Wednesday October 14 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Info - CVA Returns $5.4M+ Thru Equity Redemptions - EPA Proposal for RVO Reallocation - Cover Crop, Manure Mgt Workshop in LeMars - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress: Harvest Gains Momentum, Still Behind Average

After weeks of wet weather, Nebraska producers made significant harvest progress with 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Oct. 11. However, soybean harvest remains well behind its usual pace, and corn harvest is also trailing normal. Winter wheat planting is nearing completion at 81%, only slightly behind the five-year average.

Topsoil moisture supplies rated 7% very short, 18% short, 59% adequate and 16% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 12% very short, 22% short, 55% adequate and 11% surplus.

Field Crops Report

Corn
    Mature: 91% — equal to the five-year average.
    Harvested: 27% — behind the five-year average of 35%.
    Condition: 5% very poor, 15% poor, 32% fair, 36% good and 12% excellent.

Soybean
    Dropping leaves: 95% — behind the five-year average of 97%.
    Harvested: 26% — behind 55% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 3% very poor, 11% poor, 31% fair, 42% good and 13% excellent.

Winter Wheat
    Planted: 81% — behind 85% for the five-year average.
    Emerged: 48% — behind 59% for the five-year average.

Sorghum
    Mature: 77% — behind 84% for the five-year average.
    Harvested: 17% — behind 30% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 6% very poor, 15% poor, 37% fair, 37% good and 5% excellent.

Pasture and Range 
    Condition: 26% very poor, 21% poor, 28% fair, 24% good and 1% excellent.

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

Editor’s note: Year-ago comparisons are unavailable because USDA NASS did not release Crop Progress reports during this period in 2025 due to a lapse in federal funding.




Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 5.5 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Oct. 11, 2026. Topsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 23 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 6 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 22 percent surplus. 

Ninety-five percent of corn has reached maturity, which is on par with the five-year average. Fourteen percent of corn has been harvested, which is 20 percentage points behind the five-year average. Corn condition rated 71 percent good to excellent. 

Ninety-four percent of soybeans are dropping leaves, which is 2 percentage points behind the five-year average. Thirty-one percent of soybeans have been harvested, which is 28 percentage points behind the five-year average. Soybean condition rated 69 percent good to excellent. 

Pasture condition rated 72 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

A week of dry weather helped farmers advance corn and soybean harvests, though both remained slightly behind the five-year average, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Tuesday. The report, which is normally released on Mondays, was delayed this week due to the Columbus Day holiday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn mature was pegged at 91%, steady with the five-year average.
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 33% of corn had been harvested nationally as of Oct. 11, 6 percentage points behind the five-year average of 39%. 
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 56% of the crop remaining in fields was in good-to-excellent condition, 2 percentage points higher than the previous week's 54%. Seventeen percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, 1 percentage point below the previous week's 18%.

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 92%, 2 percentage points behind the five-year average of 94%.
-- Harvest progress: NASS estimated that 46% of soybeans had been harvested as of Sunday, 4 percentage points behind the five-year average of 50%. 
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 57% of soybeans were in good-to-excellent condition, steady with the previous week.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting was estimated at 51% complete nationally, 7 percentage points behind the five-year average of 58%. 
-- Crop development: Winter wheat emerged was estimated at 27%, 5 percentage points behind the five-year average 32%.



CVA Returns $5.47 Million to Member-Owner Through Equity Redemptions

The Central Valley Ag (CVA) is returning $5.47 million to patrons through revolving and age-based equity redemptions approved by the CVA Board of Directors.

The total includes $4.17 million in revolving equity redemptions for equity earned in 2014 and approximately $1.3 million in age-based equity redemptions to eligible patrons.

“Returning equity is an important part of delivering value to our member-owners and recognizing their continued investment in the cooperative,” said Nic McCarthy, CVA president and CEO. “Their support allows CVA to continue investing in the cooperative while returning value when our financial performance allows.”

As an owner of CVA, a member’s business is returned in the form of cash patronage or reinvested into the cooperative as equity. That equity is then used to strengthen and improve the cooperative’s ability to serve its members. When the cooperative performs well, the board may vote to issue revolving equity redemptions, providing cash back as a return on the member’s investment in the cooperative.

Age-based equity provides another opportunity for CVA to return value to eligible patrons. The $1.3 million in age-based equity included in this redemption is qualified and non-taxable.

“As a cooperative, our strength comes from the members we serve,” said Luke Carlson, CVA board chairman. “These redemptions are another way we can recognize that support while continuing to build a strong cooperative for the future.”

Revolving equity may be qualified or non-qualified, which will be indicated on the check stub. Qualified revolving equity will be nontaxable in the 2026 tax year, while non-qualified equity will be taxable.

When combined with expected patronage for the fiscal year ending Aug. 31, 2026, which is set to be paid in November 2026, CVA will continue to return significant value to its patrons. Investments made on behalf of members, along with their continued utilization, help strengthen the cooperative and its ability to serve member-owners into the future.



HUSKER RESEARCHERS EXPLORE HIDDEN NITROGEN, NEW WAYS TO REDUCE GROUNDWATER RISK
(updated with correct funding amount)

A University of Nebraska–Lincoln research team has received a three-year, $496,722 National Science Foundation grant to investigate an understudied reservoir of organic nitrogen that may shape groundwater quality long after nitrogen management strategies are in place. A separate five-year, $570,000-plus award from the Nebraska Corn Board will help the researchers evaluate approaches that may proactively reduce nitrate risk before it reaches groundwater.

Clean groundwater is vital to drinking water supplies, agriculture and rural communities, but nitrogen contamination remains a persistent challenge. About four out of five Nebraskans drink groundwater. Much of it sits beneath some of the most productive agricultural land in the world. Nitrogen fertilizer is a critical crop nutrient; however, when it leaves the root zone, it becomes a loss to the farmer and a concern for drinking water.

The puzzling part is what happens when nitrogen management practices are improved. Nitrate levels in some Nebraska wells continue to rise, even years after modern nutrient strategies to reduce excess nitrogen use have been implemented. A research team based at the Nebraska Water Center thinks the explanation lies in historical nitrogen stores buried in the deep vadose zone between the surface and the water table. The two new awards will support collaborative efforts to better understand these underground processes and evaluate proactive solutions.

Nebraska Water Center researchers have studied the vadose zone for four decades to understand how nutrients, including nitrogen, move from the land surface to the groundwater. The vadose zone is a critical region for the storage, transport and transformation of chemicals that can affect groundwater quality.

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient present in many forms and is applied as a fertilizer to crops like corn. While these plants take up the nutrients they need, any remaining nitrogen can convert into mobile nitrate. However, the process of particular interest to the Husker research team is if this mobile nitrate may react with soil carbon through microbes to become bound as organic nitrogen in the deeper soil layers. This reaction could potentially act as a slow-release reservoir that gradually breaks down and generates new nitrate years later in the deep vadose zone, moving toward the groundwater.

Nebraska Water Center researchers have found that organic nitrogen accounts for a large majority of total nitrogen stored in Nebraska’s deep vadose zone. While most studies of that underground nitrogen reservoir measure nitrate, the research team measures everything else, too.

“Most of the nitrogen down there isn’t nitrate at all,” said Arindam Malakar, assistant research professor at the Nebraska Water Center and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, who leads the new project and is part of the School of Natural Resources. “It’s organic nitrogen, locked in forms nobody has been counting. It can break down slowly and may keep making new nitrate long after the fertilizer is gone.”

In conjunction with the NSF funding, the research team is also investigating a novel nitrate remediation approach currently under development. The goal is reducing the amount of nitrate in the vadose zone that becomes a groundwater contaminant, entering drinking water sources and creating challenges for communities and well owners. The Nebraska Corn Board, through corn checkoff funds, has supported the project “Remediation of Nitrate Plume Within the Vadose Zone, Being Proactive to Protect Groundwater Quality,” with more than $570,000 across five years, subject to the board's annual proposal review and approval.

“The primary reason we want to do it is to reduce the cost of treating water,” Malakar said.

Rather than treating water after it reaches the aquifer, the work focuses on nitrate while it is still held in the vadose zone above the water table, which is expected to be more efficient and economical. Preliminary estimates suggest the approach could be less expensive than current water treatment processes that cities and communities use to treat groundwater to safe levels for drinking water.

Initial controlled laboratory studies have shown promising results. Researchers will next evaluate the approach across soil conditions representative of different landscapes across Nebraska and assess effectiveness, repeatability, environmental safety, feasibility and regulatory considerations before any potential field deployment.

Malakar said the appeal of the approach is timing.

“By the time you see nitrate in a well, the decision that put it there was made a long time ago,” he said. “Once it’s in the aquifer, you’re paying to take it back out.”

Malakar envisions a future where the technology is deployed across Nebraska, reducing the amount of nitrate in the vadose zone that becomes a contaminant in the groundwater. That is several years out and contingent on results at every stage, from laboratory experiments to controlled field testing. But if it works, the project’s success could reduce the treatment burden on communities that rely on groundwater.

To meet the research team and learn more about its vadose zone research, visit https://go.unl.edu/vadosestory.



Cover Crop and Manure Management Field Day To Be Held in Le Mars Nov. 3

Iowa Learning Farms will host a cover crop and manure management field day as part of their “Beyond the Basics: Advanced Cover Crop Series” in Le Mars on Tuesday, Nov. 3, from noon to 2 p.m. The event is open to farmers and landowners at no cost and includes a complimentary meal.

“Cover crops play a key role in ensuring healthy land and water resources in our state. Although livestock manure can add another moving piece, it also offers an opportunity to diversify nutrient sources needed for crop production,” said Mitch Harting, water outreach specialist with Iowa Learning Farms. “This field day will offer more insights into how cover crops and manure can be used together to maximize their benefits.”

The field day will feature Leah Ten Napel, field agronomist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, who will share the important role cover crops play on the landscape and how they can be integrated into a corn-soybean system. Daniel Andersen, associate professor and extension manure management specialist with Iowa State, will discuss how manure can be integrated into systems with living cover. The field day will also feature Tony Schroeder, local farmer and Plymouth County Soil and Water Conservation District commissioner, who will share about his experiences using cover crops and manure on his farm.

The field day will begin at the upper level of the Le Mars Convention Center, located at 275 12th St SE, Le Mars. It will continue at the Tony Schroeder Farm, located on the corner of K64 and 230th St. 

The event is open to farmers and landowners, though reservations are required to ensure adequate space and food. For reasonable accommodations and to RSVP, please contact Harting at 515-294-8912 or ilf@iastate.edu by Oct. 27. Attendees will be entered in a drawing for Iowa State Prairie Strips honey.

Iowa Learning Farms field days and workshops are supported by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. For more information, visit Iowa Learning Farms website https://www.iowalearningfarms.org/.  



ISA Welcomes EPA Proposal for Full Biofuel Reallocation

The Iowa Soybean Association Tuesday welcomes the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to fully reallocate renewable fuel volumes lost to 2025 small refinery exemptions under the federal Renewable Fuel Standard. Protecting the historic renewable fuel volumes established in the 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligation rule is critical to sustaining domestic biofuel demand and supporting Iowa soybean farmers as they navigate ongoing economic pressures and seek stronger markets for their crops.

“We thank Administrator Zeldin and the Trump administration for signaling their commitment to farmers by proposing to restore 100% of biofuel demand lost to 2025 small refinery exemptions,” said Lee Brooke, ISA president and soybean farmer from Clarinda. “Iowa farmers are navigating a challenging farm economy while bringing in this year’s crop. This proposal offers the potential for greater certainty and much-needed domestic demand for soybeans if finalized later this year. We’re encouraged by this step forward and urge the EPA to finalize the rule swiftly to help provide the market certainty farmers need.”



