Friday August 14 Ag News - PFI Cover Crop Cost Share - Tyson Restructures Beef Business - DTN predicts NE Corn Yield 176, Soybeans 56 - Nebraska Water Conference Preview - IA Soybean Assoc Election Results - and more!

Farmers Can Apply for PFI Program That Helps Cover Crops Pencil Out

Midwestern farmers looking to make cover crops pencil out can now apply for Practical Farmers of Iowa's 2026 cover crop cost-share. The program provides $15 per acre on an unlimited number of acres of fall-seeded cover crops, plus one-on-one agronomic support.

“We know cover crops can reduce erosion, suppress weeds and improve soil health, but the upfront cost can keep farmers from trying them or expanding acres,” says Sean Dengler, PFI’s crop nutrition coordinator. “This program helps offset the cost while giving farmers the support they need to make cover crops work on their farm.”

In 2025, more than 2,400 farmers received $10 million in PFI cost-share to plant cover crops on more than 900,000 acres.
“Each year, thousands of farmers use this program because they’ve seen the value cover crops bring to their farms,” says Sean. “Whether the goal is improving water infiltration, reducing erosion, suppressing weeds or strengthening the operation for the next generation, the program helps farmers take the next step with confidence.”

Both first-time and experienced cover crop users are encouraged to apply. Conventional corn and soybean farmers in Iowa and parts of Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin are eligible.

The application takes about 10 minutes to complete. Farmers can stack the cost-share with other publicly funded programs, including IDALS WQI, NRCS EQIP or CSP.

Participants also receive a complimentary one-year PFI membership, connecting them with a community of experienced cover crop users and practical resources to help answer their questions.

Nebraska row crop and livestock farmer Brian Brhel has participated in the cost-share program since 2023.

“Using plants as a tool to release nutrients, compete against weed pressure and shade the soil is something I believe in,” says Brian. “PFI's assistance to continue learning in this space is important and appreciated."

Enrollment is first-come, first-served and will close once available acres are filled. Full details and the application form are available at practicalfarmers.org/cover-crop-cost-share.
 
Funding for this program is made possible by PepsiCo and Cargill.



Tyson Foods Announces Network Restructuring for Beef Business to Strengthen Long-Term Performance

Tyson Foods is making strategic changes to its beef operations to position the company for long-term success. Tyson Foods will anchor its beef business around three strategically located beef facilities in the central United States: Dakota City, Nebraska; Holcomb, Kansas and Amarillo, Texas, to create a more competitive footprint amidst one of the most historic cattle shortages the country has ever experienced. Recent USDA cattle inventory data, which included continued evidence of limited heifer retention, indicates these supply constraints are likely to persist, requiring strategic action.  

The company will end operations at its Joslin, Illinois, beef facility and its Eagle Mountain, Utah, case-ready facility. Capacity from these locations will be moved to more strategically located facilities with ample capacity to grow. Additionally, Tyson Foods is pursuing the sale of its Pasco, Washington, beef facility. With these changes, the company will ramp back up a second shift at its Amarillo, Texas facility as cattle become available. Collectively, these changes will allow the company to maintain a similar level of cattle harvesting across a more efficient and modern network.

Tyson Foods recognizes the impact these decisions have on team members and communities. The company is committed to supporting our team members through this transition, including helping them apply for open positions at other facilities.

With these changes, Tyson Foods is ensuring that it will continue to deliver high-quality, affordable, and nutritious protein for generations to come.



NCBA Statement on Tyson Foods’ Joslin Plant Closure & Facility Changes 

Thursday, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Chief Executive Officer Colin Woodall issued the following statement in response to Tyson Foods’ announced closure of its beef processing plant in Joslin, Illinois, and additional restructuring efforts: 
 
“NCBA is troubled by the closure of the Joslin beef processing facility. For many years, the plant has played a vital role in the Midwest beef supply chain, and its closure will significantly impact cattle producers, employees, and rural communities across the region. We encourage Tyson to work closely with its longstanding customers to identify alternative marketing opportunities for their cattle. 
 
“Tyson Foods’ Pasco, Washington, beef processing facility is also critical for cattle producers in the Northwest, and we appreciate the company’s commitment to seek a buyer rather than pursuing an outright closure.  
 
“These decisions underscore the significant challenges that historically-low cattle inventories continue to create across the beef cattle industry. While we are disappointed by these developments, they also reinforce the importance of rebuilding the nation’s cow herd and maintaining adequate processing capacity to support cattle producers, strengthen market opportunities, and ensure a resilient beef supply chain for the future.” 



Nebraska Expects Below-Average Corn, Soybean Yields After Dry Spring

After the 2026 growing season started very dry across large swaths of Nebraska with concerns about late crop emergence, many areas received adequate moisture while others continued to struggle mightily this summer.

The DTN Digital Yield Tour forecasts Nebraska's state average corn yield to fall 6 bushels per acre (bpa) below the five-year USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) average for the state.  DTN pegs this year's Nebraska corn yield at 176.3 bu/acre, compared to USDA RMA's 5 year average of 182.3 bu/acre.

The DTN yield models forecast corn yields of 200 bushels or higher in 25 of 93 Nebraska counties including Adams, Antelope, Boone, Buffalo, Burt, Butler, Cass, Cuming, Dakota, Dawson, Dodge, Fillmore, Greeley, Hall, Hamilton, Kearney, Phelps, Platte, Polk, Sarpy, Saunders, Seward, Thurston, Wayne and York. The number of counties above 200 is down from 30 during 2025's tour and 41 in 2024.

On the soybean side, Nebraska yields also are forecast below both last year and the RMA five-year average. DTN is pegging this year's Nebraska soybean yield at 55.9 bu/acre, compared to the USDA RMA 5 year average of 58.7 bu/acre.  Yields range from 66.1 bpa in Polk County to 35.4 bpa in Boyd County.

While the DTN Digital Yield Tour is in its ninth season, this is the third year that employs DTN's proprietary crop yield models. The tour estimates reported here are based on yield models as of Aug. 1. The models update every two weeks and do not incorporate weather forecasts.



Gov. Pillen Extends Executive Order to Support Wildfire and Drought Recovery

Governor Jim Pillen Thursday reissued an executive order extending relief for commercial drivers transporting hay and essential agricultural supplies to areas impacted by recent wildfires and ongoing drought conditions across Nebraska.

Due to the severe impact of wildfires and persistent drought on the state’s livestock feed supply, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) granted an additional 30-day waiver on Hours of Service requirements for drivers assisting with relief efforts.

Under the Governor’s executive order, standard hours-of-service regulations as well as over-dimension and over-weight size restrictions are waived for commercial motor vehicles delivering hay and necessary supplies to affected agricultural producers.

This order will be in effect through Sept. 11.



2026 Nebraska Water Conference

2026 Nebraska Water Conference: The State of Water in Nebraska
October 15 and 16, 2026
East Campus Union, University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The 2026 Nebraska Water Conference will be held October 15 and 16. We’ll gather at the East Campus Union on the University of Nebraska - Lincoln campus to discuss The State of Water in Nebraska. This conference will provide news and updates from state agencies, natural resources districts, cities, researchers, and the private sector to share news and current efforts in Nebraska’s water use and management.

The draft agenda for the conference includes topics like groundwater modeling, Groundwater Management Planning, Education and Outreach, Emerging contaminants, Watershed management and flood control, Water use in agriculture, Groundwater quality and phase-based management, Data centers and water use, 150 Years of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and more. 

Several sessions are pending approval for continuing education credit hours.

This conference is sponsored by the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, UNL’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, UNL’s Agricultural Research Division, HDR, Central Platte Natural Resources District, Nebraska Corn Board, and UNMC’s Water, Climate and Health Program.

Conference Registration
Registration is now open for the 2026 Nebraska Water Conference. Registration includes all sessions and meals, parking on campus, and the Thursday evening reception.
    Regular registration: $375
    Faculty registration: $150
    Student registration: $50

Register for the conference by visiting go.unl.edu/2026WC.

Registration will be open through September 30, 2026..



New Course "QuickBooks Online for Farmers and Ranchers" Now Live!

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program, in collaboration with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, is proud to announce the launch of a new online course, "QuickBooks Online for Farmers and Ranchers." This program is designed specifically for agricultural producers seeking to better understand and manage their finances using QuickBooks Online.

Whether you are brand new to QuickBooks or looking to improve your existing bookkeeping practices, this course provides step-by-step guidance tailored to the unique needs of farm and ranch operations.

By the end of the course you will be able to:
    Set up a QuickBooks Online account for agricultural operations
    Record income and expenses accurately, including common farm transactions
    Track inventory, equipment, and loan payments
    Generate financial reports to make informed business decisions
    Avoid common mistakes that lead to inaccurate records

The cost for the course is $55 per person. Participants will have access to the course for 90 days from the date of enrollment.  Click the link to see more information and to enroll: https://unl.advance.nebraska.edu/courses/quickbooks-for-farmers-and-ranchers. 



Yield of Dreams Beer Returns to the Iowa State Fair

Iowa Corn is proud to announce the return of Yield of Dreams, the popular craft lager brewed with 100% Iowa-grown corn, making its third consecutive appearance at the Iowa State Fair. Fairgoers can get their first taste of the returning favorite at Tap 88 inside the Iowa Craft Beer Tent starting August 13. 

Created in partnership with Big Grove Brewery, the Iowa Brewers Guild, Confluence Distributing and Choose Iowa, Yield of Dreams is a crisp, homegrown American lager made with corn donated by 18 Iowa farm families from across the state.  

