions will continue indefinitely. Below are a few other considerations associated with retaining heifers:
• Why do I want to retain heifers? (Genetics, biosecurity, herd expansion, etc.)
• How quickly do I need revenue from calves?
  o Retaining a heifer means foregoing income from a calf for roughly 18 months compared to purchasing a bred heifer or selling a weaned heifer.
• Would retaining and breeding only a portion of my heifers make sense?
  o You may be able to develop a percentage of heifers but only keep the best heifers for your herd while marketing the remaining bred heifers. 

For producers with adequate forage, capital, and a long-term outlook, retaining replacement heifers may be a sound investment. At some point, the national cow herd must begin rebuilding, and waiting until expansion is well underway could mean buying replacement females at even higher prices when calf prices will start declining. Carefully evaluating an operation's resources, financial position, long-term goals, and market opportunities can help ensure the decision fits an operation in the long-run and not just in today's market.

Monday July 20 Ag News - Terminating a Verbal Lease - Landlord/Tenant Cash Rent Wksps - Rasby Retires from UNL - Iowa Farmers Attend Corn Congress - Ruveon Withdraws USDC Petition on Glyphosate - and more!

Terminating a Verbal Farmland Lease in Nebraska
Jessica Groskopf, Nebraska Extension Educator, UNL Agricultural Economist

Some farm leases are not written but are verbal or "handshake" agreements. Because nothing is in writing, the parties may have different recollections of their agreement, making lease disputes more difficult to resolve. The most common legal issue associated with verbal farm leases is how a lease may legally be terminated. For verbal leases in Nebraska, six months advance notice must be given to legally terminate the lease. In contrast, the termination of a written lease is determined by the terms of the written lease. If the lease does not address termination, the lease automatically terminates on the last day of the lease.

Terminating verbal leases
For verbal leases, the Nebraska Supreme Court has ruled that the lease year begins March 1 and runs through the final day of February the following year. Notice to a tenant to vacate under a verbal or handshake lease (legally referred to as a "notice to quit") must be given six months in advance of the end of the lease, or no later than September 1. This rule applies regardless of the type of crop planted. Those with winter wheat should consider providing notice before it is time to prepare wheat ground for planting.

For example, suppose a landlord wants a new tenant (or a buyer) to farm the ground starting with the lease year that begins March 1, 2027. The current tenant must receive the termination notice no later than Sept. 1, 2026. If the tenant receives that notice on time (by the Sept. 1, 2026, deadline), the current lease ends Feb. 28, 2027. The new tenant can take over March 1, 2027. 

If the tenant in the example above receives the notice to terminate after Sept. 1, 2026, then the lease renews for another year. That means the current tenant keeps the ground through Feb. 29, 2028.

Notice should be provided to the tenant for either lease termination or changing lease provisions. A verbal termination notice might be adequate but could be difficult to prove in court if litigation were necessary to enforce the lease termination. It is recommended that the farmland lease be terminated by Registered Mail™.  This means that the person receiving the letter signs for it, providing evidence that the termination notice was received. The University of Nebraska – Lincoln does not provide sample lease termination letters. If you need guidance, consult your attorney.

Pasture Lease Terminations
Handshake or verbal leases are different for pastures. The typical pasture lease is for the five-month grazing season rather than the entire year. The lease is only in effect for that time, so the lease is terminated at the end of the grazing season; however, different lease length arrangements can be made in a written lease, and that would be followed if in effect. 

Importance of Good Communication
Regardless of the type of lease — written, verbal, or even multiple year — the landlord should have clear communication with the tenant. By sending a termination notice before September 1, even for written leases, you can avoid any miscommunication or pitfalls.

Written Leases
In all instances, written leases would be preferred over oral or “handshake” leases. Sample leases are available in the Document Library at aglease101.org and can help both parties start thinking about the appropriate lease conditions for their situation before they consult an attorney to draft a lease or review a proposed lease. The Ag Lease 101 site was developed by university extension specialists in the North Central Region but is not a substitute for personal legal advice.



2026-2027 Landlord/Tenant Cash Rent Workshops to Cover Ag Land Leasing and Management

Wondering whether your cash rent reflects current land values, or whether your lease agreement covers you if something goes wrong? A new series of workshops across Nebraska this fall and winter is built to answer those questions.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability will present a series of 2026-2027 landlord/tenant cash rent workshops for Nebraska landowners and operators, beginning in August 2026.

