Thursday February 27 Ag News

 Implications of finishing cattle to heavier weights
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska  Beef Systems Extension Educator

It is not a surprise to anyone that carcass weights are increasing. Fewer feeder cattle from the US supply and the US-Mexican border closed to feeder cattle imported from Mexico since November of 2024 because of screwworm detection in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas are contributing to a shortage of feeders. Incidentally, the border reopened recently, under a heavily controlled importation process (Importing Live Cattle and Bison from Mexico to the United States | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service).   

Other factors such as the economic incentive to add pounds to the existing feedyard inventory are contributing to heavier finishing weights. Yet, finishing cattle to heavier weights is not without financial risk: heavier cattle may get sick, resulting in condemnation or a realizer animal, or die. This risk is difficult to assess because it is heavily dependent on each feedlot’s individual situation.

Owners and managers of feedlots should conduct their own assessment of late-term death risk for cattle they might consider feeding longer. Some ideas are presented at the end of this column.

Likely because of economic conditions and continuously fewer cows in the US cattle inventory, feeding cattle to heavier endpoints is a long-term trend. A review of data maintained by Kansas State University revealed that cattle finished in 2023, although weighing the same at feedlot entry (750 lb), finished heavier because of 40 days longer on feed. At a modest rate of gain of 2.5 lb daily, an extra 100 lb of weight are added on 40 days on feed.   

Taking into consideration what we know about carcass weight gain relative to live weight gain in the final days on feed reveals an interesting situation. As cattle mature, they are known to deposit more weight of carcass than non-carcass components. It is not uncommon to observe a 75-dressing percentage on the last 100 to 200 lb of live gain. But, if a heavy steer deposits 75% of the gain in the carcass component, then it deposits only 25% of the gain in the non-carcass component (head, legs, hide, and organs).  

This situation leads to increasingly smaller vital organ mass (relatively speaking) to deal with increasingly larger nutrient supply. Cattle that consume 26 to 30 lb of dry matter during this period are presented with 12% more energy to partition into maintenance and gain. This extra energy load results in greater metabolic loads on all organs.  

In other words: the metabolic load on a steer gaining weight from 1,500 to 1,600 lb is 12% greater than that on a steer gaining weight from 1,400 to 1,500 lb. Relatively speaking, the heavier steer must accomplish this with heart, lung, liver and digestive tract of the same size as the lighter steer.

This is why risk of late-term death increases with weight in feedlot cattle.

Contributing factors to digestive, respiratory, cardiac, and structural (leg and feet) conditions are exaggerated by this relative insufficiency in metabolic capacity. Acid loads in the small intestine, resulting from intake fluctuations, for example, may lead to greater bacterial and toxin loads reaching the blood stream.  

Greater ash content in fermented whole plant silages should be monitored as they may indicate greater soil contamination of these feed sources. Certain clostridial strains are harbored in soil. Concentrations of ash in fermented feeds greater than 5% would be a source of concern.  

As the beef industry works towards meeting beef demand by feeding cattle for longer days on feed an individual or pen score that takes into consideration cattle thriftiness and background may be warranted.  
    Manage cattle so that respiratory disease is prevented at the appropriate time
    Identify cattle that have recovered from respiratory or digestive disease (including an identified bout with acidosis) while in the grow or finish yard
    At 30 to 50 days prior to harvest of the lot, visual inspection of the lot accompanied by review of individual data should be used to market cattle deemed “in need of marketing” for various reasons (previous issues with respiratory, digestive or foot and leg problems)
    If using a Beta-agonist, perhaps “cattle in need of marketing” should be marketed from the lot to prevent them from being fed a metabolically enhancing agonist or agonist/antagonist

Hopefully, this science-driven discussion will inspire additional strategies to manage cattle fed to heavier weights.  



NCBA President Testifies Before Congress on State of the Cattle Industry

Wednesday, Nebraska cattle producer and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President Buck Wehrbein testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to share an update on policy priorities for the American cattle industry.

