Wednesday July 01 Ag News - USDA Acreage and Grain Stocks Reports - E85 Wholesale Prices Remain Low - USDA Updates Crop Reporting - SPUR Program Supports Small Beef Processors - and more!

Corn Planted Acreage Down 3 Percent from 2025
Soybean Acreage Up 5 Percent
All Wheat Acreage Down 6 Percent
All Cotton Acreage Up 6 Percent

Corn planted area for all purposes is estimated at 95.3 million acres, down 3 percent from last year. This represents the fourth highest planted acreage in the United States since 1944. Compared with last year, planted acreage is down or unchanged in 40 of the 48 estimating States. Area harvested for grain, at 87.4 million acres, is down 4 percent from last year.

By State - (1,000 acres     2025      2026)
Nebraska ........:             10,750      10,500      
Iowa ...............:             13,550      13,000      

Soybean planted area for 2026 is estimated at 85.4 million acres, up 5 percent from last year. Compared with last year, planted acreage is up or unchanged in 23 of the 29 estimating States.

By State - (1,000 acres     2025      2026)
Nebraska .........:             4,850      5,100         
Iowa ................:             9,450     10,000       

All wheat planted area for 2026 is estimated at 42.7 million acres, down 6 percent from 2025. The 2026 winter wheat planted area, at 31.5 million acres, is down 5 percent from last year and down 3 percent from the previous estimate. Of this total, about 22.4 million acres are Hard Red Winter, 5.54 million acres are Soft Red Winter, and 3.55 million acres are White Winter. Area planted to other spring wheat for 2026 is estimated at 9.39 million acres, down 6 percent from the 2025 estimate. Of this total, about 8.75 million acres are Hard Red Spring wheat. Durum planted area for 2026 is estimated at 1.83 million acres, down 16 percent from the previous year. 

By State - (1,000 acres     2025      2026)
Nebraska ..............:            950       900

All cotton planted area for 2026 is estimated at 9.85 million acres, up 6 percent from last year. Upland area is estimated at 9.70 million acres, up 6 percent from 2025. American Pima area is estimated at 150,000 acres, up 6 percent from 2025.

Hay Acres
By State - (1,000 acres    2025       2026)
Nebraska .........:             2,300       2,215         
Iowa ................:             1,010       1,060       



Corn Stocks Up 14 Percent from June 2025
Soybean Stocks Up 5 Percent
All Wheat Stocks Up 8 Percent

Corn stocks in all positions on June 1, 2026 totaled 5.29 billion bushels, up 14 percent from June 1, 2025. Of the total stocks, 2.96 billion bushels are stored on farms, up 16 percent from a year earlier. Off-farm stocks, at 2.34 billion bushels, are up 12 percent from a year ago. The March - May 2026 indicated disappearance is 3.74 billion bushels, compared with 3.50 billion bushels during the same period last year.

By State (1,000 bu - on farm - off farm  -  total)
Nebraska ......:         325,000    277,562     602,562 
Iowa .............:         540,000    446,429     986,429 

Soybeans stored in all positions on June 1, 2026 totaled 1.06 billion bushels, up 5 percent from June 1, 2025. On-farm stocks totaled 367 million bushels, down 11 percent from a year ago. Off-farm stocks, at 694 million bushels, are up 16 percent from a year ago. Indicated disappearance for the March - May 2026 quarter totaled 1.06 billion bushels, up 18 percent from the same period a year earlier.

By State (1,000 bu - on farm - off farm  -  total)
Nebraska ......:         18,000     76,636      94,636 
Iowa .............:         56,000    121,736     177,736 

Old crop all wheat stored in all positions on June 1, 2026 totaled 920 million bushels, up 8 percent from a year ago. On-farm stocks are estimated at 177 million bushels, down 4 percent from last year. Off-farm stocks, at 743 million bushels, are up 11 percent from a year ago. The March - May 2026 indicated disappearance is 383 million bushels, up slightly from the same period a year earlier.

By State  (1,000 bu - on farm - off farm  -  total)
Nebraska ......:           1,300     27,138      28,438  

Grain sorghum stored in all positions on June 1, 2026 totaled 66.7 million bushels, down 33 percent from a year ago. On-farm stocks, at 8.61 million bushels, are up 25 percent from last year. Off-farm stocks, at 58.1 million bushels, are down 37 percent from June 1, 2025. The March - May 2026 indicated disappearance from all positions is 105 million bushels, up 107 percent from the same period last year.



E85 Wholesale Prices Remain as Low as 10 to 30 Cents per Gallon Across Iowa

According to public data, the price difference between wholesale and retail E85 prices remains historically wide. E85 is available on the wholesale market for as little as 10 cents per gallon while retail prices for motors are usually well over $2 higher.

“Last night President Trump urged fuel retailers to ‘get their prices down,’” stated Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw. “As a trade association, we never tell anyone how to price a product at any point in the supply chain but in 27 years I’ve never seen the wholesale-to-retail price spread as large as it is for E85 in Iowa right now. A reasonable person would assume that with E85 at 10 cents wholesale, the retail prices would be the best fuel bargain ever. But we’re not seeing that with a few, very rare exceptions.”

E85 can be used in flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs). FFVs are designed to run on any fuel blend from no ethanol up to E85, which contains up to 85 percent ethanol. Wholesale prices do not include federal and state taxes, transportation costs, and markups for things like credit card fees, depreciation and retailer margins.

“With Independence Day coming up, it’d be great to see America’s homegrown E85 fuel providing relief to Iowans,” added Shaw.



USDA Modernizes Crop Reporting to Save Farmers Time and Reduce Paperwork

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced an acreage reporting modernization pilot program that is a foundational part of the administration’s One Farmer, One File effort. FSA is focused on creating a more efficient, consistent, and customer-focused acreage reporting experience for producers and FSA employees. After spring planting is complete, agricultural producers should make an appointment with their FSA county office to complete crop acreage reports before the applicable deadline. July 15 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines may vary by county and by crop.      

“Acreage reporting is a major task that producers complete each year, and we owe it to the producers we serve to make it as painless and seamless as possible,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “Our goal is to move away from paper maps to an electronic interface that simplifies the process for producers and saves time for county office staff, which increases operational efficiencies across the board. I encourage producers who have acreage located in these pilot counties to be patient with their local FSA office as they learn the system and solicit meaningful feedback from producers based on their experience with the simplified reporting process.” 

Pilot Program 
The following counties are participating in the acreage reporting pilot program. Producers with acreage in these counties will use the streamlined acreage reporting process for spring planted crops ahead of the major July 15, 2026, reporting deadline:  
    Georgia                       Tift County  
    Kentucky                    Union County  
    Maryland                    All Counties   
    Michigan                     Van Buren County  
    Minnesota                  Lac Qui Parle County  
    Missouri                      Harrison County  
    Nebraska                     Seward County  
    North Dakota            All Counties   
    Oklahoma                   Canadian County  
    Pennsylvania             Lancaster County  
    Texas                              Fisher County  

Producers with acreage located outside of the pilot program counties will complete their crop acreage reports as usual.  

How to File a Report    
To file a crop acreage report, producers need to provide:    
    Crop and crop type or variety    
    Intended crop use    
    Number of crop acres    
    Map with approximate crop boundaries    
    Planting date(s)    
    Planting pattern, when applicable    
    Producer share(s)    
    Irrigation practice(s)    
    Acreage prevented from planting, when applicable 
    Faile acres, if applicable    
    Other required information    
    
Acreage Reporting Details    
The following exceptions apply to acreage reporting dates:    
    If the crop has not been planted by the acreage reporting deadline, then the acreage must be reported no later than 15 calendar days after planting is completed.    
    If a producer acquires additional acreage after the acreage reporting deadline, then the acreage must be reported no later than 30 calendar days after purchase or acquiring the lease. Appropriate documentation must be provided to the county office.    

Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) policy holders should note that the acreage reporting date for NAP-covered crops is the acreage reporting date or 15 calendar days before grazing or crop harvesting begins, whichever is earlier. Producers can contact their FSA county office for acreage reporting deadlines that are specific to their county.     

Producers with perennial forage crops should check with their local FSA office to see if their crops are eligible for continuous certification, which rolls the certified acreage forward each year until a change is made.   
    
Prevented Planted Acreage    
Producers should also report the crop acreage they intended to plant but were unable to because of a natural disaster, including drought. Prevented planted acreage must be reported on form CCC-576, Notice of Loss, no later than 15 calendar days after the final planting date as established by FSA and USDA’s Risk Management Agency.     

Farmers.gov Portal    
Producers can continue to access their FSA farm records, maps, and common land units through the farmers.gov customer portal. The portal allows producers to export field boundaries as shapefiles and import and view other shapefiles, such as precision agriculture boundaries within farm records mapping. Producers can view, print and label their maps for acreage reporting purposes. A Login.gov account that is linked to a USDA customer record is required to use the portal.     

Producers can visit farmers.gov/account to create an account. Producers who have the authority to act on behalf of another customer as a grantee via an FSA-211 Power of Attorney form, Business Partner Signature Authority or as a member of a business can access information for the business in the farmers.gov portal.     

Geospatial Acreage Reporting   
Acreage reports using precision agriculture planting boundaries can be filed electronically with an approved insurance provider or an authorized third-party provider, who will then share the file with FSA staff. Producers should notify their local FSA office if they submitted an electronic geospatial acreage report containing precision planting boundaries that they want to use as part of their FSA acreage report.   

More Information    
Producers should contact their local USDA Service Center for questions about acreage reporting.    



Rollins Announces Program to Support Small- and Mid-Size Beef Processors

Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers (SPUR) Program that will provide temporary support for eligible beef processing establishments. Under SPUR, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide up to $500 million in payments to eligible entities to support stronger and more stable market opportunities for American ranchers.

“America’s ranchers deserve a strong, competitive marketplace that rewards their hard work and preserves opportunity for generations to come,” said Secretary Brooke L. Rollins. “Today, historically tight cattle supplies, the Biden administration’s anti-cattle focus, consolidation in and foreign ownership of meat packing and the reemergence of New World Screwworm have created extraordinary market conditions that are placing significant pressure on our independent and regional beef processors. Through the Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers (SPUR) Program, USDA is taking targeted action to preserve the independent processing capacity that ranchers rely on, strengthen competition across the American beef supply chain, and support rural communities across the country. This is another important step in our Plan to Fortify the American Beef Industry by strengthening domestically owned processing capacity and ensuring America’s cattle producers continue to have strong market opportunities and meet America’s historically high beef demand. As we Make America Healthy Again, we are working to ensure American families have continued access to nutritious, high-quality American beef while promoting greater competition, a more resilient food supply chain, and long-term affordability at the grocery store.”

“Small and mid-size beef processors are essential to maintain the diversity of America’s food system,” said Under Secretary for Food Safety Mindy Brashears. “Supporting this processing capacity helps preserve market options for our United States ranchers, strengthens regional supply chains and ensures American families continue to have access to safe, high-quality beef produced here at home.”

