Wednesday May 21 Ag News

 Pillen Signs Legislation Banning Fake Meat in Nebraska

Tuesday, Governor Jim Pillen signed LB246, banning the production, sale, promotion and distribution of fake meat in Nebraska. The bill was sponsored on the Governor’s behalf by Senator Barry DeKay.

“When I stood in front of a group of producers and ag business owners yesterday and announced my intention to sign this legislation, I was met with applause,” said Gov. Pillen. “We need to be willing to protect and preserve our state’s vital ag industry as well as our consumers. These products are grown from harvested cells in bioreactor machines. The health consequences are unknown and so are the long-term effects to consumers.”   

Putting this ban into law builds on the Governor’s effort to protect producers and consumers from the fake meat industry, which was initiated with the issuance of Executive Order 24-09, prohibiting state agencies from purchasing lab-grown meat and requiring state contractors to certify that they will not discriminate against natural-meat producers in favor of laboratory or cultivated-meat producers.



Statement by Mark McHargue, President, Regarding Legislature’s Failure to Advance Property Tax Relief Measure (LB 170)

“We are extremely disappointed in those state senators who voted to effectively end efforts to continue property tax relief discussions in the remaining days of the 2025 legislative session. Nebraskans continue to tell the Legislature that addressing property tax relief is of the highest priority, yet when a measure (LB 170) to have meaningful conversations about how to deliver additional relief was brought to the floor it was met with a filibuster and eventually a failed cloture vote, preventing even the opportunity for discussions to continue to a second round of debate. Nebraskans deserve better. The inability to deliver additional relief this session means the Legislature will likely go backward in terms of reducing overall property tax burdens, after several years of progressive steps to lower the property tax burden on Nebraskans. When coupled with the missing year of property tax credits resulting from the special session and the reality that property taxes continue to climb at a significant pace, Nebraska’s property taxpayers have real reason to be concerned. We appreciate those senators who have worked tirelessly for property tax relief and look forward to working with them in the interim to get the Legislature back on the right track in the 2026 legislative session."



APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR SMALL MEAT PROCESSOR MANAGEMENT TRAINING PROGRAM

Small meat processing plants in Nebraska and across the country are invited to apply for Nebraska Extension’s 2025 Small Meat Processor Management Training Program. With a cohort of other processors, participants will enhance their skills and industry knowledge.

The program is Sept. 7-13 on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s East Campus. Sessions will guide participants in working to ensure a successful and profitable business through a better understanding of the industry, their employees and financial management. The course also includes a pre- and post-program virtual meeting, as well as a required virtual Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points certification training.

The program is designed and led by faculty from the university’s Center for Agricultural Profitability and Meat Science program and produced in collaboration with the College of Business and Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership. It will include sessions with leading experts from other university departments and industry, covering topics such as business operations, processing practices, data optimization, retail strategies, regulatory compliance, human resources and marketing.

“This program is set up to provide small processors with the practical, actionable tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the industry while building confidence in a continuous growth mindset,” said Elliott Dennis, associate professor in agricultural economics.

It is tailored for owners, managers and management-track employees of small meat processing plants, with custom-exempt, federally inspected and state-inspected plants invited to apply. All experience levels are welcome.

“We’ve worked with plant managers and owners with decades of experience, and we’ve worked with people who are brand new to the industry,” said Gary Sullivan, professor of meat science. “They all have gained something new from this program to improve their business, and the varied backgrounds really add to the group learning experience.”

One day of the program will be dedicated to touring meat processing plants in eastern Nebraska, a valuable opportunity for others in the industry to gain new perspectives, according to Jordan Wicks, assistant professor of meat science.

“It’s important for us to get out of the classroom and meat lab on campus, because stepping inside another facility and seeing how they operate sparks ideas and inspires participants to address bottlenecks and issues in their own businesses,” Wicks said.

A per-plant fee of $6,750 will cover up to two participants. The program will cover transportation, lodging and meal expenses.

Applications are due by June 7. They are available, along with more details about the program, on the Nebraska Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, https://cap.unl.edu/meatprocessing.