“The cattle industry is seeing better market conditions, strong consumer demand for beef, and optimism for the future of our industry yet challenges still remain,” said Wehrbein. “Congress must always remember that food security is national security and the policy decisions they make will impact the hardworking cattlemen and women who produce our nation’s food. Passing a Farm Bill, axing the Death Tax, protecting beef in the Dietary Guidelines, rolling back excessive regulations, holding our trade partners accountable, combatting the New World screwworm, and protecting the Beef Checkoff are all tangible steps Congress can take to support American farmers and ranchers and protect our food security.”  
In his testimony, Wehrbein urged Congress to pass a Farm Bill that supports animal health, voluntary conservation, and risk management tools. He also explained the importance of the Beef Checkoff program, which strengthens beef demand, educates consumers, and funds critical research. The Beef Checkoff has faced renewed attacks from radical animal rights activists and Wehrbein urged Congress to stand with real farmers and ranchers instead of activists.
 
Additionally, Wehrbein asked Congress to protect the cattle industry from the new threat of New World screwworm by investing in sterile fly production facilities that will help eradicate the screwworm. The U.S. has been free of New World screwworms for over 60 years, but the pest is currently in Mexico and could move north. Wehrbein also addressed the importance of passing legislation to lower taxes and eliminate the Death Tax, protecting beef in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, supporting public lands ranching, and reducing overregulation on American cattle producers.



NeFU Announces State Convention Locations For Next Two Years

Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU), Nebraska’s second oldest and largest general farm organization has accepted and signed convention bids for the 2025 and 2026 State Conventions.

The 2025 State Convention will return to the Divots Convention Center and Norfolk Lodge & Suites in Norfolk, Nebraska, Friday and Saturday, December 5-6. The State Convention was held at Divots in 2023 and 2019 in recent years, and at the Villa Inn in 1977.

The 2026 State Convention will return to Grand Island and the Ramada Midtown Conference Center, Wednesday and Thursday, December 9-10.  The State Convention was held at the Midtown Holiday Inn in 2017, 2015, and from 2011 to 2013. NeFU held their state conventions at one facility or another in Grand Island from 1991 thru 2010.

In order to give more NeFU members more opportunities to attend and participate in state convention, the NeFU Board has been rotating state conventions between northeast, central, and southeast Nebraska. Bids are currently being evaluated for Lincoln in 2027.

NeFU State President John Hansen said, “These are excellent convention facilities. We continue to encourage our members to put State Convention dates on their calendars. Our state conventions not only elect our leaders, set our state policy, review the year’s financials, hear excellent state and national leaders, they are also a great place to meet family farmers and ranchers of all kinds and sizes who raise a wide range of agricultural products in a wide range of ways who share their passion for our traditional system of independently owned and operated agricultural system. It is the best system in the world.”



Secretary Naig to Present the Sherer Family with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig will present the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to the Jason and Jami Sherer family of Harrison County on Friday, Feb. 28. The presentation will take place at 11 a.m. at the Pisgah United Methodist Church, 420 Front St., Pisgah.

Owned by Jason and Jami Sherer and their daughters Sydney and Brylee, Cobb Hollow Farm began in 2018 when Lincoln Premium Poultry (LPP) and Costco announced an expanded partnership to increase poultry production in the region. The Sherers got involved in the LPP grower network as a breeder flock that produces eggs to be hatched at a hatchery. After leaving the hatchery, the chicks are raised until market weight by other area farmers. The broilers are then harvested and made available to Costco’s customers, with the majority sold as Costco’s popular rotisserie chickens.

“The Sherers are committed to doing things the right way, from offering exceptional care for their animals to implementing practices that support soil health and improve water quality,” said Secretary Naig. “Whether it’s providing leadership to local boards and organizations or helping a neighbor following a natural disaster, the Sherers are making a positive impact in their community. I am pleased to present this deserving family with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor award.”