“Competitive supply chains help ensure American ranchers have reliable markets for their cattle,” said Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce. “Through the SPUR Program, USDA is bolstering market opportunities for ranchers and supporting a resilient beef industry.”

These payments are authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and are administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). Payments are intended to provide financial support to eligible beef processors who have faced increased costs of acquiring cattle for processing due to the abnormally low number of cattle being raised in the U.S at this time and other conditions currently impacting the cattle market. Additional information, including applications, will be provided to eligible entities using contact information that is currently on file with the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Entities eligible to receive funding under SPUR must be beef processing establishments under Federal inspection, as well as beef processing establishments inspected under the Talmadge-Aiken Cooperative Inspection Program and the Cooperative Interstate Shipment Program (CIS). Further, eligible entities must be U.S. owned and cannot be nationally dominant in beef processing (or owned by an entity that is). For purposes of SPUR, nationally dominant will be defined as an entity holding a market share greater than or equal to the entity holding the fourth-largest share of the beef processing market.

For decades, the beef processing industry in the U.S. has been heavily concentrated and today just four companies control nearly 85% of the beef processing market, including two foreign owned companies. Ensuring domestic processors can continue operating during this period where the U.S. cattle herd is at a 75-year low is critical to national security and will ensure a strong supply chain once the herd is rebuilt.

This new program also directly supports the USDA Plan to Fortify the American Beef Industry and the USDA Small Processors Action Plan by ensuring American ranchers have access to regional processing capacity they rely on to support branded and value-added beef programs, such as the Product of USA label that USDA started promoting earlier this year.

Maintaining this regional processing capacity is also a key part of the Make America Healthy Again movement by ensuring access to high-quality protein in alignment with the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans.



Farm Bureau Strongly Supports the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act

America’s farmers are facing a labor crisis. Continued agriculture workforce shortages threaten farmers’ ability to grow the food families rely on. Many labor challenges are addressed in new legislation introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chair G.T. Thompson. The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act of 2026 builds on recommendations of the bipartisan Agricultural Labor Working Group and modernizes the H-2A visa program by expanding access to a year-round workforce and eliminating unpredictable swings in wage rates, among other changes.

“The lack of available labor is among the largest limiting factors of American agriculture,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Most Americans don’t want to work on farms. In fact, only 182 domestic applications were submitted for nearly 415,000 advertised positions in 2025. If Americans won’t apply for these jobs, we have no other choice but to depend on the H-2A program. Unfortunately, the current guest worker program is inadequate to meet the demands on farms across the country.

“We are grateful to Chairman G.T. Thompson for listening to America’s farmers. Farm Bureau members participated in the bipartisan House Agriculture Labor Working Group, and they shared the obstacles to participation in guest worker programs. Their needs are largely addressed in the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act. It delivers meaningful farm labor reform and will provide certainty and fairness to both farmers and their employees as they contribute to a strong and healthy food supply.”

The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act would:
    Allow temporary workers to remain on the job for up to 350 days, which gives farms like dairies greater access to the H-2A program;
    Limit excessive or irrelevant federal fees to participate in the H-2A program, which will make it more affordable for farmers;
    Codify an improved wage methodology and establish safeguards to prevent unpredictable Adverse Effect Wage Rate fluctuations; and
    Affirm H-2A workers as essential.

Farm Bureau strongly supports the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act and urges Congress to pass it. We are committed to working with lawmakers to ensure farmers have access to an adequate workforce to continue producing healthy and affordable food for America’s families.



NPPC Pleased House Labor Bill Addresses Pork Producers’ Workforce Shortage & Other Priorities
 
The National Pork Producers Council, representing America’s 60,000-plus pork producers, applauds House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson (R-PA) for his introduction of the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, which incorporates NPPC recommendations that allow producers to utilize the H-2A visa program.
 
“Agriculture needs a strong—and reliable—workforce. For pork producers, one giant step in the right direction means expanding the H-2A visa program to include year-round agricultural industries like ours,” said NPPC President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Washington County, Iowa. “Thank you, Chairman Thompson, for listening to our ideas and solutions for rectifying our severe workforce shortage.”
 
Current federal law limits H-2A immigrant farm workers to temporary and seasonal work, excluding pork producers—and other year-round agricultural industries—from using the program.
 
In addition to expanding the H-2A visa program, the bill:
•    Modifies what is considered “agriculture labor or services” to address the needs of the sector, including certain meat processing activities, and transfers the authority to further define this term to the Secretary of Agriculture
•    Codifies Adverse Effect Wage Rate calculations standards to lower costs and provide stability in farmworker pay rates
•    Streamlines the program through the allowance of multi-year housing certifications and lowers costs by allowing maximum daily housing charges that employers can deduct from workers’ wages
•    Establishes one streamlined H-2A application processing system through the creation of an internet-based electronic portal

Despite higher wages and competitive benefits, pork production employment has declined the past five years and is one of the many hurdles producers face when feeding the nation and world.
 
Chairman Thompson’s legislation took recommendations from the bipartisan Agricultural Labor Working Group, with which NPPC has worked closely. NPPC will continue to advocate for solutions for pork producers’ workforce challenges. 



NMPF Praises Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act
President & CEO Gregg Doud

“The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act represents the most significant reform to the ag workforce we’ve seen in decades. It is particularly critical for dairy farmers, who have been effectively shut out of the nation’s primary legal agricultural guestworker program. 

“First and foremost, this bill finally grants dairy access to H-2A by removing the seasonal requirements of the program and allowing contracts up to 350 days of the year. The bill goes further, streamlining the application process, reducing administrative burdens, and addressing cost concerns that have deterred employers from using H-2A even when eligible.  

“Perhaps the most important provision of the bill for dairy beyond providing access, is the targeted mechanism to provide the current dairy workforce a means to transition to a workable visa program. This will ensure that we don’t face a major workforce disruption as dairy farms transition to H-2A – and that’s critical, because workforce stability underpins animal care, milk quality, and overall farm viability. 

“I applaud Chairman Thompson and the other original co-sponsors for introducing this bill. Chairman Thompson, thank you for leading the way, as you so often have to the most important issues facing agriculture. NMPF will rally its advocates across dairy and all of agriculture to support this bill, and it stands ready to help build momentum in the House, secure a Senate companion bill, and ultimately get this legislation to the president’s desk.”  



ASA Welcomes EPA Approval of New Soybean Crop Protection Tools

The American Soybean Association welcomes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's long-awaited approval of new and innovative crop protection technologies to support soybean production efficiency, providing farmers with additional tools to effectively manage weeds, protect crop yields, and enhance regenerative farming practices.

"We appreciate EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and the agency for advancing registrations for a suite of new crop protection tools to ensure U.S. farmers have access to cutting edge technologies that promote efficient agriculture production," said ASA President Scott Metzger, a soybean farmer from Ohio. "Soybean farmers across the country continue to combat new and mounting challenges related to weeds and other pest diseases. To produce the world’s most environmentally efficient and reliable soybeans, crop protection tools must evolve in alongside modernizing farm practices, making access to these innovative crop protection technologies critical to maintaining the competitive advantage of U.S. soybeans."

The EPA approval of new crop protection tools follows President Trump’s signing of an Executive Order to promote regenerative agriculture and support farm resilience, which directed EPA to ensure access to modern farming products through timely review and approval of registrations. ASA appreciates President Trump for prioritizing timely, science-based regulatory decisions through his Executive Order, which recognizes that crop protection tools are essential to adopting regenerative agriculture practices, including planting cover crops to improve soil health.

Today's approvals are an important step forward, and ASA encourages EPA to continue building on this momentum by advancing additional science-based registrations that provide soybean farmers with the innovative tools they need to remain productive, competitive, and sustainable.



Farmers Appreciate EPA Approval of New Tools

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalizing the registrations of new pesticide products that provide farmers with additional tools to protect their crops.

“We appreciate EPA’s rigorous review process and ultimate approval of new products that will help farmers grow crops for food, fiber and renewable fuel while also contributing to sustainability goals. Administrator Lee Zeldin promised comprehensive vetting, which we welcome. Farmers are dedicated to caring for our land and natural resources, so new tools that help us do that are important.

“Pesticides undergo years of rigorous testing, with very few making it through the approval process. Farmers trust and rely on EPA’s science- and risk-based regulatory process. These new products, backed by the best available science, will enable farmers to do more with less and provide more tools in the toolbox to help ensure an abundant and safe food supply for America’s families.”



NCGA Condemns Bayer Glyphosate Petition

The Monsanto Company and its subsidiary Ruveon LLC, filed a petition today with the International Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Commerce calling for anti-dumping and countervailing duties on imports of glyphosate. Bayer is the parent company of Monsanto.
 
As glyphosate is one of the most used herbicides in corn production annually, this development is highly concerning for America’s corn farmers.  
 
“Agricultural companies like to position themselves as a partner to American farmers,” said Jed Bower, Ohio farmer and president of the National Corn Growers Association. “This is no act of partnership. They are taking this step purely for benefit of the company and its shareholders, once again at the expense of the American farmer and at a time when the ag economy is facing one of its most difficult periods in decades.”  
 
Bayer is the latest input provider to claim financial harm from imported fertilizers and pesticides. In the filed petition, Bayer alleges glyphosate sales of less than fair market value occurred from China into the United States.  
 
The petition comes a day after President Trump signed an executive order suspending countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizer imports. Those duties were implemented at the behest of the Mosaic Company and J.R. Simplot, working against the best interests of their customers. Record high prices of phosphate quickly followed.  
 
Corteva Agriscience, in 2024, similarly petitioned the ITC for countervailing duties on imported supplies of 2,4-D, despite a lack of adequate domestic production capacity to fulfill the needs of American farmers. NCGA readily engaged in the process with the ITC and repeatedly voiced concerns that this action would increase costs for farmers already bearing the burden of record high input costs. The ITC ruled in favor of Corteva, proving that the impact to U.S. consumers is not a relevant factor in their deliberations.  
 
“What we are seeing is an increasing trend of companies abusing trade remedy laws to box out competition and corner more of the U.S. market, at great expense to their customers - the American farmer,” said Bower. “These industries are already highly concentrated, and CVD actions further threaten the availability of inputs and keep prices inflated."
 
NCGA has a long history of supporting grower access to crop protection tools, including glyphosate. Earlier this year, corn growers joined other ag trade associations to publicly state their concern about glyphosate access in an amicus brief submitted to the Supreme Court in the Monsanto v. Durnell case, which ultimately ended in a favorable outcome for Bayer. Previously, NCGA was a plaintiff in a legal challenge to California’s decision to label glyphosate as a known carcinogen under Prop 65. In 2023, a federal court ruling prevented the state from labeling the product as a carcinogen.  
 
“The American corn grower has shown up repeatedly to defend access to important tools in our toolbox,” said Bower. “Unfortunately, we are being forced to defend our access to these tools again, but now we’re doing so thanks to the actions of companies we’ve previously partnered with. Disappointment doesn’t begin to cover how this news feels to American farmers.”



