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

United States Hog Inventory Down Slightly 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



Central Valley Ag Names Kelby Vandenberg Senior Vice President of Feed

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

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

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

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

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

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



Wyffels Hybrids Welcomes Andy Swanson as Area Agronomy Manager 

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

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

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

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



NEBRASKA JOINS NASA ACRES FARM INNOVATION AMBASSADOR TEAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



Updated publication helps beef producers develop growth implant strategy

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

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

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

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

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

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



Commercial Red Meat Production Down 6 Percent from Last Year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



USDA Cold Storage May 2026 Highlights

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

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

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

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



Corn Growers Applaud Supreme Court Decision 

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

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

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

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



ASA Statement on Supreme Court Decision Regarding FIFRA and Pesticide Labeling

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

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

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

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



ASA Responds to Supplemental Funding Request

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

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

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




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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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



Apply Now for the 2027 ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leaders Program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



Grants available for child agricultural safety, health projects

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

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

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

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

Thursday June 25 Ag News - NE Grazing Conf Aug 4-5 - NE Beef Ambassadors Announced - UNL Ag Econ Prof Stockton Retires - I-29 MooU BxD Market Outlook - Ag Thanks Trump for E-15 Support - Fertilizer Prices Ease - and more!

Mobile Irrigation Testing Lab creates informed irrigation decisions with farmers

The Irrigation Water Management Lab at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center is helping western Nebraska farmers make more informed irrigation decisions through on-farm testing of emerging technology. Its Mobile Irrigation Testing (MIT) Lab works directly with producers to evaluate tools such as soil moisture sensors, satellite-based crop monitoring and irrigation scheduling platforms under real-world field conditions.

With support from Nebraska Extension, the Twin Platte Natural Resources District and irrigation technology companies, the lab helps farmers determine when to irrigate based on data from technology rather than guesswork. Participating farmers have reduced irrigation frequency while maintaining productivity, saving approximately 2.5 inches of water during the growing season through more efficient irrigation management.

Nebraska producers have access to the Ogallala Aquifer, one of the nation's most important groundwater resources, allowing them to irrigate crops when needed. However, as groundwater supplies face increasing challenges in states such as Texas and Kansas, Nebraska producers have an opportunity to demonstrate proactive management of their water resources.

“Seeing the decline in other states emphasizes the importance of being good stewards of our own groundwater resources as we irrigate our crops,” said Abia Katimbo, Nebraska Extension irrigation specialist and Irrigation Water Management Lab lead.

The MIT Lab serves as a next step for farmers wanting to strengthen their irrigation practices. The mobile, on-farm Extension program brings irrigation technology directly to producers in the field while focusing on return on investment and providing a hands-on, real-world learning experience.

One challenge producers face is determining when to irrigate their crops. Traditional methods producers have used have included assessments of the weather, experiences from past growing seasons, and producer intuition.

However, those methods often lack the data now available through technology, including soil moisture measurements, crop temperature data, evapotranspiration (ET)-based water-use estimates and crop stress monitoring.

“Farmers are not always ready to invest in and implement technology on their operations,” said Katimbo. “They need to see the numbers and data behind why it would work for them.”

By collaborating with the MIT lab and having access to this information, irrigators can replace the guesswork with measurable data and improve irrigation timing and efficiency.

Participation in the MIT Lab begins with an initial field visit and consultation to assess a producer's needs and preferences for data collection. Following the consultation, the technology is installed in the field with assistance from the MIT Lab team.

The lab continues to support producers through field check-ins, technology troubleshooting and data interpretation assistance.

Data collected through the technology can help determine how much water the crop has used, the amount of moisture available in the soil, the risk of nitrate leaching, and crop water stress.

By understanding what is happening in their fields, farmers can have more confidence when they schedule their next irrigation event and be a better steward of the groundwater resources available to them.

“The data is essential to helping farmers become more efficient irrigators in the way they use groundwater,” Katimbo said.

With current drought challenges and groundwater concerns in other states, Nebraska benefits from the vast resource provided by the Ogallala Aquifer. However, long-term sustainability depends on strategic irrigation decisions today.

The Mobile Irrigation Testing Lab bridges the gap between research and current irrigation management practices with the goal of making data-driven irrigation the future standard to support stewardship of the state’s groundwater resources.

“You do not have to be an expert in irrigation,” Katimbo said, “but the data helps you become one.”

To participate in this program, contact Abia Katimbo at abia.katimbo@unl.edu to start the field-based consultation process and technology selection and installation.



NEBRASKA GRAZING CONFERENCE SET FOR AUG. 4-5 IN KEARNEY

Ranchers, land managers, educators and students from across the Cornhusker State are invited to attend the 2026 Nebraska Grazing Conference Aug. 4-5 at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney.

This year’s theme, “Celebrating Grazing on Nebraska’s Grasslands,” aligns with the 2026 International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, recognizing the role of grazing systems in environmental stewardship, agricultural productivity and rural communities.

The conference will be preceded by a Grassland Alliance meeting from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 4. Conference programming will begin at 3:30 p.m. with trade show and educational sessions focused on grazing management innovations, including virtual fencing. An evening celebration will follow, recognizing the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.

A full day of programming on Aug. 5 will begin at 8:30 a.m. and feature expert speakers covering regenerative grazing management, cropland grazing, small ruminant systems, grazing practices, stockmanship, carbon market opportunities and producer experiences using virtual fencing.

Keynote speakers include Gail Fuller, a Kansas farmer and regenerative agriculture advocate, who will present on regenerative grazing practices, and Dr. Tom Noffsinger, a veterinarian and teacher of stockmanship from Benkelman, Nebraska, who will discuss the role of stockmanship in effective grazing management.

Registration fees for high school and university students will be waived for those who register online by July 31. Registration is open on the Nebraska Grazing Conference website https://grassland.unl.edu/nebraska-grazing-conference-registration/.

For more information, contact Mitch Stephenson at mstephenson@unl.edu or Kacie McCarthy at kacie.mccarthy@unl.edu. 



2026 Nebraska Beef Ambassador Contest Winners

Nebraska Cattlemen’s NCW - Consumer Education and Promotion Committee is pleased to announce the results of the 2026 Nebraska Beef Ambassador Contest.

2026 Nebraska Beef Ambassador Contest Results

Collegiate Winners
First Place - Parker Walahoski, Overton
Second Place - Emily Van Meter, Bennet
Third Place - Meredith Ruda, Ames, IA

Senior Winners
First Place – Taylyn Maas, West Point

The Nebraska Beef Ambassador Contest and Beef Advocacy Training provides an opportunity for future beef industry leaders, ages fourteen to twenty-four years old, to sharpen their advocacy skills and strengthen their knowledge of the key issues facing the number one industry in Nebraska.