Iowa Corn Growers Welcome EPA Proposed  Ethanol Rule

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) thanks the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Trump Administration, and our champions in Congress for their support of Iowa’s corn farmers and the biofuels industry. Yesterday, Iowa Corn leaders met with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to ask for reallocation so biofuel demand would not be harmed.  Iowa Corn has worked for years pointing out to current and past administrations the negative impact of small refinery waivers.  Iowa Corn first pointed this out in a White House meeting in 2019 that small refinery waivers should be reallocated, so no harm is done to corn growers.  With a long road behind us, today, Administrator Zeldin announced a proposed rule that would reallocate 100 percent of the 2025 waived small refinery exemption volumes to the renewable fuel volume requirements.

ICGA President Steve Kuiper a farmer from Knoxville issued the following statement: “Iowa’s corn farmers welcome the EPA’s proposals to provide reliable opportunities for market access. As farmers harvest, we prove year after year that we can deliver a bountiful crop. The Trump Administration and EPA are sending a strong market signal that energy independence matters, while supporting farmers and biofuels producers.”

Iowa Corn requested that EPA finalize a proposed rule streamlining regulations around ethanol including E15 usage in existing infrastructure and supporting opening new markets in the marine industry such as maritime fuel.  Iowa Corn appreciates EPA Administrator Zeldin’s time he took to visit with Iowa farmers. 



IRFA Applauds EPA Draft Rule to Fully Reallocate Lost RFS Volumes From Refinery Exemptions

Tuesday, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin released a draft rule that fully reallocates volumes lost due to refinery exemptions (SREs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), marking an important first step toward ensuring the integrity of the RFS providing greater certainty for farmers and biofuel producers.

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw issued the following statement:

“Biofuels producers and farmers will sleep easier tonight knowing that the draft reallocation rule is moving quickly towards finalization. Today is a great first step, and we thank Administrator Zeldin and the EPA for sending a strong signal to farmers and biofuels producers that these gallons matter. Fully reallocating the lost gallons will ensure the robust 2026-2027 RFS blending levels remain intact, thereby supporting Iowa’s biofuels plants and providing the market certainty our industry needs to keep growing. We appreciate EPA’s action and look forward to submitting comments during the process. We hope the rule can be finalized expeditiously.”



ASA Backs EPA Proposal for Full Biofuel Reallocation

The American Soybean Association welcomes the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to fully reallocate renewable fuel volumes lost to 2025 small refinery exemptions under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Maintaining the historic renewable fuel volumes established in the 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligation rule is a priority for ASA as soybean farmers work to protect domestic biofuel demand amid continued economic pressures.

“ASA applauds Administrator Zeldin and the Trump Administration for keeping their commitment to farmers and proposing to restore 100% of biofuel volume impacted by 2025 small refinery exemption actions,” said ASA Vice President Dave Walton, an Iowa soybean farmer. “Soybean farmers are navigating a tough farm economy, and the administration’s strong domestic biofuel policies will continue to drive much-needed market demand in the U.S. We are encouraged by today’s proposal and urge EPA to get it across the finish line quickly.”

ASA urges EPA to finalize this supplemental rulemaking to reallocate biofuel volumes as quickly as possible.



Corn Farmers Thank EPA for Reallocation Announcement

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Tuesday that it is proposing to reallocate 100% of the difference between projected and actual exempted gallons lost to small refinery exemptions in the 2025 renewable volume obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard. In response to this development, Matt Frostic, Michigan corn farmer and NCGA president, released the following statement: 

"We are pleased to see that the administration has kept its pledge to protect farmers and biofuel producers while administering this critical program, and we appreciate that biofuel producers will be kept whole with the reallocation of all waived volumes.  

“Biofuels provide essential energy supplies for our nation, and corn farmers are proud to contribute to our nation’s energy security. We hope that the Renewable Fuel Standard and the small refinery exemption program are managed with certainty in the years to come."  

NCGA will submit comments to EPA ahead of the December 4 deadline. 



Stagnant Cutout Values
David Anderson, Extension Specialist – Texas A&M University

While cattle prices have declined sharply since July, the Choice boxed beef cutout value has seen little movement. The cutout value represents the value of the seven primal beef cuts in the proper proportion of the carcass. Cutout values are often used as a good representation of the wholesale value of the beef carcass. 

The Choice cutout declined from $397 per cwt the week before the July 4th holiday to $363 per cwt by the first week of August. Declining cutout values in the weeks following Independence Day are the normal seasonal price pattern. Cutout values tend to increase leading up to Labor Day, and they did this year, climbing back to a weekly average of $388 by late August, although the expected Labor Day price rally was muted. The Choice cutout has since remained in a range between $374 and $379. While the cutout remains at historically high levels, it has been below last year’s Labor Day surge. So, comparing to last year’s price levels is a bit misleading in that last September’s $413 per cwt price peak was a record high, except for two weeks in May 2020 when COVID shut packing plants. 

Among the primal cut values that make up the cutout, the primal rib is the only one climbing in value and hitting new highs for the year. The Choice Primal Rib value hit $667 for the week of October 2nd. The rib normally increases seasonally up to the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Wholesale ribeyes appear to be starting their pre-holiday run, with wholesale prices increasing almost $200 per cwt in the last 4 weeks to $1665 per cwt. 

Most of the rest of the primal cuts, round, brisket, plate, and flank, have been declining in value as they often do seasonally. The decline in the primal flank value has been especially striking, down 27 percent compared to a year ago and 36 percent lower than its peak in June. Flank values normally decline into fall, but this year’s decline has been much larger than normal. Primal chucks have averaged about $330 per cwt since early 2026. 

Where to From Here?
The Choice beef cutout tends to decline slightly in the fall. Beef production normally increases, and changing consumer purchases result in lower prices. This fall, continued tight beef supplies should keep the overall cutout value historically high. Given the normal seasonal pattern, it is difficult to see sharply higher cutout values boosting cattle prices.  

Tuesday October 13 Ag News - Nebraska Net Farm Income Jumps 34% in '25 - CLAAS Opens Omaha R&D Center - SIRE Acquires Ord Ethanol Plant - IA Butchery Grants Available - Nominate for NCBA Environmental Stewarship Awards - and more!

Net Farm Income Leaps 
NeFB Economic Tidbits newsletter

Livestock receipts and federal government payments underpinned a leap in Nebraska net farm income last year. The U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service (ERS) estimates nominal (non-inflation adjusted) net farm income in Nebraska was $8.12 billion in 2025, a 34% increase over the prior year. It was the third time income exceeded $8 billion, and the third-highest in history in nominal terms. The record is $9.3 billion, hit in 2023. Among states, real (inflation-adjusted) net farm income was highest in California at $26 billion, followed by Texas at $15 billion, Iowa at $10 billion, and Nebraska. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the four states accounted for more than 30% of the nation’s net farm income. The ERS pegged national net farm income at $238 billion, up just over 1% from 2024.  

Nebraska’s total value of agriculture production last year was estimated at almost $38 billion, a record, rising almost 12% from 2024. Driving the rise were meat animal receipts, up 14%, and poultry and egg receipts, up 37%. Crop receipts were down 3%. Government payments also saw a marked increase, up almost $1 billion. Not surprisingly, expenses were higher too, up 11%. The largest increases were seen in livestock purchases, pesticides, and machinery hire and custom work.  

Last year continued a pattern of sizable annual swings in income since at least 2010 (Figure 2). The average percentage change over the 15-year period in absolute terms was 39%, meaning that farmers must manage for significant year-to-year fluctuations in income. Weather, global events, politics, and international competition all contribute to the volatility which confronts farmers in all phases of their operations — production, marketing, purchasing inputs, and financial management. The volatility only adds to the complexity of managing farms and ranches in today’s agriculture.  

The ERS’s September forecast predicted U.S. net farm income for this year would rise 2%. Again, positive returns for livestock producers and federal government assistance are expected to fuel the rise. Just last week, the USDA announced it will distribute $13.8 billion in federal farm payments this fall. Forecasts by economists at the Universities of Nebraska and Missouri last spring projected Nebraska net farm income could exceed $9 billion this year. Updated estimates, though, should be forthcoming this fall. The livestock sector and government payments will continue to support higher income, but positive returns for crop producers will be a challenge.   



CLAAS Opens New Research & Development Center in Omaha

CLAAS officially opened its new Research & Development Center in Omaha, Nebraska last week, marking another significant investment in the company’s long-term commitment to farmers across the United States and Canada. The new facility expands CLAAS’ ability to develop, test and refine agricultural technology specifically for North American farming conditions.

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen joined CLAAS employees, community leaders, and other guests for the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 8.
 
“This ribbon cutting underscores CLAAS’ confidence in Omaha as a hub for innovation serving North American agriculture," said Jan-Hendrik Mohr, CEO, CLAAS Group. “The new R&D Center brings together local expertise, customer insights and CLAAS engineering capabilities, enabling us to develop agricultural machinery tailored specifically to North American farming. It is a key element of our multi-year, $100 million investment and growth strategy for North America. By combining these strengths in Omaha, we will develop the next generation of high-performance agricultural technology.”

Located on the growing CLAAS Omaha campus — home to the company’s North American headquarters, LEXION combine assembly plant and CLAAS Training Academy, where dealers, employees and future agricultural professionals are trained and developed — the new R&D Center reinforces CLAAS’ long-standing commitment to the region.

“We are delighted that CLAAS continues to invest in its Omaha campus and in Nebraska,” said Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new CLAAS R&D Center. “For more than 25 years, CLAAS has been an important employer in our region. This investment strengthens our economy, creates high-quality opportunities for skilled workers and reinforces Nebraska’s strong connection to agriculture.”

CLAAS has been part of the Omaha community for more than 25 years, and the company’s continued investment demonstrates the important role Nebraska plays in CLAAS’ North American operations.

The campus employs more than 250 people and plays a critical role in serving farmers across the U.S. and Canada. The Omaha operation brings together manufacturing, engineering, training and customer support — creating a North American base from which CLAAS can respond to the needs of farmers and agricultural businesses across the continent.

“CLAAS’ commitment goes well beyond manufacturing,” Governor Pillen added. “The company is investing in research and innovation, customer experience, quality jobs and vocational training. By helping develop the skilled workforce Nebraska needs, CLAAS is creating lasting value for our agricultural community and for the future of our state.”

“We appreciate the partnership and support of Governor Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development,” said Mohr. “Nebraska is an ideal location for this investment because of its deep agricultural roots, skilled workforce and connection to farmers across North America.”

Investing in Nebraska and North American agriculture
The new R&D Center represents another major investment in Omaha, strengthening CLAAS’ role in Nebraska’s agricultural, manufacturing and technology economy. The 44,800-square-foot facility — including approximately 12,000 square feet of enclosed space — provides 25% more capacity than the previous off-site R&D location and supports high-value engineering and manufacturing jobs across the region.

Designed to support the full development process, the center features two levels of office space, expanded instrumentation, logistics and equipment areas, a heated indoor wash bay and enhanced physical and electronic security. These capabilities enable CLAAS teams to collect field data, analyze results and refine machine performance more efficiently.

“This facility strengthens our ability to develop, test and refine innovative solutions that directly support our customers in the field. By tailoring our machinery to the local conditions, crops and operating demands of North American agriculture, we can deliver technology that performs where it matters most — on the farm,” said Claudius Knierbein, Head of Engineering for CLAAS Omaha.

Testing for North American farming conditions
The new CLAAS Research & Development Center will be the hub for all North American testing activities. While much of the testing will take place on farms throughout the country under various soil, weather and crop conditions, the analysis of those tests will be interpreted by engineers working in the new facility.