ASA Strongly Criticizes Glyphosate Trade Petition

The American Soybean Association strongly opposes action taken by Monsanto Company and its subsidiary, Ruveon LLC, to file a petition with the U.S. Department of Commerce seeking antidumping and countervailing duties on glyphosate imports from the People’s Republic of China – the world’s largest producer and exporter of glyphosate. Bayer – the parent company of Monsanto – is the only domestic manufacturer and supplier of glyphosate.

Glyphosate remains a critical crop protection tool that soybean farmers rely on to produce an efficient and reliable crop. At a time when producers continue to face tight margins and significant economic uncertainty exacerbated by rising costs, it is imperative that farmers have access to an affordable, reliable, and competitive supply of inputs they depend on to remain competitive in the global soybean marketplace. Soybean growers are dependent on a variety of input products to support crop production, and actions to impose import taxes on those products limits market competition, threatens cost spikes, and ultimately hurts U.S. farmers.

ASA has consistently opposed actions taken by input suppliers to restrict imports through countervailing duty and antidumping actions. ASA strongly opposed the countervailing duty petition filed by Mosaic and Simplot to restrict phosphate fertilizer imports. A recent Texas A&M study found that these duties cost growers $6.9 billion from 2021 to 2025. ASA asked the Trump Administration to terminate the duties on imported phosphate fertilizer; ASA cheered President Trump’s recent Executive Order that suspended these duties for eight months and ASA is seeking to fully terminate the duties. Similarly, ASA strongly opposed action taken by Corteva to have countervailing and anti-dumping duties imposed on imports of 2,4-D, another important herbicide used widely by farmers. Last year, ASA argued against duties on 2,4-D at the U.S. Court of International Trade.

ASA is reviewing the petitions and evaluating the potential implications for soybean farmers. As this process moves forward, ASA will advocate for policies that protect farmers' access to essential crop protection tools while maintaining a stable and affordable supply of agricultural inputs.

Soybean farmers rely on science-based regulatory decisions, competitive markets, and a resilient supply chain to remain productive and globally competitive. ASA will continue to engage with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure the interests of America's soybean farmers remain at the forefront throughout this process. 



EPA Announces New Chemical Registrations and Seeks Farmer Input on Desiccation Practices

Tuesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced two separate actions affecting U.S. wheat growers: the final registration of several new and innovative crop protection tools and a forthcoming effort to gather input from farmers and other agricultural stakeholders on registered pre-harvest desiccation uses.

The new registrations will provide wheat growers with additional tools to manage weeds, protect yields, and support the production of safe, nutritious, high-quality wheat.

Separately, EPA announced that it will seek stakeholder input as the agency reviews available data related to registered pre-harvest desiccation uses. That review follows President Trump’s executive order directing the EPA Administrator to ensure those uses remain aligned with applicable safety and environmental standards, including accurate product labeling.

“NAWG commends EPA for completing the registration process for these important crop protection tools,” said Sam Kieffer, CEO of the National Association of Wheat Growers. “Providing farmers with access to new and innovative technologies gives growers greater certainty and more options to responsibly manage weeds, protect their crops, and remain productive and competitive.

“NAWG also welcomes the opportunity to engage with EPA as it conducts its separate review of registered pre-harvest desiccation uses. This process provides an important opportunity to ensure that discussions surrounding wheat production practices are grounded in science and reflect what actually occurs on farms.

“Unfortunately, public discussions sometimes mischaracterize wheat production practices or fail to recognize the significant regional, environmental, and agronomic differences across wheat-growing states. It is essential that EPA hear directly from wheat farmers about how crop protection products are used, which practices are not commonly used, how production systems vary by region, and what practical alternatives may be available.

“NAWG looks forward to working with EPA throughout this process and encourages the agency to continue relying on rigorous, peer-reviewed science to protect farmers, consumers, and the environment.”



Statement of NCFC CEO Duane Simpson on EPA Action on New Crop Protection Products

"EPA's decision to advance several crop protection products toward final approval is welcome news for America's farmers and farmer co-ops. EPA sets the global standard for pesticide safety and environmental review, and when that process moves forward, it delivers better, safer, and more effective tools to the people who grow our food.

“America's farmers are facing significant financial pressure. Access to the newest crop protection technologies helps lower input costs and keeps American producers competitive in global markets—without sacrificing the environmental and human health standards that make U.S. agriculture the envy of the world. These are not competing goals. They reinforce each other.

“For the farmer co-ops and retailers who serve our members, timely approvals matter. Moving these products forward now gives manufacturers and retail partners the lead time to plan production and ensure adequate supply is on the shelf for the 2027 growing season. We commend EPA for acting, and we encourage the agency to maintain this pace."

Tuesday June 30 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - LENRD Meeting Summaries - LGM/LRP Changes July 1 - Trump Suspends Countervailing Duties on Phosphate Fertilizer Imports - USDA Improves Conservation Programs - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Statistics - June 28

                               Very Short     Short    Adequate     Surplus
Topsoil Moisture .......:    16          26            49              09    
Subsoil Moisture .......:    24          32            37              7     

                              .....  Last year   Last week   This week   5YrAve
Corn Silking................:        2             na               3                 1
Soybeans in bloom.....:        04            12             26               15
Soybeans setting pods.:        --            na              --                --
Sorghum planted ........:       96           89              98                98    
Sorghum headed ........:        01           01              04                02    
Winter Wheat Harvested:     03           00             05                05

                                              VP       Poor       Fair        Good       Excellent    
Corn Condition Rating ...:     02          05         30           44             19
Soybean Condition Rating    01          06          29          47             17
Winter Wheat Condition .:    59          24          13          04               -     
Pasture Conditions ..........:    35          31          26           7                1    



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

Farmers had 5.4 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending June 28, 2026. This is 2.7 days more than last year, when there were 2.7 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent very short, 19 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 3 percent very short, 21 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus.

Corn silking in Iowa reached 1 percent, which is 2 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. 

Soybeans emerged reached 99 percent, which is 1 percentage point ahead of last year. Soybeans blooming reached 18 percent, which is 3 percentage points behind last year. Soybeans setting pods reached 1 percent, which is 3 percentage points behind last year. Soybean condition rated 75 percent good to excellent. 

Oats headed reached 94 percent, which is 5 percentage points ahead of last year. Oats condition rated 81 percent good to excellent. 

Pasture condition rated 77 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

U.S. corn and soybean crop conditions each declined 1 percentage point from the previous week, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn silking was pegged at 9%, 2 percentage points ahead of last year's 7% and 3 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 6%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 67% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition, 1 point below the previous week and 6 points below last year's 73%. Eight percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, 2 points above the previous week's 6% and 3 points above previous year of 5%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: 96% of soybeans had emerged as of Sunday, 3 points ahead of last year's pace and 1 point ahead of the five-year average of 95%. Soybeans blooming was pegged at 19%, 3 points ahead of last year's 16% and 4 points ahead of the five-year average of 15%. Soybeans setting pods was estimated at 4%, 1 point ahead of last year and up 2 points from the five-year average of 2%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 65% of soybeans that had emerged were in good-to-excellent condition, 1 point below the previous week and previous year of 66%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Harvest moved ahead 8 percentage points last week to reach 48% complete nationwide as of Sunday. That was 14 points ahead of last year's 34% and 9 points ahead of the five-year average pace of 39%. 
-- Crop condition: An estimated 26% of winter wheat was rated good to excellent as of June 28, steady with the previous week and 22 points below 48% a year ago, according to NASS.

SPRING WHEAT
-- Crop development: Thirty-two percent of spring wheat was headed, 3 points behind last year's pace of 35% and 2 points below the five-year average of 34%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 59% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, up 5 points from 54% the previous week.



Directors Hear About Upcoming Field Day and Meet Newest LENRD Staff Member at June Board Meeting

At the monthly board meeting held on Thursday, June 25th, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors heard numerous monthly reports and voted on various topics. Among those reports, Directors learned about an upcoming Regenerative Ag Field Day to be held near McLean in July and met the newest LENRD staff member, MacKenzie Doerr.

Directors heard reports from fellow Directors Jerry Allemann and Chad Korth about the NRD Basin Tour they attended earlier in the month. Allemann and Director Gary Loftis also shared updates from the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts. Waylon Petsche, NRCS Resource Conservationist, was in attendance to provide a monthly update from the Natural Resources Conservation Services. Directors Gary Loftis and Melissa Temple provided updates from the RC&D Boards they sit on. 

Marcus Blunck, Project Coordinator for the Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA), provided his monthly report and informed Directors of the upcoming Regenerative Ag Field Day he has been planning with Junior Pfanstiel. The BGMA is hosting a Field Day on Friday, July 17th from 10 a.m. until noon. The site, farmed by Pfanstiel, is located near McLean.

Pfanstiel, Outside the Box Agronomy, will discuss the theory, process, and goals of converting to regenerative agriculture practices. Attendees will get a true look into the benefits, and the challenges, of farming using regenerative practices. Pfanstiel will be joined by Zack Smith, one of the developers of The Stock Cropper. Stock Cropping is a regenerative agriculture system that raises row crops in conjunction with multiple species of livestock simultaneously in the field. The event is free to attend and the deadline to apply is Monday, July 6th.

Brian Bruckner, General Manager, also took the time to acknowledge the retirement of Administrative Assistant, Patty Martens. Martens has been with the LENRD since February 2016 and has been a key staff member during her tenure. Kristie Freudenburg is preparing to step into the role of Administrative Assistant after Martens’ retirement.

At the meeting, Directors were introduced to the newest LENRD employee, MacKenzie Doerr. Doerr filled the spot of Lindsay Hinkel as the LENRD/NRCS Programs Assistant in Pierce County. Hinkel will assume the duties of Programs Coordinator once Freudenburg takes over as Administrative Assistant on July 6th. 

Directors voted to approve an interlocal agreement with Colfax County on a streambank stabilization project in the Maple Creek Watershed. The project is located approximately 3 miles east and 8-9 miles south of Howells that would protect a county road bridge that was replaced in 2018. Due to erosion occurring in the curve of the stream, and the possibility that it may threaten the bridge if it continues, the County is looking for financial assistance to stabilize the streambank with rip rap. Because public infrastructure would be at risk, and another government entity is acting as a partner, the request falls within the policy requirements of a streambank stabilization project. With this agreement, the LENRD would provide 50% of the cost of the project, not to exceed $150,000.00. The total cost of the project is anticipated to cost a little over $300,000.00.

Curt Becker, Assistant General Manager, provided a summary from a meeting with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Battle Creek Flood Mitigation Options. One of the biggest takeaways from the meeting was that the City of Battle Creek would be eligible for 100% federal funding of the study if they act as the Sponsor. The study scope would be defined with the assistance of US Army Corps of Engineers, once a letter of request has been submitted by Battle Creek. If needed, the local sponsor could change from the City of Battle Creek to another entity at later stages of project development.

