Wednesday August 27 Ag News - PSC Harvest Reminders - CVA CEO to Retire Aug 31 - Corn Silage and Cover Crops - CLAAS Omaha R&D Center - and more!

Calves approaching weaning. What next?
Alfredo DiCostanzo, NE Extension Beef Systems Educator

For most cow-calf operators, the 2025 calf crop will likely be the most valuable in their production records. The feeder cattle market has been on fire; shattering price records every week.

Hopefully, calf growth and health are normal or better than normal in most operations this year.

What are the expectations for calf prices later this year? The sure answer to that question is feeder prices will be higher than in 2024. Then, the next question would be: what next? Should we hold calves through a backgrounding period, or should we sell?

Up until last spring, when corn grain prices were well above $4.25/bu, one might have said, bring your calves to market after weaning, take the check and run. Particularly when the expectation is that feeder calves will fetch well above $4.00/lb.

Feed prices have changed since then. New crop corn grain futures are slightly below $4.00/bu and March 2026 futures price is at $4.30/bu today. Good rains and growing weather for the summer of 2025 supported abundant forage growth. Hay prices range from $85 to $130/ton. Corn yields are expected to be above normal which should translate to high corn silage yields. Pricing corn silage off corn grain at 11 times the price of corn grain ($/bu) would result in corn silage price between $42 and $46/ton.

Given these feed prices, calculating a backgrounding diet containing around 50% corn grain, including 15% dried distillers grains, all on a dry matter basis, would result in a diet price close to $110/ton. At a feed conversion ratio of 7 lb diet to 1 lb gain (dry basis) or 10-to-1 (as-is basis), cost of gain per pound would be $0.55 to $0.60.

With feed costs expected to be at this level, and feeder calf prices expected to remain above $3.00/lb for most classes of calves, the feeding margin (difference between price received per pound and cost of gain per pound) should be large. However, high feeder calf prices are prevalent. Therefore, an important consideration is what is the value of the weaned calf vs the value expected from a calf retained on the farm or ranch to gain nearly 2 lb daily until a future sale in, say, March of 2026.

Using information from Beef Basis (https://beefbasis.com/), one could anticipate the sale price for calves weaned and sold in 2025 or calves weaned, backgrounded and sold in March of 2026. The information indicates that a feeder calf weighing 500 lb and sold at Bassett Livestock would bring $4.67/lb in mid-November. Retaining that calf for it to gain 2 lb daily for sale in mid-March 2026 would bring $3.77/lb.

The difference in price alone is a bit daunting: $0.90/lb or a loss of $450/head in value. Yet, when carrying this exercise to simulate backgrounding this calf on a $110/ton diet on which this calf converts

at a rate of 10 lb feed (as-is) to 1 lb of gain ($0.55/lb gain), and it costs $2 daily for labor, fuel, lubrication to run the tractor and mixer, paying for utilities, facility rentals, and $100 of interest on cattle($1/lb gain), there is still opportunity for a positive margin.

Feeder calf value change: $4.67/lb minus $3.77/lb in 500 lb or $450

Feeder margin: $3.77/lb minus $1.55/lb in 240 lb or $533

Net margin: $533 minus $450 = $83

This activity returns $83 for a total investment of $2,700 or 3%. The annual equivalent of this return would be 9%.

If anyone is attracted to the option of retaining calves beyond weaning because feed costs are attractive or they have direct access to forage or grain, considerations should be made for facilities, the capacity of the operation to provide adequate labor and care for these cattle, and access to a solid health program to prevent losses to illness and death. 



PSC ISSUES HARVEST REMINDERS

With the harvest season soon to get underway, the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) encourages producers/sellers to familiarize themselves with Nebraska Grain laws.

“Part of a successful harvest for producers/sellers is making sure their assets are protected. Understanding the law and how it affects them plays a key role in that process.” said Terri Fritz, PSC Grain Department Director.

Under the Grain Dealer Act, if producers/sellers want to ensure their transactions with a licensed grain dealer are covered by the grain dealer’s security posted with the PSC, they must demand payment within 15 days of completion of their contract with the dealer. Producers/sellers who choose not to demand payment within 15 days after completion of their contract will be unsecured creditors of that dealer and forfeit any protection from the grain dealer’s security.

