Friday July 11 Ag News - UNL Ranks top 10% in Ag - Calcium Products to build in Blair - Fischer pushes research facility in NE - ISU Hosts Pasture rennovation event - and more!

 UNL RANKS IN TOP 10% WORLDWIDE FOR AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s agriculture and natural resources programs rank in the top 10% of nearly 500 institutions worldwide, according to new QS World University Rankings.

Nebraska ranked third among Big Ten land-grant universities in the service’s employer reputation category, which reflects how well a university is perceived by employers in preparing graduates with desirable skills and knowledge. 

Overall, the university’s programs for agriculture and natural resources placed 46th among 475 universities worldwide ranked by Quacquarelli Symonds, a global higher education company that produces the annual ranking.

“It’s exciting and encouraging for us to be ranked in the top 10% on a worldwide scale,” said Tiffany Heng-Moss, interim Harlan Vice Chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and interim vice president of agriculture and natural resources for the University of Nebraska system. “This recognition affirms the meaningful work happening across IANR — in our research laboratories and statewide platforms, classrooms and experiential learning settings, Extension offices and communities.” 

The university’s high ranking for employer reputation — a measure of student employability based on a survey of employers — stems from the university’s innovative curricular development, robust experiential learning opportunities and deep statewide engagement and partnerships, Heng-Moss said. 

“Our agricultural research program is solidly positioned among its Big Ten peers in these rankings as we continue to innovate, gain momentum and provide cutting-edge solutions for our stakeholders,” said Derek McLean, dean and director of IANR’s Agricultural Research Division. “The rankings are a direct outcome of our talented faculty, our creative students and our collaborative culture. The success has driven an increase in research expenditure each year for the past three years.”  

In addition to the high score for employer reputation, the rankings firmly establish the university among Big Ten land-grant universities regarding citations per paper and H-index citations, a measure of academic productivity. The other scoring categories are academic reputation and international research. 

“UNL is committed to further elevating our agriculture research profile,” McLean said. “We are poised for even greater success as a leader in agricultural innovation, driving progress for farmers and communities and sustaining our natural resources for decades to come. Our strategic investments and industry partnerships are driving innovation, supporting Nebraska producers and propelling us toward greater impact and influence on a global scale.”

The university’s ranking among the world’s top 10% in agriculture and natural resources stems from contributions across the breadth of the IANR community, including faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners, Heng-Moss said. 

“To all these contributors, the university extends its deepest gratitude for your dedication, innovation and collaboration in helping us reach this milestone,” she said. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to the people of Nebraska and to the purpose-driven, tripartite mission that defines us as a land-grant institution.

“The Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources thrives because of you — your commitment to driving forward research and discovery, Extension and engagement, and teaching and learning that truly matter.”



CALCIUM PRODUCTS EXPANDS INTO NEBRASKA WITH 113-ACRE SITE PURCHASE IN BLAIR

 Gateway Development Corporation is proud to announce that Calcium Products, a leading agricultural technology company specializing in pelletized high-calcium lime and gypsum, has finalized the purchase of 113 acres in the Blair South Industrial Park for the construction of two new production facilities.

Headquartered in Ames, Iowa, Calcium Products is investing $100 million into the Blair site—marking a major step in the company’s strategic expansion to better serve the central U.S. ag market. The project is expected to create approximately 50 new full-time jobs, adding to the region’s growing reputation as a hub for ag innovation and advanced manufacturing.

One of the two planned facilities will be rail-served, enhancing Calcium Products’ ability to efficiently move materials throughout the Midwest and beyond. This investment will also serve as the catalyst for the development of a new rail yard in the Blair South Industrial Park, that will be run by Gateway Development, unlocking expanded logistics infrastructure and future growth opportunities for additional industrial users.

“Calcium Products’ decision to locate in Blair reflects the strength of our agricultural sector, infrastructure, and commitment to business growth,” said Mike Rooks, Executive Director of Gateway Development Corporation. “This project adds not only good jobs but long-term investment in Nebraska’s bioeconomy and ag value chain.”

The Blair campus will complement Calcium Products’ existing operations in Fort Dodge and Gilmore City, Iowa, and will allow the company to expand its reach and improve delivery times to farmers and ag retailers throughout the Midwest.

“We’re excited to grow in Blair,” said Mike Hogan, President & CEO of Calcium Products. “This community offers strategic access to our customer base and a strong workforce. We look forward to becoming part of the Blair business community and contributing to its continued growth.”

Phil Green, Blair City Administrator, shared his enthusiasm:
“We are thrilled to welcome Calcium Products to Blair. Their investment strengthens our industrial base, brings quality jobs to the community, and reinforces Blair’s role as a leader in ag-based innovation. We look forward to a long and successful partnership.”