That connection between the field and the engineering team is central to the Omaha R&D operation. Testing in real-world North American conditions allows CLAAS engineers to evaluate machine performance across the wide range of crops, soils, weather and farming practices found throughout the United States and Canada.

“Our customers farm in some of the most diverse agricultural conditions in the world,” said Knierbein. “The ability to test machines in those conditions, bring the data back to Omaha and work directly with our engineering teams helps us develop solutions that are relevant to North American farmers.”

A long-term North American commitment
The new R&D Center builds on CLAAS’ established presence in Omaha, which includes the company’s North American headquarters, LEXION combine assembly operation and CLAAS Training Academy. Together, these operations make Omaha an increasingly important center for CLAAS’ North American activities.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Governor Jim Pillen for Re-Election  

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) has endorsed Jim Pillen for Governor. Pillen is seeking re-election to the office he’s held since 2022. The NEFB-PAC endorsement is based on results of the organization’s grassroots selection process, which involves gathering input from members and County Farm Bureaus across the state.  

“We are pleased to endorse Governor Jim Pillen, for re-election,” said Katie Olson of Atkinson, chair of the NEFB-PAC and first vice president of  Nebraska Farm Bureau. “Governor Pillen understands the importance of agriculture to Nebraska and shares many of our broader policy goals.” 

Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue echoed those sentiments in making the announcement.  

“Nebraska needs a Governor who is committed to protecting and defending Nebraska’s farm and ranch families. We need a Governor who understands the importance of growing Nebraska’s economy through agriculture. We need a Governor who can help create an environment where it’s possible for the next generation to come home to our farms and ranches. We believe Governor Pillen is the right choice to make those things happen and we look forward to working with him to achieve those ends,” said McHargue.  

“Nebraska agriculture is the beating heart of this state,” said Governor Pillen. “I’m grateful for unity in Nebraska’s agricultural community behind our campaign – and, as the first Nebraska governor from agriculture in over 100 years, I will keep fighting for our family farms and the values that make this state great.” 



SENATOR RICKETTS UNVEILS REBUILD THE AMERICAN HERD PLAN, RECEIVES NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN SUPPORT

Last week Friday, Senator Pete Ricketts unveiled his Rebuild the American Herd Plan at the Sustainable Beef plant in North Platte, a comprehensive strategy to grow the American cattle herd, strengthen Nebraska ranchers, and lower beef prices for families.

Senator Ricketts was joined at the press conference by Sustainable Beef Co-Founder Rusty Kemp, Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue, State Senator Tanya Storer, and Former Nebraska Cattlemen President Steve Hanson.

Senator Pete Ricketts said: "I will always stand up against foreign beef that undercuts Nebraska ranchers. We helped build Sustainable Beef to give ranchers an alternative to the Big 4 packers and a fair price for their product. This plan keeps that fight going."

At the press conference, Senator Ricketts received the support of the Nebraska Cattlemen Association.

Nebraska Cattlemen Past President Steve Hanson said: "Nebraska Cattlemen is grateful for our longstanding relationship with Senator Pete Ricketts, as he has proven time and time again that he will go to bat for our industry. He is a trusted leader with a proven record of supporting policies to protect cattle producers. We are proud to support his re-election for the United States Senate and his plan to rebuild the American cow herd."

Senator Ricketts is the only candidate in this race who understands agriculture and has a record of delivering for ranchers. As governor, he was the first in the country to stop Biden's 30x30 land grab. He secured $20 million in infrastructure to help launch Sustainable Beef, a rancher-owned packing plant in North Platte.

He led trade missions that produced record ag exports three years running. In the Senate, he fought the EPA's WOTUS rule, made the death tax exemption permanent to protect more than 44,000 Nebraska family farms, introduced the PLOT Act to stop Communist China from buying American farmland, and introduced the Securing American Agriculture Act to bring critical feed production home from Communist China.

The Rebuild the American Herd Plan addresses nine key areas: competition in meatpacking, honest labeling, export markets, protecting family ranches, standing up to Communist China, faster disaster recovery, stopping New World screwworm, securing America's feed supply, and training the next generation.

Read the full plan: petericketts.com/rebuilding-the-american-cattle-herd-plan



Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy, LLC to Acquire GreenAmerica Biofuels Ord LLC from Pilot Travel Centers

Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy, LLC ("SIRE"), a farmer-owned ethanol producer, announced it has acquired GreenAmerica Biofuels Ord LLC, a subsidiary of Pilot Travel Centers LLC ("Pilot"). GreenAmerica Biofuels Ord LLC owns and operates an approximately 70 million-gallon-per-year ethanol plant in Ord, Nebraska.

The acquisition is a direct step in SIRE's stated growth strategy: expanding its production base, strengthening its scale, and creating new opportunities for value-added agriculture by acquiring high-quality assets with strong operating track records, reliable feedstock supply and access to diverse markets. Upon closing, SIRE's combined production capacity will grow to approximately 230 million gallons of ethanol per year across two plants in Iowa and Nebraska.

"Our strategy is simple and disciplined: grow by investing in Council Bluffs and acquiring quality assets that make SIRE stronger for our members, our farmers and our customers," said Eric Fobes, President and CEO of SIRE. "The Ord plant fits that standard. It is a well-maintained facility with an experienced team, located in the heart of one of the most productive corn regions in the country. We see it as a strong complement to our Council Bluffs operation, and we're excited to welcome the Ord employees to the SIRE team."

The Ord facility sits in central Nebraska's corn belt, giving SIRE a second origination region, added scale in marketing ethanol, distillers grains and corn oil, and greater operational diversity across its asset base. SIRE plans to retain the plant's workforce and continue local grain purchasing, maintaining the facility's role as a key market for area farmers.

The transaction closed October 9, 2026. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed and remain confidential. SIRE was advised by Omaha, NE based law firm McGrath North Mullin & Kratz PC LLO.



Community Meat Lockers Invited to Apply for Choose Iowa Butchery Equipment Grants

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today invited small-scale meat processors and custom lockers to apply for a Choose Iowa Butchery Innovation Equipment Only Grant. Eligible businesses may receive up to $20,000 of state funding to purchase cold storage, meat processing and/or packaging equipment that helps increase meat and poultry processing capacity in Iowa.

“As I travel the state meeting with farmers, I consistently hear about the need for more local meat and poultry processing. That need continues to intensify as we see larger plants closing and Iowa’s livestock producers working to grow the U.S. beef herd,” said Secretary Naig. “The Choose Iowa Butchery Innovation grant program helps local meat lockers and custom processors grow their businesses to better serve local farmers and consumers. I will continue asking the Iowa Legislature for additional funding for this and other Choose Iowa programs that support farm families, small businesses and rural communities, and help strengthen the local food system.”

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) has allocated $105,000 to support the Choose Iowa Butchery Innovation Grant program in FY2027.

“The Butchery Innovation Grant Program continues to be an important tool for Iowa's independent meat processors,” said Iowa Meat Processors Association President Katie Anderson, co-owner of Edgewood Locker in Edgewood. “These investments help businesses modernize operations, improve efficiency, and create opportunities for future growth while continuing to provide high-quality processing services to Iowa livestock producers and consumers.”

How to Apply
State or federally inspected, small-scale meat processors based in Iowa are eligible to apply for the Choose Iowa Butchery Innovation Equipment Only Grant. Eligible businesses may receive up to $20,000 to purchase cold storage, meat processing and/or packaging equipment that helps increase meat and poultry processing capacity in Iowa. Applicants must provide at least a one-to-one financial match. Grant funds are paid out as a reimbursement after the project is completed. Full details including financial matching requirements, application, eligibility, and scoring criteria are available on the Choose Iowa website https://www.chooseiowa.com/grants/butcheryinnovation.

Grant applications should be submitted through the link provided on the Choose Iowa website by 12 p.m./CT on Nov. 20, 2026. Grant recipients will be announced in December 2026. The project cannot be in progress before the application is submitted and projects must be completed by June 30, 2027. Questions about the Butchery Innovation Equipment Only Grant or the Choose Iowa marketing program and member benefits may be emailed to chooseiowagrant@iowaagriculture.gov.

In 2025, IDALS awarded $355,000 in Choose Iowa Butchery Innovation grants to nine local businesses. Approved projects required at least a one-to-one financial match, generating a total investment of about $1.94 million to expand local processing capacity in nine Iowa counties.



2026 Siouxland Agricultural Lender’s Seminar Set for October 29 in Sioux Center

Agricultural lenders, consultants, farm financial advisors and producers are invited to attend the 2026 Siouxland Agricultural Lender’s Seminar on Thursday, October 29, at the Terrace View Event Center, 230 St Andrews Way, Sioux Center, Iowa.

This year’s seminar will provide attendees with current, research-based information to support their work with agricultural producers in managing risk and making informed financial decisions. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., with programming running from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Seminar topics and presenters include:
    Water Quality Rights and Regulations- Dan Anderson, Associate Professor, Iowa State University works with manure management and treatment, water quality, and nutrient cycling in agroecosystems. Anderson will discuss the things producers will consider as they seek to invest in water infrastructure and how each falls into their rights and abides by state and federal regulations.
    Rewriting the Rules: Policy, Markets, and the Decisions Reshaping Agriculture- Susan Stroud, Founder of No Bull Agriculture. She will discuss trade deals, biofuel policy and shifting global demand are reshaping crop and livestock markets. This session examines what is driving prices into 2027, where margins are most vulnerable and what lenders should be watching as producers make decisions in a rapidly changing market.
    Land Markets, Machinery and the Economy R.D. Schrader, Shrader Real Estate and Auction Company, Inc. A lifelong auctioneer from Indiana, Schrader pioneered the M3 or Maximum Marketing Method land auction process. Today, almost every farmland auction in the country is conducted in this manner. He will share his insights on the land and equipment market.
    What’s Up With the Farm Bill; Guang Tian, assistant professor, Agricultural Economics, Iowa State University. Guang will outline the action or inaction concerning the Farm Bill.
     Dairy Market Outlook and Risk Management, Will Babler, Pinion Risk Management. Babler has worked in commodity risk management since 2005 advising producers, processors, and endusers on margin management in dairy, grain, livestock and biofuels. He leads PRM’s Dairy Risk Management group and helps guide the firm’s technology strategy and crop insurance solutions. He will share his insights into what’s happening in the dairy market.
    Non-traditional ag partners- Eric Weuve, the North Central Iowa Farm Management Specialist, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Weuve will discuss the trend of non-traditional management and financial partners in production agriculture.
    Review of Iowa Dairy Producer Survey- Fred Hall, Dairy Field Specialist, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Every five years the dairy team does a producer survey and Hall will recap what the current survey tells us about the Iowa producers.

“This seminar has proven itself in assisting Siouxland lenders and financial advisors as a local source for current information which they can use as they help producers manage risk,” said Fred Hall, ISU Extension and Outreach Dairy Specialist.

Registration Cost for the day:
    $100 for the first attendee
    $75 for each additional attendee from the same business
    $30 for students
    $125 for day-of registrations (lunch not guaranteed)

The Preregistration deadline is October 23, attendees can register online at go.iastate.edu/AGLENDERS2026 or by mail. Make checks payable to Sioux County Extension and send to ISU Extension and Outreach Sioux County, 400 Central Ave. NW, Ste 700, Orange City, IA 51041.

For questions or more information, contact Fred Hall at 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu.



Corbet Scientific Launches IRRAMAX, Advancing a New Era in Irrigation Technology

Corbet Scientific today announced IRRAMAX, a polymer-based irrigation enhancer designed to improve water distribution and moisture retention in the crop root zone. The company introduced IRRAMAX at the CAPCA conference in Anaheim, California, on October 11, 2026, at booth 516.