The Nebraska Beef Ambassador Contest requires participants to address current issues facing the beef industry with both a written response and a mock media interview. The contest is separated into two divisions, senior and collegiate. Cash prizes are awarded, and the two first-place division winners receive a belt buckle. The first-place junior and collegiate winners become official Nebraska Beef Ambassadors for a full year. They will work to educate consumers and students on the importance of beef. At the end of their one-year term, the collegiate Nebraska Beef Ambassador will be awarded a scholarship on behalf of the Nebraska Cattlemen Research and Education Foundation.

The 2026 Nebraska Beef Ambassador Contest and Advocacy Training was held on June 11, in Lexington, Nebraska. The contest is sponsored by Farm Credit Services of America and Purina Animal Health. 



Stockton, energetic in practical research for Nebraska ag producers, retires

Matt Stockton, professor of agricultural economics long active in providing research-based solutions on a range of issues for producers, has retired after more than two decades of dedicated service to the University of Nebraska and the agricultural community.  

Since joining the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in 2005, Stockton has been a trusted educator, researcher and Extension specialist whose work has made a lasting impact on Nebraska's farmers, ranchers, agricultural professionals and rural communities. His expertise in farm and ranch management, beef cattle systems, cropping systems, risk management and agricultural economics helped producers make informed decisions and improve the sustainability and profitability of their operations.

Throughout his career, Stockton has been committed to developing practical, research-based solutions for producers, including innovative online decision aids and educational programs focused on beef cattle management, crop and pasture management, and water resource management. His extensive research and publications contributed valuable knowledge to the agricultural industry and strengthened the connection between university research and real-world application.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Stockton has been a valued colleague, mentor and friend, the department said in announcing his retirement. His willingness to share his knowledge, support others and serve the agricultural community exemplifies the mission of Extension and the University of Nebraska.

“On behalf of our department, colleagues, students, stakeholders, and the many producers whose lives and businesses have benefited from his work, we extend our deepest gratitude to Matt for his years of service, leadership, and dedication,” the department stated.

“His contributions to our department, the University, and Nebraska agriculture will have a lasting legacy for years to come.” 



I-29 Moo University Beef On Dairy Dialogue Webinar On July 16 To Focus on BXD Market Outlook

The I-29 Moo University Beef On Dairy Dialogue Webinar Series continues Thursday, July 16 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. CDT. Dr. Peel, with Oklahoma State University, will cover the current cattle supply and demand fundamentals and expectations for prices, production and cattle inventories for 2026 and beyond with a special focus on the BXD aspect of the market. 

Derrell Peel is the Charles Breedlove Professor of Agribusiness in the Department of Agricultural Economics. He has served as the Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist since he came to Oklahoma State University in 1989. He has B.S. and M.S. degrees from Montana State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. He previously served as the Superintendent of the Southeastern Colorado Range Research Station in Springfield Colorado.  His main program areas at Oklahoma State University include livestock market outlook and marketing/risk management education for livestock producers. 

Derrell also works in the area of international livestock and meat trade with particular focus on Mexico and Canada and the North American livestock and meat industry. He lived in Mexico on sabbatical in 2001 and has developed an extensive knowledge of the Mexican cattle and beef industry and the economics of cattle and beef trade between the U.S. and Mexico.

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

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



New Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days series set for Aug. 24-27

Iowa cattle feeders are invited to attend one of the new Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days programs, scheduled for Aug. 24–27 in Carroll, Monticello, Osage and Orange City. Current topics in feedlot production, research updates, new technologies and a market outlook will be featured at each location. Iowa Beef Center director Aimee Wertz-Lutz said her team is excited to bring Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days to multiple regions of the state and meet cattle feeders where they are.

“With the high cost of cattle placements, it is important to use data to drive decisions regarding the feedlot enterprise,” Wertz-Lutz, said. “This program is intended to look at a strategic approach to integrating technology and electronic data capture into feedlot production.” 

Each location will feature the same program agenda and speakers, and all will start at 10 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m. Topics and presenters are: 
    Market outlook and risk management, Balance4Ward
    Optimizing manure value across systems, Dan Andersen, associate professor and extension agriculture engineering specialist at Iowa State 
    Opportunities to incorporate new and current technologies, Wertz-Lutz 
    Research update: Dietary and management strategies to help feedlot cattle be more resilient to stress, feedlot researchers from the animal science department at Iowa State 
    Incorporating new technologies into the feedyard, David Trowbridge with Gregory Feedyards 

Event dates and locations
    Monday, Aug. 24 – Swan Lake Education Center, 22676 Swan Lake Trail Drive, Carroll
    Tuesday, Aug. 25 – ISU Extension and Outreach Jones County Youth Development Center, 800 N. Maple Street, Monticello
    Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Public Safety Center, 432 Main Street, Osage
    Thursday, Aug. 27 – ISU Extension and Outreach Sioux County Office, 400 Central Avenue NW, Suite 700, Orange City

Registration
Registration is $20 per person and is due by Aug. 17 through the hosting county extension office. See details and registration information on the IBC program web page https://www.iowabeefcenter.org/events/CycloneCattleFeeders2026.html.

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

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



ASA Farmer Forum to Deliver Practical Insights on Conservation Programs & Profitability

The American Soybean Association (ASA) will once again bring farmers together for a valuable opportunity to collaborate, connect, and learn at the 2026 ASA Farmer Forum: Building Your Conservation Program and Profit Potential. Registration is now open for this free event, taking place Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, Iowa—just one day ahead of the annual Farm Progress Show.

The half-day forum is designed to help soybean farmers better understand and evaluate conservation incentive programs while connecting directly with organizations and companies offering these opportunities. Attendees will gain practical, farm-focused insights into conservation program offerings, current issues impacting agriculture, and real-world decision-making strategies.

Educational sessions will run from 1:00–5:30 p.m., followed by a networking reception from 5:30–7:30 p.m. Farmers who attend the full event will receive a complimentary ticket to the Farm Progress Show in nearby Boone, Iowa. The Farm Progress Show, Sept. 1–3, is one of the nation’s largest outdoor farm events, featuring more than 600 exhibitors, live field demonstrations, and the latest in agricultural technology.  It draws attendees from more than 30 countries each year.

"Every farm is different, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to conservation," said Scott Metzger, president of the American Soybean Association and a soybean farmer from Ohio. "The ASA Farmer Forum gives farmers the opportunity to hear directly from experts and fellow producers, ask questions, and explore practical solutions they can adapt to their own operations. It's about leaving with ideas, connections, and confidence to make decisions that strengthen both their farms and the future of agriculture."

Building on the success of previous forums, this year’s event will feature expert-led panels, opportunities to engage with industry leaders, and direct access to conservation professionals. Attendees will be able to speak directly with technicians and crop advisors to identify programs that align with their operational goals.