Governor Pillen Joins Republican Governors to Support One Big Beautiful Bill

Governor Jim Pillen yesterday joined with 19 other Republican governors to send a letter to President Donald Trump expressing united support for the president’s America First agenda embodied by the One, Big, Beautiful Bill currently under consideration in Congress. The letter calls for all Republicans to unify around the bill containing the President’s agenda.

The letter to the President in part states:
“Now, Congress must act to fully and permanently implement your America First agenda for which over 77 million Americans voted. Thankfully, your One, Big, Beautiful Bill would accomplish this. It would provide you with the resources you need to permanently secure the border, remove barriers needed to truly unleash American energy production, protect Americans by making a once-in-a-lifetime investment in military technology that once seemed like science fiction, give working class families tax cuts worth thousands of dollars each, and ensure your administration has the tools needed to deport illegal alien murders and rapists.”

The governors emphasized the need to unify around the bill and the opportunity it presents not just to enact the President’s agenda, but to save taxpayers $1.6 trillion over the next 10 years.

Other governors who signed the letter include: Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Mike Dunleavy (AL) Governor Sarah Sanders (AR), Governor Brian Kemp (GA), Governor Brad Little (ID), Governor Mike Braun (IN), Governor Kim Reynolds (IA), Governor Jeff Landry (LA), Governor Mike Kehoe (MO), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor Greg Gianforte (MT), Governor Jim Pillen (NE), Governor Kelly Armstrong (ND), Governor Henry McMaster (SC), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Greg Abbott (TX), Governor Spencer Cox (UT), Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA), Governor Patrick Morrisey (WV), and Governor Mark Gordon (WY).



PASSED: Fischer, Bennet Resolution Promoting Mental Health in Ag Industry and Workforce

The Senate unanimously approved U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Michael Bennet’s (D-Colo.), bipartisan resolution designating May 29th as ‘Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day.’

“Daily uncertainties and extreme stress lead to higher levels of anxiety and depression among Nebraska’s agricultural producers and workforce. Our resolution recognizes these unique challenges and supports the farmers, ranchers, and workers who perform the essential work of producing high-quality food, fuel, and fiber,” said Fischer.

“From severe drought to increased costs, unprecedented challenges are taking a toll on the mental health of Colorado’s farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers. I’m grateful to stand with Senator Fischer and my Senate colleagues to raise awareness about our country’s mental health crisis and work together to expand access to care for communities across the country,” said Bennet.

In addition to Fischer and Bennet, the resolution is cosponsored by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.). 

National Stakeholder Support:
Agricultural Retailers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, Farm Credit Services of America, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, National Pork Producers Council, and National Rural Health Association.

Nebraska Stakeholder Support:
Nebraska Agri-Business Association, Nebraska Cattlemen, Nebraska Cooperative Council, Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Nebraska Farmers Union, Nebraska Pork Producers Association, Nebraska Rural Health Association, Nebraska Soybean Association, and Nebraska Wheat Board.



Prevention is key to avoiding pinkeye after pasture turnout

As herds are being turned out on pasture across the state, most calves will get an immunity boost for select diseases through a vaccination program. However, as Iowa State University extension beef specialist Chris Clark explained, “Arguably the most common health nuisance on pasture, pinkeye, doesn't have an easy vaccine solution with consistent efficacy. In part, this is because pinkeye is complicated, involving multiple bacterial strains and risk factors.”

The solution? Prevention, prevention, and early intervention.

Prevention points
    Reduce corneal irritants. The cornea provides a protective layer over the eye, and when it is healthy, bacteria cannot attach. Irritants that damage the cornea allow bacteria to colonize and infection to occur. Common irritants on pasture include UV light, seedheads, and dust.
    Control fly populations. Flies contribute to cornea irritation, but the primary role of flies in regard to pinkeye is carrying the bacteria from one animal to the next, and facilitating transmission. Because flies can travel distances, the adage "your fly control program is only as good as your neighbor’s" bears truth. But by taking steps in your herd, populations can still be significantly reduced. Multifaceted approaches are the most effective.
    Prioritize nutrition. Multiple macronutrients and micronutrients are essential for an effective immune response. A well-balanced mineral program is important in keeping the herd healthy. Mineral supplements can become costly, so a solid understanding of mineral levels in the available feed and water can help reduce some costs without sacrificing animal performance.

