Monday July 28 Ag News - LENRD Meeting Recap - Soybean Mgt Field Days Returns - CAP Webinars - Smith on the Modern Agriculture Caucus - and more!

 Recap from the July 2025 Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors Meeting

At their July 24, 2025 Board Meeting, LENRD Directors denied a request from the Northeast Nebraska Management Area (Northeast WMA), to provide a cash match of $18,000.00 over three years for their Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) grant application to combat noxious and invasive weed species.

Though the conversation began at the end of 2024, Doug Deck attended the Committee Meeting on behalf of the Northeast WMA earlier this month to explain the goal to combat phragmites in wetlands, waterways and river systems. Phragmites is an invasive species of weed that can quickly overtake native plants altering wildlife habitat, depleting the water supply, and impacting conveyance of water in rivers and streams. Phragmites can be very difficult for farmers and landowners to control without the use of a drone due to overhead cost of using other aerial application methods and, often times, the location of the weed infestation within hard to access locations along waterways.

The Northeast WMA has plans to apply for a 2026 NET Grant that will help cover costs for the spray and treatment of fields where invasive species have taken over. Deck requested $6,000.00 annually, over a three-year period, as the cash match required by the grant. The Northeast WMA covers Antelope, Cedar, Dixon, Knox, Pierce, and Wayne Counties.

Assistant General Manager, Curt Becker, briefed Directors on the upcoming open house for the Battle Creek Watershed Flood Risk Reduction Plan that will be held on Thursday, July 31st, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Battle Creek Jr/Sr High School. The meeting will outline the sources of flooding in the Battle Creek Watershed; share a comprehensive list of alternatives (potential projects) identified to reduce flood risk; and provide an overview of the alternatives evaluation process. Attendees are encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed draft alternatives. Written comments about the proposed alternatives will be accepted through Wednesday, August 27th.

In June 2020, the LENRD Board of Directors selected JEO Consulting Group for the development of a flood risk reduction plan for the Battle Creek Watershed, which spans more than 57,000 acres in Madison and Boone Counties. Developed in accordance with NRCS requirements, this plan will document existing flooding issues, evaluate strategies that reduce the risk of flooding, and outline an implementation plan.

Directors approved the recommended changes to the Conservation Cost-Share Program. Updates for this program are conducted annually using information regarding average costs from invoices that were turned in for reimbursement during the previous fiscal year. USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) rates for the programs are used if there is not enough information to determine LENRD average costs. Some practices may also be removed if they have not been utilized in recent years. If this occurs, it does not mean the program is gone forever and could be brought back when the demand is there.

For Fiscal Year 2026, no changes were made to the Cover Crop program, but some changes were made to the Agroforestry Program due to LENRD averages. The Chemigation and Domestic Well Treatment System Programs are separate from the programs listed in the Conservation Cost-Share Docket.

At their meeting, Directors also received administrative updates from General Manager, Brian Bruckner, regarding Governor Pillen’s newly created Water Task Force and the Logan East Rural Water System.

Earlier this year, Bruckner was appointed by the Governor to serve as a member of his Water Quality and Quantity Task Force and serves on the Water Conservation and Quantity and Nitrate Legacy and Drinking Water Access Subcommittees. Bruckner provided an update from the Subcommittee meetings that were held this month.

Scheduled to meet monthly over the next 12 months, the Subcommittees will discuss historical events which have attributed to some of the existing challenges as they relate to water quantity and/or quality and will identify successful strategies, programs, partnerships, and funding opportunities to implement action items to ensure the long-term viability of water resources in the State.  The Water Task Force is comprised of 20 individuals who come from varied backgrounds and locations within Nebraska. 

Bruckner also provided a status update regarding the proposed expansion of the Logan East RWS to create connections with the City of Oakland and the Village of Craig.  Discussions with representatives from the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, & Environment were recently conducted to discuss possible funding opportunities for the proposed expansion and Bruckner will continue to consult with stakeholders and agency representatives to keep the project moving forward. 