In total, Cobb Hollow produces approximately 7.2 million eggs annually. The Sherers also own commercial cow/calf and Scottish Highland herds, and produce crops, including corn, soybeans, and alfalfa. With the help of farm managers Alyssa Rife and Heather Barry, as well as employees George Newton, Kathy Wright, Raina Hoffman, and John Gordon, the farm has since expanded to a second location for poultry production. Throughout the years, they have also had part-time assistance from high school and college students.

Exceptional animal care is a hallmark of Cobb Hollow. In 2023, the farm received LPP’s Top Breeder award, which recognizes their production successes, including a high standard of animal care, enhanced environmental stewardship and robust biosecurity. Their modern barns are equipped with some of the latest ventilation technology as well as automated feeders, waterers, egg collection, and egg packing, all of which ensure comfortable conditions for both the animals and their caretakers. The farm utilizes manure management plans so that nutrients are properly applied. All of their acres are no-tilled and seeded to cover crops, which helps to protect the soil while providing a source of feed for the cattle.

The Sherers are actively involved in the community. Jami is employed as a teacher with the West Harrison Community School District. Prior to farming full-time, Jason was a nursing home administrator for approximately 25 years. He is the current Chair of the Harrison County Economic Development Corporation, Secretary of the CHI Community Hospital Foundation, and a board member of the Harrison County Farm Bureau. Previously, he served as a member of the West Harrison School Board, including a stint as President. He's also been involved as an EMT and volunteer firefighter. After a storm caused significant damage to a neighbor’s property in early 2024, the family initiated a neighborhood campaign to help with cleanup and fundraising efforts which involved students from the local high school and the county Farm Bureau.

The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award is made possible through a partnership with the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Now in its 21st year, this award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for the environment and their livestock while also being good neighbors. It is named in memory of Gary Wergin, a long-time WHO Radio farm broadcaster who helped create the award.



IRFA Congratulates Jamieson Greer on Confirmation as U.S. Trade Representative

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) congratulated Jamieson Greer on being confirmed as U.S. Trade Representative. IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw made the following statement:

“As Iowa leads the nation in renewable fuels production, IRFA members know just how crucial it is to open the door to new international markets while maintaining access to those we have. As President Trump seeks to implement his vision to create a balance of trade, agriculture and renewable fuels should be a key tool. IRFA members look forward to working closely with Greer, the USDA trade team, and the U.S. Grains Council to ensure trade agreements are optimizing opportunities for farmers and renewable fuel producers across the nation. We congratulate Rep. Greer on his confirmation to this vital position to drive increased exports around the world.”



NCGA: Eager to Work with New Trade Negotiator

The U.S. Senate Wednesday confirmed Jamieson Greer to serve as chief U.S. Trade Representative. In his new role, Greer will work to develop market opportunities and promote U.S. foreign trade policies.
 
In response to this development, Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Kenneth Hartman Jr. released the following statement:
 
“Given his experience and negotiating skills, Jamieson Greer will no doubt do an outstanding job of advancing the U.S. trade agenda. We look forward to working with Ambassador Greer as we seek to address unfair trading practices and open new markets abroad for America’s corn growers.”



Farm Bureau Congratulates Jamieson Greer on USTR Confirmation

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the confirmation of Jamieson Greer as United States Trade Representative.

“AFBF congratulates Jamieson Greer on his confirmation to serve as the next United States Trade Representative. He steps into the job at a critical time for American agriculture. Growing trade imbalances and potential tariffs by trading partners threaten to hit rural Americans with more economic hardships at a time when they are already dealing with high supply costs and shrinking paychecks.

“Mr. Greer’s experience with trade issues will help create a level playing field to help farmers and ranchers compete internationally and continue to address food needs around the world.”



NCBA Congratulates Jamieson Greer on Confirmation as United States Trade Representative

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association's (NCBA) Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane congratulated Jamieson Greer on his confirmation as the U.S. Trade Representative.