IRRAMAX uses a long-chain polymer to promote lateral water movement and retain moisture in the root zone. The technology is designed to improve irrigation efficiency by reducing uneven water distribution and water loss below the root zone.

Field Trial Results
From August 2023 through May 2026, Corbet Scientific evaluated IRRAMAX in five paired-plot field trials conducted in collaboration with agriMeasures, LLC. The trials included strawberries and citrus in Florida, cotton in Texas, and corn in Nebraska. Each trial compared IRRAMAX-treated plots with grower standard practice (GSP) check plots. Soil moisture was measured using Sentek capacitance probes across all sites.

IRRAMAX-treated plots recorded higher volumetric soil moisture than GSP check plots in all five trials. In an 83-day Texas cotton trial, the longest of the five studies, soil moisture in the top 12 inches of the treated plot was more than three times that of the GSP plot. In an eight-day Nebraska corn trial, soil moisture readings in treated plots averaged approximately 17% higher than GSP, with a more uniform moisture profile at depths of 4 to 12 inches.

Salinity was also monitored at the Florida citrus and Texas cotton sites. At both sites, IRRAMAX-treated plots recorded lower and more stable salinity readings than GSP check plots.

“I’ve spent nearly five decades in agriculture as a grower and researcher, and across these trials the pattern was consistent: IRRAMAX increases the soil’s holding capacity,” said David Lankford, Research Director at agriMeasures, LLC, who led the trials.

Results varied by site, measurement depth and trial duration. The studies used paired-plot comparisons rather than large-scale replication. The full technical report is available upon request.



Nominations Accepted for 2027 Environmental Stewardship Award

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is accepting nominations for the 2027 Environmental Stewardship Awards. Established in 1991, the Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) annually recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of cattle producers across the country.

“Cattle producers across the country work tirelessly to steward the land for the next generation,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver. “This program celebrates their conservation efforts and shares their success stories.”

Any individual, group or organization is eligible to nominate one individual or business raising or feeding cattle. While individuals and families may not nominate themselves, they should be involved in the preparation of the application. Past nominees are encouraged to resubmit applications; however, previous winners may not reapply.

Along with a typed application, one nomination letter and three letters of recommendation highlighting the nominee’s leadership in conservation are required. The application deadline is Feb. 15, 2027. Nominees do not have to be members of NCBA but should support the objectives of their state and national organization.

Award winners are selected by a committee of representatives from universities, cattle production, conservation organizations as well as federal and state agencies. Judges consider the management of water, wildlife, vegetation, air, and soil along with leadership abilities and the viability of the business. Regional winners will be recognized in summer 2027, and the national winner will be announced during CattleCon 2028 in New Orleans, Louisiana, in February 2028.

The Environmental Stewardship Award Program is an initiative of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the National Cattlemen’s Foundation and is made possible with generous support from Corteva Agriscience and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. For more information and to download the nomination packet, visit www.environmentalstewardship.org.

Monday October 12 Ag News - USDA Crop Production Estimates Updated - ARC/PLC Informational Webinar Oct 15 - 100 Days of Trade with the EU - Lawmakers Urge EPA to Maintain Integrity of RFS - and more!

 USDA Crop Production Estimates - Oct 9, 2026 

Corn production for grain is forecast at 16.0 billion bushels, up 1 percent from the previous forecast but down 5 percent from 2025. If realized, this would be the second highest grain production on record for the Nation. The average yield is forecast at 181.2 bushels per acre, up 2.7 bushels from the previous forecast and but down 5.3 bushels from 2025.

Corn by State
Nebraska .....:     188.0 bu/acre    1,806,680,000 bu total production
Iowa ............:     219.0 bu/acre    2,803,200,000 bu total production

Soybean production for beans is forecast at a record high 4.56 billion bushels, up 1 percent from the previous forecast and up 7 percent from 2025. Yields are expected to average a record high 53.1 bushels per acre, up 0.3 bushel from the previous forecast and up 0.1 bushel from 2025.

Soybeans by State 
Nebraska .....:      59.0 bu/acre      312,110,000 bu total production
Iowa ............:      63.0 bu/acre      612,990,000 bu total production



Commodity Crop Safety Net Informational Webinar on Oct. 15

USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Nebraska is partnering with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability (CAP) on a webinar designed to educate commodity crop producers on the 2026 and 2027 Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs election and enrollment process. Producers can make elections and enroll for the 2026 crop year from now through Dec. 11, 2026, and for the 2027 crop year from Nov. 2, 2026, through March 15, 2027. Producers can learn about the ARC and PLC options for 2026 and 2027 during the FSA/CAP webinar scheduled for 12:00 p.m. CT on Thursday, Oct. 15.

Cathy Anderson, FSA production and compliance programs chief in Nebraska, and Brad Lubben, Extension policy specialist in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Department of Agricultural Economics, will present information relevant for producers, ag professionals and ag stakeholders. Webinar attendance is free. Register on the CAP website at cap.unl.edu/webinars.

ARC and PLC are key USDA safety-net programs that help producers weather fluctuations in either revenue or price for certain crops. These programs were extended to the 2031 production season through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

“With the 2026 ARC and PLC election and enrollment window now open, we’ll review key points producers need to know as they work with their local FSA office,” said Nebraska FSA State Executive Director Hilary Maricle. “All ARC and PLC program participants are encouraged to review their previous program elections and enroll ahead of the deadline. If producers do not make a 2026 ARC or PLC program election by Dec. 11, 2026, they will be ineligible for 2026 program assistance.”

Brad Lubben, Extension policy specialist with CAP, said program changes and a different price outlook could shift how producers approach their ARC and PLC decisions for 2026 and 2027.

"After a year when producers automatically received the higher of the two programs, 2026 brings back an active choice between ARC and PLC," said Lubben. "Higher reference prices and changes to ARC shift the math from what producers have seen in past years. Understanding the program mechanics and analysis will help producers make sound enrollment decisions with FSA."

In-person ARC and PLC education meetings also are being planned for several locations across the state and will be announced soon.



Flood Celebrates 100 Days of Successful Trade Deal with European Union

Friday, Congressman Mike Flood (NE-01) released a statement celebrating the first 100 days since the European Union eliminated its tariffs on American industrial goods and opened new market access for American agricultural products as part of the broader U.S.-EU trade agreement. The agreement took effect July 1, 2026.

U.S. agricultural exports to the EU are up 17% this year, according to USDA Foreign Agricultural Service data, led by Nebraska’s top exports:
    Ethanol exports to the EU have already surpassed all of 2025, with four months still to go.
    Corn exports are up 82% on the year.
    Beef exports are up 42% on the year. 

“For too long, American farmers and ranchers have played by one set of rules while our trading partners played by another,” said Congressman Flood. “Over the last two years, we’ve renegotiated our trade deals to level the playing field, and our agreement with the European Union shows that it’s working. Europe is buying more American corn, ethanol, and beef than it has in years. When Nebraska producers can compete on fair terms, they win, and this deal gives them that opportunity for years to come.”

Earlier this year, Congressman Flood met with U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Andrew Puzder about the opportunities the deal creates for Nebraska producers.

Nebraska is the nation’s largest beef exporter and is a top exporter of corn, soybeans, and ethanol. The European Union is one of Nebraska’s top five agricultural export markets.



HUSKER RESEARCHERS EXPLORE HIDDEN NITROGEN, NEW WAYS TO REDUCE GROUNDWATER RISK

A University of Nebraska–Lincoln research team has received a three-year, $496,722 National Science Foundation grant to investigate an understudied reservoir of organic nitrogen that may shape groundwater quality long after nitrogen management strategies are in place. A separate five-year, $357,000-plus award from the Nebraska Corn Board will help the researchers evaluate approaches that may proactively reduce nitrate risk before it reaches groundwater.

Clean groundwater is vital to drinking water supplies, agriculture and rural communities, but nitrogen contamination remains a persistent challenge. About four out of five Nebraskans drink groundwater. Much of it sits beneath some of the most productive agricultural land in the world. Nitrogen fertilizer is a critical crop nutrient; however, when it leaves the root zone, it becomes a loss to the farmer and a concern for drinking water.

The puzzling part is what happens when nitrogen management practices are improved. Nitrate levels in some Nebraska wells continue to rise, even years after modern nutrient strategies to reduce excess nitrogen use have been implemented. A research team based at the Nebraska Water Center thinks the explanation lies in historical nitrogen stores buried in the deep vadose zone between the surface and the water table. The two new awards will support collaborative efforts to better understand these underground processes and evaluate proactive solutions.

Nebraska Water Center researchers have studied the vadose zone for four decades to understand how nutrients, including nitrogen, move from the land surface to the groundwater. The vadose zone is a critical region for the storage, transport and transformation of chemicals that can affect groundwater quality.

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient present in many forms and is applied as a fertilizer to crops like corn. While these plants take up the nutrients they need, any remaining nitrogen can convert into mobile nitrate. However, the process of particular interest to the Husker research team is if this mobile nitrate may react with soil carbon through microbes to become bound as organic nitrogen in the deeper soil layers. This reaction could potentially act as a slow-release reservoir that gradually breaks down and generates new nitrate years later in the deep vadose zone, moving toward the groundwater.

Nebraska Water Center researchers have found that organic nitrogen accounts for a large majority of total nitrogen stored in Nebraska’s deep vadose zone. While most studies of that underground nitrogen reservoir measure nitrate, the research team measures everything else, too.

“Most of the nitrogen down there isn’t nitrate at all,” said Arindam Malakar, assistant research professor at the Nebraska Water Center and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, who leads the new project and is part of the School of Natural Resources. “It’s organic nitrogen, locked in forms nobody has been counting. It can break down slowly and may keep making new nitrate long after the fertilizer is gone.”

In conjunction with the NSF funding, the research team is also investigating a novel nitrate remediation approach currently under development. The goal is reducing the amount of nitrate in the vadose zone that becomes a groundwater contaminant, entering drinking water sources and creating challenges for communities and well owners. The Nebraska Corn Board, through corn checkoff funds, has supported the project “Remediation of Nitrate Plume Within the Vadose Zone, Being Proactive to Protect Groundwater Quality,” with more than $570,000 across five years, subject to the board's annual proposal review and approval.

“The primary reason we want to do it is to reduce the cost of treating water,” Malakar said.

Rather than treating water after it reaches the aquifer, the work focuses on nitrate while it is still held in the vadose zone above the water table, which is expected to be more efficient and economical. Preliminary estimates suggest the approach could be less expensive than current water treatment processes that cities and communities use to treat groundwater to safe levels for drinking water.

Initial controlled laboratory studies have shown promising results. Researchers will next evaluate the approach across soil conditions representative of different landscapes across Nebraska and assess effectiveness, repeatability, environmental safety, feasibility and regulatory considerations before any potential field deployment.

Malakar said the appeal of the approach is timing.

“By the time you see nitrate in a well, the decision that put it there was made a long time ago,” he said. “Once it’s in the aquifer, you’re paying to take it back out.”

Malakar envisions a future where the technology is deployed across Nebraska, reducing the amount of nitrate in the vadose zone that becomes a contaminant in the groundwater. That is several years out and contingent on results at every stage, from laboratory experiments to controlled field testing. But if it works, the project’s success could reduce the treatment burden on communities that rely on groundwater.

To meet the research team and learn more about its vadose zone research, visit https://go.unl.edu/vadosestory.



Jeff Clark Named Keynote Speaker for 2026 Nebraska Wind And Solar Conference

Jeff Clark, President and CEO of the Advanced Power Alliance, will deliver the keynote address at the 19th annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference, scheduled for October 20–21, 2026, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.

