Tuesday March 18 Ag News - Happy National Agriculture Day!

Nebraska Agriculture is Amazing! Celebrate National Ag Week March 16-22
Sherry Vinton, Director, Nebraska Department of Agriculture

Agriculture is Nebraska’s number one industry. It sustains our families, strengthens rural communities, and ensures a strong future for generations to come. National Ag Week, March 16-22, is a special time of year for Nebraska agriculture. It’s the perfect time to highlight and celebrate an industry that people depend on every day, and one that’s near and dear to my heart.

Whether it’s the food we eat, the fuel we use for our vehicles, or the plentiful feed for livestock, everything about Nebraska agriculture is amazing! Our state has abundant resources like rich soil, ample water, and wide-open land for grazing and for growing crops. These resources, combined with the skill, resilience, and innovation of Nebraska producers, make our agriculture sector second to none.

Nebraska’s Leadership in Livestock and Crop Production
Last year, Nebraska beef and veal exports reached a milestone, surpassing the two-billion-dollar mark. At $2,039,768,864, Nebraska is number one in the nation for beef and veal exports. High-quality beef from Nebraska is in demand all over the world, and our ranchers continue to set the standard for excellence in the beef industry.

Beyond beef, Nebraska also plays a major role in pork production. Ranking sixth nationally with 3.65 million head of hogs and pigs, our state continues to be a key contributor to the U.S. and world pork supply.

Our state’s varied climate, elevation and rich soil help farmers grow a wide variety of crops that support our livestock industry, biofuels sector, and global food supply. Our top rankings in crop production showcase our agricultural strength: In 2024, we ranked:
• #2 in the nation for proso millet production and alfalfa hay production;
• #3 for corn for grain production and all hay production;
• #4 in the nation for sorghum production, all dry edible bean production, and dry edible pea production; and
• #5 for soybean production and sugarbeet production.

These rankings demonstrate Nebraska’s ability to not only produce high-quality food and feed but also contribute to the growing demand for biofuels and sustainable agricultural solutions.

We recognize the importance biofuels and the biotech industry play in the future of agricultural production, energy independence and our economy. Nebraska is uniquely positioned to lead in this industry as we already have the infrastructure in place and the resources we need to excel. For example, our state is home to 24 ethanol plants with a production capacity exceeding 2.3 billion gallons annually, making us the second-largest ethanol producer in the nation.

Whether it’s growing biomanufacturing or producing biofuels, Nebraska is ready to take the lead. Our products are premium quality, our production is sustainable, and our producers are tech savvy.

Nebraska farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses are true innovators, embracing precision agriculture, genetic advances, and modern equipment to produce more while using fewer resources. Their innovations impact all of us and emphasize the interconnectedness of agriculture with our daily lives.

Supporting Nebraska Agriculture
The future of Nebraska agriculture depends on our continued support and investment in this vital industry. By advocating for policies that strengthen rural communities, supporting agricultural education programs, and promoting Nebraska-grown products, we can ensure that our agriculture sector remains strong for generations to come.

Thank you for allowing me to shine a spotlight on Nebraska agriculture during National Ag Week and always. Thank you to the farmers, ranchers, and all who work in the ag industry for providing us with the food, feed, and fuel we depend on daily. Your contributions make a difference not only in our state but across the nation and the world. And thank you to Nebraskans everywhere for supporting Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses every day.



Nebraska Corn Board Recognizes Farmers and Ranchers on National Ag Day

Today is National Ag Day, and the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) honors the state's farmers, ranchers and those who work in agriculture for their tireless efforts to feed, clothe and fuel the world.

Agriculture is the lifeblood of Nebraska, with nearly 90% of the state dedicated to farming and ranching. NCB is proud to highlight the state's national rankings in various agricultural categories, including:
    Third in the nation for corn production, with over 1.8 billion bushels produced in 2024
    Second in ethanol production capacity, with 24 operating plants having production capacity of over 2.3 billion gallons
    Second in commercial red meat production, with nearly 8 billion pounds produced in 2024
    Top rankings in white corn, irrigated acres, livestock and popcorn production

"Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are the strong foundation of our state's economy," said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board. "We're committed to supporting their innovation and dedication to feeding the world through our research, market development and promotional programs."

National Ag Day, celebrated on March 18, recognizes the vital contributions of agriculture to everyday lives. NCB salutes the agronomists, engineers, sales professionals, scientists, economists and all jobs in-between who works tirelessly to ensure a sustainable food system for future generations.