Calcium Products is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability in soil health solutions. Its products are engineered to help farmers increase yields by improving soil pH, nutrient uptake, and overall field performance.

The company will begin site work and construction planning later this year, with production operations anticipated to begin in 2026.



North Platte to Host National Beef Reproductive Strategies Symposium Sept. 17–18

Beef industry professionals from across the country will gather in North Platte this fall for the 2025 Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle (ARSBC) symposium, the premier national event focused on beef cattle reproductive management.

The event will take place Sept. 17–18 at the D & N Event Center, 501 E. Walker Road. A pre-conference program, including a seedstock panel discussion and tour of Sustainable Beef Packing Plant, will begin Sept. 16.

The ARSBC symposium provides a unique opportunity for producers, researchers and industry professionals to engage with leading experts on current and emerging reproductive technologies, genetic selection, and herd health practices.

Rick Funston, professor and reproductive physiologist with University of Nebraska Extension, said the event provides practical, science-based information producers can apply directly to their operations.

“Our goal is to equip producers with the tools they need to make informed, cost-effective decisions that improve reproductive performance and long-term sustainability,” Funston said.

The program begins with a seedstock panel discussion hosted at TD Angus on Sept. 16, followed by two days of presentations and panel discussions featuring nationally recognized experts. Topics will include:
    Estrous synchronization protocols and AI techniques
    Use of sexed semen and embryo transfer
    Bull fertility, biosecurity and herd health
    Genetic selection for fertility and longevity
    The future of reproductive technologies

Featured speakers include Rick Funston, Matt Spangler, Jordan Thomas, Mario Binelli, Ky Pohler, Pedro Fontes and others representing universities, AI companies and genetic services. Industry partners such as ABS Global, Select Sires and Genex will also participate in panel discussions.

A highlight of the pre-conference events will be a guided tour of Sustainable Beef, a new beef processing facility in North Platte.

Please go to: https://cvent.me/1axz03 for registration and sponsorship details. Early registration is encouraged.



Fischer Advances $16 Mil for Construction of Agricultural Research Service Facility at UNL

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced she advanced $16 million in additional funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facility at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s (UNL) Innovation Campus through the Senate Appropriations Committee.

The funding was included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which now awaits consideration on the Senate Floor.

“The USDA Ag Research Service facility located at UNL will be a hub for world class agricultural innovation. That’s why I was pleased to advocate for this funding to construct the second phase of the ARS Center, which will continue to help attract students, scientists, and industry leaders who are focused on turning valuable research into tangible products for our farmers and ranchers,” Fischer said.

Fischer also secured additional funding and provisions for Nebraska, which include:
    $1.5 million for the National Drought Mitigation Center at UNL;
    Prioritizing ARS research for the beef industry at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska; and
    Requiring the USDA to streamline contracting and procurement services for livestock research facilities to help USMARC with cost overruns on facility improvements.



The Nebraska Corn Board Kicks off New Fiscal Year with New Program Focuses

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) began the new fiscal year on July 1 which brings new programs funded by the checkoff for the 2025-2026 year. Guided by the strategic plan, initiatives are organized around four key pillars: promotion, education, market development and research. The strategic plan ensures that checkoff investments align with core objectives, ultimately benefiting Nebraska corn farmers and the state's economy.

NCB continues to collaborate with national and international partners like the National Corn Growers Association, U.S. Grains Council and U.S. Meat Export Federation to drive demand and increase the value of Nebraska corn.

Education and Promotion
As part of the ongoing efforts to promote and educate the public about Nebraska corn, during the 2025-2026 program year, NCB is funding initiatives in the promotion and education space.

Notable programs include a partnership with Ag in the Classroom, Nebraska FFA Foundation and Ag Sack Lunch Program. The Ag Sack Lunch Program brings Nebraska agriculture to life for fourth-grade students visiting Lincoln as part of their Nebraska history curriculum. During the interactive presentation, students enjoy a taste of Nebraska with a roast beef or chicken sandwich, corn Fritos and a Rice Krispie treat while learning about the direct connection to Nebraska agriculture.

NCB is also leading a national promotion campaign for Unleaded 88 ethanol (15% ethanol fuel blend), targeting viewers of ESPN streaming and digital platforms. This campaign aims to educate consumers about the benefits of corn-grown fuel and the benefits.

Additionally, NCB continues the "I'm a Nebraska Corn Farmer" campaign, celebrating the hard work and pride of Nebraska's corn farmers. Through a multi-channel approach featuring billboards, videos, commercials and social media assets, the campaign showcases the dedication and passion of Nebraska's corn farming community.