Clark will speak during the Keynote Luncheon on Tuesday, October 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m., sponsored by NextEra Energy Resources. Rich Lombardi, Public Policy Director for the Advanced Power Alliance, will serve as moderator.

As President and CEO of the APA, Clark leads a trade association focused on facilitating the development of utility-scale power generation, infrastructure and energy storage. The organization works across major U.S. power markets, specializing in public policy and regulatory affairs in the Southwest Power Pool, ERCOT, and Southeast regions, and represents a broad range of companies in the advanced energy and technologies industries.

Clark brings extensive experience in energy policy, government affairs and business advocacy. Before joining the APA, he served as Senior Vice President of Governmental Affairs for the American Electronics Association, where his work included state policy involving advanced materials and electric systems. He previously led the largest regional office of the National Federation of Independent Business, representing small businesses before policymakers in 17 state capitals and Washington, D.C. He was also twice appointed during the George W. Bush administration to co-chair the U.S. Small Business Administration’s National Advisory Council.

“We are pleased to welcome Jeff Clark to Nebraska as this year’s keynote speaker,” said John Hansen, conference chairman. “His experience working at the intersection of energy development, infrastructure and public policy will bring an important perspective to the conversations taking place at this year’s conference.”

In addition to his keynote address, Clark will participate Wednesday morning in “Comparative State Policy and Renewable Siting,” a session examining how Nebraska’s permitting framework compares with approaches in Michigan and Colorado, including local control, appeals processes, siting authority and renewable energy development.

The two-day conference brings together public power leaders, policymakers, developers, industry professionals, community leaders and others to discuss the energy issues affecting Nebraska. This year’s agenda includes discussions on unprecedented electric load growth, regional and Nebraska transmission, state energy policy, renewable siting and property rights, the Southwest Power Pool interconnection queue, energy storage and grid innovation, rural Nebraska, data centers and more.

The Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference will be held October 20–21, 2026, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, 333 S. 13th Street in Lincoln. Registration is $250 and remains open through October 12, 2026, or until sold out.

For the complete agenda and registration information, visit www.nebraskawsc.com



Smith, Budzinski Lead Letter Urging the Admin to Support America’s Biofuel Industry

Friday, U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), led a bipartisan letter with 37 of their colleagues to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright urging the administration to maintain its commitments to America’s biofuel industry. 

In the letter, the lawmakers ask the administration to uphold its commitment to American grown energy by proposing a supplemental rule that preserves the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard’s (RFS) biofuel volume requirements for 2026 and 2027 by October 16, 2026. They warn that delays would undermine much-needed market certainty for American farmers and biofuel producers while putting savings at the pump for American families at risk.

The lawmakers write: "The stakes for our constituents could not be higher. Biofuel demand keeps commodity prices competitive for farmers, sustains tens of thousands of rural manufacturing jobs, and delivers measurable savings at the pump for working families. E15 saves drivers an average of 30 cents per gallon compared to E10. B20 biodiesel runs approximately 11 cents cheaper than regular diesel. The 2026 and 2027 volumes in Set 2 were built to capture these cost-savings at scale, but SREs alongside a flawed reallocation approach would erase them.”

In addition to Smith and Budzinski, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Emmanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Angie Craig (D-MN), Ann Wagner (R-MO), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Jim Baird (R-IN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Mike Bost (R-IL), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Kristen McDonald Rivert (D-MI), Mary Miller (R-IL), Wesley Bell (D-MO), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Mark Alford (R-MO), James Comer (R-KY), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), John Rose (R-TN), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Don Bacon (R-NE), Lauren Underwood (D-IL), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Mark Messmer (R-IN), Rudy Yakym (R-IN), Shontel Brown (D-OH), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Mike Flood (R-NE), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Max Miller (R-OH), Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.), and Donald Davis (D-N.C.).



NCGA Calls for Action on Farm Bill, E15 Legislation Following WASDE Report, Corn Price Drop

The U.S. Department of Agriculture today released the October 2026 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report, which raised anticipated 2026 corn yields by 2.7 bushels per acre. Corn prices immediately dropped after the report was released. In response, National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Matt Frostic released the following statement: 
 
“Once again, we are reiterating our call for Congress to act on legislative priorities that will increase corn demand and provide certainty to farm programs to alleviate some of the economic pain our growers are experiencing.  

“We’re paying record prices for diesel fuel at a time of the year when we need it most and persistently high prices for certain inputs, like fertilizer, continue to put pressure on farm budgets. The drop in corn prices we’ve seen today adds stress to an already challenging year and complicates the outlook for next year.
 
“We are working hard to make ends meet, and it is time Congress did its job. It is critical that the House and Senate make final passage of year-round E15 and the farm bill a priority upon their return to Washington in November. 

“Beyond year-round E15, NCGA is actively working on longer-term demand growth priorities, like maritime and sustainable aviation fuel. We stand ready to work with the Trump administration to position U.S. corn and ethanol competitively in global markets, and we welcome partnerships with elected officials and industry stakeholders to advance corn demand goals.  



Oklahoma Auctioneer Awarded Top Honors at World Livestock Auctioneer Championship Qualifier

Ten auctioneers, led by Kellan Bussell, Idabell, Okla., punched their tickets to the World Livestock Auctioneer Championship after battling it out on the block against competitors from across North America Oct. 5 in Saluda, S.C. They will compete next in the semifinals at Cattlemen’s Livestock Market, Galt, Calif., in June.

Bussell may be young, but he’s already made a name for himself as a competitive livestock auctioneer. In only his second year vying for the world championship, the barely 25-year-old has qualified for the second time.

He said this win was a big honor — and another opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s best.

“When I first started, I just wanted to be as good as I could possibly be,” Bussell said. “Being able to go to these competitions and being around all these guys who are more experienced and know a lot more than I do, that’s going to help me reach that goal.”

The bid-caller, who regularly sells at Southeastern Oklahoma Regional Stockyards, Waurika Livestock Commission Co. and Comanche Livestock Auction, says the World Livestock Auctioneer Championship’s value extends well beyond the results. He said the willingness of experienced auctioneers, including past world champions, to share their knowledge has made a difference as he builds his career.

“That’s one thing that’s so neat about our industry is that there’s always somebody there with a helping hand,” he said.

As he prepares for the championship, Bussell looks forward to reconnecting with fellow contestants and seeing how another livestock market operates.

“I just love the camaraderie and being around everybody in that atmosphere,” he said. “I love cattle and being able to go to a new place and get to see how those people run their business. That’s what it’s all about to me.”

Among the other 24 competitors in South Carolina, Tucker Kail, Puryear, Tenn., was named reserve champion and Philip Gilstrap, Pendleton, S.C., was named runner-up. Austin Roberts, Collinsville, Okla., was the high scoring rookie.

Rounding out the top 10, in no order, were:
• Andy Baumeister, Goldthwaite, Texas
• Brandon Frey, Afton, Iowa
• Chris Pinard, Swainsboro, Ga.
• Marcus Kent, Dunnellon, Fla.
• Ross Parks, New Concord, Ohio
• Austin Schaben, Dunlap, Iowa
• Takoda Kiser, Leon, W.Va.

The contest, facilitated by Livestock Marketing Association, was hosted by Saluda Livestock Exchange.

World Livestock Auctioneer Championship Committee Chair Kyle Shobe, Lewistown, Mont., said the second qualifying event highlighted both the talent of the contestants and the strength of the industry behind them.

“Our hosts did an outstanding job creating a setting where these auctioneers could showcase their skills,” he said. “Every qualifier gives us another look at just how deep the talent runs in this profession. It’s shaping up to be an exciting event in Galt.”

The 2010 world champion, Shobe, understands the opportunities that come with competing for the industry’s highest honor.

“Only one auctioneer earns that title each year, but the experience offers something valuable to everyone who competes,” he said. “The people you meet, the things you learn and the doors it can open can make a lasting difference in your career.”

One chance remains to qualify for the semifinals: Oct. 24 at Farmers Livestock Market, Oakdale, Calif.

Friday October 09 Ag News - NE FSA Hosts ARC/PLC Webinar - USDA Announces $1.8B Conservation Payments - Boots in the Barn Series in SW Iowa - New Soybean SCN Ratings out from ISU - Celebrate Porktober! - and more!

Farm Service Agency, University of Nebraska-Lincoln to Host Commodity Crop Safety Net Information Webinar on Oct. 15

USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Nebraska is partnering with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability (CAP) on a webinar designed to educate commodity crop producers on the 2026 and 2027 Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs election and enrollment process. Producers can make elections and enroll for the 2026 crop year from now through Dec. 11, 2026, and for the 2027 crop year from Nov. 2, 2026, through March 15, 2027. Producers can learn about the ARC and PLC options for 2026 and 2027 during the FSA/CAP webinar scheduled for 12:00 p.m. CT on Thursday, Oct. 15.

Cathy Anderson, FSA production and compliance programs chief in Nebraska, and Brad Lubben, Extension policy specialist in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Department of Agricultural Economics, will present information relevant for producers, ag professionals and ag stakeholders. Webinar attendance is free. Register on the CAP website at cap.unl.edu/webinars.

ARC and PLC are key USDA safety-net programs that help producers weather fluctuations in either revenue or price for certain crops. These programs were extended to the 2031 production season through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

“With the 2026 ARC and PLC election and enrollment window now open, we’ll review key points producers need to know as they work with their local FSA office,” said Nebraska FSA State Executive Director Hilary Maricle. “All ARC and PLC program participants are encouraged to review their previous program elections and enroll ahead of the deadline. If producers do not make a 2026 ARC or PLC program election by Dec. 11, 2026, they will be ineligible for 2026 program assistance.”

Brad Lubben, Extension policy specialist with CAP, said program changes and a different price outlook could shift how producers approach their ARC and PLC decisions for 2026 and 2027.

"After a year when producers automatically received the higher of the two programs, 2026 brings back an active choice between ARC and PLC," said Lubben. "Higher reference prices and changes to ARC shift the math from what producers have seen in past years. Understanding the program mechanics and analysis will help producers make sound enrollment decisions with FSA."

In-person ARC and PLC education meetings also are being planned for several locations across the state and will be announced soon. 



USDA Announces $1.8 Billion in 2026 Conservation Program Payments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today it is issuing approximately $1.8 billion in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) payments to agricultural producers and landowners for their participation in key conservation programs for 2026. These payments include Grassland CRP payments that play an important role in the Trump Administration’s Ranchers First Initiative announced by USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins that includes sweeping actions focused on rebuilding the Great American Cattle Herd and putting America’s ranchers back at the center of our nation’s food supply.

This year, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) accepted offers on nearly 1 million new acres of Grassland CRP, providing ranchers with rental payments and cost share assistance to maintain rangeland and pastureland as grazing areas. After 2026 enrollment, Grassland CRP acreage is anticipated to account for more than 40% of all CRP enrolled acres.

“Under the Trump Administration we have committed to putting American farmers and ranchers first. As we continue to work to rebuild the American cattle herd, today’s announcement will help continue this effort by protecting nearly one million acres of grazing land for our ranchers,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “This change will encourage greater growth of our cattle industry, while preserving our nation’s natural resources.”

“These conservation payments play a key role in helping landowners preserve and protect natural resources, while also promoting working lands conservation,” said Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce. “Enrollment in our conservation programs has been a highly competitive process. These payments support landowners with an interest in voluntary land stewardship, helping them drive conservation efforts on their land to keep their operations moving forward while protecting our nation’s natural resources and supporting rural communities across the country.”

Conservation Payments
The $1.8 billion in annual rental payments are being made to agricultural producers and private landowners through the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Grassland CRP. These annual rental payments are made to eligible farmers and ranchers who establish long-term, resource-conserving vegetative covers. Additionally, annual rental payments provide a steady income stream for participants, helping to stabilize farm income.