“The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association congratulates Jamieson Greer on his confirmation as the United States Trade Representative. Ambassador Greer has extensive experience in trade policy, and we are grateful to have a trade ambassador who will continue to fight for America’s cattle producers, hold our trade partners accountable, and secure new and expanded market access abroad. Ambassador Greer’s first-hand experience working on key negotiations like the U.S-China Phase One Agreement and the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement proves that he has the skills to deliver key wins and level the playing field for U.S. cattle producers. U.S. beef is in strong demand around the world with exports alone adding $415 per head of cattle, and that is due to the success of effective trade policy. We look forward to working with President Trump and Ambassador Greer to secure new opportunities for American cattle producers and to hold our trade partners accountable.”



USMEF Statement on Jamieson Greer Confirmation

Wednesday the U.S. Senate, on a vote of 56-43, confirmed Jamieson Greer as U.S. Trade Representative.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom congratulates Ambassador Greer on his confirmation and looks forward to working with him to expand global opportunities for U.S. beef, pork and lamb. Though often overlooked, significant market access improvements for U.S. red meat were achieved under the previous Trump administration in critical markets such as Japan, China and Europe, with Ambassador Greer playing a key role at USTR.



NMPF’s Statement on Jamieson Greer's Confirmation as U.S. Trade Representative
Gregg Doud, President and CEO of NMPF

“On behalf of the U.S. dairy industry, congratulations to Jamieson Greer on his confirmation as U.S. Trade Representative.
 
Exports play an indispensable role in supporting America’s dairy farmers and workers across the country. As I know first-hand from my prior work with him at USTR, Ambassador Greer will be a strong advocate for American farmers and American-made products. His talents as a trade lawyer are exceptional. We are eager to work with him and his team to secure opportunities for U.S. dairy producers to compete on a level global playing field and grow export markets.”



Growth Energy Welcomes Jamieson Greer as New USTR

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, congratulated Jamieson Greer today after his confirmation by the U.S. Senate as U.S. Trade Representative.  

"After a record-setting year for ethanol exports, the U.S. biofuels industry is more focused than ever on accelerating growth through international sales,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Accomplishing this goal, however, will require a strong voice to speak on behalf of America's farmers and biofuel producers when negotiating new trade agreements, expanding export markets, and addressing unfair trade issues facing U.S. ethanol. Mr. Greer is qualified to represent the American ethanol industry and its farm partners on the global stage, and we look forward to working with him and with our champions in Congress to make trade fairer and more beneficial for the rural economy."  



USDA Cold Storage January 2025 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers on January 31, 2025 were up 3 percent from the previous month but down 6 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were up 2 percent from the previous month but down slightly from last year. Frozen pork supplies were up 3 percent from the previous month but down 11 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were up 24 percent from last month but down 32 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on January 31, 2025 were up 5 percent from the previous month but down 6 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were up slightly from the previous month but down 3 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 21 percent from last month but down 13 percent from January 31, 2024.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on January 31, 2025 were up 1 percent from the previous month but down 6 percent from January 31, 2024. Butter stocks were up 26 percent from last month and up 9 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks on January 31, 2025 were down 5 percent from last month but up 6 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were down 6 percent from last month and down 3 percent from a year ago.



NPPC President Lori Stevermer to Senate: Prop. 12 Puts All American Agriculture at Risk
 
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) President Lori Stevermer, a pork producer from Easton, Minn., brought the industry’s point of view to the U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee today through her “Perspectives from the Field” hearing testimony.

Stevermer highlighted the top pork industry issue – California Proposition 12, a state regulation posing an existential threat to all of U.S. agriculture.

“We must fix the problems caused by Prop. 12, which has increased farmers’ operating costs, created business uncertainty, and raised pork prices at the grocery store,” said Stevermer. “We stand with farmers and consumers across the country, grateful to have the support of both President Trump and former President Biden in clearly and decisively opposing Prop. 12.”
 
Developed without input from pork producers, veterinarians, or experts in animal welfare, Prop. 12 prohibits the sale of uncooked whole pork meat not produced under the law’s arbitrary and costly housing dimensions.