The education and promotion space will continue to support the other areas of market development and research in communication efforts.

Market Development
Market development programs focus on expanding demand for Nebraska corn through efforts in ethanol, new uses, livestock and international trade. For the 2025-2026 program year, projects include supporting ethanol infrastructure across Nebraska and in key markets like California, where demand for E85 continues to grow. NCB partners with Pearson Fuels to promote the use of E85 in California, while also working on consumer education efforts through ethanol campaigns in the Colorado Front Range and across Nebraska to highlight the benefits of using higher ethanol blends.

Livestock development remains a key priority, with support for projects in partnership with the Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (AFAN) and the Nebraska State Dairy Association, aimed at responsibly growing livestock production in the state.

As global trade continues to evolve, Nebraska Corn is committed to helping growers stay informed on trade dynamics, while maintaining strong relationships with international buyers to ensure continued access to global markets.

Research
As research continues to be a key topic of conversation, many projects for the new year will revolve around production efficiency, pest management and new uses. One research program includes a deeper look at corn root traits like depth, biomass and velocity: exploring how nitrogen availability and plant density impact performance.  Findings from this research will contribute to refining hybrid selection and nutrient management strategies and optimizing corn production systems​. A pest management project will support the development of a Nebraska optimized Tar Spot alert system. As this pest continues to move west across our state, this digitized alert system will empower growers in their scouting and management decisions.

When looking for new market opportunities for corn, bioindustrial uses continues to be an important research piece. Key projects include the Radicle Corn Challenge, a shark-tank like competition that elevates innovative ideas and start-ups to fast track commercialization and increase corn demand. Another project is the development of a corn-based polymer coating for slow-release fertilizers. This innovation could improve on-farm sustainability and further reduce the need for synthetic petroleum-based products.

“We're committed to maximizing the value of Nebraska corn through strategic investments in promotion, market development and research,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of NCB. “Our goal is to deliver a strong return on investment for corn farmers, ensuring their checkoff dollars are used effectively to propel the industry forward. By supporting cutting-edge initiatives and expanding market opportunities, we're confident that Nebraska corn will continue to thrive, benefiting our farmers, rural communities, and the state's economy.”

Learn more about the programs funded by the Nebraska Corn Board at nebraskacorn.gov.



Monthly Dairy Webinar On July 22 To Focus on Theileriosis and Asian Longhorned Ticks

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team monthly webinar series continues on Tuesday, July 22 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. This program will be presented by Drs. Matt Brewer, Grant Dewell, Chelsea Hamilton and Phillip Jardon, all with Iowa State Veterinary College..

Theileriosis, caused by Theileria orientalis Ikeda and spread by Asian Longhorned Ticks (ALHT) has been found in beef herds in Southeast Iowa.  While this disease is mostly of concern to beef producers, dairy animals on pasture may also be affected. 

Dr. Brewer will cover what we know about the ALHT and how it has spread from the East Coast to the Midwest over the past decade;  Dr. Dewell will cover the current situation in Iowa along with guidance on control and diagnostics; Dr. Hamilton will cover the regulatory aspects and IDALS position on the situation and Dr. Jardon will moderate and help during the question-and-answer session.

Dr. Matt Brewer DVM, PhD, DACVM (Parasitology) is an assistant professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathology at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He conducts diagnostic and research activities with an emphasis on the diagnosis and treatment of parasitic diseases.

Dr. Chelsea Hamilton began her role as a central district veterinarian for the State of Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship in November 2019. In this role, she also spends some time as an Affiliate Associate Professor in the Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine section of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University, helping to teach veterinary students the regulatory side of veterinary medicine both in the classroom and in the field. Since becoming an employee of state government, she has embraced the “jack of all trades, master of none” philosophy and enjoys the variety of work that comes with regulatory medicine.

Dr. Grant Dewell received his DVM from Colorado State University in 1993 and was in a primarily cow-calf practice in central South Dakota for 2 years.  Following practice, he completed a Master’s degree in Agriculture Economics at Colorado State University.  Dr. Dewell then joined the faculty at the University of Nebraska’s Great Plains Veterinary Education Center, in Clay Center, Nebraska for four years.  He then returned to Colorado State University to complete a Ph.D. in Epidemiology with a focus on pre-harvest food safety in feedlot cattle.  He is currently the Beef Cattle Extension Veterinarian at Iowa State University.  Dr. Dewell’s research interests are health management of feedlot cattle, animal welfare and economic considerations for beef production operations.

Dr. Phillip  Jardon is the newest dairy specialist on the Extension dairy team who began working at Iowa State University as a clinical associate professor and Extension dairy veterinarian in July 2023.