Beef - It's For Trading . . .
NeFB Newsletter

The USDA Economic Research Service reported U.S. beef sales overseas equaled 3.03 billion pounds in 2024, down 1% from 2023. However, the value of those exports was over $9 billion, a year-over-year increase of about 5% due to higher prices. At the same time, U.S. beef imports equaled 4.6 billion pounds, soaring 24% compared to 2023. Imports reached a record high last year after having ranged between 3.0-3.5 billion pounds in recent years. Exports grew steadily over time to reach just over 3.5 billion pounds in 2022 before falling off the past two years due to declining cattle numbers and beef production. The U.S. typically exports high-value, muscle cuts and imports trimmings intended for ground beef.

The top purchasers of U.S. beef last year were Japan, 641 million pounds, South Korea, 630 million pounds, and China (excluding Hong Kong), 475 million pounds. The only countries purchasing more beef in 2024 compared to 2023 were Mexico (+8%) and Taiwan (+4%). Japan’s purchases were largely unchanged (+.03%) while South Korea, China, and Canada purchased less, all down -6%.

Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Mexico, and Brazil were the largest sources of beef imports. For the first time since 2016, Australia was the largest supplier of beef to the U.S. accounting for 24% of beef imports. Imports from Australia surged 67% in 2024 compared to 2023 while those from Brazil surged 61%. Imports from Canada and Mexico were either unchanged or down.

The surge in beef imports and decline in exports occurred for largely the same reasons. Declining U.S. beef production, higher beef prices, and a stronger dollar pressured exports lower. At the same time, these factors coupled with strong consumer demand, pushed imports higher. Across border trade is the market’s way of meeting consumers’ demand for different cuts and types of beef while balancing supply and demand. The USDA projects beef exports to decline 7% this year while imports are projected to grow 3%, again due to a continued decline in beef production. January trade figures echoed these projections. For the month, the volume of beef and veal exports was down 1% while imports were up 21%.



Nebraska Corn Board Event Management Internship Opportunity in Washington, D.C.

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) is seeking applicants to take part in an event management internship experience hosted in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the U.S. Grains Council. The internship is designed to provide students with an overview of Nebraska’s corn industry through real-world professional examples and experiences.

This internship has responsibilities which include assisting with planning and coordination of the Global Ethanol Summit and Annual Board of Delegates Meeting as well as additional opportunities regarding the state and national corn, sorghum and barley organizations and U.S. agribusinesses.

Event Management Internship
Host: U.S. Grains Council
Location: Lincoln, NE
Duration: May 2025 – August 2025

Nebraska Corn internships are open to all college students, with a preference given to students enrolled in colleges or universities located in Nebraska. The application process can be found online at nebraskacorn.gov/internships/. The submission deadline is Friday, April 4, 2025.



Preliminary Agenda Announced For 2025 International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo

Ethanol Producer Magazine announced this week the preliminary agenda for the 2025 International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo (FEW) taking place June 9-11, 2025 at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

This year’s agenda includes three co-located events: Sustainable Fuels Summit, Carbon Capture & Storage Summit, and the annual pre-conference event, Ethanol 101.

“As the ethanol industry continues to innovate and improve efficiencies, the FEW remains one of the most important events for driving progress. This year’s agenda is focused on equipping producers with the knowledge and strategies needed to optimize operations and enhance production. In addition to ethanol production, management, and product diversification, the agenda will cover advancements in carbon capture and storage, biodiesel and renewable diesel production, and sustainable aviation fuel,” says John Nelson, chief operating officer at BBI International. “Ethanol 101 will also provide a key educational opportunity for newcomers to the industry. Now more than ever, collaboration and innovation are essential, and we’re excited to bring industry together in Omaha for what promises to be an impactful event.”

The program includes nearly 170 presentations across multiple consecutive tracks, including:
    Production and Operations: Biological and Mechanical Processes, Plant Control
    Leadership and Financial Management
    Coproducts and Product Diversification
    Carbon Capture and Storage
    Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

To view the online agenda for the FEW and all other co-located events, click HERE https://few.bbiconferences.com.



Youth Across Iowa Receive Future of Ag Scholarship

Each year, Iowa Corn offers Future of Ag Scholarships to young aspiring corn growers and supporters from across the state. Eighteen $1,000 scholarships were awarded in 2025 with two scholarships going to each of the nine corn districts. The scholarships are split evenly, with nine going to high school seniors entering their first year of college, and nine going to upperclassmen or who are enrolled in a graduate program.  