Throughout the event, farmers have the opportunity to network with peers and industry leaders, explore conservation opportunities, and discuss how current issues are shaping on-farm decision-making. During the afternoon break and evening reception, attendees engage in informal discussions with conservation experts while enjoying refreshments.

ASA appreciates the continued support of ADM and the Soy Checkoff, lead sponsors of the ASA Farmer Forum.

For more information, including the event agenda and registration details, click here https://soy.swoogo.com/ASAFarmerForum2026.



Jace Thompson Wins World Livestock Auctioneer Championship

When Jace Thompson first began his auctioneering career, he quietly set a lofty goal. He didn’t publicize it, but he wanted to prove to himself that he could stick to something, refine his craft and ultimately become the best in the world.

By June 20, that silent ambition became a historic reality as the 23-year-old from Billings, Mont., was named the 2026 World Livestock Auctioneer Champion. With his victory, Jace and his father, Ty Thompson — the 2009 champion — became the first father-son duo to ever win the prestigious title.

A third-generation cattleman and auctioneer, Jace grew up completely immersed in the industry. His grandfather built a livestock marketing business from scratch in Wyoming, and his father later moved to Montana to do the same, also adding a couple of feedyards to the mix. Though Jace explored other interests after high school, including real estate, the pull of the family business was inevitable. Five years ago, he decided to take auctioneering seriously, selling six days a week across three states, adding 9,200 miles to the odometer each month as he honed his skills.

Now, as the reigning World Livestock Auctioneer Champion, Jace is prepared to put that dedication to work on an international scale. He will spend the next year driving the custom-wrapped World Livestock Auctioneer Championship pickup truck across the U.S. and Canada, serving as an advocate for the Livestock Marketing Association and the industry as a whole.

“I want to do my No. 1 job, which is be a spokesperson and be an ambassador for the auction method of selling livestock,” Thompson said, noting his excitement to also share LMA’s resources and regulatory updates with market owners.

For aspiring auctioneers looking to achieve the same success, Thompson stresses the value of grit and someone to look up to.

“Find a proven mentor,” he said. “One who is successful and is willing to help, because it’s very hard to get good at this without a mentor.”

Thompson also noted the importance of treating every opportunity with equal respect, whether it is a major market or a local volunteer fire department pie auction.

“As long as you’re humble enough and willing enough to learn, you can grow more than you could ever imagine from every sale,” he added.

In addition to the one-year use of the world champion truck, Thompson took home $10,000 in cash, a Gist belt buckle, a hand-tooled leather briefcase, a bronze sculpture, a world champion ring, a custom-engraved Henry Original rifle, a golden gavel and a sterling silver money clip.

Joining him in the winner’s circle was Reserve Champion Troy Robinett, Decatur, Texas, and Runner Up Barrett Simon, Rosalia, Kan., who was also recognized for achieving the highest score in the interview portion of the contest. Austin Schaben, Dunlap, Iowa, was named the Audrey K. Banks Rookie of the Year. Rounding out the top 10, in contest order, were: Ryan Konynenbelt, Fort MacLeod, Alberta; Josh Jasper, Nicholasville, Ky.; Jerran Miller, Chouteau, Okla.; Leon Caselman, Long Lane, Mo.; Andrew Sylvester, Westmoreland, Kan.; and Garrett Nunn, Laramie, Wyo.

Entry for the 2027 World Livestock Auctioneer Championship qualifying events is now open with events building up to the 2027 Championship to be held next June in South Lake Tahoe, Nev., and Galt, Calif.



Iowa Corn Farmers Thank President Trump for Consistent Support of Year-Round E15

Wednesday, the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) thanked President Donald Trump for once again championing authorization of permanent nationwide, year-round E15. 

“We have said it before and we will say it again, E15 is a win for both farmers and consumers alike,” said Mark Mueller, ICGA President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa. “ICGA thanks President Trump for continually championing E15 and promising to sign it into law once it reaches his desk. We appreciate his tireless dedication to providing a market for the American farmer while providing a domestic energy source, that is low-cost and cleaner burning to the consumer.” 

The ask comes from Russel Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget for the Trump Administration, in a supplemental funding request. The request states E15 is “a fix that codifies the permanent, year-round sale of E15, an urgent and needed policy change that would expand consumer choice, support domestic fuel production, and provide additional flexibility in fuel markets.” 



NCGA Applauds Trump Administration’s Continued Support of E15

The Trump Administration sent a supplemental budget request to Congress today. The request included an appeal to codify the permanent, year-round sale of E15 and to appropriate $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers. In response to this development, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower released the following statement: 

“President Trump and his administration have repeatedly and continuously demonstrated their support for Congressional approval of year-round E15. We appreciate the commitment from the administration, as well as the members of the U.S. House of Representatives who advocated for this legislation and ultimately secured its bipartisan passage.  

“We urge the Senate to take up this matter as quickly as possible to settle this issue once and for all, for the benefit of America’s farmers and fuel consumers alike.”  

“We also appreciate the administration’s recognition that, while we pursue new market expansion opportunities like E15, farmers are facing economic hardship now, and we welcome the economic assistance included in the request.” 



ASA Statement on President Trump's Supplemental Funding Request

The American Soybean Association Wednesday released the following statement regarding President Trump’s supplemental funding request to Congress today.

“ASA appreciates President Trump for his request to address the economic headwinds facing U.S. soybean farmers and the agriculture industry at large. It is no secret that farm country is struggling, and this temporary economic support will go a long way to provide farmers with economic stability as we look forward to the harvest season,” said Scott Metzger, ASA President and farmer from Williamsport, OH. “In addition to much-needed economic support, the President has also acknowledged the need for legislation to codify permanent, year-round sales of E15. Year-round E15 is a win for soybean and corn farmers alike, and ASA supports pursuing legislation that will boost ethanol sales while continuing to support the biomass-based diesel industry and its use of soybean oil.”



Urea, UAN32 Leads Majority of Fertilizers' Prices Lower

Retail fertilizer prices tracked by DTN for the third week of June 2026 show most nutrients are lower than last month. This is the second week in a row this has happened.

Six fertilizers were lower compared to last month while the remaining two were slightly higher. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more. Leading the nutrients lower were urea and UAN32. Urea was 12% less expensive with an average price of $731/ton while UAN32 was 7% lower compared to last month and had an average price of $544/ton. The remaining four fertilizers were just slightly less expensive than a month ago. MAP had an average price of $910/ton, 10-34-0 $723/ton, anhydrous $1,091/ton and UAN28 $511/ton.