The workshops will cover current Nebraska cash rental rates and land values, best practices for agricultural leases, and other land management considerations. The meeting will also include discussions on managing financial and legal risk, providing attendees with an opportunity to have their land questions answered. 

Extension agricultural economists Anastasia Meyer and Jim Jansen will lead the presentation. Both are with the Center for Agricultural Profitability.

Schedule and Registration Details
    Fremont: Aug. 13, 1-4 p.m., at the office of Nebraska Extension in Dodge County, 1206 W. 23rd St. Refreshments sponsored by Peoples Company. Register by Aug. 12 at 402-727-2775. 

A meal or snacks and refreshments will be offered at each meeting, sponsored by Peoples Company.

The meetings are free to attend, but registration is requested by the day before each workshop by calling the local Nebraska Extension office. 



Federal Agencies Rescind Regulatory Definition of "Harm" Under the Endangered Species Act
Nebraska Farm Bureau 

On July 14, 2026, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric administration finalized a rule that rescinds the long-standing regulatory definition of "harm" under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Since 1975, federal regulations have interpreted "harm" to include habitat modification or degradation that significantly disrupts essential behavioral patterns, such as breeding, feeding, or sheltering — even in the absence of direct contact with an animal. By removing this specific regulatory language, the agencies are narrowing the scope of what constitutes an illegal "take" under the ESA, shifting federal enforcement away from indirect, habitat-based claims and refocusing it on the statutory text that targets direct, affirmative acts against wildlife.

This rule represents a fundamental shift in ESA enforcement, moving toward a more constrained and predictable legal standard. By eliminating the regulatory interpretation that equated routine habitat management with the "taking" of a species, the federal government aims to dismantle a source of major frustration for private landowners. While statutory protections against direct injury or death to protected species remain in full effect, this rescission effectively ends the practice of using broad, indirect interpretations of "harm" to regulate land use. This change serves as a critical move to stop the expansion of federal oversight into areas that were never intended to be governed by the original statute.

For Nebraska agriculture, this change is a significant victory for certainty and common sense. It eases the burden on producers who have long shouldered the responsibility of being both the stewards of the land and the ones most impacted by unpredictable federal mandates. While core ESA protections against direct injury to species remain unchanged, this rule reduces the need for unnecessary incidental take permits and lowers the risk of federal intervention in day-to-day farm management. By prioritizing clear, statutory language over expansive administrative interpretations, this shift provides producers with the stability to plan for the future, knowing that their primary business assets—their land and water — are no longer subject to the same level of regulatory ambiguity.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation Welcomes Three New Team Members

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is thrilled to welcome three new team members who will support the organization’s mission and help expand agricultural literacy efforts across Nebraska.

Joining the Foundation are Faith Oldemeyer, student worker; Ashlyn Boeckenhauer, Agriculture in the Classroom summer intern; and McKenna Schlueter, education specialist for western Nebraska.

Oldemeyer joined the Foundation in spring 2026 and supports day-to-day operations through event coordination, resource fulfillment, and administrative support. Originally from Firth, Nebraska, she brings firsthand agricultural experience from her family’s farming operation and a strong background in production agriculture. Oldemeyer began her studies at Southeast Community College before transferring to Fort Hays State University to pursue a degree in agricultural communications.

Boeckenhauer joined the Foundation in May 2026 as the Agriculture in the Classroom summer intern. In her role, she develops and facilitates agriculture-based activities for students participating in Lincoln summer youth development programs. Raised on her family’s cow-calf and row crop operation near Wakefield, Nebraska, she developed an early appreciation for agriculture and is passionate about strengthening connections between producers and consumers. She is pursuing a degree in animal science with a minor in agricultural communications at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and is involved in Collegiate Farm Bureau and the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program.

Schlueter joined the Foundation in June 2026 as education specialist for western Nebraska. She is based in Alliance, Nebraska and develops and delivers agricultural literacy programming for students and educators through classroom visits, camps, clubs, festivals, virtual field trips, and fairs. She grew up helping with her family’s cow-calf operation near Woodlake, Nebraska. Originally from Blair, Nebraska, she has been actively involved in Farm Bureau for years, including Collegiate Farm Bureau and Nebraska Young Farmers and Ranchers.