The Board once again visited a request from the Northeast Weed Management Area (NWMA) to provide financial assistance to treat phragmites. Phragmites is found throughout the Great Plains, forming dense patches in wet and moderately fertile soils along banks of ponds, lakes, streams, marshes, roads, ditches, and wet fields. These noxious weeds create competition for other plants having access to available surface and ground water.

When first approached last year, the Board voted against providing financial assistance for the practice. Since then, the NWMA has worked hard to secure a 3-year grant from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) and financial support from the Lewis & Clark, Upper Elkhorn, and Lower Niobrara NRDs. With this new information, Directors voted to approve the request for financial assistance and will provide a maximum of $6,000.00 annually for FY27 and FY28 to be used as matching funds for the grant.

In other action, Directors were notified that all Phase 2 and 3 Management Area Reports had been turned in prior to the beginning of the meeting and no Cease and Desist Orders would be enacted. They also revisited a conversation about whether to allow a producer to continue to use his irrigation system without Chemigation for his organic field, when he had initially indicated Chemigation would be used on his variance application. Directors voted to adopt an amendment to the NARD 457 Deferred Compensation Plan which will allow for voluntary In-Plan Rollover Contributions and Transfers for NRD personnel. Finally, Directors approved recommended wage adjustments for cost of living and step and grade changes for LENRD personnel.

To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local District can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next Board of Directors meeting will be Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m.



Lower Elkhorn NRD Partners with NRCS on North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed Plan

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in partnership with the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District, received official approval in May for the North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed Improvement Plan in eastern Nebraska.

The North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed spans over 226,000 acres in Antelope, Cedar, Knox, and Pierce Counties, Nebraska and includes the Cities of Pierce and Osmond. The plan proposes the implementation of flood damage reduction measures including levee improvements, diversion channels, and pump stations in the City of Pierce, and berms, road raises, and building floodproofing in the City of Osmond. The plan estimates the total construction cost of the project at$28.8 million with the local sponsor being responsible for approximately $9.1 million. 

Funding for the plan came through NRCS’s Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Operations Program (WFPO), which provides technical and financial assistance to states, local governments and tribes to plan and implement authorized watershed enhancement projects. NRCS provided $802,000 toward completing the North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed Plan. With the plan approved, Lower Elkhorn NRD now qualifies to request future financial assistance from NRCS for developing the identified flood prevention measures.

“NRCS is pleased to have provided technical and financial assistance to Lower Elkhorn NRD for completing the North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed Plan,” said Rob Lawson, NRCS Nebraska state conservationist. “One of our top priorities is assisting local sponsors in identifying and completing watershed projects for natural resource enhancements and public safety.”

“As local sponsors, we are most appreciative of NRCS’s commitment toward completing the watershed plan,” said Brian Bruckner, General Manager, Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District. “Their partnership has helped us identify essential improvements in the North Fork Elkhorn River watershed to reduce flood damage in Pierce and Osmond.”  

 

Revisions to Livestock Insurance Programs Take Effect July 1
NPPC Newsletter
 
Revisions to the principal livestock risk management programs, as well as to crop insurance, take effect July 1.
 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency made changes to the Livestock Gross Margin and Livestock Risk Protection programs used by pork producers for crop year 2027. Among them: 
•    Added clarifications for off-exchange contracts and subsidy capture definitions, including additional prohibited conduct under Section 25 of the LRP Basic Provisions
•    Allowed concurrent coverage of LRP and LGM in the same month
•    Required policies not earning premiums for three consecutive years to be cancelled
•    Clarified when coverage can be transferred
•    Revised the definition of beginning farmer and rancher and updated subsidy percentages to conform with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
 
Pork producers rely on LRP and LGM to help manage risk and protect market opportunities. Over the past five crop years, an average of 27% of hogs marketed in the United States were covered by either LRP or LGM, including a high of approximately 35% in crop year 2025. Additional resources for producers are available on RMA’s website, including more information about the latest policy changes and frequently asked questions about using LRP and LGM.



President Trump Takes Action to Lower Fertilizer Costs and Support American Farmers

Monday, President Donald J. Trump signed a proclamation temporarily suspending countervailing duties (CVDs) on certain phosphate fertilizer imports, providing immediate relief to American farmers while advancing the Administration’s broader strategy to strengthen America’s fertilizer supply chain.

The temporary suspension will increase phosphate fertilizer availability, improve competition, and help lower one of agriculture’s largest production expenses while supporting a stable and reliable fertilizer supply ahead of future planting seasons.

Current USDA analysis indicates American farmers could save approximately $1.82 billion annually through lower phosphate fertilizer costs as additional supplies enter the U.S. market. The action is expected to reduce phosphate fertilizer prices by approximately 22 percent, benefiting more than 100,000 farms across 97 million planted acres nationwide.

“As we have worked to implement America First fertilizer actions—from waiving the Jones Act to implementing more flexible Hours of Service waivers—we have focused on finding short-term solutions while delivering long-term stability for our nation’s farmers,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “Today’s announcement will bring immediate relief to producers who rely on these critical inputs with an estimated 22 percent reduction in phosphate fertilizer prices, and $1.82 billion in annual savings for producers. President Trump will always put farmers first, and he will continue to fight for those that feed, fuel, and clothe our nation.”

Today’s announcement builds on a series of actions taken by the Trump Administration to strengthen fertilizer affordability, improve supply chain resilience, and expand domestic production. The Administration has designated phosphate and potash as critical minerals, signed a USDA-Department of Justice Memorandum of Understanding to address anti-competitive practices affecting agricultural inputs, worked with federal partners to accelerate major domestic fertilizer manufacturing projects, and recently established a dedicated USDA Agricultural Economist position focused on fertilizer markets and agricultural inputs.

In addition to providing immediate relief through increased fertilizer availability, USDA continues to support long-term domestic fertilizer production by advancing major manufacturing projects across the country that will strengthen supply chains, create rural jobs, and reduce America’s reliance on foreign fertilizer sources.

“President Trump’s action today will provide immediate relief as well as a stable source of supply for American producers as they enter fall application season,” said Deputy Secretary Stephen Alexander Vaden. “The Department will continue to support initiatives to secure American farmers’ access to fertilizer, including by increasing domestic production capacity.”

Fertilizer remains one of the largest input costs facing American agriculture. Under the Biden Administration, fertilizer prices reached historic highs, placing significant financial pressure on producers. President Trump’s action provides immediate relief while complementing the Administration’s long-term efforts to rebuild domestic fertilizer manufacturing, strengthen America’s food and national security, and ensure American farmers have access to affordable, reliable fertilizer for years to come.



Corn Growers Thrilled by Suspension of Phosphate CVDs

President Trump signed an executive order Monday instituting a temporary suspension of countervailing duties applied to imported phosphate. In response to this development, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower released the following statement:

“This is such welcome news for corn farmers. Fertilizer represents one of the biggest expenses for farms every year, only made worse in recent years by actions of companies looking to further consolidate their control of the market. Input prices generally have been incredibly high and are a major contributing factor to the profitability picture, or lack thereof, for corn farmers right now.

“Thank you, President Trump, for recognizing the economic outlook facing American farmers right now and taking steps to alleviate some of that pressure. This is an important step as the sunset review and the anti-trust investigations are taking place.” 



ASA Applauds Executive Order Suspending Countervailing Duties on Phosphate Imports

The American Soybean Association applauds President Trump's Executive Order to suspend the countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizer imports. This action provides much-needed relief to soybean farmers and other agricultural producers who continue to face tight margins and high input costs.

"Fertilizer is one of the most significant expenses soybean farmers face each year," said ASA President Scott Metzger, a soybean farmer from Ohio. "Suspending import taxes on this critical farm resource will improve fertilizer availability and help reduce input costs at a time when farmers begin to plan for the 2027 crop while tackling increasingly challenging financial decisions. U.S. soybean farmers thank President Trump and his administration for recognizing the challenges facing America's farmers, identifying targeted solutions to defray farm production costs, and taking meaningful action that will strengthen the agricultural economy.”

ASA has consistently advocated for policies that promote competitive fertilizer markets and ensure farmers have access to the crop nutrients they need at reasonable prices, including a review and repeal of the 2021 countervailing duties. Suspending these duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from the second largest global producer will increase availability and encourage competitive pricing, which ultimately will improve on-farm margins. The association looks forward to continuing to work with the administration and Congress on long-term solutions that support U.S. agriculture, strengthen domestic fertilizer supply, and improve the competitiveness of American farmers. 



Farmers Applaud Executive Order to Suspend Tariffs on Fertilizer

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented on President Trump’s executive order to lift countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizers from Morocco through early next year.

“Farmers applaud President Trump’s executive order to suspend tariffs on phosphate fertilizers from Morocco. Skyrocketing fertilizer costs have contributed to rising expenses for farmers who were already struggling after years of inflation, depressed commodity markets and high interest rates. In fact, 7 out of 10 farmers said, in a Farm Bureau survey this spring, that they would not be able to afford enough fertilizer for this year.

“The decision to suspend tariffs on critical supplies, along with the recent request for emergency economic aid for farmers, are common-sense steps that will bring relief to farmers at a time when they need it most. We shared the impact of high fertilizer prices and availability with the president and we appreciate him listening to those concerns. We’ll continue to work with the administration to find more ways to improve market conditions and lower expenses for the men and women who work to ensure pantries are stocked for America’s families.”



USDA Modernizes Conservation Solutions to Better Conserve Natural Resources, Support Working Lands 
NRCS Seeks Public Comment until July 6 on 32 Conservation Practice Standards

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is improving and modernizing 32 key conservation practices, part of a broad effort by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to put farmers first by strengthening conservation solutions. To gather feedback to update the practice standards, NRCS held more than 150 roundtables, bringing together more than 2,000 agricultural producers in every state and territory. Additionally, NRCS is currently accepting input now through July 6, 2026, on the Federal Register.  

“We want to make sure our conservation practices meet the needs of farmers, supporting their efforts to solve natural resource challenges and grow more productively and profitably,” said NRCS Chief Colton L. Buckley. “We listened to farmers and fine-tuned our practices to better integrate their real-world needs, including considerations for precision and regenerative agriculture. Ultimately, we want to keep working lands in working hands.”  

NRCS’s conservation practices offer guidelines for planning, installing, operating and maintaining conservation practices used by farmers, ranchers, and private forest landowners nationwide.  

A few examples of updated practices:  
    Livestock pipeline, now with expanded options like collapsible lay flat tubing.  
    Combustion system improvement, now with greater flexibility at the local level to make improvements that reduce air emissions or improve energy efficiency.  
    Spring development, now with expanded flexibilities for the landowner, such as allowing the use of a pump when needed and the option to install a water battery for storing water during high flow seasons for later use during low flow seasons.  
    Waste separation facility, now more aligned with industry standards.  