Director Fritz said, “It’s important for the producer/seller to understand that it is their responsibility to demand payment within a set timeframe to ensure they are covered.”

Grain Warehouse operators are also reminded by the PSC of the Emergency Storage Policy. In order to store grain on the ground, an Emergency Storage application form must be filed with, and approved by, the Commission.

A list of Licensed Grain Dealers, along with the PSC Emergency Storage 2025 memo and Emergency Storage application form can be found on the Grain Department page of the PSC website https://psc.nebraska.gov/. 



CVA CEO to retire August 31 after a career spent building cooperatives and people

After more than 15 years at the helm of Central Valley Ag (CVA) cooperative, Carl Dickinson will retire on August 31, 2025. Known for his intense focus, bold vision and belief in people, Dickinson has spent more than three decades shaping the cooperative landscape across the Midwest - most recently leading CVA through a period of extraordinary growth and transformation. 

"I've loved every minute of this work," Dickinson said. "It's been a blessing - a fairytale in many ways. I got to come back to the community I grew up in and build something that will outlast me." 

Dickinson's career began far from the boardroom. Raised on a hog farm near Marquette, Nebraska, he entered the workforce without a college degree but with an unshakable work ethic. "I didn't graduate from college, but I always believed in self-education and lifelong learning," he said. "If I wanted to achieve something, I had to work harder and learn faster." 

That mindset carried him from early roles in agriculture and the car business into the cooperative system. In 1993, Dickinson joined Battle Creek Farmers Cooperative as feed department manager, later becoming assistant general manager. His first CEO role came in 1999 at the newly formed Mid-Missouri Cooperative. He went on to lead co-ops in South Dakota and Missouri before being named CEO of United Farmers Cooperative (UFC) in 2009. 

When UFC merged with Central Valley Ag in 2014, Dickinson was tapped to lead the new organization. Under his leadership, CVA grew from $500 million in annual sales to more than $2 billion. But Dickinson said his proudest achievements weren't financial. 

"The thing I'm most proud of isn't the mergers or the growth - it's the people," he said. "There are four CEOs in the system today who came out of teams I've led. Watching people grow and rise is the greatest reward." 

Known for his direct approach and high standards, Dickinson built a culture rooted in accountability and trust. "I'm as far from a micromanager as you'll find," he said. "But I lead with expectations." 

Throughout his time at CVA, Dickinson often reminded his team that "CVA is a retailer that chooses to be a cooperative," reflecting his belief that strong business practices and cooperative values go hand in hand. 

His influence extended beyond CVA. Dickinson served multiple terms on the Land O'Lakes Board of Directors - one of the most prominent positions in the national cooperative system. He also held leaderships roles with the Co-op 401(K) Board, the Nebraska Cooperative Council Managers Association, numerous LLC and joint venture boards, and community organizations such as Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever. 

"Serving on boards helped me keep a higher view," Dickinson said. "It allowed me to learn from others, gain perspective, and bring new thinking back to the organization I was leading."

One area where he's still hoping for continued progress is farmer business development. "That's what kept me in the local co-op system," he said. "I really believed we could move the needle in helping producers run their operations more like businesses." 

Dickinson said he feels confident in the cooperative's future. With the recent announcement of Nic McCarthy as CVA's next president and CEO, he believes the organization is well positioned to move forward. 

"I've always said if the next CEO doesn't come from within, I've failed," he said. "With Nic's leadership and the team we've built, I know CVA is set up for continued success." 

Outside the office, Dickinson lives life with the same intensity he brought to the cooperative world. He enjoys hunting with his dogs on the Platte River, wakeboarding with his wife Dawn at their lake home, and spending time with family. Together, Carl and Dawn have raised two daughters - a central source of pride and joy throughout his career. 

Although he doesn't plan to fully retire, Dickinson is leaving the next chapter undefined - intentionally. 

"I've been praying for a few years that God would show me my next purpose," he said. "And I think the answer is: be done with this, and I'll show you what's next." 

As CVA prepares to turn the page, Dickinson leaves behind the legacy build on grit, growth and a genuine love for the people he served. 



Corn Silage Harvest
Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator

Silage harvest for fully irrigated full-season corn usually begins 45 days or 800 GDD’s after the tassel / silking growth stage. However, growing conditions and the season length of the plant itself can make predictions based on the calendar fuzzy at best.