While Iowans know corn powers our state's livestock and renewable fuels industries, beer is another delicious example of its incredible versatility. Corn is a key ingredient in over 4,000 everyday products—from eco-friendly packaging and household goods to premium craft beer. 

"The Yield of Dreams partnership continues to be a celebration of Iowa's corn farmers, agriculture and craft brewing industry," said Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) President and farmer from Belmond, Iowa, Joe Roberts. "We continue to hear positive reviews as we share the over 4,000 products made from corn. Corn really is everything, and as we enter the third year of the partnership, we are excited to continue telling the story of Iowa's corn farmers one sip at a time!" 

Where to Find Yield of Dreams:
    When you visit the Craft Beer Tent at the Iowa State Fair, ask for Tap 88 to enjoy a refreshing glass of Yield of Dreams! 
    Yield of Dreams will land in taprooms across Iowa starting August 23! 

To learn more about the beer or find participating taprooms, visit yieldofdreams.beer, and to learn about the over 4,000 products made from corn, visit iowacorn.org/corn-products.



Eight Farmer-Leaders Elected to Iowa Soybean Association Board of Directors

Eight farmers, including five incumbents, have been elected to the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) board of directors. The association’s 22 volunteer farmer directors represent the state’s nine crop reporting districts in overseeing the management and allocation of soybean checkoff and non-checkoff resources.

Newly-elected farmers who will serve three-year terms on the board include: Josh Blair, Wall Lake (District 4) and Jeff Hedges, Oakville (District 9). Effective Sept. 1, Lisa Obrecht of Zearing (District 5) was appointed by the board to serve a three-year term following the resignation of Corey Goodhue.

Five farmer-leaders were re-elected to three-year terms on the board. They include: Paul Kassel, Spencer (District 1); Sam Showalter, Hampton (District 2); Scot Bailey, Anita (District 7); Aimee Bissell, Bedford (At-Large); and Sharon Chism, Huxley (At-Large).

“Thank you to all of Iowa’s soybean farmers who took the time to participate in this year’s director elections, whether by casting a ballot, putting their name forward as a candidate or both,” said Tom Adam, ISA president and soybean farmer from Harper. “As a farmer-led organization, ISA is strengthened by the engagement of the farmers we represent. Their participation helps ensure a strong future for ISA and Iowa’s soybean industry.”

Directors are elected by Iowa soybean farmers in July and take office in September. Members vote for two farmers from their crop reporting district and vote for four at-large directors. The eight directors elected join 14 full-time soybean farmers in developing ISA’s policies and programs each year.

Those continuing their service as directors are: Brent Swart, Spencer (District 1); Mike Yegge, Lake Mills (District 2); Josh Schoulte, Farmersburg (District 3); Amanda Tupper, Ionia (District 3); Marty Danzer, Carroll (District 4); and Dave Struthers, Collins (District 5); Brian Strasser, Homestead (District 6); Joe Sperfslage, Coggon (District 6); Summer Ory, Earlham (District 8); Brian Fuller, Osceola (District 8); Jack Boyer, Reinbeck (At-Large); and Neil Krummen, Linn Grove (At-Large).

To learn more, visit iasoybeans.com.



NGFA asks STB to reject Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger

In a filing on August 13 submitted to the Surface Transportation Board (STB), the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) asks that the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Corporation (the Applicants) be rejected.

NGFA’s submission was in response to the Applicants’ updated application filed on July 27, 2026, which the association maintains does not meet the standards set forth in the STB’s Major Rail Consolidation Procedures (2001). Those standards contend that railroad mergers should not just preserve existing competition, but actually increase and improve competition for customers.

The National Grain and Feed Association released the following statement about this development:

“Since the proposed merger was announced 13 months ago, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) has made clear that it would undertake a deliberative, honest and thorough review of the proposed merger and its potential benefits and detriments to our member companies. Throughout this process, NGFA examined the applications and gathered feedback and perspectives from its members to help determine what position, if any, it would take in this matter.

“Over the past year, NGFA has consistently maintained that any agreement must deliver tangible benefits for rail customers and the agricultural supply chain. In its filings, NGFA has consistently asked the merger applicants to provide greater detail on how the proposed transaction would enhance competition and act in the public interest to meet the standards set forth in the Surface Transportation Board’s Major Rail Consolidation Procedures (2001). We appreciate the efforts of the applicants to respond to these concerns. However, the NGFA Board of Directors met today and determined that the application does not cross the bar required under the 2001 procedures and has voted to oppose the merger. This vote is reflected in the filing opposing the merger submitted today.”

Wednesday August 12 Ag News - PVC Outlook Meeting - Crop Prod & Soil Health Clinic - NE LEAD 45 Fellows Announced - NCB Ethanol Infrastructure Grants - IA Corn 350 Recap - and more!

Resilient American agriculture begins with thriving youth
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

As the 2026 edition of the Cuming County Fair ends, a casual observation, of great influence in the future of American agriculture, is watching young people thrive as they participate in 4-H, FFA or other fair-sponsored events or while they simply act as kids. The thunderstorms and rain that came on Saturday, to the delight of all, particularly children, provided the perfect element to watch children thrive.

It did not take very long for many children to enjoy the water present in many situations. Water, either coming down from the sky, puddling and running down the street, or even through downspouts provided the perfect element for children to enjoy. Many children came running joyfully right down the stream of water draining the main thoroughfare. At times, running simply was not enough; many children resorted to rolling in it. Their giggles and laughter contagiously carried to many bystanders watching them from under buildings’ eaves. One, more adventurous youth, decided to drink water discharging from the downspouts of the Watson Livestock Arena roof. (Note to all concerned parents or health experts: by this time, it had rained sufficiently to rinse the metal roof of the building clean). Once he tasted it, he looked around satisfied that he had tried one new thing in his young life.

For many other youths, who chose to remain indoors, a pickup game of soccer on the sands of the Watson Livestock Arena gave them the opportunity to flex their muscles and use their lungs. For any adult witnessing this game, it was difficult to tell who belonged to what team or even where the goal posts were. Never mind what we adults thought, the children had their own rules. Or did they? At some point, perhaps imitating some so-called professional teams’ behavior during the recently completed World Cup, tempers flared. It took an adult referee to talk sense back into the situation. With great skill, this individual

diffused the situation; peace was promptly restored and children gained new experience.

What, might you ask, does any of this have to do with resiliency in American agriculture? Although I do not hold a degree in psychology or child development, when children act as children, exploring, testing, learning, and interacting with their peers, they develop their own sense of self while learning to manage inter-personal relationships. This is crucial to the development of a well-adjusted adult.

Someday, like their parents, some of these youth will take the reins of their parents’ businesses or begin their own. The experiences they accumulate as young people, including their days at the Cuming County Fair, will be the basis for their success as adults. In the meantime, I am grateful the Cuming County Ag Society, the Cuming County Fair Board, Cuming County 4-H, Cuming County Extension, and many volunteers and parents make this experience possible. American agriculture is resilient because it invests in its youth.



Platte Valley Cattlemen Outlook Meeting is Aug 17th
Joey Kratochvil, President

It is time for the Platte Valley Cattlemen annual market outlook meeting on Monday, August 17th at Doernemann's Barn in Clarkson. Social hour will begin at 6:00 pm and the meal at 7:00 pm. The guest speakers will be from Commodity Solutions, informing us on where they believe the markets are headed and different options they offer for market protection. 

They want to thank Pinnacle Bank for sponsoring the meal, and Commodity Solutions for sponsoring the social hour.

They look forward to seeing you on August 17th at the Barn.



Crop Production and Soil Health Clinic at ENREEC

Nebraska Extension is pleased to bring you the Crop Production and Soil Health Clinic at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension, and Education Center on Thursday, August 27th. The Clinic will run from 8:45 am to 4:00 pm, with registration starting at 8:00 am. The Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center is located at 1071 County Road G, Ithaca, NE 68033. 

This day will feature in-the-field, hands-on sessions that will center around two themes:

Innovative practices for those interested in regenerative, sustainable farming.
·  Biochar and Compost Extract Effects – Britt Fossum, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture and Jenny Brhel, Water and Cropping Systems Extension Educator
·  Beyond cereal rye: Summer annuals as cover crops – Katja Koehler-Cole, Water and Cropping Systems Extension Educator

Topics related to corn and soybean production to close out the 2026 growing season.
·  Corn and Soybean Growth: What Have We Seen in 2026 – Jenny Brhel and Aaron Nygren, Water and Cropping Systems Extension Educators
·  Corn and Soybean Disease Update – Tamra Jackson-Ziems, Plant Pathology Specialist
·  Corn and Soybean Insect Update – Justin McMechan, Crop Protection and Cropping Systems Specialist, and Silvana Paula-Moraes, Crops Integrated Pest Management Specialist
·  Phosphorus and Potassium Recommendations – Javed Iqbal, Nutrient Management and Water Quality Specialist
·  Weed Science Update on Growth Regulators, Herbicide Programs, and Adjuvants - Luka Milosevic, Post-Doc Research Associate and Jon Scott, Research Technologist

A total of 7 CCA CEU credits have been applied for, covering 1 Soil and Water CEU, 1 Crop Management CEU, 2 Nutrient Management CEU's, and 3 Pest Management CEU's.

Please register by August 26th by clicking on this link: https://go.unl.edu/cmdc26 , calling Saunders County Extension at 402-624-8030, or by scanning the below QR code.

For those needing no CCA credits, there is a $35 registration fee to attend, which includes training, lunch, and reference materials. For those needing CCA credits, there is a $75 registration fee to attend.  