Producers, dairy consultants and industry reps are encouraged to attend the free webinar live from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22 by registering at least one hour before the webinar at: https://go.iastate.edu/TALTICK

For more information contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Dairy Field Specialist in your area: in Northwest Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu; in Northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or jbentley@iastate.edu; in East Central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or tranel@iastate.edu. 



ISU Pasture renovation project field days will highlight interseeding sudangrass

The Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University is hosting two field days in August that will highlight innovative strategies for pasture renovation. The events are part of a three-year research project evaluating the benefits of interseeding sudangrass into abused calving paddocks. This project has been made possible through funding from the State Soil Conservation and Water Quality Committee through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

In this project, two seeding rates of piper sudangrass were interseeded into sacrifice paddock areas in early June. Researchers selected three farms across the state to interseed the annual forage into perennial pasture and are in the third and final year of collecting forage yield, forage quality, and soil data to evaluate the return on investment of this practice.

he first field day is Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the Dave Schwarte farm located at 1505 2200th Street, Defiance. This field day will highlight the interseeding sudangrass plots and data collected thus far. In addition to the field demonstration plots, other discussion topics will include selecting the right annual forage, EQUIP/USDA programs, and returning retired CRP to pasture. The Shelby County Cattlemen are grilling a light meal to kick off this program.

The second field day featuring a demonstration plot for this project will be Tuesday, Aug. 12, hosted by Amana Farms, located one-half mile northeast of East Amana on 220th Trail. The program will run from 9 to 11 a.m. and will also dedicate some time to discuss selecting annual forages and timely fall pasture management tasks. Light refreshments will be available.

Both field days are offered at no cost to attendees thanks to generous support from ISU Extension and Outreach, Iowa Beef Center, IDALS State Soil Conservation and Water Quality Committee, and the Iowa Forage and Grassland Council. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and dress for weather and walking. No bathroom facilities are on-site at the demonstration plots.

Registration is not required but encouraged. RSVP or direct any questions to Iowa Beef Center's Beth Reynolds or email or call IBC at 515-294-BEEF (2333).



Secretary Rollins Issues Statement Following Trump Administration Lawsuit Against California

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins issued a statement following the Trump Administration’s lawsuit against the State of California over the State’s intrusive actions that have caused the price of eggs to skyrocket, harming consumers.

Yesterday, the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the State of California, Governor Gavin Newsom, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and other state officials over California laws that impose burdensome red tape on the production of eggs and egg products nationally in violation of the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

“California has gone rogue and caused real harm to consumers under its cage-free egg commitments. By not allowing consumer choice, Californian’s are forced to buy more expensive eggs. California’s actions under Proposition 12 fly in the face of Federal jurisdiction and regulation over food production and safety under the Egg Products Inspection Act. It is one thing if California passes laws that affects its own State, it is another when those laws affect other States in violation of the U.S. Constitution. Thankfully, President Trump is standing up against this overreach,” said Secretary Rollins.

Secretary Rollins has worked diligently to support American poultry and egg producers, combat avian flu, and lower the cost of eggs for consumers. In February, she announced a five-point plan to combat the avian flu and lower egg prices which has been applauded by agriculture and government leaders across the country. Since the five-point plan was announced, the price of eggs has decreased 63 percent.



Applications Now Open for the 2026 ASA – Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program

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

Program sponsors American Soybean Association and Corteva are seeking farmers to apply for the 2026 ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program.

Phase I of the 2025-26 Young Leader program will take place Dec. 1-4 at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Johnston, Iowa. It continues Feb. 24-Feb. 27, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show.

“The Young Leader program has had a tremendous impact on the soybean industry by helping identify, train and prepare farmers who are interested in leadership and advocacy,” said Kentucky soybean grower and ASA President Caleb Ragland. “Through top-notch training, the Young Leader program has elevated industry success by providing us with strong, informed and connected soy leaders. Numerous past graduates of the program can be found in leadership positions throughout the industry, including members of ASA’s Executive Committee. We are grateful to Corteva for continually supporting this program for more than 40 years.”

Soybean growers—both individuals and couples—are encouraged to apply for the program, which focuses on leadership and communication, agriculture trends and information, and the development of a strong and connected network. The program is designed for growers who are young in leadership, not age. Interested spouses/partners are encouraged to attend and will be active participants in all aspects of the program, even if not employed full-time on the farm.

“Corteva is proud to support this longstanding and impactful program to help develop the next generation of grower leaders,” said U.S. Industry Affairs Leader for Corteva Agriscience Matt Rekeweg. “Not only will participants come away with new skills to increase their impact on local, state and federal policy, they’ll have the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with other current and emerging industry leaders to help unlock new opportunities and set them up for future success.”

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/.