Accurately assessing whole plant moisture is key to proper silage pile fermentation and tight packing. If silage is too dry; then, packing is difficult and may allow oxygen into the pile causing overheating, mold/yeast/bad microbe growth, and spoilage. When the silage moisture content is too high, piles can weep with valuable energy and nutrients flowing out as a loss from the pile. Also, damaging clostridia bacteria colonies can grow when silage is too wet. So, target silage storage moisture content should be 65-70% moisture.

Another factor to consider for silage chopping is milk line (a corn kernel starch content indicator). Starch is one of the most energy dense feed components; so, silage that contains higher amounts of starch will be higher energy overall. The further down the kernel milk line is established; the more starch content has been stored in the kernel.

Plant moisture and milk line may not be directly correlated and may vary among hybrids. While these development factors trend in the same direction, the moisture content may vary from field to field, even if milk line is the same.

Corn silage is a great feed resource that can benefit from moisture content monitoring at harvest. Target harvesting silage at 65-70% moisture content for best results. Use the ear kernel

milk line (closer to the cob means more starch and higher energy silage) to find your ideal harvest window based on your hybrids.



Cover Crops Following Corn Silage
Jerry Volesky, NE Extension Educator

Following corn silage harvest, your ground can lay bare for seven to nine months. Instead, let’s plant some crops to grow and cover it until next season.

After silage harvest, bare ground has three things working against it. One is exposure to wind and water erosion. Secondly, bare soils lack growing roots which are needed to feed the living soil building microbes. Finally, bare soils represent a missed opportunity to grow cover crops that might help you overcome all these problems.

But what should you plant? If you are hoping for some feed this fall, then oats, spring triticale and barley, annual ryegrass, and turnips might be a good choice because these plants have the greatest forage yield potential yet this fall. Spring oats, triticale, and barleys will also die over winter, so they won’t interfere with next year’s crop. However, getting these non-winter hardy annuals seeded as early as possible in September is needed to have time to grow an adequate amount of fall forage.

Winter rye is the most common choice among the cereals. And cereal rye can provide abundant grazable growth early next spring to get cows off of hay sooner. Wheat and triticale also can be good cover crops. Of course, wheat then can be harvested later for grain while triticale makes very good late spring forage. The seeding date window for the winter cereals can extend well into October, but earlier seeding will allow for more fall growth. Legumes like hairy vetch or winter peas could also be planted as part of a mixture with the winter annual cereals.

Cover crops can preserve or even improve your soil and can be useful forages as well. Consider them following your early harvests.



CLAAS Continues North American Investment with New R&D Center 

In an upcoming ceremony on Friday, August 29, Jan-Hendrik Mohr, CEO of CLAAS Group, will return to a familiar plot of land in Omaha, Nebraska, to break ground on a new 44,800 square foot Research and Development Center that will add new jobs and support the local economy.

More than twenty-five years ago, Mohr had a different title and a different mission: To turn an empty field on the edge of the city into the future home of CLAAS in North America. Today, the campus looks much different with the sprawling corporate offices of CLAAS of America, an assembly plant that has produced 10,000 LEXION combines for American farmers, and the recently added CLAAS Training Academy. It is home to more than 250 employees. The new CLAAS Research and Development Center will overlook the rest of the campus, sitting on the southwest corner of the property.

After returning to Germany from his multi-year assignment in Omaha, Mohr worked hard to ensure that his investment in the American market would continue to flourish. Now, more than ever, the US and Canadian markets are critical to the success of the family-owned, global ag equipment company.

CLAAS is fully dedicated to building ag equipment that enables North American farmers to be the best in their fields – and that includes the corn and soybean fields of the Midwestern US, the wheat and canola fields of the northern plains and western Canada, the rice fields in the Mississippi River Delta and beyond. As CLAAS develops next-generation technology for future machines, the company needs advanced R&D Center in Omaha to ensure its prototypes meet the demands of North American farmers and the fields they farm.

The new facility will have a 44,800 sq. ft. footprint, including approximately 12,000 sq. ft. under roof — creating a space that’s more than 25% larger than the temporary off-site shop currently used for research and development. The plans feature two stories of office space, an expanded room for instrumentation, greater utilization of space for logistics, and an internal, heated wash bay. The facility will also provide greater physical and electronic security measures for protecting critical intellectual property.