More information can be found at https://enreec.unl.edu/2026CropAndSoilHealthClinic/.



Nebraska LEAD Program Announces Class 45 Fellows

The Nebraska Leadership Education/Action Development (LEAD) Program is pleased to announce the selection of 29 exceptional individuals as Fellows of Nebraska LEAD Class 45. Chosen for their leadership potential, commitment to agriculture and dedication to their communities, these Fellows represent a wide range of backgrounds within Nebraska’s agricultural industry.

Starting this September and over the next two years, Class 45 Fellows will engage in a comprehensive curriculum designed to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their knowledge of state, national and global agricultural issues, all while preparing them to serve as leaders in their communities and industries.

“I’m excited to welcome the members of Nebraska LEAD Class 45 to the program,” said Kurtis Harms, Director of the Nebraska LEAD Program. “Each Fellow brings a different background, set of experiences and vision for the future of agriculture and Nebraska. Over the next two years, they’ll have the opportunity to challenge their thinking, broaden their understanding of the issues facing our state and build relationships with leaders from across Nebraska and beyond. I’m looking forward to watching this class learn from one another as they grow in their leadership journeys.”

The Nebraska LEAD Program, now in its 45th year, has a long-standing mission of developing agricultural leaders who are equipped to address the challenges and opportunities facing Nebraska and beyond. Through in-state seminars, a national study experience and an international study/travel seminar, the program provides Fellows with the skills and experiences necessary to lead effectively in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.

Nebraska LEAD 45 Fellows by city/town are:

BAYARD: Juan Manuel Acosta Jr.
BEATRICE: Brayden Frerichs
CAMPBELL: Kelli Conway
COLERIDGE: Annette Sudbeck
ELGIN: Jonathon Meis
GENOA: Alexander Cornwell
HICKMAN: Christina Barber
HOLDREGE: Grant Dahlgren
HUMBOLDT: Elizabeth Hodges
IMPERIAL: Kyle Sorensen
KEARNEY: Tyler Vreugdenhil
LIBERTY: Ryan Husa
LINCOLN: Alexa Davis, Karlin Warner
LINDSAY: Emily Beller
MINDEN: Colby Emal
MONROE: Asha Scheideler
OGALLALA: Blair Rhodes
PAWNEE CITY: Mark Bloss
PHILLIPS: Jesse Harding-Campbell
RAVENNA: Ethan Zoerb
SAINT EDWARD: Blake Merrell
SAINT PAUL: Kristine Dvoracek-Jameson
SARONVILLE: Tyler Bailey
SPALDING: Grant Marisch
SPRAGUE: Stephen Gruber
SUTHERLAND: Jared Muhlbach
VALPARAISO: Tanner Woita
WISNER: Kelsey Thompson

The mission of the Nebraska LEAD Program is “to prepare and motivate men and women in agriculture for more effective leadership.” For more information on the program or its mission, visit lead.unl.edu.



The Nebraska Corn Board Is Seeking Grant Applications for Ethanol Infrastructure Support

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) is now accepting grant applications for ethanol infrastructure support, which will help Nebraska fuel retailers add or expand higher ethanol blend options, such as E15. The program is designed to provide grants and partner with retailers to increase consumer access to safe, cleaner, more affordable fuels while driving new demand for Nebraska-grown corn through locally produced ethanol.
 
Retailers can apply for NCB’s ethanol infrastructure support based on the type of infrastructure they plan to install. Projects that add equipment capable of offering multiple higher ethanol blends, such as blender pumps dispensing E15 and two higher ethanol blends, are eligible to receive up to $75,000 per location. Retailers planning to offer E15 and one higher blend may be eligible to receive up to $50,000. Retailers planning upgrades to offer E15 only may receive up to $25,000.
 
Retailers may also apply to receive funding for E15 Mainstream which is intended for retailers replacing E10 base fuel with E15. These options allow retailers to choose the upgrade that best fits their retail site; whether they are expanding into full higher-blend offerings or taking the first step by adding E15.
 
Applications must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. CST on Friday, October 30, 2026. For further information, visit nebraskacorn.gov/corn-101/corn-uses/ethanol or contact Payton Schaneman at 402-471-2676.



Ambassador Greer to Travel to the Hawkeye State to Tour Des Moines Manufacturer and Visit Dozens of Vendors at the Iowa State Fair

This week, Ambassador Jamieson Greer will travel to the Hawkeye State to tour one of North America’s largest off-road tire manufacturers, Titan Tires, and visit dozens of vendors at the state fair, touring livestock barns and meeting with local producers.

While touring Titan Tires, Ambassador Greer and Administrator Kelly Loeffler will meet with blue-collar workers to highlight how President Trump’s pro-growth policies are creating jobs, reshoring production lines, and securing lasting wins for American workers and their families.

Following the manufacturing tour, Ambassador Greer will join Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, Representative Ashley Hinson (IA-02), and Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) at the Iowa State Fair to visit a wide variety of vendors showcasing the best of Iowa’s agriculture and industry.



Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol NASCAR Cup Series Race Drives Ethanol Demand

On Sunday, over 1,800 Iowa Corn Grower Association members and their families traveled to the Iowa Speedway to celebrate the power and performance of ethanol at the Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol NASCAR Cup Series. The race is the perfect platform to promote Unleaded 88, a fuel blend containing 15% ethanol created from Iowa grown corn, which powers NASCAR engines lap after lap. 

“The energy that overtakes Iowa Speedway during the Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol NASCAR race is undeniable,” said Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) President and farmer from Belmond, Iowa, Joe Roberts. “Iowa corn fields surround the track, and it’s incredible to partner with NASCAR to use their national platform to make that connection to attendees not only in the stands, but to the millions of viewers watching at home, that the crop surrounding the track plays a huge role in fueling their favorite drivers. Additionally, we aren’t only promoting ethanol, but also the over 4,000 other products made from corn and the Iowa corn farmers who grow it.”  

Iowa has long been a leader in supporting expansion and access to ethanol blend fuels, and Iowan’s are already reaping the benefits. In 2025, Iowa drivers saved on average of 15 cents per gallon when fueling up with Unleaded 88, for a combined savings of over $60 million across the state. For one Iowa household, those savings equate to roughly $400 a year. 

“Iowa corn farmers lead the nation in corn production and we continue to produce more with less, which is why we need to tell our stories and invest in creating new demand, and that is exactly what the Iowa Corn Promotion Board aims to do in sponsoring this race.” Roberts said. “One of the easiest things consumers can do to support corn farmers and Iowa’s economy is to choose Unleaded 88 each time they fill up. I like to tell people, ‘If NASCAR trusts Unleaded 88 to give them the power and performance they need to stay competitive, you can trust it too, while feeling good about using a fuel that is cheaper, cleaner and homegrown by Iowa’s corn farmers!’” 

Iowa Corn is working to remove barriers to allow nationwide, year-round E15, also known as Unleaded 88, to be sold across the county and accessible to all Americans. To find the closest Unleaded 88 station near you to power your next trip, visit: drivecleaniowa.com. 



VANE APPOINTS MATT CASWELL AS VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIPS

VANE, a leading provider of first-of-its kind field-level revenue insurance solutions for agribusinesses, today announced the appointment of Matt Caswell as Vice President of Strategic Relationships.

In this role, Caswell will lead VANE’s efforts to develop and manage strategic relationships with agricultural cooperatives, ag retailers, and other key partners across the agricultural value chain. He will work closely with industry leaders to identify opportunities where risk management solutions can help organizations protect revenue, differentiate their customer offerings, and drive business growth.
    
Caswell is an industry leader that brings more than two decades of executive leadership in agribusiness, stakeholder management, and corporate affairs to support VANE's continued growth.

Caswell will focus on fostering strong relationships with prospects, clients, and business partners, ensuring VANE’s continued excellence in the delivery of its unique revenue insurance solutions for agribusinesses. Throughout his career, he has built and managed relationships across the agricultural value chain while helping organizations navigate complex business environments and pursue strategic opportunities.

“We’re excited to have Matt bring his extensive experience, industry knowledge, and strong network of relationships within the cooperative and ag retail segments to VANE.” Said Clayton Becker, COO of VANE. “His deep understanding of the industry and proven career experience will be invaluable as we partner with key agribusinesses to better understand their unique risks and develop customized solutions that help protect and grow their businesses.”

Prior to joining VANE, Caswell spent more than a decade as Vice President of Member/Corporate Relations & Government Affairs at Ag Processing Inc. (AGP), where he served as a senior executive leader for one of the largest farmer-owned cooperatives in the United States and led stakeholder and reputation management for the firm. In that role, he led initiatives spanning member-owner relations, stakeholder engagement, corporate strategy, communications, and government affairs.

In 2020, Caswell was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa, the largest state agribusiness association in the country. Previous roles included leadership responsibilities at Syngenta, BP, and the Iowa Soybean Association. Caswell is a graduate of Drake University Law School and resides with his wife and two children in Omaha, NE.

“I am extremely excited about the truly innovative risk management support VANE provides to agribusinesses across the country, and especially cooperatives,” said Caswell. “Helping agribusinesses manage weather risk in new and unprecedented ways is critically important given the current situation in the agricultural sector. Joining the VANE team is a deep and humbling honor and I look forward to helping support and expand the business.”

Through his role at VANE, Caswell will help expand adoption of weather-related revenue insurance solutions among cooperatives, ag retailers, and other agribusiness partners seeking innovative approaches to risk management and business growth.