Two fertilizers were slightly more expensive compared to last month: DAP had an average price of $955/ton while potash is $494/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.79/lb.N, anhydrous $0.67/lb.N, UAN28 $0.91/lb.N and UAN32 $0.85/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier: Potash by 4%, 10-34-0 8%, UAN32 10%, urea 12%, DAP 13%, MAP 15%; UAN28 23% and anhydrous by 41%.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 6/19/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending June 19, ethanol production dipped 1.1% to a 4-week low of 1.09 million b/d, equivalent to 45.78 million gallons daily. Yet, output was 0.8% higher than the same week last year and 3.1% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate was unchanged at 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.94 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks inched 0.5% higher to 24.6 million barrels. Stocks were 0.7% more than the same week last year and 6.8% above the five-year average. Inventories built in the Midwest (PADD 2) and Gulf Coast (PADD 3) but thinned across the other regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, retreated 4.7% to 8.78 million b/d (134.89 bg annualized). Demand was 9.4% less than a year ago and 4.7% below the five-year average.

Conversely, refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol ticked up 0.3% to a 4-week high of 923,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.19 bg annualized. Net inputs were 1.1% more than year-ago levels and 0.7% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports declined 4.0% to 121,000 b/d (5.1 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.

Wednesday June 24 Ag News - NC Scholarships Announced - Mighty Giant Updates Tub Grinders - RegenAg Field Day July 17 - Senate Farm Bill Framework Introduced - Fischer's Wildfire Disaster Bill Headed to Pres - and more!

Albion Native the 2026 Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholar

The Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation (NCF) is pleased to announce Mr. Gavin Dozler as the 2026 Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholar.  

Gavin, son of Ron and Jennifer Dozler of Albion, Nebraska, is a veterinary student in the University of Nebraska–Iowa State University Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine (PPVM). Raised on his family’s commercial cow/calf operation, Dozler developed a passion for livestock production and the beef industry at a young age. He earned a degree in Animal Science from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and currently continues his veterinary education through the PPVM program. Committed to the future of Nebraska agriculture, Dozler plans to pursue a career as a predominantly large-animal veterinarian serving cattle producers in rural Nebraska communities. In addition to his veterinary career, he hopes to eventually take over and continue growing his family’s commercial cow/calf operation.

Dozler stated, “Growing up in production agriculture instilled in me a deep passion for the beef industry, and I am honored to represent the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation as this year’s Beef State Scholar.” 

Malina Lindstrom, President of the NCF stated, "It is our honor to present Gavin Dozler as this year's Beef State Scholar. His well-rounded industry experience, unwavering passion for the beef industry, exceptional work ethic, and dedication to serving producers as a large-animal veterinarian are preparing him to lead and strengthen the industry for years to come."

Including the Beef State Scholarship, the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation awarded over $104,800 awarded to 81 students furthering their education in the 2026-2027 academic year.

To donate or for more information concerning the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation, contact Ashley McClinton, Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Secretary at (402) 475-2333 or Jana Jensen, Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Fundraising Coordinator at (308) 588-6299.

Established in 2014, the Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship is the premier Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation scholarship providing a $10,000 award to an outstanding junior, senior, or graduate level Nebraska resident student enrolled in a Nebraska college or university pursuing a beef industry related degree. 



Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Awards $104,800 in Scholarships

The Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation (NCF) awarded over $104,800 awarded to 81 students to grow the next generation of the cattle industry in their academic pursuits. This is the largest amount of scholarships awarded in the foundation's history.

President of the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation, Malina Lindstrom stated, "We truly believe these deserving scholarship recipients represent the future of Nebraska's beef industry. We are grateful for the generous support of our donors, whose contributions allow us to recognize and invest in the next generation of leaders and cattlemen across our state." 

To donate or for more information concerning the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation, contact Ashley McClinton, Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Secretary at (402) 475-2333 or Jana Jensen, Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Fundraising Coordinator at (308) 588-6299.

2026 Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Scholars

Alliance
Gavin Bell - $1,200 Western Nebraska Agriculture Scholarship
Ryggin Meyer - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
Josie Sanders - $1,200 Bill Heller Memorial Scholarship
Rozlyn Wills - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Amherst
Breanna Bosshamer - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
Joshua Pierce - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Ayr
Carter Auten - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Bancroft
Noah Brichacek - $1,200 Ron & Shirley Huss Scholarship

Beemer       
Josie Ritter - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Belvidere
JessaLynn Hudson - $1,200 Bill Pullen Scholarship

Bennet
Emily Van Meter - $1,200 Bill Briggs Family Memorial Scholarship

Berwyn
Alex Berghorst - $1,200 Col. Melvin Huss Memorial Scholarship

Big Springs
Claudia Rhoades - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Bridgewater, SD
Hannah Hoffman - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Broken Bow
Keelyn Shea - $1,200 West Central Affiliate Scholarship

Bruno
Marissa Miratsky - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Callaway
Kaygan Witthuhn - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Campbell
Carter Trambly - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Chambers
Clair Krysl - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Columbus
Adyson Groteluschen - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
Kurt Schneider - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Cozad
Carson Reiman - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Craig
Madeline Pearson - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Fairbury
Molly Hansmire - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Fordyce
Graham Potts - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Gothenburg
Lexi Johnson - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Harrisburg
Isaac Olsen - $1,200 Martin Viersen Range Management & Conservation Memorial Scholarship

Hartington
Anna Steffen - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Hastings
Emily Greenquist - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Hershey
Peyton Fisher - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Humphrey
Rachel Martensen - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Indianola
Nathan Rippe - $5,000 2026 Beef State Finalist Scholarship

Johnstown
Hannah Beel - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Kennard
Lydia Schaapveld - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Leigh
Kaegan Held - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Lexington
Jaelin Wolfinger - $1,200 Robert F. Lute, II Memorial Scholarship

Lincoln
Reagan Rippy - $1,200 Todd Ricenbaw Memorial Scholarship

Manning, ND
Shay Burian - $1,200 Jim & Helen Gran Scholarship

Maxwell
Dallas Grunden - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Milford
Conner Kohout - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Minden
Alizabeth Nielsen - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Mitchell
Jackson Allen - $1,200 Shari Flaming Memorial Scholarship

Newcastle
Ava Stewart - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

North Platte
Kason Bruns - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
Brylie Robinson - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Oakland
Bailey Denton - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Orchard
Karter Otte - $1,200 Donovan Yoachim Memorial Scholarship

Ord
Adam Knapp - $1,200 Clarence & Lois Jean Hartmann Scholarship
Colton Thompson - $1,200 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Overton
Spencer Walahoski - $2,500 Merck Animal Health Cartridges for Cash Scholarship

Palmyra
Jacob Wood - $1,200 Frank & Shirley Sibert Scholarship

Paxton
Ainsley McConnell - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Pilger
Jase Alexander - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Ravenna
Mason Janda - $1,200 Dr. Jeff Fox Memorial Scholarship
Justine Pope - $1,000 Lower Loup Affiliate Scholarship