CRP helps reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, and increase wildlife habitat, contributing to the overall health of ecosystems. Grassland CRP is a working lands conservation program that enables participants to conserve grasslands while also continuing most grazing and haying practices.

For fiscal year 2027, a total of 26.8 million acres will be enrolled in CRP after FSA accepts offers on 2.2 million acres through Grassland, General and Continuous CRP signups for 2026.

The following states rank in the top five for CRP payments for 2026: Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Missouri.



Cattle Producers Invited to Boots in the Barn Series in Southwest Iowa

The Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will host a Boots in the Barn workshop series in southwest Iowa on Nov. 17 and 24 and Dec. 1 and 8. All sessions will be at the Lakin Community Center, 61321 315th Street, Malvern. A meal starts at 5:30 p.m., and the program runs from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The series features hands-on learning exercises and open discussions led by ISU Extension and Outreach specialists and local veterinarians. Erika Lundy-Woolfolk, beef field specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, said the series is a valuable opportunity to ask questions and put ideas into practice.

“With cattle numbers at historic lows, producers have a real opportunity to capitalize on the high beef prices, but there is also little room for error," said Lundy-Woolfolk. "Having a game plan in place for things like herd health, pasture management and marketing strategies all affect the bottom line. Boots in the Barn brings together specialists, veterinarians and fellow producers in an open setting where people can ask questions and take home ideas they can put to work right away.”

Each night focuses on a different topic:
    Nov. 17: Feedlot Management, Kristi Drake, feedyard manager at Balance4Ward
    Nov. 24: Farm Management, Tim Christensen, farm management sp. with ISU Extension and Outreach
    Dec. 1: Pasture Management, Aaron Saeugling, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach
    Dec. 8: Herd Health, Fremont County Veterinary Clinic

Registration
Those interested in attending must register online https://go.iastate.edu/OATMLB. The cost is $30 per session, or $100 for all four sessions, a $20 savings. Registration closes one week before each session.

The program is offered by ISU Extension and Outreach offices in Fremont, Mills, Montgomery and Page counties. It is sponsored by the Mills-Montgomery County Cattlemen and Boehringer Ingelheim.

For more information, contact Erika Lundy-Woolfolk at ellundy@iastate.edu. 



Iowa Pork Producers Celebrate Porktober with Focus on Protein, Flavor, and Farm Values
    
This October, Iowa Producers are celebrating Porktober by highlighting one of pork's biggest nutritional strengths: protein.

With "protein-maxxing" trending among consumers looking to add more protein to their diets, pork offers a flavorful, affordable way to do so, thanks to the farm families and workers who raise it with care.

Pork is one of the most convenient ways to meet your protein needs at the dinner table. A single 3-ounce serving delivers an average of 23 grams of protein, helping you work toward the at least 100 grams of protein per day now recommended for most adults under the updated federal Dietary Guidelines.

Lean cuts like pork tenderloin meet the criteria for the American Heart Association Heart-Check mark (which means they contain less than 5 grams of fat, 2 grams or less of saturated fat, and 480 milligrams or less of sodium per label serving) proving you don't have to sacrifice nutrition for flavor.

Per 3 oz. serving:
    Pork Loin: 23 grams protein
    Pork Sirloin Roast: 26 grams protein
    Pork Tenderloin: 22 grams protein (also leaner than skinless chicken breast!)

And behind every cut is a story of care for the pigs raised responsibly, the Iowa farm families and workers who raise them, and the land and environment they depend on. Porktober celebrates all of it: real nutrition, real flavor, and the people committed to doing it right.

To help home cooks put that protein power to work, IPPA is featuring three recipes this Porktober:
    Street Corn Pork Chops — Juicy, seasoned grilled pork chops topped with a creamy, charred corn salad, finished with lime, cotija cheese, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño. With 46 grams of protein per serving, it’s a protein-packed dinner with bold, fresh flavor.
        Sausage Gnocchi — A hearty, one-pan weeknight meal pairing savory pork sausage with pillowy gnocchi for a comforting dish (packed with 32 grams of protein per serving) the whole family will ask for again.
        Pork Tenderloin Pimento Sandwich — Tender, lean pork tenderloin piled high with creamy pimento cheese for a Southern-inspired sandwich that turns a high-protein, lean cut into a satisfying, craveable meal with 37 grams of protein per serving.
    
"Pork is one of the easiest ways for families to get more protein on the table without sacrificing flavor," said IPPA President Dean Frazer, a pig farmer from Conrad. "Whether it's a weeknight sausage gnocchi or grilled pork chops with friends, every recipe this Porktober is built around real nutrition families can feel good about."

Recipes, cooking tips, and more information about pork's nutritional benefits are available at iowapork.org/recipes.



Soybean Cyst Nematode-resistant Soybean Varieties for Iowa in 2027

Growing resistant soybean varieties is key to profitable soybean production in fields infested with the soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Available SCN-resistant varieties change from year to year. To help Iowa farmers and those who advise them battle SCN, Iowa State University annually compiles a list of SCN-resistant soybean varieties for each upcoming season. This effort is supported by soybean checkoff funds from the Iowa Soybean Association, and the information is available in ISU Extension and Outreach publication CROP1649, “Soybean Cyst Nematode-resistant Soybean Varieties for Iowa.” 

The publication was recently updated and is available from the ISU Extension Store https://shop.iastate.edu/extension/farm-environment/crops-and-soils/pests-and-diseases/crop1649.html. 

Hundreds of choices, two sources of genetic resistance
There are 796 SCN-resistant varieties across maturity groups 0, 1, 2, and 3 listed in the publication. The varieties are from 30 different seed brands sold by 22 different companies.

All but eight varieties in the list possess resistance from the breeding lines PI 88788 or Peking. The list also contains information on two varieties possessing resistance from both PI 88788 and Peking and six blends, or physical mixtures, of varieties with PI 88788 and Peking resistance.

In addition to company and variety name and source of resistance for each variety, other details provided in the publication include relative maturity, herbicide resistance or tolerance (if any), and iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) tolerance score. SCN is frequently present in alkaline soils, where IDC also occurs, making IDC tolerance an important defensive trait for SCN-resistant soybean varieties grown in such soils. 

In addition to compiling the list of resistant varieties each year, Iowa State University also evaluates SCN-resistant soybean varieties for yield and for SCN control in replicated experiments annually in fields in all nine USDA Crop Reporting Districts in Iowa. This work is supported by soybean checkoff funds from the Iowa Soybean Association. The annual report of results from these experiments is published in ISU Extension and Outreach publication IPM52, “Evaluation of Soybean Varieties Resistant to Soybean Cyst Nematode in Iowa,” which will be available online in December 2026 from the ISU Extension Store. 



USDA Commodity Programs Trigger for 2025 Crop Year

Corn growers are expected to receive $5 billion in payments nationwide this month from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage Programs for the 2025 crop year. The two commodity safety net programs are designed to help farmers experiencing sharp crop or revenue declines. 

The payments to corn growers are part of the $13.8 billion in gross payments to eligible agricultural producers that were announced this week by Secretary Brooke Rollins.  

NCGA quickly weighed in on these developments. 

“Corn growers appreciate USDA’s work to implement changes to important farm safety net programs," said Michigan farmer and NCGA President Matt Frostic. “These announcements reflect the challenges growers have faced in the farm economy throughout the 2025 crop growing and marketing year. NCGA continues to work to build demand and strengthen markets for corn.”  

Corn growers have been working on multiple fronts to increase corn demand, Frostic noted. This includes work to pass legislation that would eliminate a dated regulation that prevents the summertime sale of fuels with 15% ethanol blends, often referred to as E15. The U.S. House has passed a standalone bill in May addressing the issue and the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry passed a farm bill this September containing similar language. 

NCGA is also working to secure additional markets for ethanol beyond on-road use, including maritime fuel, sustainable aviation fuel and biobased products.  
 
On the commodity program front, USDA reminded farmers that the national and commodity specific numbers do not account for payment limitation reductions and the 5.7% sequestration rate required by statute that will be applied to all ARC and PLC payments. 

Corn growers are encouraged to enroll and make elections between the programs for the 2026 crop year from before December 11, 2026, and for the 2027 crop year between November 2, 2026, through March 15, 2027. 

USDA previously announced that 30 million additional new base acres will be added to farms eligibility nationwide starting with the 2026 crop year. According to USDA, growers will receive eligibility for ARC and PLC on over 11.9 million new corn base acres.  

These recent announcements by USDA stem from federal investments provided through last year’s H.R. 1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.  



Evolve, Engage and Empower: 99th National FFA Convention & Expo Returns to Indianapolis 

More than 70,000 FFA members, advisors and supporters are expected to head to Indianapolis this month for the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo. This year’s event runs from Oct. 21-24 with activities happening at the Indiana Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Indiana State Fairgrounds, local hotels, and several other locations around the state. 

The National FFA Organization is the top school-based youth leadership development organization in the country, with more than 1,053,847 student members as part of 9,591 local FFA chapters across all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Members come from rural, suburban and urban communities, many of whom are drawn to the organization by the wide range of career opportunities in agriculture, with more than 350 to explore. Over the past 99 years, FFA has evolved alongside agriculture itself, and today it impacts middle and high school students through a combination of classroom learning, hands-on experiences, and leadership and life skills. The National FFA Convention is the largest annual gathering of FFA members. 

"What makes this convention special is that our members don't just receive recognition – they engage with one another and empower each other,” said Christine White, chief program officer of the National FFA Organization. “Whether they're presenting research on the Student Showcase stage, serving alongside one another in the community or earning their American FFA Degree, they leave Indianapolis ready to lead back home."

Last year's event drew a record-breaking crowd of more than 73,000 people. This year's attendees will engage through award ceremonies, career exploration, hands-on service projects and more.

CELEBRATING SUCCESS
    Members will participate in a variety of competitive events.
    5,816 American FFA Degrees will be awarded to outstanding members for their achievements.
    236 Honorary American FFA Degrees will be awarded to individuals who have supported FFA and agricultural education.
    Members and chapters will also receive awards and recognition for various individual and chapter activities. 

ENGAGING AND EMPOWERING
    The Student Showcase stage will feature FFA members and chapters presenting their agriscience fair research and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), giving members the chance to share their experiences and empower one another.
    Members from rural, suburban and urban communities across the country will connect and engage with one another throughout the week as part of the Chapter Connect program.
    An estimated 3,240 delegates and students will serve at 27 local nonprofits to give back to the greater Indianapolis area.

PERSONAL GROWTH
    Members and advisors can attend student and teacher workshops at the Indiana Convention Center and general sessions at Lucas Oil Stadium.
    Keynote speakers include Scott McKain on Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning, and Reagan Pugh on Friday morning.

CAREER DISCOVERY
    FFA members can explore more than 350 careers in agriculture at the National FFA Expo.
    The School Leaders' Summit will invite superintendents, principals, counselors and career and technical education directors to attend special sessions featuring FFA members, advisors and administrators. Participants will learn about the convention's educational relevance and take a behind-the-scenes tour of select convention sites.

ECONOMIC IMPACT
    The convention is expected to bring an estimated economic impact of $40 million to the city of Indianapolis.
    More than 100 hotels are estimated to be used during the week.
    The National FFA Convention & Expo will continue to be held in Indianapolis through 2040.

The 99th National FFA Convention & Expo officially kicks off Wednesday, Oct. 21, when the Expo Hall opens at 9 a.m. and concludes on Saturday afternoon, Oct. 24, with the election of the new National FFA Officer Team. For those unable to attend in person, FFA Live! will provide full streaming coverage. Student hosts and reporters will bring audiences closer to the action with live coverage of key moments, interviews with award winners, and conversations with special guests. Visit convention.ffa.org for more information.