“The continued success of Iowa agriculture starts with our students, and as a parent, I know firsthand how daunting and expensive college can be,” shared Ralph Lents, Iowa Corn Promotion Board President and farmer from Menlo, Iowa. “We must continue to invest in our youth and equip them with the skills they need to be successful. We are proud to support students who are pursuing higher education knowing this is an investment in our future.”

The 2025 Iowa Corn Future of Ag Scholarship recipients include:

District 1:  
College – Kadence Boender, Lyon
High School – Jacob Hurd, Cherokee

District 2:  
College – Delia Swanson, Wright  
High School – Gage Konz, Hancock

District 3:  
College – Katrina Hageman, Winneshiek
High School – Kaydence Zeien, Buchanan

District 4:  
College – Keira Simmons, Guthrie
High School – Colton Beckner, Harrison

District 5:  
College – Amanda Ostrem, Hamilton
High School – Paige Witt, Story

District 6:  
College – Sam Fehl, Benton
High School – Leah Koehler, Jones

District 7:  
College – Tucker Rohrig, Adair
High School – Kennedy DeVries, Montgomery

District 8:  
College – Trell Amoss, Monroe
College – Jacob Fuller, Clarke

District 9:  
College – Emma Humphreys, Louisa
High School – Isaac Striegel, Keokuk

Students who applied for the Future of Ag Scholarship were automatically applied for scholarship opportunities through the National Corn Growers Association, as well. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be an Iowa Corn Grower Association member or have a parent who is a member.

For more information on Iowa Corn’s Future in Ag Scholarship, visit https://www.iowacorn.org/membership/student-opportunities/future-of-agriculture-scholarships/.



Honoring Aerial Applicators on National Ag Day in their Essential Service Aiding Global Food Production

As the nation celebrates National Ag Day March 18, the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) is proud to honor the men and women of agriculture and the vital service that aerial application plays in aiding global food production.

National Ag Day is a time to recognize the significant contributions that farmers, ranchers, aerial applicators and the entire agriculture industry make to our daily lives. For 104 years, aerial applicators have aided farmers in producing a safe, affordable and abundant supply of food, fiber and bioenergy, in addition to protecting forestry and controlling health-threatening pests.

American farmers use aerial application to treat 127 million acres, approximately 28%, of cropland each year to control insects and plant diseases, as well as apply fertilizer and seeds. With aerial applicators’ efficiency and ability to attack pests or apply fertilizer and seeds over large stretches of acreage at just the right time, the yield benefits associated with aerial crop care are well documented. High yields are essential to sustainability—American farmers are using less land to feed more people than ever, which means more land available for sequestering carbon, preserving wetlands and maintaining wildlife habitat. U.S. crop yields would decrease by about 25% if aerial application were not available.

“The aerial application industry is integral to modern and precision agriculture, ensuring that farmers can meet the growing demands for food, fiber and biofuel,” said Andrew Moore, NAAA CEO.

On National Ag Day, recognize the hard work and dedication of the agriculture community and the invaluable contributions of the aerial application industry. Together, these efforts help ensure a steady, safe, and sustainable food supply for generations to come.



Pork Industry Concludes National Pork Industry Forum  

The National Pork Board (NPB) adjourned the National Pork Industry Forum (Forum) last week where industry leaders passed three producer-developed advisements involving swine health, endorsed the Checkoff assessment rate, determined the Return-to-State percentage and recommended board members to the Secretary of Agriculture for appointment.   

Additionally, delegates and guests received a first look at the tagline of a pivotal, digital-forward consumer campaign launching domestically this spring. Checkoff research identified how Millennial and Gen Z consumers seek taste, flavor, convenience and nutrition when purchasing protein. Hence, this brand campaign leverages pork’s flavor to connect to consumers’ motivations and emotions, making pork relatable and relevant.

President Al Wulfekuhle, Iowa, shared his vision of a bright and prosperous future and encouraged producers to be involved at the local, state or national level. He alluded to challenging times making you stronger, all with the help of people believing in and supporting one another.  

NPB recognized two award winners for their contributions to the industry.

David “Dave” Preisler, retired state executive of Minnesota Pork Board and Minnesota Pork Producers Association, received the Paulson-Whitmore State Executive Award. Past presidents of NPB and National Pork Producers Council select the award winner.

Preisler’s ability to navigate challenges in an ever-evolving industry complemented his dedication to farmers. Some of the toughest obstacles in his career involved guiding the industry through large-scale challenges like H1N1 and COVID-19, teaching decision-makers how the industry builds trust through the We Care® Ethical Principles and demonstrating that promoting pork’s nutrition benefits to consumers can add value to the product. Regardless of the situation, Preisler’s efforts always centered on ensuring the pork industry would sustain, grow and thrive in Minnesota.    