About VANE
VANE was founded to deliver innovative insurance solutions that help agribusinesses protect their revenue and balance sheet from weather-related financial risk. As weather events become more frequent and severe, agribusinesses face increasing exposure when their grower clients cancel products or services due to adverse weather conditions.

While growers have long relied on Federal Crop Insurance to protect their operations, VANE extends similar protection to agribusinesses. Through specialized revenue insurance solutions, VANE enables input manufacturers and distributors, ag service providers, ag retailers and cooperatives, grain handlers, and more to transfer weather-related risk, strengthen financial stability, and continue serving the growers who depend on them.

Tuesday August 11 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Reports - NE Wheat Farmer on Asia Trade Mission - Iowa State Fair, Bacon Buddies, Gov. Steer Show - USDA Extends Deadline on Disaster Relief - Managing SCN - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Statistics - Aug 09

                               Very Short     Short    Adequate     Surplus
Topsoil Moisture .......:    31          33            35              01    
Subsoil Moisture .......:    34          32            33              01    

                              .....  Last year   Last week   This week   5YrAve
Corn Silking................:        92            89             93            96
Corn in Dough............:        56            38              55            58
Corn Denting............:        13            01              13            12
Soybeans in bloom.....:        87            90              92            94
Soybeans setting pods.:        69            61             75            76
Winter Wheat Harvested:     95           96              97            96

                                              VP       Poor       Fair        Good       Excellent    
Corn Condition Rating ...:     05          09         29           43             14
Soybean Condition Rating    03          08          27          50             12
Pasture Conditions ..........:    44          26          21           09             00    



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 5.1 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Aug. 9, 2026. This is .4 days more than last year, when there were 4.7 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 7 percent very short, 21 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 7 percent very short, 27 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. 

Corn silking reached 97 percent, which is 2 percentage points ahead of last year. Sixty-nine percent of Iowa’s corn crop has reached the dough stage, which is 3 percentage points ahead of last year. Twelve percent of corn reached the dent stage, which is 2 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. 

Soybeans blooming reached 93 percent, which is 1 percentage point ahead of last year. Seventy-two percent of soybeans were setting pods, which is 2 percentage points behind last year. Soybean condition rated 77 good to excellent. 

Ninety-three percent of oats have been harvested, which is 13 percentage points ahead of last year. Oats condition rated 82 percent good to excellent. 

Pasture condition rated 66 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

Corn condition ratings were unchanged for the second consecutive week while soybean ratings declined slightly, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn silking was pegged at 94%, 1 percentage point ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 93%. Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 61%, 5 percentage points ahead of last year's 56% and 6 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 55%. Corn dented was estimated at 16%, 3 percentage points ahead of last year's 13% and 4 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 12%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 61% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition, steady with the previous week and 11 percentage points below last year's 72%. Fourteen percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, equal to the previous week and 7 percentage points above the previous year's 7%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans blooming was pegged at 93%, 3 percentage points ahead of last year's 90% and 2 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 91%. Soybeans setting pods were estimated at 74%, 5 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 69%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 62% of soybeans that had emerged were in good-to-excellent condition, 1 percentage point below the previous week's 63% and 6 percentage points below the previous year's 68%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Harvest moved ahead 5 percentage points last week to reach 91% complete nationwide as of Sunday. That was 2 percentage points ahead of last year's 89% and steady with the five-year average. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest jumped ahead 19 percentage points last week to reach 24% complete as of Sunday. That was 10 percentage points ahead of last year's pace of 14% and 5 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 19%. 
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 51% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, down 4 percentage points from the previous week's 55%.



DTN Digital Yield Tour Estimates US Average of 178.5 BPA Corn, 52.1 BPA Soybeans for 2026

The 2026 DTN Digital Yield Tour kicked off Monday, Aug. 10, with the release of the tour's first-ever national yield estimates. According to yield models as of Aug. 1, DTN predicts a national average corn yield of 178.5 bushels per acre (bpa) and an average soybean yield of 52.1 bpa in 2026.

Last month, in its World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, USDA estimated national average corn yield at 183.0 bpa for the season, while national average soybean yield was pegged at 53.0 bpa. These USDA projections are based on a weather-adjusted trend assuming normal planting progress and summer growing season weather. The DTN models update every two weeks and do not incorporate weather forecasts.

While the DTN Digital Yield Tour is in its ninth season, this is the third year that employs DTN's proprietary crop yield models. The DTN team combines the data-driven, view-from-above forecasts with boots-on-the-ground insight from farmers, agronomists and other experts to paint a picture of corn and soybean yield potential as the crops push toward the season's finish line.



No Yield Record Likely in Iowa, But DTN Still Projects 214 BPA Corn Crop

Some early stages of drought could affect yields in some Iowa counties, but the 2026 DTN Digital Yield Tour still forecasts a strong crop yield that will be among the state's best years in corn production, while soybean yield could slip slightly.

DTN projects Iowa will have the highest corn yield in the country at 214 bushels per acre (bpa). Iowa also is projected to have the second-highest soybean yield in the country at 61.8 bpa. Grundy County in north-central Iowa looks like the state's corn yield winner at the moment, projected at 234.3 bpa. For soybeans, Sioux County in northwest Iowa is projected to lead the state with 69.1 bpa.

Iowa led the country in total corn production last year at 2.77 billion bushels. NASS pegged Iowa's corn yield at 210 bpa, which was the second-highest yield among major corn-producing states, trailing only Illinois. Iowa was second in the country in soybean production and yield last year at 595.6 million bushels and 63.5 bpa, respectively.



Vice Chairwoman of the NWB Travels to Asia for Trade Mission
 
Nebraska Wheat Board (NWB) Vice Chairwoman Mary Eisenzimmer traveled to Asia July 26–30 as part of a trade mission with Governor Jim Pillen and representatives from other Nebraska agricultural organizations. The mission was designed to strengthen relationships with key international customers while creating new opportunities for Nebraska’s agriculture industry. Throughout the week, Eisenzimmer met with industry leaders, government officials and end users in Japan and the Philippines to discuss trade, wheat quality and future export opportunities.
 
The delegation's first stop was Japan, where Eisenzimmer toured Kinki Flour Milling Company in Osaka alongside representatives from the U.S. Wheat Associates and Governor Jim Pillen to learn more about the company's milling process. She also met with Rick Nakano of the U.S. Wheat Associates Tokyo office to discuss opportunities to expand Nebraska wheat exports to Japan while strengthening existing trade relationships.
 
For Eisenzimmer, the opportunity to meet directly with Japanese millers underscored the importance of maintaining strong relationships with one of America's largest wheat customers.
 
"Japan is the third-largest importer of U.S. wheat, and it's important for them to import several different classes of wheat. It was an incredible opportunity to talk firsthand with end users of our wheat products." Eisenzimmer said.
 
The second leg of the trade mission took the delegation to the Philippines, where they met with executives at Gardenia Bakeries, the country's largest bread manufacturer, to promote the quality and value of Nebraska wheat. Eisenzimmer also connected with grain buyers from San Miguel Corporation, one of the country's largest food distributors.
 
"San Miguel is the primary food distributor in the country. They purchase wheat from the U.S. and retail flour to grocery stores and bakeries. They are very interested in purchasing more hard red winter wheat because breads and noodles are a daily staple in the Filipino diet." Eisenzimmer said.
 
While in Manila, Eisenzimmer also toured the U.S. Embassy and met with newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Lipton and members of his cabinet to discuss the country's economy and future trade opportunities.
 
The following day, the delegation attended the World Food Expo, where they participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the new USDA booth.
 
The Philippines is the second-largest export market for U.S. wheat, purchasing an average of $783 million in American wheat each year. Maintaining a Nebraska presence in this important market helps build relationships with potential buyers while strengthening connections with wheat and flour milling professionals.
 
Each stop on the trade mission provided valuable opportunities to strengthen partnerships between American, Japanese and Filipino agricultural leaders. These experiences deepen international understanding of Nebraska's wheat industry and reinforce the state's commitment to providing a reliable, high-quality wheat supply to customers around the world.
 
Looking back on the mission, Eisenzimmer said the relationships formed throughout the week reinforced the value of face-to-face engagement with international customers.

"Various representatives on the trade delegation met with different people to discuss trade opportunities, and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to meet with end-product consumers and build stronger relationships with them. What stuck with me most was hearing that they prefer wheat from the U.S. over wheat from other countries because of its high quality and protein content." Eisenzimmer said.
 
She said those conversations also provided valuable insight into the global importance of U.S. agriculture.
 
"It was an eye-opening experience to speak with millers and grain merchandisers at that level and learn how heavily the Philippines relies on U.S. agriculture for food security. This mission, and trips like this, are important because they allow us to see firsthand how commodity boards and U.S. agriculture influence the global marketplace." Eisenzimmer said.
 
The NWB invests wheat checkoff dollars in international market development efforts such as trade missions like this one. These visits strengthen relationships with international industry professionals, showcase the quality and reliability of Nebraska wheat, and help ensure the state's producers remain competitive in the global marketplace.



Special Olympics Athletes to Shine at Bacon Buddies Show During Iowa State Fair
    
Special Olympic athletes from across Iowa will take center stage at the Iowa State Fair's Bacon Buddies® pig show on Saturday, August 15. With the support of Iowa FFA and 4-H mentors, athletes will proudly showcase their pigs in the Swine Barn during one of the Fair's most inspiring and heartwarming events.