The new CLAAS Research and Development Center will be the hub for all North American testing activities. While much of the testing will take place on farms throughout the country under various soil, weather, and crop conditions, the analysis of those tests will be interpreted by engineers working in the new facility.

The company’s commitment to the US market, including the assembly of LEXION combines, where approximately 40% of the components are made in America, was established decades ago and will continue for many years to come, starting with this new Research and Development Center.



NMPF Dairy Market Report - AUGUST 2025

Dairy exports surged in June, reaching 18.7% of domestic milk solids production—the highest levels since 2022. Meanwhile, stocks of major dairy products held steady from May to June. 
U.S. fluid milk sales rose 0.5% from a year earlier in June, while domestic yogurt consumption jumped 12.2%. Overall domestic commercial use of milk solids in all dairy products increased 3% year-over-year. Meanwhile, exports accounted for 18.7% of domestic milk solids production, a sharp rise compared with recent levels.

U.S. milk production growth accelerated in the second quarter, with milk solids composition also trending higher. Despite this, stocks of major dairy products held steady from May to June, as did the national average all-milk price. The Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) margin improved by $0.70/cwt, supported by lower feed costs.

At retail, dairy prices have seen little change over the past three years, even as overall consumer prices including food and beverages have climbed at least 9% since peaking in 2022.

View Full Report - https://www.nmpf.org/dairy-exports-surge-in-june-dairy-product-stocks-hold-steady/



Diversification of Global Market Opportunities for U.S. Soy Takes Center Stage at 2025 USSEC Soy Connext in Washington, D.C.

Emphasizing the growing economic value and importance of global market diversification for U.S. Soy, international trade teams representing 34 countries have been visiting U.S. Soy farms, businesses, ports and other soy value chain partners across America as part of the U.S. Soybean Export Council’s (USSEC) flagship Soy Connext convention.

Against a backdrop of changing trade dynamics and increasing global demand for reliable, high-quality protein and oil, Soy Connext brings together industry leaders, farmers, international buyers and stakeholders from across the soy value chain. Representing 59 countries, more than 700 are attending this year’s Soy Connext.

“Soy Connext is not just about celebrating the strength of U.S. Soy,” said Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO. “It’s about demonstrating our commitment to providing consistent, reliable and high-quality products that meet the needs of diverse international markets across every region of the world and building the strong relationships that help us achieve that goal.”

U.S. Soy is America’s top agricultural export, contributing $31.2 billion to the U.S. economy in the 2023-24 marketing year and traded in more than 80 countries. As the international marketing arm of U.S. Soy, USSEC works around the world, seeking to maximize the use, value and access of U.S. Soy products on a global scale.  

International Trade Team Engagement Key Focus
International trade engagement is a key component of Soy Connext. Trade team visits build crucial ties throughout the soy supply chain with current and potential market partners, focusing on showcasing U.S. Soy’s value as a reliable, consistent trade partner through first-hand visits to where U.S. Soy is grown and processed.

Starting before and continuing after the convention itself, this year’s international trade teams visited a wide range of U.S. soybean farms and businesses across America’s key soy-growing and production regions. The visits highlighted the U.S. soybean industry’s transparency and readiness to meet global demand, giving international buyers a firsthand look at the sustainable practices, innovation and stewardship that are core to the U.S. Soy value proposition.

At Soy Connext, the engagement continues with an agenda featuring expert talks, panel discussions focused on sustainability, plant-based protein trends, supply chain insights and global market dynamics, plus a Trade Team Invitational that brings key buyers and stakeholders together to strengthen trade relationships and explore market opportunities.

2025 International Trade Team Stats
    17 U.S. states visited: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington state and Wisconsin.
    34 countries represented: Algeria, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, China, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Jordan, Korea, Lebanon, Malaysia, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Vietnam.
    26 farm visits
    40 industry visits

The Growing Global Appetite for U.S. Soy
As demand for soy foods and soy products grows in emerging, expanding and established markets, U.S. farmers and the industry are focused on a strategy that builds on U.S. Soy’s reputation in the global marketplace for its consistency, reliability and quality.