Early intervention
    Check cattle regularly and watch closely for early signs of infection. Once clinical signs are observed, initiate treatment as soon as possible to minimize complications and severe cases.
    Treat with systemic antibiotics labeled for pinkeye and be diligent in following label directions. Weigh animals to ensure appropriate dosing. Use good injection site practices to ensure optimal drug absorption.
    Adjunct therapy such as eye patches, stitching eyelids shut, and subconjunctival injections are sometimes used in addition to systemic antibiotics. Evidence is somewhat inconsistent regarding efficacy of these practices. Eye patches have been shown to speed corneal ulcer healing, but for best results, leave a spot open to facilitate drainage and airflow when applying. Pinkeye increases sensitivity to UV light, so shade can be helpful for animal comfort. Pain associated with pinkeye may warrant the use of an anti-inflammatory as well. Topical ointments and sprays are also sometimes used.

“As with all health challenges, work closely with your veterinarian to develop a plan for dealing with cases,” Clark said. “Before using any medications, talk with your veterinarian about safety and legality for use in the eye, required dosing schedules, and required withdrawal times.”



USDA seeks feedback from producers about 2025 crops, stocks, inventories, and values

Over the next several weeks, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will conduct the June Agricultural Survey. The agency will contact nearly 92,000 producers across the nation to determine crop acreage and stock levels as of June 1, 2025.

“The June Agricultural Survey is one of the most important and well-known surveys NASS conducts,” said Joseph L. Parsons, USDA NASS Administrator. “When producers respond to the survey, they provide essential information that helps determine the expected acreage and supply of major commodities in the United States for the 2025 crop year. The results are used by farmers and ranchers, USDA, exporters, researchers, economists, policymakers, and others to inform a wide range of decisions.”

Producers can respond to the June Agricultural Survey online at agcounts.usda.gov, by phone, or mail. They will be asked to provide information on planted and harvested acreage, including acreage for biotech crops and grain stocks.

“NASS safeguards the privacy of respondents by keeping all individual information confidential and publishing the data in aggregate form only to ensure that no operation or producer can be identified,” said Parsons. “We recognize that this is a busy time for farmers, but the information they provide helps U.S. agriculture remain viable and capable. I urge them to respond to these surveys and thank them for their participation.”

NASS will publish the data in a series of USDA reports, including the annual Acreage and quarterly Grain Stocks reports on June 30, 2025. This data also contributes to NASS monthly and annual Crop Production reports, the annual Small Grains Summary, the annual Farms and Land in Farms report, the Land Values report, various livestock reports, including Cattle, Sheep and Goats, Hogs and Pigs, and USDA’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.



Register today to attend a 2025 CHS owners forum

Registration is open for in-person and virtual CHS owners forums in July and August 2025.

At each forum, CHS management leaders will provide business and financial updates. Members of the CHS Board of Directors will share updates on Board initiatives, including addition of a nominating committee of CHS members to recommend candidates for the CHS Board.

Each in-person forum will include time for networking and owner input and will conclude with lunch. The following forum dates and locations are planned.
    July 18: Mankato, Minn.
    July 22: Fargo, N.D.
    July 29: McPherson, Kan.
    July 30: Ankeny, Iowa
    July 31: Madison, Wis.
    Aug. 4: Minot, N.D.
    Aug. 5: Mitchell, S.D.
    Aug. 6: Kearney, Neb.
    Aug. 8: Virtual forum

Attendees will be able to ask questions of CHS leaders during the livestreamed broadcasts or in advance of the forums by emailing questions to questions@chsinc.com.

Register today https://web.cvent.com/event/5297c398-30ab-42b5-9d6a-98c8b48a76e4/summary. Please reserve your seat for an in-person forum two weeks in advance. Virtual forum registrants will receive a link to the livestream forum shortly before the forum.