The full list of conservation practices is available in the Federal Register notice https://www.regulations.gov/document/NRCS-2026-0034-0001.  

Submitting Comments            
NRCS is encouraging agricultural producers, landowners, organizations, Tribes and others that use its conservation practices to comment on these 32 revised conservation practice standards by July 6, 2026. NRCS will use public comments to further enhance its conservation practice standards.     

The proposed revisions to the 32 conservation practice standards are available on the Federal Register portal under docket number NRCS-2026-0034. Follow online instructions for submitting comments virtually or via mail/hand delivery.   



Both Can Be True: Strong Demand, Tight Cattle Inventories, and Beef Prices
James Mitchell, Extension Economist
University of Arkansas

A lot has been said about beef prices in 2026, and there has been a lot of productive discussion about what is driving them. Some point to historically tight cattle supplies. U.S. cattle inventories are at their lowest since the 1950s, and federally inspected cattle slaughter through May is 1.12 million head below the same period in 2025 and 2.56 million head below 2022, the cyclical peak for the current cattle cycle. Others argue that exceptionally strong consumer demand is the primary reason why beef prices have reached record highs. Both explanations are correct, and the market is more nuanced than either explanation by itself.

Total beef disappearance has declined much less than cattle slaughter would suggest. According to the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) balance sheet, total beef disappearance in 2026 is forecast to be 2.6% below 2025 but still 0.2% above 2022. This reflects two important factors impacting total beef supplies. First, heavier dressed weights have partially offset lower slaughter numbers by producing more beef per animal. Second, larger beef imports have kept total U.S. beef supplies from plummeting.

Figure 1 helps illustrate why this is important. While total per capita beef consumption has remained relatively stable over the last several years, ground beef has become an increasingly larger share of consumption. Ground beef accounted for 47% of per capita beef consumption in 2022 and is expected to account for 50% in 2026. This shift is not surprising. Heavier carcass weights produce more fat trim for grinding, and beef imports have historically been an important source of lean trim for the U.S. beef market. Total pounds of beef may not have changed much, but the mix of beef products available to consumers certainly has.

That distinction is important because “beef” is not a single homogeneous product. Beef is consumed in many different forms, from ground beef to steaks and roasts, and both at home and away from home. Each of those products has its own supply and demand fundamentals, which have unquestionably changed the relative price of different beef products. Looking only at either total beef disappearance or cattle inventories provides an incomplete discussion.

This is a good example of ceteris non paribus. Historically tight cattle supplies, stronger production efficiency, larger beef imports, and resilient consumer demand are all occurring at the same time. That is why record beef prices are not simply the result of lower cattle numbers or stronger demand. Ultimately, total beef expenditures continue to increase, which supports higher revenues throughout the U.S. beef industry. 

Monday June 29 Ag News - Soybean Gall Midge update - 2 NE NE RegenAg Field Days - NeExt Youth Crop Scout Contest - Corn/Soy Reaction USDA RegenAg Rule - and more!

Soybean Gall Midge: Wilting and Dead Plants Reported in Nebraska and South Dakota
Nebraska Extension

With adult emergence occurring in late May and early June in Nebraska and Iowa, soybean gall midge larvae have now been detected at all monitoring sites in both states.

In Nebraska, dead and dying soybean plants have been documented at three monitoring sites in Lancaster County and a field in Seward County. While the incidence of dead plants remains low (<3%), it is expected to increase over the next week as hot weather puts additional stress on soybean. To view maps on emergence, larvae, and wilting or dead plants visit www.soybeangallmidge.org.

Although no adult emergence has been detected in South Dakota or Minnesota, larvae have been found in Minnehaha County, South Dakota, where a small number of wilting and dead soybean plants have also been observed.

Now is a good time to scout soybean fields for the presence of larvae in soybean along field edges adjacent to last year's soybean fields. Once significant larval infestations are present, insecticide applications are not recommended because larvae are protected within the stem, making it difficult for insecticides to reach them effectively.  

Scouting for Soybean Gall Midge Larvae - 2026 Season Notes
Adult emergence began May 29 in Nebraska and June 1 in Iowa. No adult detections in South Dakota or Minnesota.

Larvae were first detected June 8 in Lancaster County, Nebraska, June 17 in Dallas County, Iowa and June 26 in Minnehaha County, South Dakota.

Larvae are now present at all monitored locations in Nebraska and Iowa.

Wilting and dead plants were documented on June 22 in Lancaster County, Nebraska and on June 26 in Minnehaha County, South Dakota .




Two Northeast Nebraska Field Days to Showcase Regenerative Agriculture Practices

Producers, landowners, agricultural professionals and community members interested in soil health, profitability and resilient farming systems are invited to attend two upcoming field days focused on regenerative agriculture in northeast Nebraska this July.

Hosted by Bazile Groundwater Management Area, Lewis and Clark NRD, Lower Elkhorn NRD, Lower Niobrara NRD, Upper Elkhorn NRD, Rural Affairs, USDA Organic, local partners and producers, these events will showcase practical approaches to improving soil health, integrating livestock, enhancing nutrient cycling, reducing input costs and building resilient agricultural operations.

Regenerative Ag Field Day — July 17
The first Regenerative Ag Field Day will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, July 17, 2026, near the Highway 81/20 junction. This event is hosted by the Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) Project and will feature real-world examples of regenerative agriculture practices being implemented on a working operation.

Participants will learn about:
    Regenerative agriculture practices within an operation 
    Adapting management strategies as conditions change 
    Soil health and nutrient cycling 
    Weed management approaches 

Featured speakers include:
    Junior Pfanstiel, Outside the Box Agronomy, discussing the theory, process, and goals of transitioning to regenerative agriculture practices. 
    Zack Smith, The Stock Cropper, discussing how integrating livestock can increase return on investment and convert sunlight into dollars through improved land utilization. 

A complimentary lunch will be available following the event at The Breakroom in Randolph.

Regenesis Acres Field Day — July 18
The 2026 Regenesis Acres Field Day will take place on Saturday, July 18, 2026, beginning at the Atkinson Community Center before moving to Regenesis Acres, located north of Atkinson, for in-field learning opportunities.

The event will explore farming through a regenerative lens, with topics including:
    Building soil health to support resiliency 
    Diverse crop rotations and alternative crops 
    Returning livestock to the landscape 
    Lowering production inputs 
    Increasing local economic opportunities through integrated systems 
    Roller crimping for weed control, soil cover and water conservation 

Featured speakers include:
    Mac Trotter, regenerative farmer 
    Rion Naus, We Grow With LLC 
    Zack Smith, Stockcropper LLC 
    Ed Baumgartner, Bass Hybrids 
    Lynn Hoover, Ocean Blue Ag 
    Blake Merritt, Core Bio Ag 
    Sara Paxton, Nourish Health Coaching 
    Jessie Poessnecker, regenerative farmer 

The family-friendly event will also include activities for children and educational opportunities for attendees of all ages.

Growing Interest in Regenerative Agriculture
Interest in regenerative agriculture continues to expand across Nebraska as producers seek ways to improve soil health, increase water infiltration, enhance nutrient efficiency, diversify operations and build long-term resilience. These field days provide an opportunity to learn directly from producers and industry experts who are implementing regenerative practices in real-world settings.

Both events are free to attend, though advance registration is encouraged by Monday, July 6 due to limited space. 
    Register for July 17 field day - https://bit.ly/BGMAFieldDay26
    Register for July 18 field day - https://go.unl.edu/regenesis26

July 17 field day location: From the junction of U.S. Highway 81 and U.S. Highway 20, travel three miles west on Highway 20, then ¼ mile north on 552 Avenue. View the approximate field location in Google Maps.

July 18 field day locations: Atkinson Community Center, 206 W. Fifth St., Atkinson, NE 68713; Regenesis Acres, 315 W. State St., Atkinson, NE 68713. 

For additional information, please visit the Bazile Groundwater Management Area website https://bgma.nebraska.gov/ or contact Amy Timmerman, Nebraska Extension educator, at 402-336-2760.




UNL TAPS program to host field day July 7 in North Platte 

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) program will host a field day July 7 at 3 p.m. at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte.

The TAPS program is a farm management competition and research initiative that allows participants to evaluate management decisions, explore emerging technologies and improve profitability and resource-use efficiency in a low-risk environment.

The field day will provide TAPS participants and those interested in the program an opportunity to view current plot conditions and discuss management strategies and challenges for the growing season.

The event will begin with a field tour featuring plot visits, technology demonstrations and discussions on management strategies, irrigation and nitrogen management. The tour will be followed by a market update and outlook for 2026.

The field day will conclude with a social and barbecue at Pals Brewing Company, 4520 S. Buffalo Bill Ave., North Platte.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to register at no cost at go.unl.edu/nptaps.

For more information, contact Victor Ferreira at 402-326-9213



Free Farm and Ranch Finance Clinic

These clinics are for farmers and ranchers and their families. They are confidential, one-on-one sessions with an experienced Ag Law attorney and Ag finance counselor. These clinics have been offered in Nebraska since 1989. In a roughly hour-long session, you are welcome to bring up whatever issues might be affecting your farm or ranch. In general, clinic discussions often involve estate and succession planning, financial and operational issues, beginning farmer programs, real estate and lease matters, fence law, property rights, farm loans and loan programs, and debtor/creditor law. Here is an opportunity to obtain an experienced outside opinion on issues that may be affecting your farm or ranch. Bring your questions!

The FREE farm and ranch clinics will be on these dates in these locations:
Valentine - Thursday, July 9th
Chadron - Tuesday, July 21st
Norfolk - Tuesday, July 28th

To sign up for a clinic or for more information, call Nebraska Rural Response Hotline: 1-800-464-0258.



2026 Youth Crop Scouting Competition: Put Your Agronomy Skills to the Test
Brandy VanDeWalle - Nebraska Extension Educator

Think your team can spot crop problems before they cost yield? Nebraska Extension invites junior high and high school students to test their scouting skills at the 13th annual Youth Crop Scouting Competition, where teams will identify real-world crop production issues, solve field-based challenges and compete for cash prizes.

Youth will step into the field for this year's competition on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2026, at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC) near Mead, Nebraska, where teams will go head-to-head in a series of corn and soybean production challenges. Participants will scout crop growth stages, pest infestations, diseases and nutrient deficiencies, with additional challenges covering pesticide safety, herbicide injury and emerging crop scouting technologies.

Not familiar with crop scouting? That’s OK!
Youth don’t need prior experience in crop production to compete, but they will need a basic understanding of scouting corn and soybean fields. Nebraska Extension offers a variety of resources to help all students get up to speed. Visit the CropWatch Youth Crop Scouting Competition page and explore the “Preparing to Compete” section for training tools and guidance... https://cropwatch.unl.edu/youth/crop-scouting-competition/. 

Teachers and leaders — Invite a local agronomist, extension educator or crop consultant to provide short lessons or Q&A sessions during club meetings. A little expert input can boost students’ knowledge and confidence — and it’s a great way to inspire interest in agronomy and crop-related careers.