Rasby retires after 40 years of impact on Nebraska beef industry

Rick Rasby, professor of animal science and Nebraska Extension cow/calf specialist, retired June 30 after 40 years of service to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and Nebraska’s beef industry.

Rasby leaves a legacy of supporting the state’s beef producers, providing research-based information and helping lay the groundwork for practical tools and resources.

Originally from Sutherland, Nebraska, he first immersed himself in the livestock industry through Lincoln County 4-H, livestock judging and hands-on experience working for local ranchers in the Nebraska Sandhills.

"Rick was raised at the Lincoln County Fair and could practically lead a calf before he could walk," said Mike Kelly, CEO of Western Nebraska Bank and a longtime family friend. "The cattle and beef industry has always been in his heart."

Rasby attended Mid-Plains Community College before continuing his education in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Nebraska on the pre-veterinary track. While veterinary school did not become his next step, the coursework prepared him to pursue a master’s degree and doctorate at Oklahoma State University.

When considering the next step in his career, he chose the university and Nebraska Extension based on prior research experience and the impact of his county extension agent, Harlon Luttrell. For Rasby, the position offered an opportunity to work directly with producers while continuing to engage in applied research.

Colleagues Jim Gosey and Ivan Rush became early mentors as Rasby settled into his role in 1986, demonstrating the importance of developing solutions alongside producers rather than simply providing recommendations.

"Producers will challenge you in a way you do not realize, but that is a good thing because it helps you think a lot broader," Rasby said.

Throughout his career, Rasby focused on developing programs and resources that producers could use to make informed decisions.

He played an integral role in the creation of programs such as Quality Feeds for Quality Feeding, PC Cow Card and Integrated Reproductive Management.

The introduction of the internet in the mid-1990s created new opportunities to provide producers with information and resources. Under Rasby’s direction, the UNL beef website was established.

Initially, the website functioned as a frequently asked questions forum driven by producer inquiries. Within two months, Rasby enlisted colleagues to help respond to the growing volume of questions. Today, the website continues to serve as a resource hub for cattle producers in Nebraska and beyond, providing timely information, educational resources and the BeefWatch newsletter.

During his career, Rasby also served in leadership roles, including associate dean of extension and agriculture program leader. However, he considers mentoring graduate students among his most meaningful accomplishments.

With a smaller research appointment, Rasby worked with only a handful of graduate students, but he takes pride in helping prepare them for careers in the beef industry.

"Working with the graduate students was like iron sharpening iron to me," Rasby said. "I learned just as much as the students learned from me."

His roots and early experiences in the beef industry helped him connect with producers in a way that did not go unnoticed by colleagues.

Richard Clark, professor emeritus of agricultural economics, said Rasby had a unique ability to "speak the language" of producers.

"Rick was open in the way that he worked with producers," Clark said. "He was welcoming, conversational, nonjudgmental and humble."

While the beef industry has changed significantly during Rasby’s career, he believes one thing has remained constant.

"What has not changed over the years in my career is that we have really good producers out there, not only in Nebraska, but across the nation," Rasby said.

Over the past four decades, producers have adapted to rising input costs while embracing advancing technology and new management strategies. Extension has evolved, as well, expanding from phone calls and in-person meetings to include websites, webinars and newsletters.

Despite those changes, Rasby believes trusted relationships and science-based information remain at the core of extension’s work.

"Rick has earned the trust and respect of Nebraska cattle producers by making research-based information practical, accessible and relevant," said Brent Plugge, livestock systems extension educator. "Whether through his leadership in developing the beef website, mentoring graduate students or supporting colleagues, he has always been committed to helping others succeed."



Iowa Corn Farmers Attend 2026 Corn Congress to Advocate for Policy Priorities

Last week, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) farmer-leaders and the Iowa Corn Leadership Enhancement and Development (I-LEAD) Class 12 attended the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) Corn Congress meetings to advocate for key agricultural issues and priorities. Priority issues included nationwide, year-round passage of E15 in the Senate, renewal of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), bipartisan development and passage of a new Farm Bill and reduction of high input costs through increase exploration of consolidation within the fertilizer industry and removal of countervailing duties and tariffs. 