“Dave treats everybody equally, and he is consistently composed, steady and the logical voice of reason, no matter the turbulence,” said Brett Kaysen, senior vice president of producer and state engagement for NPB. “His impact is beyond Minnesota’s borders.”

Selected by NPB past presidents, Todd See, animal science department head and professor at North Carolina State University, received the Distinguished Service Award.

As a dedicated leader in higher education, See is passionate about teaching, conducting research to help the pork industry and translating science into soundbites for the public and key decision-makers. Whether working with young show pig enthusiasts or seasoned producers, See is known as a ‘connector’ and can engage meaningfully with others through practical, personalized solutions.   

“See’s collaboration and understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities supports the industry in talent development, resource development, research and beyond,” says Chelsey Van Genderen, director of industry programs and outreach for NPB. “I've seen Dr. See's passion for people development firsthand during my time at both the U.S. Pork Center of Excellence and now at NPB. I, along with many, am grateful to Dr. See for sharing his talents and vision to make the next generation, both people and pigs, better.”

The 2026 Forum will be March 4-6, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri.   



Secretary Rollins Takes Action to Streamline U.S. Pork and Poultry Processing

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins today announced new actions to reduce burdens on the U.S. pork and poultry industries, allowing for greater efficiency while maintaining food safety standards. The directive instructs the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to eliminate outdated administrative requirements that have slowed production and added unnecessary costs for American producers.

“America leads the world in pork and poultry production, and we are committed to ensuring our producers remain competitive on a global scale without being held back by unnecessary bureaucracy,” said Secretary Rollins. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are cutting unnecessary red tape, empowering businesses to operate more efficiently, and strengthening American agriculture –all while upholding the highest food safety standards.”

Under the new policy, FSIS will extend waivers allowing pork and poultry facilities to maintain higher line speeds, ensuring they can meet demand without excessive government interference. Rulemaking to formalize these speed increases will begin immediately. Additionally, FSIS will no longer require plants to submit redundant worker safety data, as extensive research has confirmed no direct link between processing speeds and workplace injuries. These reforms will strengthen U.S. food production, reduce costs for producers, and support a more resilient supply chain.



NPPC Commends Sec. Rollins’ Announcement to Make Permanent Pork Plant Line Speeds Program
 
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) today extended deep appreciation for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) plan to make permanent the New Swine Inspection System (NSIS) increased line speed program.
 
“America’s pork producers thank U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) for this needed action that will provide financial security and more stability for pork producers,” said NPPC President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from McComb, Ohio. “Without this program, some pork producers could have incurred an additional loss of nearly $10 a head.”
 
NPPC is grateful that USDA, under Secretary Rollins' leadership, recognizes that food safety remains without compromise – while greater efficiency benefits producers and consumers.
 
Since 2019, NPPC has advocated for increased line speeds.
    In November 2021, FSIS permitted increased line speeds at six pork packing plants while simultaneously gathering data to evaluate potential worker impacts.
    In December 2023, FSIS extended the trials for an additional 90 days.
    In February 2024, FSIS again extended the trials through Jan. 15, 2025. In April 2024, USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Sandra Eskin discussed the pilot program with producers at NPPC’s legislative action conference.
    In May 2024, U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) introduced his Farm Bill framework, making permanent the program, among several NPPC priorities.
    In January 2025, FSIS released the results of a months-long study at six plants, concluding that “line speeds were not determined to be the leading factor in worker musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risk at these plants.”

NPPC looks forward to continued engagement with Secretary Rollins and FSIS to increase NSIS line speed adoption at additional plants.



All U.S. Pork Facilities Reinstated to Export to China
 
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) is pleased to announce successful efforts to renew registrations of all 300+ U.S. pork harvesting and cold storage facilities eligible to export to China.
 
“U.S. pork producers now have maintained access and increased certainty to export their products to the 1.4-billion-person Chinese market,” said NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. “NPPC’s leadership and focus on market access for U.S. pork is paying off, and we’re not stopping here.”
 
Over the past few months, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Trade Representative have actively engaged with China’s General Administration of Customs to renew the registration of U.S. pork facilities that were set to expire or had recently expired. These U.S. facilities have been renewed to export to China for five years.
 
China remains an important destination for certain types of U.S. pork products, such as offals, that return more value to U.S. pork producers than in other markets. This underscores the continued focus by NPPC on access to as many markets as possible, ensuring high value destinations are accessible for the many different types of pork products produced in the U.S.
 