Fueled by rising global demand for oil, high-quality soy foods and soybean meal used to support the expansion of global livestock, aquaculture and poultry production, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) projects a 4.3% year-over-year increase in global soybean demand in the 2024-25 market year, reaching 346.2 million metric tons (MMT).

“Global diversification is not a future ambition — it’s today’s reality,” said Sutter. “Our work through Soy Connext ensures international buyers understand the unique advantages of U.S. soy and builds lasting partnerships worldwide.”



HHS and USDA Confirm Singular Traveler-Associated New World Screwworm Case; Precautionary and Proactive Surveillance Ongoing

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently identified an instance of a traveler-associated human case of New World screwworm (NWS) in the United States. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reaffirmed its robust surveillance and trapping strategy, confirming there have been no detections of NWS in U.S. livestock.

Under President Trump’s leadership, USDA, HHS, CDC, FDA and our other federal partners have led a robust government wide response to combat the New World Screwworm (NWS) in Mexico and prepare for all scenarios if it enters the United States. On August 4, 2025, CDC, in coordination with the Maryland Department of Health, investigated a confirmed case of travel-associated NWS in a patient who returned from travel to El Salvador. As this is a human case, CDC is the lead response agency and is conducting an epidemiological assessment in coordination with local health authorities. Currently, the risk to public health in the United States from this case is very low. In support of CDC’s activities and out of an abundance of caution, USDA initiated targeted surveillance for NWS within a 20-mile radius of the affected area, encompassing portions of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. To date, all trap results have been negative for NWS. There have been no detections of NWS in the U.S. in livestock or other animals since the last outbreak of NWS in the Florida Keys was resolved in 2017. There have been previous instances of traveler-associated cases of NWS in the United States in years past. In all cases, these instances were isolated and designated as closed after precautionary targeted surveillance in the vicinity was negative. We may continue to see traveler-associated cases of NWS and USDA, in coordination with HHS and CDC, will conduct targeted surveillance to ensure there is no active spread of NWS in the United States. This is not cause for alarm as human risk is low and we have seen several isolated cases in recent years that have not resulted in livestock transmission.

In June 2025, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a comprehensive five-part plan to strengthen the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s efforts to detect, control, and eliminate New World screwworm, pushing the pest back from Mexico to the biological barrier in Eastern Panama. A key part of this plan is trapping along the U.S.–Mexico border to proactively monitor for the pest out of an abundance of caution and it includes building a domestic sterile fly production and dispersal facility to increase our readiness and response efforts. Public health and safety and our joint effort to combat the northward spread of NWS from Mexico into the United States is the top priority of USDA and HHS.



John Deere Greenlights B30 for More Engines

John Deere this week announced a major step forward in renewable fuel adoption: all Tier 4 engines are approved to use biodiesel blends up to 30%, commonly referred to as B30. A Tier 4 engine is a new diesel engine that meets the most stringent requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These engines dramatically reduce pollutants such as particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. 

Previously, John Deere recommended a maximum B20 blend in Tier 4 engines. All Tier 3 and lower tier engines are approved to use B100, or 100% biodiesel, offering even greater flexibility for farmers looking to use a fuel produced from the crops they grow. 

“IRFA applauds John Deere’s approval of B30 in its most sophisticated engines,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Executive Director Monte Shaw. “John Deere has always been a leader in promoting renewable fuels, including their biodiesel factory fill program and leading the way on engine approvals.”  

This move is especially impactful in Iowa, where farmers benefit from the nation’s only B30 incentive program. These state-level credits help reduce fuel costs for end users, whether they are filling up at a retail station or having fuel delivered to their farming operation. Iowa fuel retailers receive a 10-cent-per-gallon tax credit for all B30 or higher blends sold. 

“Beyond state incentives, IRFA offers an on-farm biodiesel credit that allows farmers to earn up to $500 for filling their tanks with biodiesel blends,” said IRFA Marketing Director Lisa Coffelt. “These programs make biodiesel more accessible and affordable for Iowa farmers, while supporting the state’s leadership in renewable energy.” 



Continuity, Comfort, and Performance Headline CLAAS Product and Technology Upgrades

With a focus on meeting operator needs, CLAAS is expanding and refining the LEXION lineup, as well as adding new options to select models of DISCO mowers and LINER rakes for 2026. CLAAS connect – the company’s technology platform – is also receiving greater functionality to better assist producers who are managing their operations. 