Other items discussed were monthly reports, approval of income and expenses for the Lower Elkhorn NRD, Logan East Rural Water System & Wau-Col Regional Water Systems, and a conservation cost share update. Directors also approved a complete upgrade of the Logan East RWS Scada system at a cost of $78,569.00 over five years. The SCADA system is essential for monitoring water level data within the system, including water levels in the towers. The equipment is 30-40 years old and is no longer operating as effectively or efficiently as it once was. 

To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local District can work with you and your community to protect natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next Board of Directors meeting will be Thursday, August 28th, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live. 



2025 Nebraska Soybean Management Field Days Includes Second Year of TAPS Competition

For over 25 years, growers have benefited from the latest advancements in soybean production, management and marketing at Soybean Management Field Days. This year marks the second year that the Soybean Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) competition highlights are included in the field days, including lessons from last year’s contest and progress this season.

The field days provide an opportunity to learn about cutting-edge soybean management, production practices and technologies, while networking with fellow farmers and industry experts.

The three-fold focus of the field days is to provide practical information, foster dialogue and showcase collaborative efforts:
    Learn about best practices and strategies to apply in your fields.
    Engage in productive discussions on issues ranging from local to global.
    Explore Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) initiatives in research, marketing and education.

“Our goal is to give growers real value they can take home and use,” said Andy Chvatal, NSB executive director. “By highlighting programs like TAPS, we’re helping producers evaluate new ideas and learn directly from the results. In addition to TAPS, the field days also focus on timely topics that matter most to growers, including disease management, market updates and practical production strategies.”

Throughout the four-day event, attendees will be able to participate in two different formats, one occurring in the evening and the other during the day. The evening meetings, held Aug. 12–14, will feature presentations on locally relevant topics and engage participants in interactive discussions. To conclude the week on Aug. 15, a field day starting mid-morning will highlight the Soybean TAPS contest with interactive discussions and a plot tour.
Soybean Management Field Days is free to attend thanks to support from NSB. To help with a meal count, please pre-register two days in advance of each field day at go.unl.edu/soydays or by calling 402-624-8030.

Evening programs
Registration at 5:30 p.m., program from 6 to 8 p.m.
    Tuesday, Aug. 12 – Ravenna, NE (Lonnie and Scott Bohn farm)
    Topics: Soybean TAPS competition, soybean diseases, and market updates.
    Speakers: Dylan Mangel, Jeff Peterson, Talon Muse, Chuck Burr

    Wednesday, Aug. 13 – Concord, NE (UNL Haskell Ag Lab)
    Topics: Soybean TAPS competition, white mold, and market updates.
    Speakers: Dylan Mangel, Leslie Johnson, Nicole Luhr, Chris Proctor, Jeff Peterson

    Thursday, Aug. 14 – Weeping Water, NE (Rick Meyer farm)
    Topics: Soybean TAPS competition and gall midge research plots.
    Speakers: Justin McMechan, John Nelson, Chris Proctor

Morning program
Registration at 10 a.m., program from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
    Friday, Aug. 15 – Mead, NE (UNL Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension & Education Center)
    Topics: Soybean TAPS update, tour of competition plots, and market updates.
    Speakers: Chris Proctor, Jeff Peterson, Chuck Burr, Dylan Mangel, Aaron Nygren, Justin McMechan

Attendees will also have the chance to hear from MEG Corp about soy biodiesel and connect with representatives from NSB and Nebraska Soybean Association at each location.

Registration and information about the field days, including maps to the event sites can be found at go.unl.edu/soydays, or contact NSB at (402) 441-3240 or Nebraska Extension at (402) 624-8030.



CAP Webinars Upcoming

Livestock insurance Basics Part 3: Umbrella Insurance
Jul 31, 2025 12:00 PM 
With Shannon Sand, Extension Agricultural Economist, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability

Are you truly protected if something goes wrong on your operation? Standard farm insurance may not be enough. Join us for an informative webinar on umbrella insurance in agriculture also known as farm or ranch liability umbrella coverage and learn how this extra layer of protection can safeguard your livelihood. We'll break down what umbrella insurance is, how it works, and why it’s a smart addition to your risk management plan. Whether you're facing rising liability risks, growing your operation, or simply want peace of mind, this session will help you understand how to better protect your assets and your future.