Lawmakers Urge White House to Ensure Strong RFS Volumes

The Renewable Fuels Association today thanked a bipartisan group of 28 members of Congress, led by Reps. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN), who called on President Trump to adopt “timely, robust” renewable volume obligations for 2026 and beyond, and “reject abuse” of EPA’s small refinery exemption authority.

“With the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed rulemaking for RVOs now under review at the White House, this is a critical moment to engage with the administration and make clear what’s at stake—both for the farm economy and for American energy independence,” RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper said. “We’re grateful to Reps. Hinson, Craig, and their many colleagues for their leadership and strong commitment to advancing this important effort.”

The lawmakers wrote to President Trump: “Even before you took office, the EPA was months behind meeting the statutory deadline to set RVOs, which only exacerbated market instability. Domestic biofuel production facilities have already idled, and further delays in action could result in additional closures, putting Americans out of work and disrupting key markets for farmers.”

The lawmakers called on the Trump administration to take the following actions on the RVOs for 2026 and beyond:
    Set implied conventional biofuel RVOs of at least 15 billion gallons.
    Set the biomass-based diesel RVO at 5.25 billion gallons in 2026 and at increasing levels in future years (with an equivalent increase in total volumes), reflecting the rapid growth of renewable diesel and soybean processing capacity.
    Reject abuse of small refinery exemption (SRE) authority and ensure any legitimate SREs have their volumes accounted for in the RVOs to prevent lost demand in key markets for farmers.

Also signing the letter were Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Mark Alford (R-MO), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Mike Flood (R-NE), Troy Carter (D-LA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Mike Bost (R-IL), Max Miller (R-OH), Ann Wagner (R-MO), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Shontel Brown (D-OH), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Ron Estes (R-KS), Sam Graves (R-MO), Mark Messmer (R-IN), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) and Zach Nunn (R-IA).



Clean Fuels Applauds Bipartisan Congressional Letter Supporting Robust 2026 RFS Volumes
 
Tuesday, Clean Fuels Alliance America thanked 28 House Members who sent a letter to President Donald Trump, encouraging the administration to adopt a timely, robust Renewable Fuel Standard rule for 2026 and beyond. The bipartisan letter was led by Reps. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN).

“A strong Set 2 will benefit our constituents by lowering prices at the pump, creating and maintaining U.S. biomanufacturing jobs, and driving economic growth,” the letter states. “A strong RVO will also support market growth for farmers at a time when global markets are experiencing uncertainty. The domestic biofuels industry stands ready to increase availability of affordable fuels options and support the administration’s goal of American energy dominance.”

The letter specifically supports a 2026 Biomass-based Diesel volume of 5.25 billion gallons and increasing volumes for future years, consistent with unified requests by Clean Fuels, other industry partners, and RFS stakeholders. It further asks the President to reject abuse of small refinery exemptions to protect demand for U.S. crops in the biofuel market, which is essential for farmers.

The letter continues, “Set the biomass-based diesel RVO at 5.25 billion gallons in 2026 and at increasing levels in future years (with an equivalent increase in total volumes), reflecting the rapid growth of renewable diesel and soybean processing capacity.”

Kurt Kovarik, Clean Fuels’ Vice President of Federal Affairs, added, “Biodiesel and renewable diesel production is an essential market for American farmers. Clean Fuels and its members thank Representatives Ashley Hinson and Angie Craig for leading this bipartisan effort. And we appreciate EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s commitment to getting the Renewable Fuel Standard rules back on schedule. “RFS stakeholders are unified in asking EPA to set the 2026 RFS Biomass-based Diesel volume at 5.25 billion gallons, with appropriate growth for 2027 and beyond. That volume will support American agriculture and benefit U.S. consumers with lower fuel prices, more jobs, and increased economic growth.”



Farm Bureau Urges Careful Review of White House Report

American Farm Bureau Federation President and Georgia farmer Zippy Duvall today urged President Trump and his advisors to carefully review a White House report scheduled to be released this week to ensure it is based on sound science and not ideological theories.

“America’s farmers and ranchers are committed to doing the right thing, including producing a safe, affordable and nutritious food supply. Agriculture has been on a journey of continuous improvement since our country’s founding. We welcome recommendations based on facts and hope the president will insist that’s the case with the upcoming report from the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission.