Richland
Gunnar Wolfe - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Roseland
Beau Bonifas - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Royal
Christen Curtis - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Saint Libory
Kylie Caspersen - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Scribner
Jake Larson - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
Grace Schlueter - $1,200 Nebraska Cattlemen Beef Pit Scholarship

Seward
Kathryn Naber - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

St. Paul
Abby Hirschman - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
Zachary Hirschman - $1,000 Lower Loup Affiliate Scholarship

Staplehurst
Jacob Warm - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Stapleton
Kelsey Amos - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
Lance Jones - $5,000 2026 Beef State Finalist Scholarship
Crew Witthuhn - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Steinauer
Leah Christen - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Sumner
Preston Beattie - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Sutton
Laurel Moore - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Valentine
Ella Brennemann - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Wakefield
Ashlyn Boeckenhauer - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Wauneta
Jayme Gittlein - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

West Point
Sydney Hutchinson - $2,500 Merck Animal Health Cartridges for Cash Scholarship
Cooper Kreikemeier - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Wilber
Elsie Woerner - $1,200 Vance Uden Memorial Scholarship  

Wisner
Hayden Schroeder - $1,200 Cattlemen's Open Scholarship
Austin Hatterman - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Wolbach
Katlyn Oakley - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship

Established in 1968, the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation’s mission is to advance the future of Nebraska’s Beef industry by investing in research and education programs. The Foundation’s success and its ability to endow scholarships, sponsor leadership and education programs, and assist with research and infrastructure projects has been possible only because of the support from the Nebraska cattle producers and allied industries. As the Foundation grows, expands, and moves forward in its mission to raise funds for educational and scientific activities that benefit the state’s beef producers – the board asks you to consider investing in your industry through the Foundation.



MIGHTY GIANT UPDATES DESIGN ON PTO MODELS 

Jones Manufacturing, manufacturer of the Mighty Giant tub grinders, is excited to announce the release of the redesigned PTO tub grinders, replacing the 1015 and 2015 models are the new 1050 and 2050 models. Innovative design changes were implemented for enhanced user experience and improved grinder performance. 

The Mighty Giant model 1050 and model 2050 overall weights were reduced to decrease standard wear and tear on equipment parts and increase operational speed. Our remote control was redesigned to be more ergonomical; but still includes the standard features of start/stop, elevator raise/lower, elevator fold/unfold, the 2050 model remote operations also includes tub raise/lower and elevator swing right/left. The overrun clutch to power down the tub grinder safely without damaging the tractor PTO was previously an add-on option but is now included with the standards features for the model 1050 tub grinder. Redesigned take-up bearing adjusters, which are more user-friendly, were added to the elevator along with a temperature control cooling fan to regulate fluid temperatures, delivering consistent air flow to prevent overheating.
 
Durable, extended wear double laid out screens are standard, allowing the grinder operator to easily change screens without needing to determine the front or back edge of the screen; therefore saving time when switching screen sizes. On the 1050 model, the gear pump was replaced with a hydrostatic pump with internal flow controls for precise control of flow and optimum performance despite grinding capacities. 

The Mighty Giant model 2050, the largest capacity PTO tub grinder on the market, now has a Transfluid® fluid coupler for easier start/stop operations and added protection for the tractor PTO. 

Since 1929 Jones Manufacturing has delivered high capacity, durable and innovative grinders to ag producers and industrial grinding customers across the United States, Panama, Mexico, Canada, Australia, Columbia, Brazil, Puerto Rico, and South America. 

Operating our own grinding services gives us daily hands-on experience to gain user insight. This experience in conjunction with maintaining a long-lasting relationship with our customers is the reason Mighty Giant was the first tub grinder manufacturer in the industry to offer a hydraulically opening tub, electronic governor, and the addition of the hydrafork, a heavy-duty grapple, to our trailer mount and truck mount units.



Bazile Groundwater Management Area to Host Regenerative Ag Field Day on July 17th

The Bazile Groundwater Management Area is hosting a Regenerative Ag Field Day on Friday, July 17th from 10am-Noon. The site is located near McLean - three miles west of the Highway 81/20 junction and a quarter mile north of 552nd Road.

This field day is the perfect opportunity for producers in northeast Nebraska to see regenerative ag in action and connect with like-minded producers. Explore a field where corn is planted with alfalfa. Learn real world strategies from regional experts on topics such as how to boost soil health, improve nutrient cycling, reduce inputs, and how to adapt when circumstances change.

Featured speakers include Junior Pfanstiel, Outside the Box Agronomy, who will discuss the theory, process, and goals of converting to regenerative agriculture practices. Pfanstiel will be joined by Zack Smith, The Stock Cropper, who will discuss converting sunlight to dollars and increasing ROI with putting livestock back on the landscape. 

A free lunch, optional, will be provided after the event at The Breakroom in Randolph, NE. Limited spots are available! The deadline to register is Monday, July 6th. Producers interested in attending can find the registration link at https://bit.ly/BGMAFieldDay26 , on the QR Code attached, or by calling Marcus, BGMA Coordinator, 402-371-7313.

This field day is sponsored and produced by Outside the Box Agronomy; Center of Rural Affairs; UNL Extension; Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE); Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment; and the Lewis & Clark NRD; Lower Elkhorn NRD; Lower Niobrara NRD; and the Upper Elkhorn NRD.



USDA Extends Application Deadline for Emergency Conservation Program Assistance in Several Wildfire-Impacted Counties

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) has extended the application period for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) in several Nebraska counties impacted by March wildfires.

ECP is being implemented in these counties to address damages from these wildfires:
Morrill Fire: Arthur, Garden, Grant, Keith and Morrill
Cottonwood Fire: Dawson and Lincoln
Road 203 Fire: Blaine, Thomas
Anderson Bridge Fire: Cherry
Ashby and Minor Fires: Grant, Garden

ECP provides cost-share and technical assistance to producers to restore farm and ranch land to pre-disaster conditions following a qualifying natural disaster. ECP signup in the above-listed counties began on Monday, April 27, 2026. With the extension, the deadline to apply for assistance is now Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026.

“We want to ensure all qualified producers who had impacts from the March historic wildfires have the opportunity to apply for and receive assistance through this program,” said Hilary Maricle, FSA State Executive Director for Nebraska. “If you have a need for cost-share assistance associated with debris removal, fence repair or replacement, water structure repair or replacement, or other restoration needs, please call your county office about ECP.”

Approved ECP applicants can receive up to 75% of the allowable cost of the approved restoration activity, with a maximum cost share of $500,000 per natural disaster event.  



Fischer Secures Key Farm Bill Wins

Tuesday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) issued the following statement after the release of Farm Bill legislative text, which includes several of her priorities, by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry:

“Producers in Nebraska and across the country are working under an outdated Farm Bill,” Fischer said. “We got a large portion of it done in the Working Families Tax Cuts, but we need to finish the job. I thank Chairman Boozman for his leadership and working with me to secure some real victories for our farmers and ranchers.”