Mending the Stress Fence
Aug 7, 2025 12:00 PM 
With Glennis McClure, Extension Educator, Farm and Ranch Management Analyst, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability

It is important that we all learn how to manage our stress levels and reduce the effects of unwanted stress. Business owners, managers, farmers, and ranchers are no exception to experiencing stress. In fact, stress seems to be prevalent in rural communities at times. Too much stress can make us more accident-prone, and it can affect our overall health.

This program provides information on identifying common stressors, recognizing stress symptoms, and managing stress.

Program objectives include:
-Building awareness of the signs and symptoms of stress in rural communities.
-Learning the eight dimensions of wellness.
-Learning how to ask open-ended questions to recognize someone’s stress levels.
-Improving awareness of the warning signs of suicide and learn about available resources to help support someone in need.

Big Changes Are Coming – Let’s Talk Taxes!
Aug 14, 2025 12:00 PM 
With Tina Barrett, Executive Director, Nebraska Farm Business, Inc.

Congress just passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” and it’s packed with tax changes that could hit your farm’s bottom line. From deductions and depreciation to how we plan for next year, there’s a lot to chew on. Tina Barrett, executive director of Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., will break it down —what matters, what doesn’t, and what you should be thinking about now to stay ahead. Bring your questions and let’s make sense of it together!

More Than One Big Beautiful Impact for Agriculture
Aug 21, 2025 12:00 PM 
With Brad Lubben, Associate Professor and Extension Ag Policy Specialist, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability

The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” passed by Congress and signed by the president on July 4, reauthorizes and increases federal support for farmers and ranchers in the commodity programs, crop insurance programs, and disaster assistance programs. The reconciliation legislation also includes other increases in federal ag programs for trade promotion, research, and animal disease management among other provisions
 
The increased ag support comes at a cost, primarily though cuts to food assistance programs, straining the fragile farm and food coalition that has historically worked on farm bill reauthorization. What remains of that coalition may be tested soon as the reconciliation legislation left other parts of the farm bill to be addressed before they expire at the end of September.
 
This webinar will cover the farm bill provisions in the reconciliation bill and the implications for farmers and ranchers now and in the year ahead. The webinar will also discuss other provisions affecting agriculture as well as the farm bill components that were not included and remain on the to do list for the weeks ahead.

Miss the live webinar or want to review it again? Recordings are available — typically within 24 hours of the live webinar — in the archive section of the Center for Agricultural Profitability's webinar page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. Also, you can use this link to register for the webinars.  



NeFB Seeks Members for the YF&R Committee

Nebraska agriculture is more than a career, it’s a way of life rooted in hard work, a connection with land and livestock, and strong community values. The Nebraska Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Committee is here to ensure that the next generation of producers is ready to lead with confidence, advocate effectively and stay connected with others who share their passion.

“We need young producers to be a part of the YF&R Committee. It isn’t just about leadership development, it’s about stepping into your role as a future leader in Nebraska agriculture. This group gives young farmers and ranchers the tools, confidence and connections they need to influence the direction of our industry,” said Audrey Schipporeit, director of generational engagement with Nebraska Farm Bureau.

For young farm and ranch families like Josh and Jill England and Matthew and Riley Erickson, serving on the YF&R Committee has been a game changer. It’s a space where young ag professionals find their voice, develop leadership skills, and make an impact at the local, state and even national level.

“Being part of YF&R gave us the opportunity to step into spaces where big decisions are made and be the voice for young agricultural families,” said Southeast Region representatives Matthew and Riley Erickson, who farm near Sterling and are members of the Johnson County Farm Bureau. “Our voices matter, and this committee gives them strength.” Josh and Jill England, committee chairs and Central Region representatives, agree. The Englands farm near Doniphan and are members of the Hall County Farm Bureau. “As more young people enter agriculture, we need to be at the table advocating for the policies that affect our farms, ranches and agribusinesses. This committee prepares us to do exactly that,” the Englands said.

Committee members don’t just talk, they act. From policy advocacy and event planning to leadership development and public engagement, YF&R members are making a difference. Josh England has served on the Hall County Farm Bureau Board, been a voting delegate at the Nebraska Farm Bureau annual convention and participated in the Nebraska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy.