“Farmers feed their families the same food they produce for America’s families, and we rely on credible science to guide our practices. We welcome efforts to improve health outcomes in America but recommendations to limit farming practices based on unproven theories could have severe unintended consequences. America’s food independence is important, and the White House should not recommend changes that lead to greater reliance on other countries to supply our food. There is also a risk of reducing access to affordable and nutritious foods, including fruits and vegetables.

“History teaches us that it takes a very long time to rebuild public confidence once it is lost – even if the loss is caused by incorrect or incomplete information. This is certainly true when it comes to the food system. We are counting on President Trump and his advisors to carefully examine the upcoming report to ensure its accuracy and scientific grounding before giving a final stamp of approval.”



Celebrating 25 Years of USDA’s Farm Storage Facility Loan Program

USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is celebrating 25 years of the agency’s popular Farm Storage Facility Loan Program (FSFL) this month. For a quarter century, family-owned agricultural operations have received low-interest financing through the program to enhance or expand their operations and manage marketing of the commodities they produce by building or upgrading permanent and portable storage facilities and purchasing needed handling equipment.

“Participating in FSA’s Farm Storage Facility Loans program provides producers affordable financing that allows them to build an on-farm storage system the right way from day one — a system that provides grain handling capacity for years to come,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “Many people think of grain storage when they hear on-farm commodity storage, but the reality is, the program has expanded over the past quarter century to include a variety of storage and handling options including bins, cold storage, trucks and more, all designed to help agricultural producers take their commodities from field to facility to the end user.”  

The FSFL program was created in May 2000 to address existing on-farm grain storage needs.  Since the program’s inception, more than 40,000 loans have been issued for on-farm storage, increasing storage capacity by one billion bushels. While many producers primarily associate the program with grain storage, over the past 25 years the eligible storage has expanded to include a wide variety of facilities and related equipment - new or used and permanent or portable - including hay barns, bulk tanks, and facilities for cold storage. Drying, handling and storage equipment is also eligible, including skid steers and storage and handling trucks.



Land O’Lakes, Inc. CEO Beth Ford Named No. 12 on Fortune’s 2025 Most Powerful Women in Business List

Tuesday, Fortune named Land O’Lakes, Inc. President and CEO Beth Ford as No. 12 on its Most Powerful Women of 2025 list. The annual list, compiled by Fortune editors, highlights 100 of the most influential women in global business — recognized for their leadership, impact and the strength of the organizations they oversee.

This year’s recognition highlights Ford’s steadfast commitment to strengthening America’s food system by tackling the complex challenges facing the agriculture industry. From advocating for legal immigration reform and advancing trade efforts, to improving access to healthcare and supporting the vitality of rural communities, Ford’s leadership reflects a deep dedication to working Americans. For example, in her role as chair of the Business Roundtable’s immigration committee, she is a leading voice in discussing policies critical to the future of our workforce in the agriculture industry and beyond.

“This recognition is an honor and showcases the strength of Land O’Lakes’ entire cooperative network,” Ford commented. “My Land O’Lakes team and I are honored to represent our cooperative members and their communities who inspire our mission to strengthen America’s food system together.”

Ford has served as president and CEO of Land O’Lakes, Inc. since 2018, leading the cooperative that operates in all 50 states and more than 60 countries, reaching half of all harvested acres and more than 10,000 rural communities across the United States. Ford leads not only by delivering strong financial results but also by addressing global issues and driving structural changes that improve areas directly impacted by food and agriculture. During her tenure, Land O’Lakes has focused on its members, the technology that enables them, and on ensuring the vibrance and connection of the communities in which they live and work.

The full Most Powerful Women List of 2025 is available at Fortune.com, and you can read more about how Beth is advocating for all working Americans and communities in a recent MPW Daily newsletter. Read more from Beth on LinkedIn here.

For more information on how Land O’Lakes is advocating for agriculture policies, fostering the vitality of our rural communities, and addressing issues that affect everyone in the global food supply, please visit www.landolakesinc.com.