This competition offers a unique opportunity for youth to gain practical experience in crop scouting, enhance their understanding of IPM, and explore potential careers in agriculture. By working closely with extension staff and industry professionals, participants will develop valuable skills applicable to various agricultural fields.

Competition Highlights
    Team Composition: Teams of three to five participants, each with an adult team leader, such as an FFA advisor, crop consultant, extension staff or co-op employee. 
    Eligibility: Open to 4-H and FFA members who have completed fifth through 12th grades.
    Prizes: Cash awards of $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $100 for third place.
    Advancement: The top two teams will qualify for the regional competition held in Nebraska in 2026.

This competition is limited to the first 10 teams that sign up. Teams must be registered by Wednesday, July 15 https://go.unl.edu/cropscoutingreg. 

For more information, please visit the CropWatch Youth Crop Scouting Competition page https://cropwatch.unl.edu/youth/crop-scouting-competition/.



Iowa Corn Growers Welcome USDA Regenerative Ag Rule

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) welcomes the release of the USDA’s Regenerative Ag Rule, a significant milestone that recognizes and rewards farmers for their leadership in conservation and sustainability practices. The final rule brings farmers one step closer to being recognized for their innovation through the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit; a priority Iowa Corn has advocated to ensure that every Iowa corn farmer can benefit from conservation practices, new markets and fair recognition of their efforts.

“For years, Iowa corn farmers have led the nation in adoption and implementation of conservation practices, and today’s USDA rule provides a framework to reward conservation-minded farmers who are stewards of the land,” said Mark Mueller, ICGA President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa. “This new rule is an important step forward, and we believe it will help jumpstart opportunities for growers who are committed to doing what’s right for the land and the environment, while being recognized for their efforts.” 

ICGA thanks Secretary Rollins for her leadership and looks forward to collaborating with USDA to maximize the opportunities this rule creates for farmers across Iowa.  



Corn Growers Respond to Regenerative Agriculture Announcements

The Trump Administration recently released a series of actions designed to strengthen support for regenerative agriculture practices, including an Executive Order signed by the president and the announcement of a new regenerative biofuel feedstock rule by USDA. In response to these developments, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower released the following statement: 

“We appreciate the administration’s recognition of the value biofuels provide for our country’s energy supply and security. For decades, corn farmers have provided a renewable, domestically produced energy source for our nation’s drivers and we are ready to provide even more for many years to come.

“We also appreciate the administration’s recognition that farmers have always cared for their land. This is true of every farmer I know. As noted by USDA, it’s also true we have embraced for years many practices that are considered regenerative, with nearly 70% already implementing at least one practice.

“Thanks to wide-scale adoption of precision agriculture tools by corn farmers, we are more efficient and effective with our resources than ever before. We welcome further investment in this space that will continue our ability to efficiently produce food, fuel and fiber for our world. We additionally welcome expeditious EPA reviews of new pesticide products that will continue supporting our efforts.

“Corn growers have been and continue to be open to ongoing dialogue and engagement on this important topic, and we look forward to closely reviewing the Regenerative Feedstock Rule.”



ASA Welcomes USDA Rule Approving Value-Added Farming for Biofuels Tax Credit

Friday, ASA applauded Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins for publishing the Regenerative Feedstock Rule, which provides a framework for farmers to enhance the value of biofuel feedstock crops like soybeans by employing voluntary conservation practices. The final Regenerative Feedstock Rule will supplement forthcoming final tax guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit and increase the credit value for biofuels produced from feedstocks grown using covered conservation practices.

“ASA applauds Secretary Rollins and USDA for finalizing the Regenerative Feedstock Rule, which will unlock a new premium soybean market by empowering farmers to produce value-added biofuel feedstocks using on-farm conservation practices,” said Scott Metzger, ASA President and farmer from Williamsport, OH. “Domestic markets, bolstered by biomass-based diesel industry expansion, improve basis and expand a reliable, local customer base for our soybeans. Soybean farmers fought hard to improve 45Z to support domestic market growth for U.S. soy, and for the first time ever, the USDA Regenerative Feedstock Rule will ensure that the 45Z biofuel tax credit will not only benefit biofuel producers, but the farmers who produce homegrown regenerative biofuel feedstocks.”

ASA has strongly supported the work of USDA to develop the Feedstock Carbon Intensity Calculator as part of the final rule so that farmers may realize the value-added potential of their crop. ASA appreciates USDA for honoring the commitment to solicit farmer feedback on the new tool, which included individual farmer beta testing and demonstrations at our annual trade show.

Regenerative agriculture practices covered by the rule include cover crops and conservation tillage. According to USDA, 70% of U.S. soybean farmers already employ at least one of these regenerative practices.

Last year, the Working Families Tax Cuts Act made two critical improvements to the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit that were championed by ASA:
-    Removing a provision that arbitrarily penalized agricultural biofuel feedstocks based on farming practices overseas and
-    Establishing a North American ringfence to ensure the tax credit benefits fuels produced and sourced from our region rather than incentivizing imports that displace U.S. soybean oil. ASA is urging Treasury and IRS to swiftly finalize 45Z tax guidance that incorporates the improvements.

The domestic biomass-based diesel industry is poised for significant growth this year, with expanded capacity to process an additional 140 million bushels of soybeans expected by the 2026 harvest.

Investments in the biofuel value chain are largely the result of actions taken by the Trump Administration and Congress, including the statutory improvements to 45Z, strong renewable volume obligations released by EPA earlier this year, and today’s publication of the USDA Regenerative Feedstock Rule.

While the final Regenerative Feedstock Rule will expand economic opportunities for farmers located near biofuel production, current traceability standards will prevent farmers in other regions from accessing the benefits. ASA encourages USDA to address this regional disparity as work continues to enhance and expand the rule in the future. ASA will continue working with the administration to complete the final tax guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit and increase the credit value for biofuels produced from feedstocks.



Cost of Fourth of July Cookout Reflects Inflation Increase

Families celebrating the Fourth of July holiday with a cookout will find that prices at the grocery store closely reflect inflation increases over the last year. An Independence Day cookout will cost $73.82 for 10 guests this year, according to the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation annual marketbasket survey.

This is up $2.90 from last year, which is a 4% increase. The overall annual inflation rate in the United States is 4.2% for 12 months ending in May, which is consistent with the findings of the marketbasket survey, even though the survey tracks a much smaller basket of items.

At $7.38 per person, this is the most expensive Fourth of July cookout since Farm Bureau began surveying costs in 2016. However, after adjusting for inflation, cookout costs have remained relatively stable in recent years and remain below the previous peak reached in 2022.

“Families across the country are dealing with higher prices for many expenses including groceries,” said American Farm Bureau Federation Economist Dr. Faith Parum. “As you look at the purchasing power of the dollar, however, it has remained relatively stable when it comes to food. America’s families spend less of their disposable income on food than most other nations and we enjoy one of the most abundant, affordable and safe food supplies in the world.”

The marketbasket survey shows an increase in the cost of 10 of the 12 tracked items including ground beef, pork and beans, strawberries and hamburger buns.

Several factors influence the increased costs. The retail price for 2 pounds of ground beef increased 5.5% to $14.06. America’s ranchers continue to rebuild their herds following years of severe drought, which has affected supplies. It will take several years for herds to recover to pre-drought levels.

Strawberries cost $5.27 for two pints, an increase of 12.4%. Strawberries had a price increase, in part, because of a devastating frost in Florida that destroyed many young plants early in the spring. High labor costs for fruits and vegetables are also a factor as well as increased costs for fuel used in refrigeration and transportation.

A 32 ounce can of pork and beans is up 37 cents from 2025 to $3.06. The cost of aluminum drastically increased this year, driving up the production cost of cans used in pork and beans.

Hamburger buns cost an average of $2.53, a 7.7% increase from last year. Increased production, transportation and labor costs contributed to the price increase of hamburger buns.

Two bright spots in the survey were potato salad and chips. The price for potato salad fell 17.8% from 2025 to $2.91. This can be attributed partially to a key salad ingredient – eggs. Egg prices have dropped as flocks recovered from avian influenza. Healthy potato harvests reduced the cost of making potato salad and chips. Chips were down 4 cents from 2025 to $4.76.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall said, “Higher prices at the grocery store don’t always translate to more money for farmers. The farmer’s share of the food dollar is around 6% after expenses. Farmers are dealing with natural disasters and higher supply costs while making the same - or sometimes less - money for the food they grow. Still, they’re committed to growing safe, affordable, sustainable and abundant food for our nation.

“Farmers represent less than 2% of the population, but they carry a great responsibility in providing nutrition for the remaining 98% of America. The critical role they play has traditionally been supported by investments in innovation, research and risk management, all made possible by the farm bill. We encourage lawmakers to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and then return to D.C. with a renewed commitment to pass a new, modernized farm bill. It’s an investment in our country’s future.”

The federal government’s broader Consumer Price Index report for all items shows an overall increase of 4.2%, while food shows an increase of 3.1% compared to a year ago. Farm Bureau’s informal marketbasket survey examines only those foods commonly associated with summer cookouts.

The July Fourth cookout survey is part of the Farm Bureau marketbasket series, which also includes the popular annual Thanksgiving dinner cost survey of common food staples Americans use to prepare a holiday meal at home.

Volunteer shoppers across the country, including Farm Bureau members and others, collected data from stores in every state and Puerto Rico.

Individual Prices, AFBF 2026 Summer Cookout
    2 pounds of ground beef, $14.06 (+5.5%)
    2 pounds of chicken breasts, $8.06 (+3.5%)
    3 pounds of pork chops, $14.79 (+4.7%)
    1 pound of cheese, $3.60 (+1.7%)
    1 package of hamburger buns, $2.53 (+7.7%)
    2 ½ pounds of homemade potato salad, $2.91 (-17.8%)
    32 ounces of pork and beans, $3.06 (+13.8%)
    16-ounce bag of potato chips, $4.76 (-0.8%)
    13-ounce package of chocolate chip cookies, $4.25 (+6.3%)
    ½ gallon of ice cream, $5.99 (+5.3%)
    2 pints of strawberries, $5.27 (+12.4%)
    2 ½ quarts of lemonade, $4.54 (+3.9%)

Read the full Market Intel on the 2026 Fourth of July Cookout Survey here https://www.fb.org/market-intel/fourth-of-july-cookout-costs-reflect-inflation.

Friday June 26 Ag News - Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report - Vandenberg new CVA SVP Feed - Wyffels Adds Swanson in NE - USGPC Hoste Japanese Delegation in NE - Commercial Red Meat Prod Down 6% in May - and more!

United States Hog Inventory Down Slightly 

United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on June 1, 2026 was 73.7 million head. This was down slightly from June 1, 2025, and down slightly from March 1, 2026.   

Breeding inventory, at 5.88 million head, was down 1 percent from last year, and down slightly from the previous quarter.

Market hog inventory, at 67.8 million head, was up slightly from last year, but down slightly from last quarter. 