Iowa farmer-leaders met with congressional offices including Senators Ernst and Grassley and Representatives Feenstra, Hinson, Miller-Meeks and Nunn. In addition to the Iowa offices, attendees met with congressional offices from across the country who do not have an established corn grower organization they can connect with to share how corn and ethanol impact their state and our country. 

“Attending Corn Congress is imperative because the decisions made in Washington directly dictate our farms back home,” said Mark Mueller, ICGA President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa. “While we face complex regulatory and economic headwinds, the most effective tool we possess is our collective perspective. When Iowa farmers show up to share the day-to-day realities of our operations, we provide lawmakers with the essential context they need to make informed decisions. Ultimately, telling our individual stories isn't just about protecting our own family farms; it is about driving the policy outcomes that strengthen the agricultural economy for corn growers across Iowa.” 

Iowa Corn leaders also met with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Luke Lindberg, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and attended a U.S. House Ag Committee Meeting.  

Iowa corn farmer Stu Swanson from Wright County was elected to the NCGA Board for a three-year term. He will represent Iowa’s corn growers at the national level to push for policies that enhance the profitability and productivity of U.S. corn growers. 

Additionally, Iowa farmers met with other state and national farmer leaders to discuss policies they would like to see NCGA implement and establish at the federal level. For more information on ICGA’s policy priorities, visit iowacorn.org.



Iowa Hosts Largest Barn Tour in the World - September 19-20

If you are looking for something different to do on a September weekend, consider taking a self-guided tour of Iowa’s historic barns.

The Iowa Barn Foundation is holding its 26th Annual All-State Barn Tour on Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20, featuring over 100 barns across the state that will be available for visiting inside and out from 9-5 both days. Iowa is proud to host the largest barn tour in the world!

The fall tour highlights barns that have received a restoration grant from the foundation and those that have received an Award of Distinction or Preservation Award for restoration funded by the owner. Many of the owners will be on hand to share their memories and regard for the structures and answer your questions.

This year’s tour includes 108 stops, including 12 barns which are on the tour for the first time. If you have only seen barns from the road, you are missing out on the true beauty which lies within the walls. That is where you will see the true craftsmanship that went into the construction of these “cathedrals on the prairie.” The tour includes a record 16 round barns, which are some of the most rare and unique barns in the state. This is great multi-generation weekend activity for the whole family to experience history “in the real.”

Barns included in this year's tour include
The Plymouth County Fair Round Barn - Plymouth County
Conover Barn - Ida County 
Hazel Harvey Barn - Pottawattamie County
Wooster Barn - Shelby County
Sextro Crib - Carroll County
Moore Old Barn, Brown's Barn, & Taylor County Round Barn - Taylor County

The self-guided fall tour is free and open to the public, made possible by member donors. An interactive online tour guide can be found at iowabarnfoundation.org/barn-tours. Member donors receive the foundation’s spring and fall magazines in their mailboxes filled with barn photos and stories as well as a printed tour guide and map. New members should sign up by August 31st to ensure delivery of the fall magazine before the tour. Learn more about membership at iowabarnfoundation.org/product/membership. Questions can be emailed to iowabarnfoundation@gmail.com.

As a volunteer-led non-profit, the Iowa Barn Foundation’s goal is to maximize member donations to provide restoration grants to save the state’s historic barns. Since being founded in 1997, the foundation has given out $2.6 million dollars in grants to help save over 300 barns. The foundation does not receive any government funding, so it is 100% dependent on private donations to fund its programs. 



Corn Growers Commend Glyphosate Petition Withdraw

Ruveon, a subsidiary of Bayer, announced today that it will withdraw its petition to place countervailing duties on imported supplies of glyphosate, following intense pressure from the National Corn Growers Association and other commodity groups. In response to this development, NCGA President and Ohio farmer Jed Bower released the following statement: 
 
“We commend Ruveon for listening to its customers and withdrawing this petition. As we have highlighted multiple times in recent weeks and months, input costs are a top concern of growers and for good reason. Actions like the ones Ruveon planned to take would have made an already bad situation even worse.  
 