Now in its seventh year at the Iowa State Fair, the Bacon Buddies® show is a partnership between the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and Special Olympics Iowa (SOI). The program pairs individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities with 4-H and FFA youth, creating a memorable opportunity to experience the excitement of showing pigs on one of Iowa's biggest stages.

"Bacon Buddies is one of the most rewarding events we participate in all year," said IPPA President Dean Frazer, a pig farmer from Conrad. "Caring for people is one of the We Care ethical principles that guide Iowa pig farmers, and Bacon Buddies is one of the many ways we put that commitment into action.”

Each Special Olympics athlete is paired with two 4-H or FFA mentors who provide guidance on pig care, showmanship, and interacting with judges while building friendships that often extend well beyond the fairgrounds.

"Thanks to the incredible partnership and vision of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, Special Olympics Iowa athletes have the opportunity to step into the show ring, build confidence, develop new skills, and create meaningful friendships with Iowa's 4-H and FFA youth,” said John Kliegl, president and CEO of Special Olympics Iowa. “These moments extend far beyond the fairgrounds. They change perceptions of individuals with intellectual disabilities, strengthen communities, and remind all of us that everyone deserves the chance to shine.”

SOI is also recognizing the outstanding commitment of the 4-H and FFA mentors who make the program possible. This year, the organization will award four $500 scholarships to participating mentors through a random drawing, celebrating their dedication to serving others and creating meaningful experiences for Bacon Buddies athletes.

What began as a single event at the Iowa State Fair has grown into a statewide movement. This year, nearly 50 county fairs hosted Bacon Buddies® shows, allowing hundreds of Special Olympic athletes the opportunity to experience the joy of showing pigs with the support of dedicated youth mentors. IPPA continues to assist county organizations by providing organizational resources, promotional materials, and grant funding to help expand the program.

“It's a celebration of inclusion, friendship, and the power of agriculture to bring people together,” Dean Frazer added. “Watching our Bacon Buddies and their 4-H and FFA mentors share the show ring reminds us that this event is about so much more than livestock—it's about creating confidence, building connections, and making sure everyone has the opportunity to shine. You can't help but leave with a smile."

The Bacon Buddies® show begins at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, in the Swine Barn at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The event is free, with paid admission to the fair, and open to the public.

For more information about the Bacon Buddies® program, visit iowapork.org.



Governor's Charity Steer Show Saturday at Iowa State Fair

Another year of the Iowa State Fair is just around the corner, and the excitement for this year’s annual Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show is mounting. This event, hosted by Gov. Kim Reynolds and coordinated by the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) and the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC), highlights the compassionate nature of Iowa’s cattle producers, as all proceeds from the event go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa.              

Hundreds of fairgoers will attend the August 15 event, featuring youth, industry supporters, local celebrities, and of course, steers. Each steer is exhibited by a local youth representative and a guest celebrity showman selected by the steer's sponsor. We will welcome 25 show teams into the ring this year.              
“The Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show highlights the good nature of the beef cattle industry and brings together a valuable collaboration between producers, industry supporters, youth, and community namesakes for an important cause,” said Jenna Bailey, ICA member services and Governor’s Charity Steer Show co-chair. “It is an honor to serve the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, which provides a crucial service to families in need. The youth participants of the Governor’s Charity Steer Show showcase the giving nature of our industry and offer a local connection to support this meaningful event.”             

The Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show has been held since 1983 and has raised over $6 million since its inception. Last year, the show raised more than $569,000, setting yet another new record for money raised. Funds are raised through online donations, sponsorships, and an auction of steers following the show.             

All money raised benefits the three independent Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, located in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Sioux City. These three houses have served over 55,000 families from all 50 states and many foreign countries. Families from all 99 counties in Iowa have benefited from the Ronald McDonald Houses of Iowa, too.              

“The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa is a worthwhile charity and great partner,” said Casey Anderson, IBIC director of industry relations and Governor’s Charity Steer Show co-chair. “The houses provide a home away from home for families of seriously ill or hospitalized children. It isn’t hard to imagine the burden lifted during an already difficult time, knowing you have a place to stay near your child, thanks to Ronald McDonald Houses.” 

If you are interested in supporting the Governor’s Charity Steer Show, consider donating online or attending the show/auction to contribute. The Governor’s Charity Steer Show is being held in Pioneer Pavilion at the Iowa State Fair on Saturday, August 15, at 4:30 p.m. Then follow us to the Penningroth Center for the live auction, where additional funds are raised, and records are broken. For additional information about the Governor’s Charity Steer Show or to donate, visit www.iowagovernorscharitysteershow.com.    



USDA Extends Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Application Deadline, Announces New Flexibilities for 2023 and 2024 Quality Losses

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is extending the deadline for farmers to apply for Stages 1 and 2 of the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) to Sept. 30, 2026. Additionally, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is providing greater flexibility for farmers who experienced quality losses on eligible crops. 

Now, when applying for this key program, farmers who experienced quality-related discounts can use verifiable and reliable documentation to show quality losses due to natural disasters occurring 2023 and 2024. Farmers also now have the flexibility to use a quality loss percentage for crops having a final use that is different from their intended use. 

“The Trump administration is strengthening the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program through these program enhancements and reducing the burden on the American farmer,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “We're extending the program deadline, giving producers additional time and flexibility to document quality-related losses resulting from natural disasters. Coupled with these program enhancements, the extension helps simplify program requirements, encourages participation, and ensures more eligible producers can access the assistance they need.”

SDRP provides more than $16 billion in disaster relief payments to producers who suffered revenue, quality or production losses to crops, trees, bushes, or vines due to qualifying disaster events in calendar years 2023 and 2024. These payments are authorized under the American Relief Act, 2025. 

Producers with indemnified losses can apply through SDRP Stage 1, which leverages Federal Crop Insurance or Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) data as the basis for calculating payments. Producers with non-indemnified (including shallow losses), uncovered (uninsured), and quality losses can apply for Stage 2 assistance. Eligible producers can receive SDRP payments for both Stages 1 and 2, if applicable, and for one or both calendar years 2023 and 2024, depending on losses.

Required Documentation for SDRP Quality Losses
FSA is now allowing producers to use verifiable and reliable documentation to demonstrate quality-related discounts on production impacted by natural disasters. 

For quality losses, producers are required to provide third-party verifiable documentation of the grading factors or nutrient tests and acceptable production records that illustrate eligible affected production. Verifiable documentation must be dated within 30 days of harvest. FSA county committees can consider grading factors or nutrient tests taken more than 30 days after harvest if the test or grading factor represents crop condition at the time of harvest. 

Verifiable third-party documentation for one producer can be considered verifiable for all producers with similar documentation, providing flexibility for vertically integrated operations that serve as the buying point for multiple operations, including their own. 

For producers with documentation that includes expected price, actual price received due to quality discounts, and quantity of affected production, FSA county committees have the flexibility to use knowledge of the disaster event and impact on other producers to determine documentation is reliable.

Flexibility for Quality-Related Discounts
To address quality-related economic impacts for SDRP Stage 1 and Stage 2 insured and NAP crops that were intended for fresh but sold as processed or could not be sold in a recognized market, FSA updated policy for crops with a final use different from the intended use (secondary use) and for crops not sold in a recognized market (salvage value). In these cases, producers will be required to provide acceptable production records documenting the actual production and price received.

Stage 1 Quality Loss Applications with Missing Production Data 
For SDRP Stage 1 quality losses, some applications were not generated because the pre-quality adjusted production information used to calculate the Quality Loss Percentage was unavailable. Although this production information will not be available before the SDRP application deadline of Sept. 30, 2026, producers are still required to file an application by the deadline.

Once FSA receives missing production data, impacted producers will be notified and provided with adequate time to review and re-sign SDRP applications. 

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



USDA Announces Availability of New Fertilizer Transportation Data

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) today announced the launch of a new enhancement to the Fertilizer Transportation Dashboard https://agtransport.usda.gov/stories/s/dtqv-e4ux on its Agricultural Transportation Open Data Platform (AgTransport https://agtransport.usda.gov/). The enhancement adds anhydrous ammonia pipeline rates (measured in dollars per ton) to complement existing fertilizer data. Anhydrous ammonia is used as a fertilizer but is also the precursor to all nitrogen-based fertilizers, with most ammonia moved by pipeline in the United States.

The new pipeline dataset includes five origins (three in Louisiana, one in Arkansas and Iowa) and 25 destinations (mostly in the Corn Belt). In addition, new charts will show pipeline rates from Donaldsonville, La. (the largest nitrogen-producing plant in the world); Taft, La. (a deepwater import facility); and Garner, Iowa (a facility that receives ammonia by rail, from Canada).

The Fertilizer Transportation Dashboard
The Fertilizer Transportation Dashboard offers a variety of important, regularly updated fertilizer transportation indicators. These indicators include fertilizer production, inventory, and disappearance data for each primary nutrient (i.e., nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium); U.S. fertilizer imports (both by primary nutrient and by individual fertilizer commodity); and fertilizer price data by region for key fertilizer commodities (i.e., ammonia, urea, UAN, DAP, MAP, and potash). The dashboard also includes rail volume and shipment characteristics from the Surface Transportation Board’s public-use carload waybill sample; weekly rail carloads of fertilizer; a collection of rail tariff rates (i.e., fertilizer freight costs) for key routes by fertilizer commodity; and monthly barge volumes for key locks on the Mississippi River System.

These enhancements to the AgTransport Platform support USDA’s strategic priority to protect and expand American agriculture by strengthening the resilience of our nation’s food and agricultural systems. 



Manage SCN with Genetic Resistance, Nematicides and Rotation

Soybean cyst nematodes (SCN) cost growers $1.5 billion a year in lost yield and are increasingly overcoming the most common resistance source.