Exports account for more than 25% of U.S. pork production and support more than 140,000 U.S. jobs. In 2024, U.S. pork producers exported $8.6 billion of pork products.
2024pork_variety_meatsexports_3033695.png
 
Also in 2024, more than 367 thousand metric tons of U.S. pork were exported to China, worth over $1.1 billion. Approximately 55% of pork variety meats (offal) exports go to China.

NPPC will continue to advocate for market access for U.S. pork products and facilities.



Clean Fuels, Farm, Feedstock Groups Ask EPA to Set 5.25-Billion-Gallon 2026 RFS BBD Volume
 
Clean Fuels Alliance America, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, National Oilseed Processors Association, North American Renderers Association, and U.S. Canola Association sent a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin encouraging the agency to establish robust, timely Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2026 and beyond. The letter asks that EPA propose and finalize the 2026 biomass-based diesel volume at 5.25 billion gallons.

“We write today to ask that EPA without delay set 2026 RFS standards and adopt a robust step change in biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuel volumes,” the letter states, adding a request for the 2026 biomass-based diesel volume to be 5.25 billion gallons, along with a commensurate increase in the advanced biofuel volume. “Setting these volumes for 2026 and establishing consistent growth for 2027 and beyond based on the industry’s investments and projections will ensure that American consumers can access affordable and clean transportation options. These volumes will support farm security, create jobs and economic opportunity, and further President Trump’s goal for U.S. energy dominance.”

Kurt Kovarik, Clean Fuels’ VP of Federal Affairs, added, “Clean fuels are essential to U.S. energy security. Production of biodiesel and renewable diesel has doubled in the last few years, following investments in new capacity as well as in feedstock collection and processing. EPA needs to make a step-change in the RFS volumes for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels to account for proven production capacity and to support continued investment and economic growth.”



Importance of Managing Inputs with High Cattle Prices
Hannah Baker, State Specialized Extension Agent - Beef and Forage Economics
University of Florida

2025 is expected to be another year of high cattle prices as a result of, primarily, tight supplies. Average weekly prices for 500-600-pound steer calves across the country have increased by roughly 10 percent with fed steer prices also increasing 10 percent year over year. Week to week, there has been some volatility, but overall, prices have remained strong during the first few months of 2025. Prices for weaned heifers, replacement cattle, and cull cows in Florida are following the same trend with March prices being 7 percent, 22 percent, and 16 percent higher year over year, respectively. As we approach expansion and more heifers are retained and culling slows more than it already has, the value of female cattle will increase. Prices for feeder cattle will also increase with less heifers entering the market. The next few years are expected to be highly favorable for cow-calf producers in terms of revenue.

In terms of profitability, production costs are also high, affecting how large profits could potentially be in the current market. According to data from the Livestock Marketing Information Center and USDA, average cow-calf costs (cash costs + pasture rent) are estimated to be $1,045/cow for 2025, unchanged from 2024, and down 4 percent from 2023. High production costs are influenced by factors that are essentially out of a producer’s control. However, producers do have control over how they manage their production costs through keeping accurate production records that justify certain management strategies.

Record keeping also aids in revealing where there are opportunities to alter management strategies to capitalize in the current market. Examples of adjusting management strategies could include selling bred cull cows instead of open cull cows, weaning lighter/heavier weight calves, selling/retaining bred heifers rather than retaining/selling, or destocking to improve forage production and restocking when prices decline. The goals and resources of every operation are different. Record keeping can help in knowing how and where to adjust resources to meet or exceed those goals in good and bad years.

Returns for cow-calf producers are forecasted to be $560/cow in 2025, up from $442/cow in 2024. This forecast is similar to returns seen in 2014 when production costs were lower by 20 percent, and expansion has hardly even started. Despite higher production prices, the next couple of years are expected to bring positive returns for cow-calf producers.

No matter the year, managing inputs and record-keeping should always be a priority. Records provide insight into how much money is being earned and spent, on what, and why. Analyzing the “why” behind production costs and marketing strategies can validate management decisions and reveal opportunities for improvements to be made. Raising cattle often involves “spending a little to make a little,” meaning there is a difference between a necessary investment and an unnecessary expense. During a time when there may be a little extra spending money does not necessarily mean it has to be spent. Eventually, prices will come back down, and that extra income will be needed to offset unprofitable years. Simultaneously, failing to review current strategies would mean missing an opportunity to implement purposeful changes while the resources are available to do so. Now is the time to make “penciled-out” decisions that can improve the long-term production and profitability of an operation.