The Farm Bill legislative text contains several of Fischer’s top priorities including:

PRECISE Act
    The Producing Responsible Energy and Conservation Incentives and Solutions for the Environment (PRECISE) Act provides a suite of financial tools to help farmers and ranchers of all sizes increase their adoption of precision ag technologies through existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation programs. Read more.

PAL Act
    The Precision Agriculture Loan (PAL) Act creates a program within USDA to provide loan financing to farmers and ranchers interested in purchasing precision agriculture equipment. Read more.

LAST ACRE Act
    The Linking Access to Spur Technology for Agriculture Connectivity in Rural Environments (LAST ACRE) Act creates a new Last Acre Program at USDA Office of Rural Development to expand network connectivity across farmland and ranchland. Read more.

Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act
    This legislation prevents future food shortages by requiring USDA to incorporate Tribal input in contracting decisions. It also strengthens USDA’s emergency response during disruptions and allows for tribal consultation on nutrition programs in the state. Read more.

FENCE Act
    Championed by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Fischer co-led the Fencing Eligibility for New Conservation Equipment (FENCE) Act to authorize USDA to include virtual fencing as an option for farmers and ranchers under the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP). Including virtual fencing in the program provides American farmers and ranchers with greater flexibility to rebuild and recover. Read more.



ASA Encouraged by Senate Farm Bill Framework

The American Soybean Association welcomed the release of a draft farm bill by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman, which includes key priorities for U.S. soybean farmers and makes important investments in the farm safety net, conservation, rural development, research, and market opportunities for soybean farmers.

"Soybean farmers need the certainty and stability that only a five-year farm bill can provide," said ASA President Scott Metzger (OH). "We appreciate Chairman Boozman and the Senate Agriculture Committee for developing a framework that recognizes the challenges facing agriculture and includes several priorities important to U.S. soybean producers. We look forward to reviewing the draft legislation and working with lawmakers as the farm bill process moves forward.”

The framework includes several ASA-supported provisions, including legislation to advance plant biostimulants, expand conservation technical assistance, improve fertilizer research, strengthen rural broadband deployment, increase access to technical service providers and support precision agriculture technologies.

The farm bill draft also pursues advancements in market development and rural economic growth through the reauthorization of international food assistance programs, including McGovern-Dole, expanded access to guaranteed loans, additional flexibility within farm storage loan programs, eligibility for precision agriculture equipment under the Conservation Loan and Loan Guarantee Program, reauthorization of the Conservation Reserve Program, and the codification of the ReConnect Rural Broadband Program.

In addition, the proposal includes several priorities that support growing domestic markets for soy through new uses, including increased funding for the Biobased Markets (BioPreferred) Program, improvements to the Biorefinery Assistance Program and the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), and a directive for USDA to establish a department-wide sustainable aviation fuel strategy.

ASA is hopeful this discussion draft will facilitate bipartisan negotiations to secure a pathway toward final passage in the Senate.



Corn Growers Weigh In on Senate's Farm Bill Draft

Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.) of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry released a farm bill discussion draft today. Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Jed Bower issued the following statement in response:  

“We appreciate Chairman Boozman’s effort to advance farm bill legislation in the U.S. Senate. Corn growers continue to call for this effort to be bipartisan and to ensure USDA programs become more effective, efficient and responsive through long-lasting policy enhancements. 

“NCGA and our affiliated state associations are actively reviewing the documents released today, and we look forward to providing input. As the process moves forward in the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, NCGA will continue to advocate for policies that reflect corn growers’ priorities.  

“While this Congress has few legislative days left, there is still a lengthy to-do list for agriculture, including action on the farm bill, securing Senate passage of year-round E15 and the renewal of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Corn growers from across the country will be in Washington, D.C., the week of July 13 to advocate directly with members of Congress on these priorities.”  



NPPC Leads 330 Groups in Asking for Prop. 12 Fix as Senate Farm Bill Discussion Draft is Released

The National Pork Producers Council, which represents America’s 60,000-plus pork producers, led a coalition representing millions of agriculture producers in calling on Senate Agriculture Committee leaders to include in the final 2026 Farm Bill a solution for California Proposition 12 and the impossible patchwork of state laws it promotes.
 
Shortly after, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) released a farm bill discussion draft that includes several NPPC priorities—including funding for the U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan—but minus a Prop. 12 fix. 
 
“While there is certainly room for improvement, we appreciate the Chairman putting forward a discussion draft to guide a path forward. He is spot on when he says, ‘it’s the Senate’s turn to deliver’ on a farm bill for all of rural America,” said National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Washington County, Iowa. “America’s pork producers will continue to advocate for a Prop. 12 fix in the formal farm bill like our livelihood depends on it—because it does.”
 
In a last-ditch effort, activists launched a $30 million ad campaign to intimidate lawmakers, twist facts and science, and discredit years of hard work real pig farmers have put in to fix Prop. 12. 
 
“Prop. 12 is creating an unpredictable, unavoidable wave of conflicting state laws and uncertainty — and farmers are the ones left to drown in its wake. We don’t have millions of dollars to spend on political advertising fighting these senseless ads aimed at intimidating our congressional leaders.” said Brenneman. “We need those leaders to hear what we are asking over baseless ad campaigns because we still have to raise our pigs, pay our bills, and compete in a marketplace increasingly shaped by mandates coming from states with very few pig farmers.”
 
Without Prop. 12 relief in the final farm bill, pork producers face a patchwork of state animal housing laws that hurts small farmers the hardest, takes away veterinarians’ choices, increases the cost of food, and undermines states’ rights.
 
Fixing Prop. 12 has broad bipartisan support, as evidenced in the U.S. House of Representatives’ successful 2026 Farm Bill vote. 
 
NPPC thanks its Senate champions for continuing to fight for U.S. pork producers’ freedom to farm: Sens. Joni Ernst (R-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Budd (R-NC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).



NMPF Statement on Senate Farm Bill Proposal
President & CEO Gregg Doud

“NMPF thanks Chairman Boozman, Senate Agriculture Committee members, and their staffs for working to put together a farm bill that will bring greater certainty to producers. Dairy farmers look forward to working with senators to get this legislation passed and into conference with the already passed House bill, where lawmakers can craft the best legislation possible.”