The regulation is inconsistent. Under Prop. 12, a package of uncooked bacon is illegal to be sold in California if it comes from a pig raised on any farm across the nation that does not follow California’s arbitrary, unscientific regulations. However, if that same bacon from that same pig on that same farm is first cooked and packaged prior to sale (i.e. microwave bacon), the bacon is legal in California.

Prop. 12 requires producers to have outside auditors certify their farms, which is costly and burdensome, and threatens to put pork producing families out of business by significantly increasing the cost of raising pigs.

Other pork industry priorities discussed include the prevention of the growing threat of foreign animal diseases, ongoing market access and trade issues, and employment challenges, including the need for year-round H-2A visas

Stevermer emphasized the success and resiliency of the U.S. pork industry, which in 2023 marketed more than 149 million hogs valued at over $27 billion while supporting more than 573,000 U.S. jobs.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 2/21/2025

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending February 21, ethanol production edged lower by 0.3% to 1.08 million b/d, equivalent to 45.40 million gallons daily. Still, output was 0.3% more than the same week last year and 5.4% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate increased 1.6% to 1.09 million b/d, which is equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.76 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks expanded 5.2% to 27.6 million barrels, the highest level since April 2020. Stocks were 6.0% more than the same week last year and 9.2% above the three-year average. Inventories rose in all regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, rebounded 2.6% to 8.45 million b/d (129.95 bg annualized). Demand was 0.2% less than a year ago and 3.6% below the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol slipped 0.5% to 846,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.00 bg annualized. Net inputs were 3.0% less than year-ago levels and 3.2% below the three-year average.

Ethanol exports receded 16.7% to an estimated 115,000 b/d (4.8 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated that ethanol was imported.



UAN32, UAN28, Urea Again Lead Prices Higher

For the second straight week, three fertilizers continue to lead prices upward, according to prices tracked by DTN for the third week of February 2025. Seven fertilizers logged higher prices, and one was lower than the prior month. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Urea was 10% higher compared to last month with an average price of $543/ton. UAN32 was 8% more expensive with an average price of $394/ton. UAN28 was 7% higher and had an average price of $348/ton. Four other fertilizers were slightly more expensive looking back a month. DAP had an average price of $762/ton, potash $444/ton, 10-34-0 $638/ton and anhydrous $747/ton.

One fertilizer was slightly less expensive than a month ago. MAP had an average price of $809/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.59/lb.N, anhydrous $0.46/lb.N, UAN28 $0.62/lb.N and UAN32 $0.62/lb.N.

Five fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. UAN32 is 1% higher, both DAP and urea are 2% more expensive, UAN28 is 3% higher and 10-34-0 is 4% more expensive looking back to last year. The remaining three fertilizers are lower. MAP is 1% less expensive, anhydrous is 2% lower and potash is 12% less expensive compared to last year.



USDA Invests Up To $1 Billion to Combat Avian Flu and Reduce Egg Prices

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins today announced a $1 billion-dollar comprehensive strategy to curb highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), protect the U.S. poultry industry, and lower egg prices. This is in addition to funding already being provided to indemnify growers for depopulated flocks.

As the Secretary detailed in the Wall Street Journal, the five-pronged strategy includes an additional $500 million for biosecurity measures, $400 million in financial relief for affected farmers, and $100 million for vaccine research, action to reduce regulatory burdens, and exploring temporary import options.

“The Biden administration did little to address the repeated outbreaks and high egg prices that followed. By contrast, the Trump administration is taking the issue seriously,” Secretary Rollins wrote. “American farmers need relief, and American consumers need affordable food. To every family struggling to buy eggs: We hear you, we’re fighting for you, and help is on the way.”