The rhg1b gene was derived from the PI88788 breeding line in the 1990s and quickly became the most common resistance source to SCN. Recent studies in several states have shown that a high percentage of fields have elevated SCN reproduction on the rhg1b gene from PI88788. As SCN evolve, their populations rise, and soybean yield losses increase.

Many of the soybean varieties across the industry today rely solely on the rhg1b gene. A small number of elite varieties use multiple genes for resistance, mostly derived from Peking resistance.

To expand on Pioneer’s leadership position in SCN control, Pioneer researchers have developed new native traits that will be delivered in products with proven technology such as Peking and PI88788. Incorporating these new native traits with proven technology will protect durability and allow for rotation of current SCN traits. These product lines are set to launch in the coming years.

In current production systems, selecting soybean varieties with genetic resistance is the most important management tactic for SCN, but the first step is testing fields to determine the presence of SCN and existing resistance in the population. Soybean specialists recommend retesting infested fields every six years.

“Scouting and sampling for SCN is extremely important because the symptoms can be somewhat unclear,” said Mary Gumz, Pioneer agronomy innovation leader. “The classic expression of cyst nematode is a yellow stunted oval patch in a field following any tillage lines. However, there are other conditions that mimic cyst nematode, and SCN infestations can also be symptomless.” 

In 2021, a study found that over 80% of fields sampled throughout the Corn Belt had some level of SCN infestation, while 35% of the fields had levels capable of causing moderately high to severe crop damage.

If SCN populations are especially high, consider rotating into non-host crops such as corn, alfalfa or small grains to reduce SCN numbers. In the absence of a suitable host, the SCN that hatch each year will die, gradually reducing the population over time as non-host crops are planted. When using this tactic, it is important to control weeds such as purple dead nettle and henbit, because they can act as alternative hosts for SCN.

Nematicide seed treatments can supplement any current management strategies. Pioneer research has shown Victrato® fungicide/nematicide provided a statistically significant reduction in SCN cysts on soybean roots when added to the standard fungicide and insecticide seed treatment package.

 

Register Today for CattleCon 2027
 
CattleCon 2027 is returning to the Music City Center in downtown Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 2-4, 2027, with business meetings beginning Feb. 1. Attendee registration and housing are now open for the biggest cattle industry event of the year.

As the cattle industry continues to evolve, CattleCon 2027 offers producers the opportunity to stay ahead of what’s next. Attendees will gain practical insights, explore the latest innovations, connect with industry leaders and peers, and participate in discussions that will help shape the future of the beef cattle business. More than an annual convention, CattleCon is where producers invest in the knowledge, relationships and opportunities that position their operations for success.

“Whether you are part of a multi-generation ranch or just getting started in the cattle business, CattleCon 2027 has something for everyone,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver. “I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone to Nashville to experience the best our business has to offer.”

There is plenty to see and do, so plan to come early and stay a little longer. Some activities, including ANCW meetings begin on Sunday, Jan. 31, and NCBA Policy Committee and Region meetings are on Monday, Feb. 1. The Opening General Session and NCBA Trade Show officially kick things off on Tuesday, Feb. 2. Stick around for post-show activities on Friday, Feb. 5, including the Grazing Management Workshop and Tour, as well as the NCBA Agricultural Tour.

CattleCon 2027 features popular events such as Cattlemen’s College, CattleFax Outlook Session, D.C. Issues Update, Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame Banquet, Prime Cut Awards Ceremony, along with more surprises to be announced. Producers actively engage as they participate in NCBA policy meetings and guide Beef Checkoff committee discussions. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax and National Cattlemen’s Foundation also hold annual meetings during the event.

The award-winning NCBA Trade Show includes acres of displays as well as live cattle handling demonstrations, educational sessions and entertainment. The Marquee Stage returns featuring engaging sessions with industry experts. Trade show exhibitors showcase the latest advancements, from equipment and technology to pharmaceuticals and feed supplements, all conveniently located under one roof.

Register early for the best rates and housing selection. For more information and to register, visit convention.ncba.org.



Forage Production Insurance Changes
Matthew Diersen, Risk & Business Management Specialist, South Dakota State University

Earlier this summer, the USDA’s Risk Management Agency announced major changes to hay insurance for many states. The affected product, Forage Production, has historically insured against yield losses on alfalfa and alfalfa mixes in dairy states. Beef producers have been able to use the product too as it covers the hay crop and not cattle. The change adds revenue insurance to forage (hay) in many states.

In the June Acreage report, USDA’s NASS estimated there were 50.0 million acres of hay expected to be harvested nationwide in 2026. Alfalfa was estimated at 15.0 million acres while other hay accounted for 35.0 million acres. Forage Production insurance covered only 1.4 million acres. Of those, there were 0.5 million acres insured in South Dakota, 0.4 million acres in Montana, 0.1 million acres in Wisconsin, and 0.1 million acres in North Dakota.

Beginning with coverage for 2027, the revenue feature means that Forage Production will include Revenue Protection (RP) for selected counties in the following states: California, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin. RP should be familiar with crop producers and insurance agents, as it is commonly used for corn, soybeans, and wheat. RP ties the projected and harvested price for hay, through a formula or equation, to a combination of futures prices for corn, soybean meal, and Class III milk. Hay prices in the affected states have positive correlations with the futures prices for the past two decades. The correlation tends to be the highest between hay prices and soybean meal futures, reflecting the protein content of alfalfa. The correlation is slightly lower between hay and corn futures. In non-dairy states, the correlation is often weaker between hay prices and milk futures in some of the states.

A key feature of revenue insurance is that the indemnity payment can increase if the underlying crop price increases before harvest. For producers raising hay for on-farm use, having RP would generally mean a higher indemnity payment when there are yield losses. A higher indemnity payment means more funds would be available to buy replacement feed. For producers that routinely raise hay to sell to others, having RP would protect revenue streams better when forward selling hay compared to just having yield insurance.

There are alternatives for producers in other states. Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) coverage is available nationwide and can generally cover haying. PRF covered 8.3 million acres for haying across the U.S. in 2026. Texas had the most acres covered with PRF at 1.9 million acres. Florida was next with 0.9 million acres, followed by South Dakota with 0.7 million acres. Producers may also consider the Non-insured Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) for forage. However, such coverage is still minimal for forage crops.

Monday August 10 Ag News - New Herbicides in Corn/Soy Weed Control - Stewart Joins A-FAN/NSDA - NC Disaster Relief Fund to Close Sept 1 - AGP Celebrates PoGH Terminal 4 - Corn Silage Season - and more!

New Herbicides for Weed Control in Corn and Soybean Production
Amit Jhala - Professor and Associate Department Head, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture

Several new herbicide active ingredients are moving one step closer to growers' fields, offering additional tools for managing herbicide-resistant weeds in corn and soybean production. 

In its June 2026 registration actions, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed registration decisions for several new herbicide active ingredients, and three are particularly relevant for corn and soybean production: diflufenican, epyrifenacil and trifludimoxazin. None are on the shelf yet, but all three are progressing toward the market, and each adds a useful option for managing herbicide-resistant weeds — especially waterhemp and Palmer amaranth.

On the regulatory side, two of the three herbicides — diflufenican (Convintro) and epyrifenacil (Rapidicil) — received EPA registration on June 30, 2026, and trifludimoxazin (Tirexor) advanced through review over the same period. 

Together, these herbicides introduce two modes of action — Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) Group 12 and 14 — that could expand options for managing herbicide-resistant weeds.
 
Diflufenican (Convintro)
A New Site of Action Herbicide
Diflufenican is a WSSA Group 12 herbicide that controls susceptible weeds by disrupting carotenoid production, causing the characteristic bleaching symptoms associated with this herbicide group. It is a soil-applied residual herbicide for preplant and preemergence control of waterhemp, Palmer amaranth and other pigweed species in corn and soybean.

Why this matters: According to EPA, diflufenican is the first effective PDS-inhibiting herbicide for control of pigweeds in corn and soybean — a new site of action for the two crops. Group 12 chemistry has seen little use in Nebraska row-crop systems, so it offers a distinct rotation and tank-mix partner rather than another version of chemistries growers already rely on. Because many Nebraska waterhemp and Palmer amaranth populations are already resistant to multiple herbicide groups (commonly Groups 2, 4, 5, 9 and 27, with Group 14 resistance also documented), this new residual site of action for pigweeds is a valuable addition to preemergence weed management programs.

Epyrifenacil (Rapidicil)
Fast Burndown and Cover Crop Termination
Epyrifenacil is a WSSA Group 14 PPO inhibitor. It is a fast-acting, contact herbicide intended for preplant burndown and cover crop termination, with a broad label spanning field corn, soybean, wheat, canola, fallow ground and non-crop areas. It can provide broad-spectrum control of both broadleaf and grass weeds, including weed populations resistant to older PPO-inhibiting herbicides. 

For Nebraska, this is especially relevant as more growers adopt no-till and cover crops, making reliable, fast burndown and cover crop termination increasingly important. The first commercial product containing epyrifenacil (marketed under the Empera brand) is expected in late 2026 or early 2027.

Trifludimoxazin (Tirexor/Voraxor)
A PPO-Inhibiting Herbicide for Burndown and Residual Weed Control
Trifludimoxazin is a WSSA Group 14 PPO inhibitor. Depending on application rate, trifludimoxazin provides residual preemergence control of germinating broadleaf and grass weeds, as well as foliar burndown of emerged weeds. It’s labeled for corn, soybean, cereals and other crops — often as a tank-mix partner (for example, with saflufenacil, marketed as Voraxor).