“But my biggest accomplishment,” Josh said, “has been personal growth. I’ve become a stronger leader and more confident speaker.”

Jill England also credits the committee with helping her grow.

“Through leadership roles and competitions like Excellence in Ag, I’ve become more confident in policy and advocacy, skills that directly benefit our operation and community,” she said.

Matthew and Riley Erickson have also made their mark by organizing regional events and planning the flagship conference in the winter for all YF&R members to attend. Matthew even traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for Nebraska agriculture on a national level.

“Having the chance to speak up for farmers and ranchers on the national Josh and Jill England Matthew and Riley Erickson level truly showed how important our voice is,” Mathew Erickson said.

At its core, the YF&R Committee is about connection and impact. It brings together young producers and agriculture professionals across Nebraska to ensure their voices are not only heard, but also respected and valued.

“Our organization depends on active members,” said Matthew and Riley. “Being involved at the county level helps shape the policies that protect and support our industry.”

Josh and Jill add, “Farm Bureau’s grassroots approach means that as a member, your voice shapes the direction of the organization. You’re not just involved — you’re essential.”

As Matthew and Riley put it: “We need strong young voices on the YF&R Committee. Today’s members are tomorrow’s leaders.”

Josh and Jill echo that sentiment. “Being part of this committee has changed our lives,” they said. “It’s brought us lifelong friendships, made us more intentional in our work and given us the support of an organization that truly cares.”

Are you ready to lead? To connect? To make a difference?

If you’re a young farmer, rancher or agricultural professional passionate about the future of Nebraska agriculture, consider joining the YF&R Committee.

To learn more or get involved, contact Audrey Schipporeit, director of generational engagement, at audreys@nefb.org.



Smith Launches Modern Agriculture Caucus, Announces Vice Chairs

Friday Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), along with Reps. Frank Lucas (R-OK), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Erin Houchin (R-IN), Vince Fong (R-CA), Tracey Mann (R-KS), and Rob Bresnahan (R-PA) announced the formation of the Modern Agriculture Caucus and released the following statements.

"I see great opportunity to bring awareness and support to innovative efforts of American farmers and ranchers feeding and fueling the world. As Nebraska’s third district leads the Nation in agricultural production, I’ve seen first-hand the benefit modern agriculture practices provide for both producers and consumers," said Chair Smith. "Through this caucus, we will champion policy which promotes cutting-edge technologies, stewardship of our natural resources, as well as the development and protection of U.S. agricultural innovation and intellectual property. I thank each vice chair for joining in this effort, and I look forward to all we will accomplish for agriculture across America."

The Modern Agriculture Caucus supports and advances cutting-edge practices to increase food production, improve farm efficiency, and strengthen American leadership in global food security. Through effective policymaking the caucus advocates for innovation, education, and responsible legislation for the agriculture industry.

Full list of Modern Agriculture Caucus leadership is as follows:
Caucus Chairman - Rep. Adrian Smith
Vice Chair of Precision Agriculture – Rep. Erin Houchin
Vice Chair of Biotechnology – Rep. Frank Lucas
Vice Chair of Food Affordability – Rep. Rob Bresnahan
Vice Chair of Emerging Innovations – Rep. Brad Finstad
Vice Chair of Smart Irrigation – Rep. Vince Fong
Vice Chair of Automation & AI – Rep. Tracey Mann

Additional members of the caucus include: Reps. Marianette Miller Meeks (R-IA), Jim Baird (R-IN), Don Bacon (R-NE), Mike Flood (R-NE), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Tony Wied (R-WI), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), David Valadao (R-CA), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), David Rouzer (R-NC), and Ann Wagner (R-MO). 



NCBA Member Shares One Big Beautiful Bill Insights at Congressional Hearing

Saturday, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) member and California rancher Kevin Kester testified at a House Ways and Means Committee field hearing on the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill. The One Big Beautiful Bill contains numerous wins for cattle farmers and ranchers, thanks to the tireless advocacy of NCBA.