“Just like the producers we serve, we’re focused on continuous improvement,” says Dennis Ogle, Head of Sales SPH at CLAAS of America. “Today’s operator deserves equipment that not only matches the demands of the field but also offers greater comfort for long hours in the seat.” 

LEXION Combine Upgrades 
In 2026, the revered LEXION lineup adds a new model number, bumps in horsepower, greater operator comfort and better visibility. 

At the top-end of the LEXION line-up, the 8000 series models receive a new machine to fill CLAAS’ highly productive, wide-body range. A new LEXION 8500 – available in wheeled and TERRA TRAC models – replaces last year’s highly popular Class 8 LEXION 8600, delivering the same horsepower (506 rated hp/549 max hp) as last year’s 8600. Meanwhile, the 2026 LEXION 8600 receives a bump of 50 hp, making it a Class 9 combine. The LEXION 8700 gets a bump of 20 hp, positioning it squarely between the power rating of the 8600 and 8800. The LEXION 8900 TT, introduced in Canada last year, retains the highest horsepower of the LEXION line with 711 rated hp/779 max hp. With these updates, the entire LEXION lineup will run off MAN power plants. 

In addition to the range-wide bump in power, the 2026 LEXION 8000 series will receive key enhancements that will boost productivity. Among those are a larger 510 bu. grain tank available on all 8000 series models, premium LED lighting packages designed to turn night into day, and CLAAS connect technology packages for enhanced steering, mapping and machine management.  

Nowhere will the enhancements to the LEXION 8000 series be felt more than in the new cab, where storage, space and creature comforts rule the day. The newly designed quiet and roomy cockpit offers dozens of new spaces to handle personal electronics, food, drinks, tools and other gear. CLAAS designers didn’t miss a detail, from the new fabric on the cab roof and rear wall to the leather wrapped steering wheel and arm-wrest. For those who desire a premium operator experience, order the professional operator package with a heated and cooled swiveling leather seat, side window shades and a radio sound system featuring an Apple Car PLAY™/Android Audio™ entertainment system and subwoofer.  

DISCO Mower and LINER Rake Updates 
An expanded selection of options is available for 2026 on CLAAS disc mowers and rotary rakes, starting with some of the largest DISCO models in the lineup. The biggest of these: Steel rollers are now available across the DISCO mower line including the DISCO 3600 RC CONTOUR rear mower, DISCO 3600 FRCS MOVE front mower and DISCO 9300 RC, 9700 RCAS and 1100 RC triple mowers.   

The new steel rollers are designed for high throughput and superior crimping in crops that are traditionally difficult to condition, including cane crops, but are still gentle enough for alfalfa.  

In addition to the steel roller option on the DISCO 3600 CONTOUR, the popular rear mower is now compatible with a standard quick hitch and features a double roller drive on roller conditioner machines and an optional counterweight for improved stability.  

The LINER 2600-3100 two-basket center delivery rotary rakes for 2026 will offer a center-swath turning option for superior windrow formation.  

CLAAS connect Improvements 
Data is an important part of effectively managing on-farm resources. This is the motivation behind the CLAAS connect system upgrades; making the right data more accessible when producers need it most.  

CLAAS connect users can now manage cross-manufacturer fleet operations and monitor different equipment brands through Razor Tracking to provide the most accurate real-time information, including location, machine status and productivity. The automatic job documentation update will log the area covered, time spent and fuel used, all information that will help producers save time and improve accuracy. 

Sometimes a snapshot overview can reveal what individual data points cannot. The new Fleet Overview tools in CLAAS connect offer exactly that – a high-level look at information including estimated time to job completion, operational status and job progress. 

“Overall, we want CLAAS users to be able to move seamlessly throughout their operation and have what they need at their fingertips to get the job done,” says Jennifer Kotula, Head of Digital Business for the Americas. “Whether that’s through easy to operate machinery or reliable data, CLAAS is adding those aspects to our lineup of equipment.” 