USDA’s Five-Pronged Approach to Address Avian Flu

Invest in Gold-Standard Biosecurity Measures for all U.S. Poultry Producers
    USDA will expand its highly successful Wildlife Biosecurity Assessments to producers across the nation, beginning with egg-layer facilities, to safeguard farms from the cause of 83% of HPAI cases: transmission from wild birds. These additional safety measures have proven to minimize flu cases; the approximately 150 facilities that follow these protocols have had only one outbreak.
    Biosecurity audits will be expanded. Free biosecurity audits will continue for all HPAI-affected farms. Shortcomings for HPAI-affected farms must be addressed to remain eligible for indemnification for future infections within this outbreak. Biosecurity audits will be encouraged and made available to surrounding, non-affected farms.
    USDA will deploy 20 trained epidemiologists as part of its increased biosecurity audits and Wildlife Biosecurity Assessments to provide actionable and timely advice to producers on how to reduce HPAI risk at their facilities. These experts will help improve current biosecurity measures to focus on protecting against spread through wild birds in addition to lateral spread.
    USDA will share up to 75% of the costs to fix the highest risk biosecurity concerns identified by the assessments and audits, with a total available investment of up to $500 million.

Increase Relief to Aid Farmers and Accelerate Repopulation
    APHIS will continue to indemnify producers whose flocks must be depopulated to control the further spread of HPAI.
    New programs are being explored to aid farmers to accelerate the rate of repopulation, including ways to simplify the approval process to speed recovery.
    Up to $400 million will be available to support these costs for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Remove Unnecessary Regulatory Burdens on the Chicken and Egg Industry to Further Innovation and Reduce Consumer Prices
    USDA is working alongside our partners at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to examine strategies to safely expand supply in the commercial market for eggs.
    USDA will minimize burdens on individual farmers and consumers who harvest homegrown eggs.
    USDA will work with farmers and scientists to develop innovative strategies to limit the extent of depopulations in HPAI outbreaks.
    USDA will educate consumers and Congress on the need to fix the problem of geographical price differences for eggs, such as in California, where recent regulatory burdens, in addition to avian flu, have resulted in the price of eggs being 60% higher than other regions of the country.

Explore Pathways toward Vaccines, Therapeutics, and Other Strategies for Protecting Egg Laying Chickens to Reduce Instances of Depopulation
    USDA will be hyper-focused on a targeted and thoughtful strategy for potential new generation vaccines, therapeutics, and other innovative solutions to minimize depopulation of egg laying chickens along with increased bio-surveillance and other innovative solutions targeted at egg laying chickens in and around outbreaks. Up to a $100 million investment will be available for innovation in this area.
    Importantly, USDA will work with trading partners to limit impacts to export trade markets from potential vaccination. Additionally, USDA will work alongside the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to ensure the public health and safety of any such approaches include considerations of tradeoffs between public health and infectious disease strategy.
    USDA will solicit public input on solutions, and will involve Governors, State Departments of Agriculture, state veterinarians, and poultry and dairy farmers on vaccine and therapeutics strategy, logistics, and surveillance. USDA will immediately begin holding biweekly discussions on this and will also brief the public on its progress biweekly until further notice.

Consider Temporary Import-Export Options to Reduce Costs on Consumers and Evaluate International Best Practices
    USDA will explore options for temporarily increasing egg imports and decreasing exports, if applicable, to supplement the domestic supply, subject to safety reviews.
    USDA will evaluate international best practices in egg production and safety to determine any opportunities to increase domestic supply.



Farm Bureau Appreciates USDA Strategy to Fight Avian Influenza

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on USDA’s strategy to combat Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.

“We appreciate USDA’s blueprint for tackling avian influenza. America’s farmers are committed to ensuring a safe and abundant food supply, and these investments to advance biosecurity and research will further equip them to combat the threat of HPAI. Additionally, efforts to prevent state and federal trade and regulatory barriers that unfairly hit consumers’ pocketbooks will benefit all Americans.

“Farm Bureau looks forward to working with Secretary Rollins and the expert team at USDA to bring HPAI under control while ensuring solutions are safe, effective and practical.”