Some key dairy highlights of the bill include:
    Authorizing mandatory cost and yield surveys to ensure future changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Orders reflect the most current market conditions, building off funding in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA);
    Extending the Dairy Indemnity Program and the Dairy Promotion and Research Program and making permanent the Dairy Forward Pricing Program;
    Supporting voluntary, producer-led conservation programs, such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), with a continued designation of conservation funds for livestock producers;
    Streamlining the process for conservation Technical Service Provider certification to ensure producers have access to qualified individuals to help fill the gaps in needed technical assistance;
    Establishing a long-term policy directive for the U.S. government to proactively negotiate protections for common cheese names like “parmesan” and “feta,” as championed by NMPF;
    Reassigning export promotion funding initially included in the OBBBA into existing Farm Bill programs like the Market Access Program to make it easier to use by USDA’s international promotion partners, including the U.S. Dairy Export Council;
    Establishing the Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program and allowing additional milk, yogurt, and cheese products to be eligible;
    Expanding the REAP Program to include farmer-owned cooperatives;
    Modernizing FDA’s regulatory framework for approving animal feed ingredients to put American farmers on a level playing field with the rest of the world on innovative technologies in the feed industry;
    Expanding opportunities for animal health programs to receive additional funding through annual appropriations;
    Clarifying that whole milk may be served in the school breakfast program;
    Increasing the authorization of funding for Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives that support the development, production, marketing and distribution of dairy products;
    Expanding economic opportunities for farmers to partner with local food distribution organizations to provide fresh, locally grown foods, including milk and other dairy products, to eligible community institutions; and
    Making improvements to the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network and increasing funding through annual appropriations.



Farm Bureau Urges Senate Passage of Farm Bill

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall commented on the Senate farm bill discussion draft released today by Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.), chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.

“Farm Bureau appreciates Sen. Boozman’s work to move a farm bill forward in the Senate. The bill text provides important support for farm families. The benefits include improved access to credit, expanded investments in specialty crops, increased transparency in fertilizer markets, and enhanced research and conservation programs. The discussion draft is a good first step and provides a solid foundation that Farm Bureau will work to improve upon as the Senate moves toward markup.

“In October 2025, Farm Bureau sent letters to President Trump and congressional leaders emphasizing the severe economic pressures facing America’s farmers and ranchers and highlighting actions that should be taken to improve economic conditions in rural America. While we have seen meaningful progress, more action is needed from Congress to ensure farmers can continue to supply dinner for families across America.

“We look forward to working with the chairman and members of Congress to address three top priorities not included in this farm bill draft, which are needed to help farmers through the current multiyear downturn in the farm economy. They include providing economic aid to help farmers struggling with historic inflation, protecting interstate commerce from a patchwork of state laws, and approving the sale of E15 blended fuel year-round, which would be a win-win for farmers and consumers.

“Farmers appreciate President Trump’s call for congressional action on E15 and economic aid and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins repeatedly highlighting the need to protect interstate commerce, in addition to the need for aid and E15. We urge the Senate to quickly pass a bipartisan farm bill, and with the same sense of urgency, Congress must work together to address these additional priorities. It’s time to deliver solutions to America’s farmers and ranchers.” 



NFU Calls on Senate to Go Further for Family Farmers

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew issued the following statement reacting to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry's discussion draft of the farm bill.

"We appreciate Chairman Boozman and the committee for their commitment to a bipartisan farm bill and their openness to continued negotiations. While the bill includes meaningful improvements, it needs to go further to meet the scale of the crisis facing family farmers and ranchers across this country.

"What we need is a true safety net that moves away from ad hoc assistance, keeps pace with rising production costs and delivers real stability in the marketplace. That means strengthening and modernizing core farm programs to reflect today's economic realities and withstand tomorrow's shocks. It means building a dedicated structure and funding stream for disaster assistance that is fast, consistent and doesn't require farmers to wait on Congress to act. These reforms would give farmers more predictable risk management tools, reduce uncertainty and end the cycle of repeated emergency interventions.

“We urge the committee to go further on priorities that matter to farmers and consumers: mandatory country-of-origin labeling for meat and poultry, year-round nationwide E15, local food procurement funding, and stronger Packers and Stockyards Act enforcement.

"If we don't take decisive action now, we risk losing the next generation of farmers and ranchers. NFU will continue working with the committee and the full Congress to fight for the long-term, structural changes farm country deserves."

NFU last month sent a letter to the Senate Agriculture Committee and congressional leadership outlining what's at stake for family farmers and ranchers if Congress fails to reform the farm safety net.



Fischer Bill to Expedite Wildfire Disaster Relief

The U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday passed Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act to expedite ag producers’ access to federal disaster relief under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP).

This legislation passed the Senate on March 24, 2026, and will now be sent to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

“This is great news for farmers and ranchers in Nebraska who suffered devastating losses from wildfires this spring,” Fischer said. “Producers need this assistance as soon as possible, and we’ve helped make sure bureaucracy doesn’t stand in the way. I thank my colleagues in both chambers of Congress for understanding the urgency of getting this done.”

Background
The Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) were created to help to reduce the burden of natural disasters by providing producers with financial and technical assistance to repair and restore their land. 

These programs, however, are often slow to respond to wildfires, floods, and other disasters. This means producers face significant delays and red tape when trying to access financial assistance.

For many producers, that significant time delay forces them to put off needed repair work, or risk beginning the recovery process without a guarantee of federal help. 

The Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act addresses these issues by reforming the programs. The bill specifically gives producers impacted by disasters the option to receive an advance on cost-sharing relief that is based on existing USDA estimates.

This expedited option ensures family farmers and ranchers in dire need of help can begin the critical work of restoring their property to productive levels.  

The Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act also reframes eligibility for relief from wildfire damage to include any wildfire caused or spread due to natural causes, as well as wildfires caused by the federal government.  

This legislation is supported by the Nebraska Cattlemen and the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation.

Craig Uden, President, Nebraska Cattlemen, said, “We cannot overstate the importance of this legislation for cattle producers in the Beef State as we continue recovering from the devastating wildfires our industry has faced. Our livelihoods depend on rebuilding quickly, and we cannot afford delays caused by unnecessary red tape. We thank Senator Fischer for her leadership in ensuring Nebraska’s beef producers have the flexibility needed to move forward with recovery and rebuilding.”

Mark McHargue, President, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, said, “For many, federal disaster assistance programs work too slowly and often require farm and ranch families to battle through layers of red tape and bureaucratic hurdles. The passage of Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer's Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act through the House now sends the bill to President Trump's desk to be signed into law. The flexibilities and reforms found in this new bill will ensure farmers and ranchers can receive aid when they need it the most.”

Fischer reintroduced this legislation on February 19, 2025. After returning from Nebraska for visits assessing the Morrill fire damage with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Fischer successfully passed the bill with a unanimous vote on the Senate floor.



Sizing and Typing Future Dairy Operations for Financial Success Webinar

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy monthly webinar will feature Larry Tranel on Tuesday, June 30 at 12 noon CDT.