Trifludimoxazin will come to the market in two forms. Tirexor contains only trifludimoxazin — a liquid soluble-concentrate formulation (4.17 pounds active ingredient per gallon). Voraxor pairs trifludimoxazin with saflufenacil (the active ingredient in Sharpen) and is aimed at preplant burndown ahead of corn, soybean and small grains.

What Growers Should Know
    None are available yet. All three herbicides are moving toward market, so none will be on the shelf for use this season. Watch for finalization of EPA registration, Nebraska Department of Agriculture registration, and for the product label before planning any use.
    Expect more complex labels. These new registrations are likely to carry runoff, erosion, endangered species and spray drift requirements. Read the label carefully once products are available.
    The label is the law. Follow the most current EPA- and state-approved label directions.



Trey Stewart Joins A-FAN as Livestock Development Coordinator 

The Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (AFAN) is pleased to announce that Trey Stewart has joined the team as Livestock Development Coordinator while also serving as Executive Director of the Nebraska State Dairy Association. In this dual role, Trey will bring his passion for agriculture and industry experience to support AFAN's mission of fostering growth and innovation within Nebraska's livestock sector. 

As AFAN's Livestock Development Coordinator, Trey will assist livestock producers who are looking to locate, modernize, or expand their operations. His responsibilities include building and maintaining strong relationships with livestock producers, industry leaders, and state and local stakeholders. He will also represent AFAN at industry meetings, conferences, speaking engagements, and trade shows to promote the organization's mission and resources. 

In his role as Executive Director of the Nebraska State Dairy Association, Trey will serve as an advocate for Nebraska's dairy industry, representing dairy producers at the local, state, and national levels. He will also work to strengthen partnerships across the dairy industry and advance initiatives that support the long-term success of dairy producers throughout the state. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Trey to the AFAN team," said Steve Martin, Executive Director of AFAN. "His enthusiasm for agriculture, leadership experience, and dedication to Nebraska's livestock industry make him an outstanding addition to our organization. We are confident he will play an important role in supporting producers and advancing AFAN's mission." 

Trey brings a strong background in agricultural leadership and advocacy. He previously served as a Nebraska State FFA Officer, where he developed extensive leadership and public speaking experience. He is an active Farm Bureau member, serving on the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee, and regularly judges livestock shows throughout Nebraska and across the region, reflecting his longstanding commitment to the livestock industry. Prior to joining AFAN, Trey worked for Central Valley Ag. 

Trey’s passion for agriculture, combined with his commitment to serving Nebraska producers, will help strengthen AFAN's efforts to support livestock development and ensure the continued growth of the state's agricultural industry. 



Center for Rural Affairs to host conservation field day, cleaning academy, and rural grocery store events

The Center for Rural Affairs will soon hold:
Online - Cleaning Academy, Tuesdays, Aug. 25, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, and Oct. 6, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Offered in Spanish. During this training, attendees will learn how to start their own cleaning business. They will explore industry best practices, including chemical cleaning, cleaning and maintenance of different types of floors (wood, marble, tile, etc.), carpet cleaning and maintenance, bathroom cleaning and maintenance, estimates/quotes, and much more. To become certified in basic housekeeping management, participants must attend all classes and pass the exam. For more information, contact Jessica Campos at jessicac@cfra.org, or 402.870.1521.

Blue Hill, Nebraska - Blue Hill Grocery Gathering, Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Hometown Market, 554 W. Gage St. Residents of Blue Hill and the surrounding areas are invited to stop by Hometown Market for a bite to eat, to meet the new owner, and chat with neighbors about the importance of small town grocery stores. Registration required by Aug. 24. For more information, contact Carlie Jonas at carliej@cfra.org or 402.603.0087.

Online - Rural Grocery Webinar Series: Beyond the Aisles, Thursday, Aug. 27, from 2 to 3 p.m. Participants will discover different methods businesses can implement to increase sales from engaging with the community, marketing through social media, customer engagement, and product placement. Featured speaker is Cammie Kroll, Director of Services, at GROW Nebraska. For more information, contact Carlie Jonas at carliej@cfra.org or 402.603.0087.

Winside, Nebraska - Conservation Mentorship Network Field Day Hosted by Scott Heinemann, Wednesday, Sept. 2, from 10 a.m. to noon. During this event, attendees will hear how Heinemann utilizes no-till, cover crops, and rotational grazing to control erosion and build soil health while reducing input costs. For more information, contact Andrew Tonnies at andrewt@cfra.org or 402.590.7096.

Registration at cfra.org/events is required in advance.



Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund Calls for Applications

Leadership of the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund (NCDRF) announced they will close the fund and stop accepting monetary donations and relief applications on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

Membership in Nebraska Cattlemen is not required for applicants to receive relief. Applications should be postmarked by Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

100% of the donations will be distributed to producers who experienced property loss or damage in areas where a fire was reported through the Nebraska Emergency Management Association (NEMA) Watch Center. As of July 28, 2026, the following counties have been reported through the NEMA Watch Center:
    Arthur Co. (Morrill, Vasa fires)
    Blaine Co. (Road 203 Fire)
    Buffalo Co. (Elm Creek & Odessa fires)
    Cherry Co. (Ashby, Anderson Bridge fires)
    Custer Co. (Pressey Fire)
    Dawes Co. (Ash Pole, Clay Creek fires)
    Dawson Co. (Cottonwood Fire)
    Fillmore Co.
    Frontier Co. (Cottonwood Fire)
    Gage Co.
    Garden Co. (Morrill, Minor fires)
    Grant Co. (Ashby, Minor fires)
    Holt Co. (Peterson Fire)
    Jefferson Co
    Keith Co. (Morrill Fire)
    Lincoln Co.
    McPherson Co. (Daly Fire)
    Morrill Co. (Morrill Fire)
    Nemaha Co. (Peru Fire)
    Richardson Co.
    Saline Co.
    Seward Co.
    Sheridan Co. (Ashby Fire)
    Sioux Co. (South Fork, Log Road fires)
    Thomas Co. (Road 203 Fire)

Applicants may submit documentation for agriculture-related expenses not paid for by insurance or other governmental sources related to fencing, pens, agricultural structure repair, feed, livestock removal, or other necessary agricultural-related costs directly related to rebuilding from the natural disaster. Applicants must demonstrate expenses and losses incurred were related to agriculture production and directly caused by recent wildfires in the state of Nebraska. Applications must be completed and have all required documentation to be considered. Documentation can include copies of receipts for purchases of supplies, invoices for repairs, photos of the damage, and more. Please include losses of livestock, fence - miles or feet, land damage – specify grazing, crop, or haying loss, veterinary costs, feed costs/feed loss, and more in the description of impacts and loss to operation. If you need additional space to list damages, please include your additional list with the application.

Individuals who would like to donate either online or by mailing a check, please visit www.nebraskacattlemen.org/disaster-relief-fund.

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

Background
The NCDRF will close for donations and relief applications on Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026. Once the fund is closed, applications will be reviewed by a committee convened by the NCDRF and eligibility of expenses will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The committee and the committee process is confidential. Funds are not distributed until the applications period closes and all applications are reviewed. Decisions will be made in a timely manner and financial awards will be sent to selected applicants no later than 90 days after September 1, 2026. 

The NCDRF has received more than $2.2 million from more than 2,570 donors across Nebraska, 48 states, and five countries since opening on March 16, 2026.



AGP and Port of Grays Harbor Celebrate Grand Opening of Terminal 4 Export Facility

Ag Processing Inc a cooperative (AGP) and the Port of Grays Harbor celebrated the grand opening of AGP’s new Terminal 4 export facility on July 31, 2026, marking the completion of a transformative project that significantly expands agricultural export capacity at one of the West Coast’s most strategic deep-water ports.

The new facility represents the culmination of years of planning, investment, and collaboration between AGP and the Port of Grays Harbor. The project includes a state-of-the-art ship loader at Terminal 4, expanded unloading and storage capabilities, along with supporting port infrastructure designed to increase efficiency, improve vessel loading speeds, and strengthen export opportunities for U.S. agriculture.

Hundreds of industry partners, customers, community members, and elected officials gathered to commemorate the milestone and recognize the partnership that made the project possible.

The Terminal 4 facility positions AGP to significantly increase throughput at Grays Harbor, with the capability to more than double annual agricultural commodity exports through the port. The investment also provides additional flexibility and redundancy while enhancing AGP’s ability to serve growing international demand for high-quality U.S. agricultural products, particularly throughout Southeast Asia and other Asia-Pacific markets.

“Terminal 4 represents a long-term investment in the future of our cooperative and the farmers we serve,” said Dean Thernes, Chairman of the AGP Board of Directors. “Our member-owners continue to invest in assets that allow us to compete globally while returning value back to rural America. This facility strengthens our ability to connect Midwest agriculture with growing international demand for decades to come. We are proud of the partnership we have built with the Port of Grays Harbor and excited about the opportunities this facility creates for our customers and membership.”

The project arrives at a pivotal time for U.S. agriculture as soybean processing capacity continues to expand across the Midwest. Increased production of soybean meal and soybean oil is creating new opportunities to serve both domestic and international markets. AGP’s enhanced export capabilities at Grays Harbor will help ensure those products reach customers efficiently and competitively.

The Port’s $60 million public portion of the project added more than 47,000 feet of rail within its Marine Terminal Complex, a new fendering system and a stormwater collection and treatment facility at T4 and created more than 30 acres of additional cargo laydown area to support future operations at Terminal 4A.