World Pork Expo® 2025: Bigger, Bolder and Packed with Innovation

The 2025 World Pork Expo, hosted by the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), is set to bring the pork industry’s leading producers, suppliers and innovators together for two days of education, networking and business opportunities. Taking place June 4-5 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, this year’s event promises a fresh lineup of industry insights, new programming and expanded opportunities for producers to connect.
 
A One-of-a-Kind Industry Experience
The World’s largest pork-specific trade show will once again welcome thousands of pork producers and industry professionals from across the globe. Last year, attendees had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge technology, business solutions, and industry trends showcased by 395 companies in nearly 700 booths across 300,000 square feet of exhibit space.

“The World Pork Expo continues to be the premier event for pork producers, offering the tools and insights they need to succeed in a constantly evolving industry,” Lori Stevermer, NPPC president said. “Each year, we bring together the top minds in pork production to spark creativity and shape the industry’s future.”
 
Expanding Industry Engagement
The 2025 Expo will once again feature the Young Pork Advocates Issues Meet, providing a platform for the next generation of industry leaders to discuss key challenges and opportunities. The event will offer new educational sessions tailored to professionals from all corners of the pork industry, ensuring that attendees leave with actionable insights to grow their operations.
 
More Networking, More Value
This year’s schedule is designed to maximize meaningful connections, with expanded networking events, hospitality tents, and social opportunities. Attendees can enjoy the return of complimentary pork lunches at The Big Grill, along with live entertainment and industry receptions designed to celebrate the pork community.
 
Find Out More About Registration
Registration details are available soon at worldpork.org. Attendees are encouraged to follow #WPX2025 on Facebook, Instagram and X for event updates.



Secretary Rollins Initiates New Public-Private Partnership to Reduce Wildfire Risk

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is embarking on a new era of effectiveness as we continue to move away from the status quo.

Secretary Rollins, along with USDA Forest Service Chief Randy Moore and Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) CEO Mark Emmerson, announced a $75 million Stewardship Agreement for the construction and maintenance of strategically placed fuel breaks on national forests in California and Oregon. This investment significantly expands upon unprecedented efforts to create a network of fuel breaks across private and federal land to protect communities, reduce wildfire risk, and pave the way for historic rural prosperity.

"Protecting the people and communities we serve is one of our most sacred trusts, and this partnership with Sierra Pacific Industries stands as a testament to that commitment,” said Secretary Rollins. “Our team estimates this groundbreaking public-private partnership will slash the time in half compared to the standard timeframe to complete this critical wildfire mitigation.”

“Sierra Pacific Industries is well-versed in what must be done to tackle the ongoing threats facing forests and towns in California and Oregon,” said Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “This partnership will leverage our collective expertise to do strategically focused work and add to our broader collaboration on both prevention and post-fire restoration aimed at keeping our forests productive and healthy.”

“This public-private partnership represents a major step forward in wildfire prevention, creating an interconnected network of fuel breaks that will slow fire progression, improve firefighter safety, and better protect communities, watersheds, and critical infrastructure,” said Sierra Pacific Industries CEO Mark Emmerson. “We are grateful to Secretary Rollins, USFS Chief Moore, and the Administration for their leadership in this effort. By strategically linking fuel breaks across both public and private lands, we can maximize their effectiveness in reducing wildfire risk. This partnership to expand the fuel break network demonstrates our shared commitment to protecting the people of California from catastrophic wildfires.”

The agreement will initiate the process to develop, construct and maintain shaded fuel break projects over a three-year period in California, adding about 400 miles to the existing 2,200-mile network of interconnected fuel breaks across private and federal land. The agreement also provides for construction and maintenance of fuel breaks in Oregon.

State and community leaders have praised this historic partnership as a vital step in strengthening wildfire resilience and protecting California’s most vulnerable communities.

Fuel break project locations were selected in partnership with the Forest Service and CAL FIRE to protect lives, property, critical water infrastructure, and the environment.