The dairy industry continues to consolidate with fewer but larger farms. The dairy industry is not dying but growing by different means and changing in both size and type. This webinar will look at alternatives and systems for transitioning and future dairy producers to stay in the game or looking to get into the dairy game. This webinar will be led by Larry Tranel, dairy field specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach.

Producers, dairy consultants and industry reps are encouraged to attend the free webinar live from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. by pre registering at least one hour before the webinar at: https://go.iastate.edu/3RAPK4

There is no registration fee to attend the program, but registration is required.

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



May Milk Production in the United States up 2.3 Percent

Milk production in the United States during May totaled 20.6 billion pounds, up 2.3 percent from May 2025.

Production per cow in the United States averaged 2,128 pounds for May, 8 pounds above May 2025.

The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.67 million head, 184,000 head more than May 2025, and 10,000 head more than April 2026.

Iowa milk production in May totaled 531 million pounds, which was a 0.8% increase from May 2025.       



Key Trends Reshaping Dairy Today

Dairy producers are growing herd size while keeping cows productive longer, a financial strategy shaped by strong beef cattle markets, fewer replacement needs and rising value per animal, according to benchmark findings by Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica). As the industry celebrates National Dairy Month, these insights highlight how producers are adapting and positioning their operations for long-term success. The insights are drawn from FCSAmerica’s proprietary dairy benchmarking program, which reflects detailed financial and production data across a broad portfolio of operations representing 144 dairy sites in a multi-state region from Minnesota to Texas and from Michigan to California.

Key Trends Emerging from the Data
Dairy herd sizes are growing. Looking at the All Regions / All Breeds data, the herd size story is a gradual and steady increase.

The average cow herd increased from 6,147 head in 2021 to 9,181 head in 2025, with consistent year-over-year growth: 7,766 (2022), 7,947 (2023), and 8,768 (2024). This indicates a sustained expansion trend. The data suggests producers are steadily scaling operations over time, likely driven by long-term efficiency goals, economies of scale, and investments made over multiple years rather than a single-year shift.

At the same time, herd turnover rates have trended downward, declining from 37.6% in 2021 to 32.8% in 2025. This reinforces the idea that producers are focusing more on maximizing the productive life of existing animals rather than rapidly replacing them.

With calves generating significant revenue shortly after birth, producers have a stronger incentive to keep cows in the herd for additional lactation cycles, capturing more value per animal and reducing the need for frequent herd replacement. “Herd turnover rate is declining as operations retain cows in the herd for another lactation, as those females will have another cross-bred calf that is currently worth $1,500/hd or more on day 1,” said Tim Van Hofwegen, agribusiness vice president for FCSAmerica. “Dairy producers are not looking at profitability through milk production alone, but rather a holistic approach in consideration of strong beef cattle markets and thinking about each cow's total lifetime value.”

Strong beef cattle markets have elevated the importance of “other income,” particularly beef cattle sales, as a meaningful contributor to total revenue. At the same time, those same favorable beef prices are helping reduce herd replacement costs, as higher cull cow values offset the cost of raising or acquiring replacement heifers. Together, these trends highlight how interconnected dairy and beef markets are shaping both herd management decisions and overall financial performance, with producers optimizing not just for milk production, but for total animal value across the lifecycle. The industry is not only adapting to market dynamics but actively leveraging them, balancing milk production with total animal value to strengthen financial performance and position operations for long-term resilience in an evolving dairy landscape.

The benchmark reports are developed to provide FCSAmerica’s dairy finance experts with a comprehensive view of performance trends and industry dynamics, which are then translated into meaningful conversations with customers. By bringing this analysis into customer conversations, producers better understand how their operation compares, identify strengths and areas of opportunity, and make more informed, confident management decisions. The result is practical, real-world context that supports stronger performance and long-term success in a changing dairy environment.



USDA Invests up to $310 Million in Partnership Projects to Boost Farm Operations and Conserve Natural Resources

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is putting Farmers First by investing up to $310 million to expand producer conservation activities across the nation through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting RCPP project proposals now through August 24, 2026, to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners boost their operations and conserve natural resources.  

“This significant investment through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program will further enable us to leverage our partnerships as force multipliers in supporting America’s farmers,” said NRCS Chief Colton L. Buckley. “We’re looking forward to seeing the results on the ground while we also work to keep working lands in working hands.”  

The Working Families Tax Cuts Act is delivering the largest long-term investment in NRCS conservation programs in decades, including support for RCPP. It will deliver $425 million in fiscal year 2026 and an increase to $450 million from fiscal year 2027 through fiscal year 2031.    

RCPP is a partner-driven approach to conservation that funds solutions to natural resource challenges on agricultural land.  In the past year, NRCS has improved RCPP, through streamlining partnership agreement processes and increasing flexibilities to ensure the program works more effectively for conservation partners and America’s farmers and ranchers. Now, 75% of the funding goes directly to the American farmer or is used to cover the cost of conservation practice implementation.  

About the Program  
There are two separate funding opportunities:   

    RCPP Classic: Projects are implemented using NRCS contracts and easements with producers, landowners and communities in collaboration with project partners.    

    RCPP Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA): The lead partner works directly with agricultural producers to support the development of innovative conservation approaches that would not otherwise be available under RCPP Classic.   

NRCS ranks proposals based on how they address the following priorities:   
    Addressing soil health, water quality, or wildlife habitat with an aim to improve land health, enhance resource management, and promote sustainable agriculture and long-term protection of agricultural, grassland, and forestland viability.  

    Soil health projects using practices that focus on minimizing soil disturbance, maximizing soil cover, increasing natural vitality, and maintaining living roots throughout the year.   

    Leveraging precision agriculture technologies to target conservation efforts based on specific field conditions, potentially reducing costs and improving resource efficiency.  

    Focusing on Farmers First projects, especially those that provide technical and financial assistance via contributions for planning and practice designs to support producer contracts.  

    Supporting projects led by Indian Tribes.   

More Information  
The $310 million is available for both RCPP Classic and AFA projects, including a $30 million set aside for projects with Indian Tribes.  

Details about RCPP Classic and RCPP AFAs are available on Grants.gov. Project proposals for RCPP are being accepted through August 24, 2026, on the RCPP portal. For more information about RCPP, visit the RCPP website.  

This investment builds on other recent NRCS investments to engage partners to extend the reach of conservation. In late May, NRCS announced its plans to invest $65 million through Conservation Innovation Grants.   

For more than 90 years, NRCS has helped farmers, ranchers and forestland owners make investments in their operations and local communities to improve the quality of our air, water, soil, and wildlife habitat.  NRCS uses the latest science and technology to help keep working lands working, boost agricultural economies, and increase the competitiveness of American agriculture. NRCS provides one-on-one, personalized advice and financial assistance and works with producers to help them reach their goals through voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs. For more information, visit nrcs.usda.gov.