Thursday October 08 Ag News - Using High Oleic Soybeans in Cattle Rations - NE Wind and Solar Conference - NE Organic Conference Nov 4 - Feature: NE Tractor Test Lab - Fall Harvest, Micotoxin, and Pigs - and more!

An update on high-oleic soybeans for cattle
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Extension Beef Systems Educator
Michael Knobbe, Grain States Soya

University of Nebraska Extension held a meeting on agronomic considerations for growing high-oleic(HO)soybeans along with discussions on their use as cattle feed. High-oleic soybeans were developed independently by University of Missouri and USDA ARS (SOYLEIC®) or by DuPont/Corteva (Plenish®) by different approaches.

The result in either approach is a soybean with similar fat and other nutritional characteristics, which contains a greater concentration of oleic acid. Oleic acid is a fatty acid (a component of fats and oils) believed to have positive health benefits in humans. As a reference, an oil commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil, naturally contains high concentrations of oleic acid. Therefore, most of the oil extracted from HO soybeans is destined for human consumption.

Alternatively, because of increasing demand for spent fats and oils or tallow for biodiesel or renewable fuel production led to price increases for these feed sources, there is increasing interest in growing HO soybeans for animal feed use. Currently, because of contractual growing arrangements, the main uses for HO soybeans are for human consumption or animal feed.

In dairy nutrition, the use of roasted or extruded whole HO soybeans, as replacements for corn and soybean meal, led to increases in milk fat content and milk yield. It is believed that the oleic acid in HO soybeans is less antagonistic to ruminal digestive processes than fatty acids from conventional soybeans.

Some dairies are opting to install on-farm bean roasters. Alternatively, dairies may purchase roasted HO soybeans from a soybean crush plant such as Grain States Soya.

Extrusion is a process by which the beans are forced through a drum, a process that generates high temperature for a short period of time. The resulting bean contains the same nutritive value as raw soybeans, but this process destroys compounds in the raw bean that affect digestion. Additionally, roasted or extruded soybean protein is partially protected from microbial activity in the rumen rendering “bypass” or undegradable protein which delivers amino acid profiles resembling those of the original raw soybean to the small intestine for digestion.

Research on HO soybeans in beef cattle is currently underway. The expectation is that the ruminal environment in feedlot cattle will benefit from the oleic acid content of HO soybeans. This would have the potential to improve fiber utilization and efficiency. Also, in some cases where greater protein quality (balanced supply of amino acids) is required, such as in finishing cattle at the end of their feeding period, conventional soybean amino acids protected by roasting or extrusion led to improved performance.

Key considerations when shifting production of conventional to HO soybeans such as desired plant populations, herbicide type and timing of application, and yield expectations do not change when growing HO soybeans available from DuPont/Corteva (Plenish®). However, there is a specific agreement with Pioneer to grow and market HO soybeans through a local processor (Grain States Soya for example) unless the beans are fed raw or processed on the farm they were produced.

For additional information on growing and/or feeding Plenish® HO soybeans contact your local Pioneer representative. For information on growing and/or feeding SOYLEIC® HO soybeans, please visit (https://soyleic.com/grow/). Contact Michael at Grain States Soya to learn more about their HO grower program and the HO products they offer.



NEBRASKA WIND AND SOLAR CONFERENCE LESS THAN TWO WEEKS AWAY

With the 19th annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference just two weeks away, attendees are encouraged to explore the agenda and register. The conference takes place October 20–21, 2026, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.

A featured session, “The Future of Data Centers in Nebraska,” will examine what data center development means for the state’s communities, economy and resources. Scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, from 2:25 to 3:10 p.m., the panel will explore energy and water needs, infrastructure, economic investment, renewable energy development and responsible growth.

Panelists include Chris Matos, Energy Market Development Strategic Negotiator, Google; Jonathan Nikkila, Mayor of Kearney; and John Winkler, General Manager of the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District.

Matos helps guide Google’s energy strategy in the Central United States through regulatory and policy evaluations. He brings a decade of electric utility industry experience in wholesale power contracts, regulatory affairs and environmental markets.

The broader agenda connects those issues with Nebraska’s growing electricity demand, regional and Nebraska transmission expansion, and the Southwest Power Pool’s interconnection queue and grid congestion. Sessions will also address renewable siting, property rights and community support, plug-in solar, energy storage and grid innovation, and the future of rural Nebraska.

Policy discussions include legislative updates, a state senators panel and a Nebraska lobbyist panel. Attendees can also hear findings from the Aurora energy study and explore how energy availability, infrastructure and local siting decisions affect Nebraska’s economic future.

Tuesday’s keynote luncheon features Jeff Clark, President and CEO of the Advanced Power Alliance. Wednesday’s public power CEO luncheon brings together Tom Kent of Nebraska Public Power District, Javier Fernandez of Omaha Public Power District and Emeka Anyanwu of Lincoln Electric System.

Public officials, developers, landowners, business and community leaders, and anyone interested in Nebraska’s energy future are encouraged to attend. The conference includes exhibits, networking opportunities and a Tuesday evening reception.

Late registration is $250. Registration closes October 12, 2026, or earlier if the conference sells out.

Attendees should register in advance; on-site registration will not be available. The conference venue is the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, 333 S. 13th Street in Lincoln.

For the complete agenda and registration information, visit www.nebraskawsc.com.



2026 Organic Conference to Bring Organic Agriculture Experts, Producers Together Nov. 4

Farmers, agricultural professionals and others interested in organic agriculture are invited to attend the 2026 Organic Conference on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC) near Mead, Neb.

Hosted by Nebraska Extension, the conference will bring together organic producers, researchers, educators and industry professionals for a day of information-sharing, discussion and networking focused on organic agriculture. 

The conference will feature research-based information and practical perspectives relevant to organic producers and those considering organic production. Topics will address current opportunities and challenges facing Nebraska’s organic agriculture community. 

The event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is free, with support from the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program and Nebraska Extension. Lunch will be provided. Please pre-register for meal planning purposes and to ensure resource materials are available. Seating is limited.  

The conference is part of Nebraska Extension’s ongoing efforts to support producers through research, education and connections with agricultural experts and peers.

Additional information and registration are available on the 2026 Organic Conference website https://enreec.unl.edu/2026OrganicConference/. 

Topics and Presenters
The 2026 Organic Conference will feature a diverse lineup of researchers, extension educators, industry professionals and growers sharing practical information and experiences related to organic production.

Joel Gruver, Western Illinois University, will open the educational program with a presentation on crop rotations and holistic management, exploring strategies for building productive and resilient organic farming systems.

James Schroepfer, Crop Fertility Services, will discuss soil health’s complementary role with soil fertility, highlighting the relationship between soil health and nutrient management.

A Nebraska grower panel will share firsthand perspectives on organic production, offering attendees an opportunity to hear directly from farmers about their experiences, challenges and opportunities.

Afternoon sessions will allow participants to select from several concurrent group discussions, including: 
    Alfalfa in Organic Rotations — Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension
    Crop Budgets — Shannon Sand and Glennis McClure, Nebraska Extension
    Disease Management in Organic Grains — Dylan Mangel, Nebraska Extension
    Grain Markets: What Organic Producers Need to Know — Brian Halweil, Rodale Institute
    Growing No-Till Corn in Living Alfalfa — Ben Miller and Léa Vereecke, Clear Frontier
    Insect Management — Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension
    Keeping Organic Certification Simple — Rodale Institute Consulting

The afternoon format gives participants the flexibility to choose sessions most relevant to their operations and interests, with several topics offered during multiple time slots. 

Conference Schedule
    8:30–9 a.m. — Registration, coffee and vendor exhibits
    9–9:10 a.m. — Welcome, Katja Koehler-Cole, Nebraska Extension
    9:10–10 a.m. — Crop Rotations and Holistic Management, Joel Gruver
    10:10–11 a.m. — Soil Health’s Complementary Role with Soil Fertility, James Schroepfer
    11:10 a.m.–noon — Organic Production: Nebraska Growers’ Perspectives, farmer panel
    Noon–12:50 p.m. — Lunch and vendor session
    12:50–1:40 p.m. — Concurrent group discussions
    1:45–2:35 p.m. — Concurrent group discussions
    2:40–3:30 p.m. — Concurrent group discussions
    3:30–3:40 p.m. — Evaluation and closing, Katja Koehler-Cole
    3:40–4 p.m. — Fellowship and networking




Nebraska’s Tractor Test Lab has helped shape global ag for more than a century
Geitner Simmons, IANR Communications

To most, the sight may look innocuous — a tractor going round a huge oval track on the north side of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s East Campus. This familiar activity at the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory looks quite simple. In reality, it’s not.

The test lab, in operation since 1920, involves advanced engineering and high-technological science. Its sophisticated test results provide information crucial for industry standards worldwide.

For producers deciding on a tractor purchase, the benefits are straightforward and direct. The test lab’s reports on tractors’ power output, fuel efficiency, mechanical safety and noise levels are all publicly available. Over the decades, the lab has tested more than 2,300 models. Producers and companies around the world follow the test findings. A world map at the university’s Digital Commons shows that over the past year, downloads of the lab’s test reports topped 373,000. These downloads came from countries across the globe, including Brazil, Italy, Kuwait, Ukraine and India.

By checking online to compare models, viewers can make knowledgeable decisions by comparing the numbers directly. Eric Smith, the test lab’s director, said, “You can see what will give you the best return on your inputs for fuel, diesel and diesel exhaust fluid (injected into diesel tractor exhaust to reduce harmful emissions).”

Agriculture equipment manufacturers also benefit, said Smith, who began as director in August 2025 after being employed in engineering roles at John Deere and New Holland. Companies can draw on the test lab’s findings — data which includes power take-off, pulling power, sound levels, hydraulic flow and three-point hitch — and compare their products to their competitors’ products without the cost of buying competing tractors.

Even in this high-technology era, tractors remain an indispensable mainstay in modern agriculture. In present-day tractors, there is large variability in their roles and functions.

“People who are doing broad acre farming will need that 500- to 600-horsepower tractor that is very fuel efficient for 16 hours a day, going back and forth across the field,” Smith said. A livestock producer, in contrast, likely won’t need that scale of horsepower and will be using tractors for uses quite different from row crop field management.

The test lab analyzes a full array of tractors, with an average of 17 per year, split between two testing seasons (March to early June, and late August to November) when outdoor air temperatures are within the acceptable range for proper testing.

In the last 70 years, tractor technology has advanced dramatically and continues to do so.

“For farmers today, there are multiple levels of transmissions — different complexities,” Smith said. A modern row-crop tractor boasts advanced computer power that, among other tasks, constantly optimizes transmission performance and engine load with extraordinary sophistication.

As part of that technological advancement, automation and electrification are reshaping tractor design and performance. The test lab is moving energetically to adapt its work to the emerging technologies, drawing on the world-class expertise of faculty within the university’s Department of Biological Systems Engineering.

Smith is a research professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering, and the test lab’s two full-time research engineers, Justin Geyer and Doug Triplett, also are part of the department. They’re helped by Brent Sampson, an on-call worker and retired test engineer who brings institutional understanding from his 41 years of full-time employment at the test site.

Ten undergraduate students are also a key part of the test lab’s work, helping to conduct tests, prepare tractors and prep equipment for the upcoming test season. This experience allows students to learn in real-world situations and deal directly with company representatives.

“The students are getting a chance to see what it's like to be a test engineer, what it takes to do the instrumentation and the data acquisition, to do real engineering,” Smith said. “Being associated with the brand of the Nebraska Tractor Test is a big benefit.” 
Members of the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory test a Caterpillar 160 Next Gen Motor Grader at their track on East Campus.