“As a fifth-generation rancher, I feel blessed to raise cattle alongside my wife, children, and grandchildren. I want to see this way of life continue for future generations, which is why it was so important for Congress to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill,” said Kester. “I know what it’s like to see your farm or ranch burdened by a massive tax bill, and the One Big Beautiful Bill delivers the tax relief we need to save money, grow our operations, and make sure our children and grandchildren can make a living in the cattle business. I’m proud to deliver this message to Congress and appreciate the opportunity to highlight NCBA’s work to protect the cattle industry.”
 
Over a year ago, NCBA recognized the risk of a massive tax hike on the cattle industry if Congress failed to enact new tax legislation by the end of 2025. NCBA went to work meeting with policymakers, testifying at congressional hearings, and submitting tax comments to make sure that Congress protected family farmers and ranchers from higher taxes. Thanks to NCBA’s hard work, the One Big Beautiful Bill contains numerous pro-agriculture tax provisions, including: 

    Increasing the Death Tax exemption to $15 million per individual or $30 million per couple, adjusted annually for inflation. As land values skyrocket and farms appear to be worth more on paper, increasing the Death Tax exemption protects cattle producers from an additional tax burden when passing their operation on to the next generation. The bill also protects Stepped-Up Basis which helps producers minimize their Death Tax liability.
    Making the Section 199A Small Business tax deduction permanent, allowing family farms and ranches to deduct 20% of their business income, keeping more of their hard earned money.
    Increasing the Section 179 deduction to allow farmers and ranchers to deduct business expenses like equipment purchases up to $2.5 million.
    Making 100% bonus depreciation permanent so farmers and ranchers can deduct the full cost of capital investments like equipment when they purchase them, rather than taking small deductions over several years.
    Extending itemized deductions for losses incurred due to federally declared disasters.

Additionally, the One Big Beautiful Bill includes several key Farm Bill provisions important to cattle producers like expanding the Livestock Forage Disaster Program, funding the Livestock Indemnity Program, supporting voluntary conservation tools, and bolstering foreign animal disease protections.

Importantly, the final version of the One Big Beautiful Bill that was signed into law by President Trump did not include any of the controversial public land sale or eminent domain provisions that previously attracted media attention.

“Stories like Kevin Kester’s are why NCBA fought so hard to get the One Big Beautiful Bill signed into law and protect family farms and ranches from massive tax hikes,” said NCBA President Buck Wehrbein. “The One Big Beautiful Bill will help family cattle operations of all sizes save more of their hard earned money. The Farm Bill provisions in the law will also help protect the cattle industry from a foreign animal disease outbreak, help producers recover from depredation and drought, and offer more resources for voluntary conservation. NCBA thanks Congress for passing this bill and President Trump for signing it into law. This is the type of victory that will strengthen the cattle industry for years to come.”

“The One, Big Beautiful Bill gets a lot right for agriculture. Like many U.S. cattle ranchers, I’m excited about what it delivers and believe we need to keep sharing why these wins are critical to America’s economy and future,” said Rick Roberti, Northern California rancher and president of the California Cattlemen’s Association. “That’s why I greatly appreciate Chairman Jason Smith and the House Ways and Means Committee for hosting this field hearing and giving us the chance to highlight the economic benefits tied to agriculture. Having California cattle rancher Kevin Kester testify and share his story was a powerful way to show how these wins will directly support farming and ranching families across the nation for generations to come—from critical tax provisions (including the death tax exemption) and key Farm Bill programs to major investments in animal health.”



Dairy Market Report JULY 2025
NMPF 

Overall domestic use of dairy has shown good growth in recent months, while dairy exports continue to face headwinds, with bright spots for butter and cheese.

Domestic commercial use of total milk solids grew by 2.2% from a year ago during March-May. U.S. exports of cheddar cheese and total American-types grew by 19% during the period. Butter exports were up by 127%. U.S. milk production is fully in an expansion phase this year, following an unusual four-year period of stable production. Milk solids composition of raw milk continues to grow, together providing adequate supplies for the rapidly expanding cheddar cheese production, which increased by almost 10% from a year earlier in May.

View Full Report https://www.nmpf.org/u-s-dairy-sees-strong-growth-at-home-amid-challenging-trade-conditions/.