Inventory by State        total     -  % of June 1 '25
Nebraska ........:     3,650,000 hd       106  
Iowa ...............:    24,700,000 hd       102  

The March-May 2026 pig crop, at 33.5 million head, was up slightly from 2025. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 2.82 million head, down 1 percent from 2025. The sows farrowed during this quarter represented 48 percent of the breeding herd. The average pigs saved per litter was 11.87 for the March-May period, compared to 11.75 last year. 

By State March - May Sows Farrowed (% of LY) -  Pigs per litter - Pig Crop (% of LY)
Nebraska .....:     175,000 hd              100         -             12.10         -   2,118,000 hd   101    
Iowa ............:     425,000 hd               98          -             11.75         -   4,994,000 hd    96    

United States hog producers intend to have 2.90 million sows farrow during the June-August 2026 quarter, down 2 percent from the actual farrowings during the same period one year earlier, and down 3 percent from the same period two years earlier. Intended farrowings for September-November 2026, at 2.89 million sows, are down 1 percent from the same period one year earlier, and down 1 percent from the same period two years earlier. 

The total number of hogs under contract owned by operations with over 5,000 head, but raised by contractees, accounted for 55 percent of the total United States hog inventory, up 2 percent from the previous year. 



Central Valley Ag Names Kelby Vandenberg Senior Vice President of Feed

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is proud to announce Kelby Vandenberg as Senior Vice President of Feed. Vandenberg succeeds Doug Rowse, who is retiring after a distinguished career with the cooperative, and will lead the feed division with a focus on strategic growth, operational excellence, and delivering value to member-owners.

Raised on a family farm near David City, Nebraska, Vandenberg developed a passion for agriculture at an early age. He earned a bachelor's degree in business with a minor in finance from Nebraska Wesleyan University. He joined CVA as a college intern more than 12 years ago before accepting a full-time role following graduation. Throughout his career, he has served in several leadership positions within the grain division where he most recently served as Grain Merchandising Manager at CVA. Vandenberg will continue to apply the experience developed throughout his career with the cooperative to help lead the feed division.

As Senior Vice President of Feed, Vandenberg will oversee the division's sales and financial performance, ingredient procurement, and strategic planning efforts. He will also play a key role in helping guide the cooperative's long-term vision while supporting continued growth opportunities within the feed division.

“Kelby has demonstrated strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to serving our members throughout his career,” said Nic McCarthy, CEO of Central Valley Ag. “His diverse understanding of agriculture, dedication to our people, and commitment to our cooperative values will help create opportunities for the member-owners we serve.”

Vandenberg credits the people around him as key contributors to his leadership development and career path. From the mentors who challenged him to grow to the teams he has worked alongside, he views his career as a reflection of the opportunities and relationships built throughout the cooperative. Those experiences continue to influence his leadership style and commitment to serving CVA's member-owners.

“I’m appreciative to be entrusted with leading the Feed division,” said Vandenberg. “There’s positive momentum within the division, and I looked forward to working with the team to enhance that. As reliability on grain exports becomes more volatile, domestic protein production increases, and livestock production grows, it’s important that CVA is positioned to bring quality feed products to our livestock producers, to provide additional domestic grain consumption to our farmers, and to help bring protein demand to our protein producing partners.”



Wyffels Hybrids Welcomes Andy Swanson as Area Agronomy Manager 

Wyffels Hybrids is proud to announce the addition of Andy Swanson as Area Agronomy Manager, supporting customers across eastern Nebraska. This strategic hire reflects the company’s continued investment in agronomic expertise and its commitment to delivering exceptional support as it grows in new geographies. 

Andy brings a strong production agriculture background and hands-on agronomic experience to the Wyffels team. He grew up on a family farm raising hogs and row crops and earned his degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Andy has built his practical knowledge with over 20 years working with growers in retail sales and agronomy. His experience allows him to deliver practical, timely agronomic advice which will help farmers grow their operations throughout eastern Nebraska. Andy lives in North Bend, Nebraska with his wife, Tiffany, and their four daughters. 

This hire aligns with Wyffels Hybrids’ broader growth strategy and reinforces its long-standing commitment to supporting farmers with local expertise and trusted agronomic guidance. “As we celebrate 80 years as an independent, family-owned company, this expansion reflects both where we’ve come from and where we’re going,” said John Wyffels, President. “We’re entering Nebraska the same way we’ve grown everywhere else—disciplined, prepared, and focused on delivering the best customer experience in the seed business. We’re excited to welcome more farmers into Wyffels Country and to continue investing in rural communities for decades to come.”  

By continuing to expand its agronomy team, Wyffels ensures farmers have access to local expertise, timely insights, and practical solutions that help maximize performance and profitability.  



NEBRASKA JOINS NASA ACRES FARM INNOVATION AMBASSADOR TEAM

Nebraska is joining the NASA Acres Farm Innovation Ambassador Team, a national program that works with producers to develop practical tools and solutions using satellite Earth observation, on-farm data and digital agriculture technology.

Roric Paulman of Paulman Farms, near Sutherland, Nebraska, is the newest member of the program, representing the state. As part of the effort, Paulman will receive technical assistance from Guillermo Balboa and the Digital Farming Lab in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources to support activities and help connect Nebraska’s agricultural experience with broader innovation efforts.

Balboa, research assistant professor of agronomy and horticulture and the lab’s leader, said the state is well-positioned to contribute to the national effort.

“Nebraska has a strong history of producer-driven innovation in precision and digital agriculture,” he said. “Joining NASA Acres FIAT creates an important opportunity to connect Nebraska’s field-based work with a national network focused on practical tools and trusted partnerships. It reflects the kind of collaboration that helps move innovation from research to on-farm impact.”

NASA Acres is a U.S.-focused agriculture and food security consortium supported through NASA’s Earth Science Division. The Farm Innovation Ambassador Team program serves as a producer-centered platform connecting science and agriculture through collaborative innovation. The program’s goal is to keep farmers at the center of innovation by connecting producer priorities with NASA-supported science and technology. The program brings together early-adopter growers, researchers and agricultural partners to help turn satellite-based insights into practical decision-support tools for U.S. agriculture.

“FIAT is built around the idea that farmers should help shape the technologies and tools intended to serve them,” said Alyssa Whitcraft, program co-lead and executive director of NASA Acres. “We are excited to welcome Roric and our partners at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln as we continue expanding this national network of producer-led innovation.” 

Nebraska will contribute field-based experience and applied agronomic expertise in digital agriculture to the collaboration. The partnership will connect grower-led innovation in the state with broader efforts to advance practical digital agriculture tools that strengthen productivity, resource efficiency and long-term resilience.

Paulman’s operation in west-central Nebraska provides a strong example of farmer-led innovation and the adoption of digital agriculture under real production conditions.

“Early adoption has been at the forefront of our operations,” he said. “Bringing innovative people and technologies together with grounded scientific support is a significant opportunity for U.S. agriculture. Collaboration with UNL is, and will continue to be, a cornerstone of those relationships.”

The Digital Farming Lab will provide technical support and conduct on-farm research protocols at Paulman Farms, focusing on increasing nitrogen use efficiency in corn. The collaboration builds on Nebraska’s longstanding leadership in precision and digital agriculture and reinforces the state’s role as a place where agricultural innovation is developed, tested and scaled with producers.

“We are excited to expand this program into additional states while building on our existing work in Kansas, Illinois and New York, and we are particularly pleased to welcome representation from Nebraska as we continue growing this farmer-driven network,” said Ignacio Ciampitti, program co-lead and chief agronomist at NASA Acres.

From July 14-16, Farm Innovation Ambassador Team members from across the country will convene in College Park, Maryland, for the program’s first in-person meeting, joined by NASA Acres leadership, scientists, technical experts and partner organizations. The event will provide an opportunity to share experiences, identify producer priorities and strengthen collaborations that advance practical digital agriculture solutions nationwide.



Japanese Corn Millers, Journalists Learn About U.S. Sustainable Farming Practices

Last week, the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) escorted a team of Japanese corn millers and key journalists to Nebraska and Iowa to learn about sustainable farming and grain handling practices as well as get an introduction to the Council’s Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol (CSAP).

“Highlighting the reliability and traceability of U.S. agricultural supply chains, aided by USGBC platforms like the CSAP and its accompanying Sorghum Assurance Protocol (SAP), is a chance to educate participants about the quality of U.S. agricultural products and the responsible land stewardship of U.S. growers,” said Tommy Hamamoto, USGBC director in Japan.

Hamamoto, USGBC Director of Global Sustainability Carlos F. Suárez and USGBC Japan Program and Administrative Manager Michiyo Hoshizawa led the program, beginning in Nebraska. There, the group toured key value chain facilities, including USGBC members Cargill and POET, to see how U.S. feed grains are harnessed and moved from farm to customer.

Other stops included the Daugherty Water for Food Innovation Campus and Valley Irrigation for deeper dives into the sustainable practices underpinning U.S. agricultural production.

After continuing to Iowa, USGBC member Corteva Agriscience welcomed the delegation to its office in Johnston to discuss how biotechnology has further reduced inputs and environmental costs.

The group also visited Iowa Corn’s headquarters for an overview of corn production in the region and insights into its research programs that keep U.S. corn as the world’s best.

Farm visits in both states also allowed attendees to meet U.S. growers and see how best production practices are implemented at various scales.

“Japan is a mature market that has been a strong trading partner for the U.S. agricultural sector for decades, and continuing to adapt to customer needs will ensure it remains a dependable export market well into the future,” Hamamoto said.

“Sustainable grain production is being advanced through practical, on-farm practices like cover cropping, no-till, nutrient management, manure-based fertilization and precision irrigation. Japanese buyers participating in this program now understand that sustainability in U.S. agriculture is not simply an environmental initiative but a strategic business approach that enhances productivity, profitability and long-term resilience.”



Updated publication helps beef producers develop growth implant strategy

When used as part of a proper strategy, growth implants for beef cattle can increase daily gains by up to 20%, improve efficiency by up to 15%, and reduce production costs by at least 10%. A variety of implants and options are available; each should be considered before implementing a program. Few technologies offer a greater return on investment than implants, and a newly updated publication from Iowa Beef Center can help producers with these decisions.

IBC director and Iowa State University extension feedlot specialist Aimee Wertz-Lutz said it’s vital to develop a strategy and find the right implants for that strategy.

"As of spring 2026, more than 20 implant brands are available for growing-finishing cattle," she said. "And while implants with a similar active ingredient composition should yield somewhat similar responses, the decision on which to use should be based on price, convenience, availability, approval for the stage of production, and general preference."

The publication focuses on implant brand names, active ingredients, intended use, and whether a re-implant option exists for cattle in the "Growing Beef Cattle in a Drylot" and "Growing Beef Cattle Fed in Confinement for Slaughter" phases, respectively. It also includes information on implant administration and placement, and how to select different types of implants.