“This facility showcases the power of strategic infrastructure investment and cooperation,” said Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Leonard Barnes. “AGP has been an outstanding partner for more than two decades, and today’s grand opening demonstrates what can be accomplished when industry and public entities work together toward a shared vision. This public-private partnership ship will benefit our community, our region, and the nation for years to come.”

“This is a historic day for the Port of Grays Harbor,” said Port of Grays Harbor Commission President Stan Pinnick. “We are so grateful for all our elected officials, community and business leaders and partners that were able to join us today to celebrate.  This project will have lasting, positive economic impacts  and we couldn’t be more proud to celebrate this achievement alongside AGP.”

Since AGP loaded its first vessel at the Port’s Terminal 2 facility in 2003, the company has developed strong relationships with customers throughout Asia and established Grays Harbor as a key component of its export network. The new facility builds on that foundation and provides the speed, capacity, and reliability needed to support future growth.

“Today is about much more than opening another export terminal,” said Chris Schaffer, Chief Executive Officer of AGP. “This facility represents the intersection of American agriculture, renewable energy, and global trade. A soybean harvested by one of our cooperative members in the Midwest can now be processed into meal and oil, transported by rail to Grays Harbor, loaded onto a vessel, and delivered to customers across the Pacific through one of the most efficient agricultural supply chains in the world. Every step in that journey creates value for our member-owners and strengthens the competitiveness of U.S. agriculture.”



Corn Silage Season Demands Precision: Key Harvest Practices to Protect Feed Quality and Farm Safety
Fred Hall, ISU Dairy Field Specialist 

As producers prepare for silage harvest, remember that corn silage harvest is one of the most fast‑paced, high‑stakes periods on a dairy farm, and the decisions made in the next few weeks will shape feed quality for the entire year. Four factors—cut length, moisture, packing density, and pile safety—stand out as the most influential in determining whether silage ferments properly, stores well, and feeds consistently.

Moisture: The Foundation of Good Fermentation
Hitting the correct moisture target remains the single most important harvest decision. Silage should enter storage at 35–38 percent dry matter (62–65 percent moisture) to ensure rapid, stable fermentation. Dry silage traps oxygen, leading to heating, mold, and poor fermentation. Wet silage packs easily but risks effluent losses—nutrient‑rich liquid draining from the pile—and increased spoilage. Because today’s hybrids vary widely, relying on milk line alone is no longer dependable. Regular moisture testing—whether with a Koster tester, microwave method, or feed‑store analysis—remains the most accurate approach.

Cut Length: Balancing Fermentation and Cow Health
Chop length directly affects both packing and rumen function. For processed corn silage, the recommended theoretical length of cut (TLC) is ¾ inch, while unprocessed silage should be 3/8 to ½ inch. If chop length is too coarse it becomes difficult to pack and there could be problems due to spoilage and poor fermentation. Sharp knives and properly adjusted kernel processors ensure uniform particle size and maximize starch availability. Producers should routinely check kernel breakage for no more than 2–3 whole or half kernels in a 32‑oz cup sample.

Packing Density: Air Is the Enemy
Every load entering the bunker is an opportunity to protect feed value. Dense packing reduces oxygen infiltration, speeds fermentation, and lowers dry matter loss. Research‑based targets include:
    Minimum 15 lbs dry matter per cubic foot
    6‑inch layers for optimal compaction
    The “Rule of 800”: multiply tons delivered per hour by 800 to determine required packing weight

Poor packing can lead to significant feed losses; trapped air can lead to heating, mold and spoilage. Matching tractor weight to delivery rate and slowing harvest, if necessary, helps ensure the pile stays ahead of incoming loads.

Pile Safety: Protect People First
Silage piles and bunkers are among the most dangerous areas on a dairy. Taller piles increase rollover risk, face‑collapse hazards, and visibility challenges. Key safety practices include:
    Maintaining safe 3:1 slopes
    Keeping all workers three times the pile height away from the face
    Ensuring tractors have ROPS and seatbelts
    Never undercutting the face during feed‑out

Producers are minded that “your life is more valuable than any load,” and that clear traffic patterns, communication, and high‑visibility clothing are essential during long harvest days.

The Bottom Line
High‑quality corn silage doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of disciplined moisture testing, correct chop length, aggressive packing, and unwavering commitment to safety. With attention to these fundamentals, dairies can preserve more nutrients, reduce losses, and protect both cows and people throughout the year.



USDA Applauds Confirmation of Glen Smith

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins applauds the Senate confirmation of Glen R. Smith of Atlantic, Iowa, as U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development. This reaffirms the Trump Administration’s commitment to rural America and the farmers, small towns, and rural communities.

“Rural America is the backbone of this nation, and under President Trump, USDA is committed to ensuring our rural communities have the infrastructure, resources, and opportunity they need to thrive,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “Glen Smith has spent his life in rural Iowa as a producer and a business owner supporting agricultural lending and credit and knows firsthand what rural communities across America need to succeed. I’m confident he will be a strong advocate for our farmers and ranchers, and the rural communities where they live and work and raise their families.”

“It’s a privilege to take this role, and I’m grateful to President Trump and Secretary Rollins for giving me this responsibility,” said Under Secretary Smith. “Rural Development’s programs and people are critical partners in the growth of the rural economy, and I’m looking forward to working with communities across the nation to find ways to bolster the economic engine of rural America.”

Other Statements of Support:
“Glen Smith is a product of rural Iowa who’s spent his career serving fellow farmers. Having grown up in southwest Iowa, he understands our way of life and what it takes for family farmers to feed and fuel the world,” said Senator Chuck Grassley. “I congratulate Under Secretary Smith on his confirmation, and I look forward to working with him to deliver for the hardworking men and women who keep food on our tables.”

“I’m thrilled that my friend and fellow Iowan Glen Smith is officially confirmed as Under Secretary for Rural Development at USDA,” said Senator Joni Ernst. “Glen is a proven leader with a lifelong commitment to agriculture who I have no doubt will represent Iowans and all of rural America well. I look forward to seeing the revitalization of our communities under his leadership.”

“Iowans are in good hands with this confirmation. For over 40 years, Glen Smith has equipped farmers, landowners, and small businesses with the tools they need to succeed, in addition to operating his own family farm,” said Governor Kim Reynolds. “I can’t think of anyone with better firsthand experience to support the development of rural communities across the nation.”

“Congratulations to my fellow Iowan, Glen Smith, on his confirmation as USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development. Glen has spent his career fighting for farmers and rural communities, and I know he'll bring that same commitment to this important role,” said Representative Ashley Hinson (IA-02). “I look forward to working with Glen and the Trump Administration to strengthen rural infrastructure, expand economic opportunity, and ensure rural communities across Iowa and our nation have the tools they need to thrive.”

Smith was born and raised in Iowa and has been farming and ranching for over 50 years growing soy, corn, hay, and running a small cattle operation. He also founded Smith Land Service Co., an ag service company specializing in farm management, land appraisal, and farm brokerage. He most recently has served on the Farm Credit Administration Board of Directors and was appointed Chairman by President Trump where he served in that role from 2019 – 2022. Smith is a graduate of Iowa State University. He and his wife, Fauzan, have four grown children and six grandchildren.



38 E15 and Biodiesel Infrastructure Projects Announced in Iowa 

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) Board has approved more than $2 million in cost-share grants for 38 E15 and biodiesel infrastructure projects across Iowa. The grants, approved during the Board's July 29 meeting, include 24 ethanol projects totaling more than $1.43 million and 14 biodiesel projects totaling more than $604,000, for a combined investment of more than $2.03 million.

The grants will help Iowa fuel retailers install and upgrade infrastructure that expands consumer access to lower-cost, cleaner-burning renewable fuels while strengthening markets for Iowa's corn and soybean farmers.

“E15 consistently offers drivers a lower-cost option at the pump, and we've proven that when drivers are given a choice, they choose E15 because it saves them money. Each new fueling system upgraded or installed creates another location where Iowa drivers can save money when they fill up,” said Secretary Naig. “Ethanol and biodiesel also support Iowa farmers, strengthen rural jobs and communities, create additional demand for Iowa-grown corn and soybeans, and provide cleaner-burning fuel options. We'd love to see all Americans enjoy these savings and benefits year-round, which is why it's imperative that the U.S. Senate and U.S. House come together to send nationwide, year-round E15 legislation to the President's desk.”

The complete list of the approved projects may be found here https://iowaagriculture.gov/sites/default/files/July 2026 RFIP E15 and Biodiesel Approved.pdf.   Projects include:
Crawford - Brew Oil LLC, Denison  - $55,064.55 - Retail E15 Site
Pottawattamie - Eagles Landing Avoca LLC, Avoca - $39,399.50 - Retail E15 Site

Today, Iowa leads the nation in E15 (Unleaded 88) availability, with more than 1,100 fuel stations offering the lower-cost fuel blend. In 2025 alone, Iowa drivers saved more than $60 million by choosing E15 instead of E10, bringing total savings over the past three years to more than $126.5 million. Increased access to biodiesel has also strengthened demand for Iowa-grown soybeans, along with other oil and fat feedstocks, while providing consumers with a cleaner-burning renewable fuel option.

The Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program was established in 2006 to assist fuel retailers with the cost of installing and upgrading infrastructure needed to store and dispense higher blends of renewable fuels. Since the program's inception, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has invested more than $74 million through RFIP, leveraging more than $280 million in additional private investment to expand renewable fuels infrastructure across the state.