“Farmers are the ones who purchase and use these products, and too often we have felt that we, the customer, are of little importance. We strongly encourage all input providers to consider the full impact of their actions on growers, who are essential to the companies’ bottom line. Farmers appreciate the value that input providers bring to their operations and wish to be a good partner, working together for the betterment of our industry. But as we have made clear, farmers cannot and will not bear this relationship at any cost. It is past time for companies to have honest conversations with their customers, and we welcome dialogue with any provider wishing to work together to address input prices.”   



ASA Welcomes Withdrawal of Glyphosate Petition

The American Soybean Association welcomes Ruveon's decision to withdraw its petitions filed with the International Trade Commission and U.S. Department of Commerce seeking antidumping and countervailing duties on glyphosate imports from China.

"We appreciate Ruveon's decision to withdraw the antidumping and countervailing duty petitions after listening to the concerns about affordability and access raised by ASA, soybean farmers, and other agricultural organizations," said Scott Metzger, ASA President and soybean farmer from Ohio. "ASA provided extensive feedback to Ruveon following the filing of the petitions and again this week during our Board of Directors meeting. Ruveon’s decision reflects the value they place on farmer customers who rely on access to affordable crop protection tools to remain productive and globally competitive. We appreciate Ruveon's willingness to engage with growers and respond to their concerns, and ASA looks forward to continuing this important dialogue."

ASA remains committed to working with stakeholders and policymakers to ensure soybean farmers have access to the crop protection tools they need to remain productive, profitable, and sustainable for generations to come.

Ruveon, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bayer. On June 30, 2026, Monsanto Company and Ruveon, LLC filed antidumping and countervailing petitions on glyphosate imported from China with the International Trade Commission and U.S. Department of Commerce. Ruveon produces about 60% of glyphosate sold in the U.S. 



United States and Mexico to Convene in Mexico City for Third Bilateral Negotiating Round Related to the Joint Review of the USMCA

On July 21, the United States will meet with Mexico in Mexico City for the third bilateral negotiating round related to the Joint Review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).  Negotiating teams will convene for three days to advance discussions on issues regarding trade in steel and aluminum and derivative products, automobiles, economic security, labor, agriculture, and electronic payment services.  

“I thank Secretary Ebrard and his team at the Secretariat of Economy for their collaboration over several months to reinforce the U.S.-Mexico bilateral trade and economic relationship,” said Ambassador Greer.  “This work has yielded many successes, including recent progress on issues identified in the 2026 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers.  I look forward to building on this progress to ensure that the U.S.-Mexico trading relationship benefits U.S. manufacturers, farmers, ranchers, workers, service suppliers, and businesses of all sizes, and closes any loopholes that would allow free-riding by non-Parties.” 

Areas of Improvement: 
    Economic Security: In July 2026, Mexico published an updated measure regulating the export of dual-use items that more closely aligns Mexican and U.S. export controls.
    Intellectual Property (IP): As noted in the 2026 Special 301 Report, Mexico has taken substantial actions to address significant IP concerns in the areas of pharmaceutical IP, criminal and administrative enforcement, border enforcement, and enforcement against online piracy.
    Customs and Trade Facilitation: In May 2026, Mexico introduced an upgrade to its single window system and a new framework to streamline cross-border trade operations.  In July 2026, Mexico operationalized its customs broker agency program at all Mexican ports. 
    Environment: Mexico is taking steps towards addressing the export of avocados grown on illegally deforested land.  Mexico is also taking steps to control more effectively the discharge of industrial wastewaters into the Southwestern United States.
    Telecommunications Equipment: Mexico made changes to simplify testing requirements, helping to facilitate U.S. telecommunication equipment exports to Mexico.

USTR continues to work constructively with the Secretariat of Economy to address the trade barriers identified in the National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers. 
 


Ambassador Greer to Travel to Mexico for Continued USMCA Joint Review Bilateral Talks

Ambassador Jamieson Greer will travel to Mexico from Wednesday, July 22, to Friday, July 24, to continue bilateral discussions related to the Joint Review of USMCA.  During the bilateral meetings, Ambassador Greer and Secretary Ebrard will discuss a range of topics including, steel and aluminum and derivative products, automobiles, economic security, labor, agriculture, and electronic payment services. 

Ambassador Greer will also meet with President Sheinbaum at the National Palace to discuss progress in negotiations related to the USMCA Joint Review.