Wertz-Lutz said producers should remember that the most important implant administered is the one given just before cattle are sold. This publication provides information to inform producers of their options, including individual marketing systems as considerations for appropriate implant programs.

The publication, "Growth-Promoting Implants for Drylot Growing Beef Cattle and Cattle Fed in Confinement for Slaughter" (IBC 113) http://shop.iastate.edu/extension/products/ibc113.html is available as a free pdf download from the ISU Extension store.



Commercial Red Meat Production Down 6 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.10 billion pounds in May, down 6 percent from the 4.38 billion pounds produced in May 2025.

Beef production, at 1.95 billion pounds, was 8 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.18 million head, down 11 percent from May 2025. The average live weight was up 42 pounds from the previous year, at 1,464 pounds.

Veal production totaled 1.5 million pounds, 33 percent below May a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 6,700 head, down 36 percent from May 2025. The average live weight was up 19 pounds from last year, at 381 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.14 billion pounds, down 4 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 9.81 million head, down 6 percent from May 2025. The average live weight was up 3 pounds from the previous year, at 292 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 9.4 million pounds, was down 19 percent from May 2025. Sheep slaughter totaled 167,500 head, 10 percent below last year. The average live weight was 110 pounds, down 12 pounds from May a year ago.

By State               million lbs.  -  % of May '25
Nebraska ..............:     582.1           91       
Iowa .....................:     711.6           96       
Kansas .................:     467.4          107       

January to May 2026 commercial red meat production was 21.8 billion pounds, down 3 percent from 2025. Accumulated beef production was down 7 percent from last year, veal was down 27 percent, pork was down slightly from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 9 percent. 



USDA Cold Storage May 2026 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers were down slightly from the previous month and down 1 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were down slightly from the previous month and down 1 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were up slightly from the previous month and up slightly from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were up 2 percent from last month and up 2 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on May 31, 2026 were up 4 percent from the previous month and up 2 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were up 1 percent from the previous month and up 2 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 11 percent from last month and up 2 percent from May 31, 2025.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on May 31, 2026 were up 1 percent from the previous month but down 1 percent from May 31, 2025. Butter stocks were up 9 percent from last month but down 8 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks were down 6 percent from last month but up 5 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were down 7 percent from last month and down 8 percent from a year ago.



Corn Growers Applaud Supreme Court Decision 

Thursday, the United States Supreme Court ruled 7-2 in Monsanto v. Durnell that the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act preempts state labeling requirements that are in addition to or different from federal labeling requirements. This decision puts to rest many years of uncertainty on the future of pesticide labeling and availability for farmers.

“This is great news for all farmers in the country,” said Jed Bower, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) president. “Today’s decision reaffirms that FIFRA is the law of the land and states cannot add undue and unproven requirements not backed by science.”

The EPA has repeatedly confirmed that glyphosate does not cause cancer, as has every major regulatory body around the world. However, a long series of court cases alleging a failure to warn users of the risks of cancer, despite EPA’s repeated conclusion that it does not, have put at odds FIFRA labeling requirements and the ability of states to add additional labels that conflict with federal findings and labels.

Without today’s decision, pesticide manufacturers could have been forced to manage state-based labels that contradict federal findings for all products in all 50 states, which would likely have led to increased costs, reduced product availability for farmers and diminished innovation. NCGA highlighted these concerns in an amicus brief submitted to the Supreme Court earlier this year.



ASA Statement on Supreme Court Decision Regarding FIFRA and Pesticide Labeling

The American Soybean Association released a statement following Thursday’s decision from the U.S. Supreme Court in Durnell v. Monsanto, a case addressing whether state failure-to-warn claims can override federal pesticide labeling decisions under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). The Court ruled that FIFRA and federal labeling requirements preempt state failure-to-warn claims.

“Farmers depend on clear, consistent labeling and a uniform regulatory framework to use pesticides safely and responsibly. The Supreme Court's decision provides much-needed clarity on the role of federal, science-based regulation and reaffirms the value of sound science in the regulatory process.

For decades, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, along with regulatory authorities around the world, has repeatedly concluded that glyphosate does not pose a cancer risk when used as directed. State-level requirements have led to a burdensome regulatory patchwork that conflicts with EPA-approved labels and creates confusion, undermining confidence in the regulatory process and limiting access to essential crop protection tools.”

Earlier this year, ASA joined 11 other agricultural organizations in an amicus curiae brief to the Supreme Court, to defend farmer access to critical crop protection tools against continued threats of regulatory overreach and activist litigation.  



ASA Responds to Supplemental Funding Request

President Trump this week submitted a supplemental funding request to Congress that includes $10 billion in temporary economic assistance for row and specialty crop producers, as well as a proposal to permanently authorize year-round sales of E15. The American Soybean Association released the following statement in response.

"ASA appreciates President Trump for his request to address the economic headwinds facing U.S. soybean farmers and the agriculture industry at large. It is no secret that farm country is struggling, and this temporary economic support will go a long way to provide farmers with economic stability as we look forward to the harvest season," said ASA President Scott Metzger.

"In addition to much-needed economic support, the President has also acknowledged the need for legislation to codify permanent, year-round sales of E15. Year-round E15 is a win for soybean and corn farmers alike, and ASA supports pursuing legislation that will boost ethanol sales while continuing to support the biomass-based diesel industry and its use of soybean oil."




Farm Bureau Applauds President’s Call for Farmer Aid and Year-Round E15, Urges Bipartisan Action

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall applauded the White House request to Congress this week for more than $11 billion in additional assistance for America's farmers and ranchers, as well as the administration's call for year-round access to E15 fuel.

“Farmers are grateful to have the president’s backing at such a critical time after enduring years of economic losses due to inflation and depressed markets. Additional aid will give farmers optimism headed into harvest later this year as they await the benefits of enhanced farm bill programs, better market access overseas and stronger domestic demand.

“Not only do we urge Congress to heed the White House call to deliver economic aid, but we also know both sides of the aisle in Congress recognize more is needed as farmers’ losses nationwide far exceed $11 billion. Over the last decade we have lost nearly 200,000 farms, so we need to stabilize the farm economy and reverse that trend. Additional aid will certainly help.

“The White House also urged Congress to authorize year-round sales of E15 fuel nationwide, which we’ve long called for. Expanding access to E15 would strengthen domestic energy production, increase demand for American-grown crops and save consumers at the gas pump. That’s a win all the way around.

“We look forward to working with Congress and the administration to quickly deliver supplemental aid and year-round E15, in addition to addressing other urgent priorities Farm Bureau has identified, from the farm bill to labor reform and protecting interstate commerce. We’re grateful for the broad recognition among elected leaders of the important role farmers play in our nation's economy, energy security and food security. Ensuring the long-term strength of American agriculture is a goal we can all rally behind.”



The United States and Uzbekistan Announce Early Harvest on Trade, Accelerate Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and Investment Talks

Thursday, as part of the visit of Ambassador Jamieson Greer to Uzbekistan, the United States and Uzbekistan have agreed to an early harvest of trade commitments to strengthen the bilateral economic and investment relationship and ensure reciprocity, balance, and resilience in bilateral trade. Both countries also agreed to accelerate talks towards the swift conclusion of an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and Investment. These announcements build on meetings between President Donald J. Trump and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2025, and reaffirm both countries’ longstanding commitment to strengthening their strategic and economic partnership. 

This early harvest on trade and investment includes:
    Uzbekistan commits to eliminate or reduce tariffs on a wide range of U.S. industrial goods and agricultural products. The United States commits to provide favorable consideration in tariff actions for Uzbekistan industrial goods and agricultural products, to the extent appropriate and consistent with U.S. law.
    The United States and Uzbekistan also agree to strengthen investment cooperation and explore pathways for promoting and facilitating bilateral investments.
    The United States and Uzbekistan will accelerate negotiations towards an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and Investment.

These announcements represent further significant progress in the bilateral trade relationship since the announcement of $32 billion in bilateral commercial deals by President Trump and President Mirziyoyev last year, including an $8.5 billion deal with Boeing as well as purchases and investments in strategic sectors such as critical minerals, mining, energy, finance, and information technology.

The United States strongly supports Uzbekistan in its World Trade Organization accession process and recognizes the substantial progress it has made thus far. 

The United States and Uzbekistan will memorialize this early harvest in the coming weeks.



Apply Now for the 2027 ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leaders Program

If you are passionate about farming and ready to connect with agricultural industry leaders and grow your leadership skills, the American Soybean Association Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program is for you!

Phase I of the 2026-27 Young Leaders program will take place Nov. 30 - Dec. 3 at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Johnston, Iowa. The program continues March 1 - 4, 2027, in New Orleans, LA, in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show.

“For more than 40 years, the Young Leaders program has played a vital role in identifying, developing, and preparing soybean farmers to lead within our industry,” said Ohio soybean farmer and ASA President Scott Metzger. “Its impact on soybean advocacy and leadership development is evident across the industry, with program alumni serving in key leadership roles at the state and national levels. In fact, six members of the current ASA Executive Committee are graduates of the program. We are deeply grateful to Corteva for its longstanding partnership and more than four decades of support in helping cultivate the next generation of soybean leaders.”

Soybean growers — both individuals and couples—are encouraged to apply for the program, which focuses on leadership development, communication skills, emerging agricultural trends and issues, and building a strong network of industry peers. The program is designed for growers who are early in their leadership journey, regardless of age. Spouses and partners are encouraged to participate and play an active role in all aspects of the program, even if they are not employed full-time on the farm.

“Corteva is proud to support the Young Leaders program and its longstanding commitment to developing the next generation of agricultural leaders,” said U.S. Industry Relations Lead for Corteva Agriscience Matt Rekeweg. “The program provides valuable leadership training and professional development opportunities that help growers strengthen their contributions to local, state, and national organizations. Just as important, participants build lasting relationships with fellow farmers and industry professionals who share a passion for innovation, leadership, and creating opportunities for future generations of agriculture.”

ASA and Corteva will work with the 26 state affiliates and the Grain Farmers of Ontario to identify the top producers to represent their states as part of this program.

Learn more about the program and how to apply here https://soygrowers.com/education-resources/grower-education/leadership-development-programs/young-leader-program/. 



Grants available for child agricultural safety, health projects

Letters of Intent will be accepted until noon (Central Time), July 13, 2026, for grants up to $45,000 to support small-scale projects and pilot studies addressing emerging issues in agricultural safety and health.

The National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety will prioritize rapid responses to new or unresolved/complex problems, especially those that reduce and prevent youth exposures and hazards on the farm, increase safety culture, or widely disseminate best practices and other information for use by families and employers. Applicants my request up to $45,000 for research studies and up to $17,000 for non-research or outreach projects.

Applicants must submit a one-page Letter of Intent that includes project goals, objectives and key personnel. Send letters of intent to nccrahs@sanfordhealth.org. If the project concept is judged to have merit, the applicant will be invited to submit a full proposal.

For more information, visit https://marshfieldresearch.org/nccrahs/rfa.