At the end of World War II, Smith noted, the test lab’s reputation was already so strong that European countries recovering from the conflict turned to the lab for guidance on setting their postwar tractor standards.

These days, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, made up by 38 industrialized and emerging-economic countries, regularly draws on the lab’s work as a central resource and model. Smith, who was manager of regulations and standards for agricultural tractors at John Deere before joining the university, is heavily involved in ongoing multilateral discussions to develop and adjust international rules.

The test lab got off on the right foot in 1920 thanks to well-constructed legislation co-written by State Senator Wilmot Crozier of Osceola after he bought an early model tractor that was ultimately inadequate. His frustration mounted when he had trouble getting parts and found that Nebraska lacked tractor maintenance services. The original tractor test lab is still standing on the university’s East Campus and now houses the Lester F. Larsen Tractor Test and Power Museum, where decades of historic tractors and related equipment have been restored and displayed.

It’s common to see visitors to the museum stop and reminisce, Smith noted. For Nebraska producers, he said, “that farm tractor is a place where you spend a significant amount of your life.”

"(In agriculture), you’re not in a cubicle in an office,” he said. “When you’re running the tractor, you’re seeing the countryside. That tractor is the machine you cracked your knuckles on when you had to repair it, and it’s where you saw a herd of deer go across your path.”

For producers, he said, their tractor provides “an emotional attachment to where you have spent your life.”



Mycotoxin Monitoring: How a wet fall could impact future pig performance
Matt Romoser, Iowa State University Swine Field Specialist 

The 2026 growing season in Iowa has seen extremes, from temperatures approaching triple digits in late summer as the corn crop reached maturity, to record rainfall and cool temperatures to begin the fall season. With wet conditions delaying harvest for much of the state of Iowa, the potential for molds and mycotoxins increases and should be monitored as producers begin feeding new crop corn. 

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites of certain fungi and are toxic to livestock. It is worth noting that presence or absence of mold at harvest is not a reliable indicator of whether mycotoxins are present.  Therefore, testing grain at harvest and routine monitoring as new crop corn is used in swine diets is essential.

Livestock are challenged with a disease condition, mycotoxicosis, when exposed to certain levels of toxins in the feed. Swine are particularly sensitive to various types of mycotoxins, all which impact production. 

A wet, cool fall favors Fusarium molds. Frequent rain and mild temperatures after the corn matures delays dry down and pushes back harvest. Corn left standing in wet fields gives Gibberella ear rot more time to develop, and with-it comes the potential for DON and zearalenone. Cool conditions that swing between warm and cold are especially good for zearalenone production.

Mycotoxins create challenges that are not always obvious, especially in pigs that may already be challenged with other pathogens. To mitigate the negative effects of mycotoxins in swine, producers can take multiple actions to manage their grain and feed supply. 
    Drying corn to 15% moisture prior to storage
    Testing grain prior to feeding and throughout the year if it is stored for extended periods.
    Testing diet, especially in diets including DDGS as mycotoxins may be 3x the concentration in DDGS compared to corn
    Adding specific flow agents, that can help bind mycotoxins in feed. Certain flow agents may also interact with vitamins and trace minerals in the diet. Consult your nutritionist to confirm sufficient dietary requirements are met.



USDA Announces Record Payments of $13.8 Billion for 2025 Crop Year Revenue and Price Safety Net Programs

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins Wednesday announced that the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) will generate approximately $13.8 billion in gross payments to eligible agricultural producers for the 2025 crop year; the largest annual payout by far since these key safety net programs were established in the 2014 Farm Bill.

“President Trump has been the biggest champion for American farmers, and today's announcement delivers nearly $14 billion in funding for rural America,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “Last July 4th President Trump signed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act into law and today we are acting on it, this will strengthen reference prices to better reflect today’s farm economy. This historic economic support provides producers critical liquidity to cover operating costs, prepare for the next crop year and invest in their operations. Thank you to all the Republicans who unanimously voted for this law and put food security and rural America first.”

The 2025 crop year stands alone in the history of ARC and PLC since Congress created the programs as key components of the commodity safety net in the Agricultural Act of 2014. Since 2015, no previous crop year has generated payments approaching this level. While ARC and PLC payments total $13.8 billion, producers are reminded that this does not account for payment limitation reductions and the 5.7% sequestration rate required by statute that will be applied to all ARC and PLC payments.

Working Families Tax Cuts Act Improvements
The Working Families Tax Cuts Act (WFTCA) strengthens ARC and PLC beginning with the 2025 crop year, including higher statutory reference prices and improvements to the effective reference price calculation. Additionally, for the 2025 crop year only, producers will automatically receive the higher payment rate of either ARC or PLC, regardless of their program election. The WFTCA also increases the ARC and PLC payment limit from $125,000 to $155,000, starting with the 2025 crop year with annual adjustments based on inflation. The payment limit for the 2025 crop year is $160,000.

The following 16 crops triggered a PLC payment for the 2025 crop year: Chickpeas (small and large), canola, corn, dry peas, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, peanuts, rice (long grain, medium grain, japonica), safflower, seed cotton, soybeans, and wheat. ARC-County (ARC-CO) payments are based on county-level revenue and therefore trigger at the county level. FSA will issue payments to eligible producers as calculations are completed.

2026 ARC and PLC Enrollment
As a reminder, the ARC and PLC election and enrollment period for the 2026 crop year is now open.

The WFTCA added an additional 30 million new base acres to farms nationwide. Because eligible acres exceeded the nationwide 30-million-acre cap, FSA applied an across-the-board, prorated reduction of 3.69% to all newly allocated base acres. These additional base acres impact ARC and PLC starting with the 2026 and future crop years, further improving the farm safety net.

Producers should make an appointment with their FSA county office to complete their 2026 ARC and PLC election and enrollment.

ARC and PLC Safety Net
ARC and PLC protect producers from substantial declines in crop prices or revenues. Producers annually elect and enroll for ARC or PLC coverage for eligible commodities.

PLC provides income support when the effective price for a covered commodity falls below its effective reference price. ARC provides income support when actual crop revenue falls below a guaranteed level. Depending on the coverage elected, ARC protection is based on either county-level revenue or the revenue of an individual farm.

Producers with questions about their ARC-CO or PLC enrollment or payments should contact their local FSA county office. Producers who selected ARC‑Individual (ARC‑IC) and want to know which crops on the farm triggered a payment, should contact their local FSA county office. ARC‑IC protects the entire farm’s revenue rather than individual crops.



August Beef Exports above Year-Ago, but Pork Trended Lower

Fueled by a near-record performance in Taiwan and a rebound in South Korea, August exports of U.S. beef increased year-over-year, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). August pork exports were lower than a year ago, primarily due to a sharp decline in shipments to Mexico compared to the large totals posted in August 2025.

Taiwan, Korea, Middle East drive strong August beef export value
Beef exports reached 86,362 metric tons (mt) in August, up 4% from a year ago, while export value climbed 13% to $785.9 million. In addition to year-over-year growth in Taiwan and Korea, August exports also trended higher to the Middle East, the ASEAN region, Colombia and Cote d’Ivoire, while volumes were steady to Mexico and Central America. Export value increased to Japan and the Caribbean in August, despite lower volumes. Beef exports to China were above last year’s minimal total, but still reflected ongoing technical trade barriers.

“USMEF expected to see stronger beef exports to Korea in the second half of the year, as reflected in the August data,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “And I cannot say enough about the outstanding demand in Taiwan, which has truly been a star performer for U.S. beef in 2026. As for China, the August increase is just a fraction of what would be possible in that market, especially since Australian beef has faced a 55% safeguard tariff since June 20. But China still needs to relist suspended facilities and the U.S. industry needs further clarity on technical requirements before beef exports to China will significantly rebound.”

For January through August, beef exports were down 7% year-over-year in volume (721,150 mt) and were just 1% lower in value ($6.32 billion). This decline is largely attributable to lower exports to China compared to the early months of 2025, before market access obstacles began to heavily impact U.S. exports. When excluding China from the January-August results, beef exports were 1% below last year in volume but 6% higher in value.

With decline in Mexico, August pork exports were lower year-over-year
U.S. pork exports totaled 222,243 mt in August, down 6% from a year ago, while value fell 12% to $606.3 million. Most of this decline was due to lower shipments to Mexico, where domestic pork production has rebounded and demand for hams has softened in recent months. August pork exports trended higher than a year ago to Central America, Colombia and the Caribbean – growth markets where exports are on a record pace in 2026. But these results were offset by lower shipments to Mexico, Japan, Korea, China, Oceania and the ASEAN region.

“U.S. pork has had a remarkable run in Mexico, though pork variety meat exports suffered a setback during the pseudorabies-related restrictions that heavily restricted shipments from May through July, and we have seen softer demand for pork muscle cuts in recent weeks,” Halstrom explained. “These trends really underscore the importance of market diversification and illustrate why the U.S. industry is constantly working to identify and develop additional destinations for U.S. pork. These efforts are paying tremendous dividends in markets like Colombia, Central America and the Dominican Republic, and it is critical that we continue to strive for similar success in more regions throughout the world.”

For January through August, pork exports remained 1% higher than a year ago at 1.95 million mt, while value was steady at $5.47 billion. Compared to the record pace of 2024, exports were down 2% in volume and were 4% lower in value.

August lamb exports lowest of the year
Despite larger shipments to Mexico and the Netherlands Antilles, August exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 129 mt, down 41% from a year ago and the lowest of 2026, as volumes slowed to other top markets including the Bahamas and Leeward-Windward Islands. August export value fell 29% to just over $900,000.

For January through August, lamb muscle cut exports totaled 1,827 mt, down 11% from a year ago, but remained 1% higher in value at just under $11 million. 



Weekly Ethanol Production for 10/2/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending October 2, ethanol production climbed 4.6% to 1.05 million b/d, equivalent to 44.23 million gallons daily. Output was 1.7% lower than the same week last year but 3.7% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 1.0% to 1.05 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.09 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks edged down 0.5% to 23.7 million barrels, the lowest weekly volume since the start of this year. Still, stocks were 4.5% more than the same week last year and 9.8% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across the East Coast (PADD 1) and Gulf Coast (PADD 3) but built across the other regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, improved 0.9% to 8.77 million b/d (134.80 bg annualized). Yet, demand was 1.7% less than a year ago and 1.7% below the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol slid 1.9% to a 26-week low of 897,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.79 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.6% more than year-ago levels but 0.7% below the five-year average.

Ethanol exports expanded 16.9% to a 9-week high of 166,000 b/d (7.0 million gallons/day). It has been more than three years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



UAN32 Leads Fertilizer Prices Higher

For the third week in a row, most fertilizers are more expensive compared to last month, according to DTN retail fertilizer prices tracked by DTN for the last week of September 2026. Seven fertilizers were higher looking back to last month while the remaining nutrient was slightly lower. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

One fertilizer had a notable price increase. UAN32 was 6% more expensive compared to last month. The nitrogen fertilizer's average price was $483/ton. Six fertilizer prices were slightly higher compared to a month ago. DAP had an average price of $934/ton, MAP $974/ton, potash $499/ton, urea $683/ton, anhydrous $979/ton and UAN28 $430/ton.

The remaining nutrient's price was just slightly less expensive compared to last month. 10-34-0 had an average price of $702/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.74/lb.N, anhydrous $0.60/lb.N, UAN28 $0.77/lb.N and UAN32 $0.75/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. DAP, potash and UAN28 are all 3% higher, UAN32 is 4% more expensive, 10-34-0 is 5% higher, MAP is 6% more expensive, urea is 12% higher and anhydrous is 20% more expensive, looking back to last year.