Tuesday August 26 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - NE Corn Internships - SGM Expands in IA - Pink Eye in Swine - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Report

Topsoil Moisture 6% surplus, 66% adequate, 23% short, 5% very short 
Subsoil Moisture 6% surplus, 63% adequate, 24% short, 7% very short 

Corn Dough 81% - 71% LW - 89% 5YA
Corn Dent 49% - 28% LW - 53% 5YA 
Corn Mature 6% - 0% LW - 8% 5YA
Corn Condition 28% excellent, 50% good, 18% fair, 3% poor, 1% very poor 

Soybean Setting pods 89% - 80% LW - 94% 5YA 
Soybeans Dropping Leaves - none - 6% 5YA
Soybean Condition 26% excellent, 52% good, 19% fair, 2% poor, 1% very poor 

Pasture Condition 10% excellent, 35% good, 32% fair, 14% poor, 9% very poor 



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

Iowa had 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending August 24, 2025, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. The week started with warm temperatures but closed with much cooler weekend weather. Field activities included harvesting oats and hay. Reports noted increasing levels of disease in field crops.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 5 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 20 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 5 percent short, 77 percent adequate and 17 percent surplus.

Corn in the dough stage reached 88 percent, 1 day behind last year’s pace and 3 days behind normal. Corn in the dent stage reached 45 percent, 1 day ahead of last year, but 1 day behind the five-year average. Corn condition rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 56 percent good and 28 percent excellent. 

Ninety percent of soybeans were setting pods, 1 day ahead of last year, but 4 days behind normal. Soybeans coloring reached 8 percent. Soybean condition rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 59 percent good and 20 percent excellent. 

At 97 percent, almost all Iowa’s oat for grain crop has been harvested.

The third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 78 percent complete. 

Pasture condition rated 80 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

The condition of the nation's corn crop remained unchanged, while soybean conditions increased slightly, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released on Monday.

Both crops also appear to be reaching maturity consistent with their five-year averages, NASS reported.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 83%, equal to last year but 1 percentage point behind the five-year average of 84%. Corn dented was estimated at 44%, equal to both last year and the five-year average. Corn mature was pegged at 7%, 3 points behind last year's 10% but equal to the five-year average.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 71% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, unchanged from the previous week. Eight percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, unchanged from the previous week and below 13% from last year. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans setting pods were estimated at 89%, 1 point ahead of last year's 88% and equal to the five-year average. Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 4%, 2 points behind last year's 6% and equal to the five-year average.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 69% of soybeans were in good-to-excellent condition, up 1 point from 68% the previous week and up 2 points from 67% the previous year. Eight percent of soybeans were rated very poor to poor, unchanged from the previous week and 1 percentage point below the previous year's 9%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Harvest inched ahead 4 percentage points last week to reach 98% complete nationwide as of Sunday. That was 1 point behind last year's 99% and consistent with the five-year average. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest picked up speed last week, jumping ahead 17 percentage points to reach 53% complete as of Sunday. That was 5 percentage points ahead of last year's pace of 48% and 1 percentage point behind the five-year average of 54%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 49% of the crop remaining in fields was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, down 1 percentage point from 50% the previous week and 20 points below last year's 69% good-to-excellent rating. 



Volunteers Needed: Help at the Beef Pit during Nebraska State Fair

Nebraska Cattlemen is looking for a few extra volunteers to help us at some upcoming shifts at the Beef Pit during the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island.

Tuesday, August 26 - 3:15 pm – 9:00 pm
Wednesday, August 27 - 3:15 pm - 9:00 pm
Thursday, August 28 - 3:15 pm – 9:00  *Yes, the Husker game is on … we will have the radio on!
Monday, September 1 - 10:00am – 3:00 pm

If you would have time to help us, we would appreciate it.  Let Bonita Lederer know at (402) 450-0223 to send you a ticket to get into the fairgrounds. 



Nebraska Corn Board Now Accepting 2026 Internship Applications

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) has now opened the internship application period for seven internship experiences beginning in May 2026. The internships vary in location, focus and scope but are designed to provide students with an overview of Nebraska’s corn industry through real-world professional experiences.

Five of the seven internships are summer-long experiences, with four based outside the state of Nebraska. Many of the internships are with cooperating partners of NCB. The two positions based with the Nebraska Corn office are yearlong internships.

2026-2027 Internship Opportunities:

Communications and Event Management Internship
Host: Nebraska Corn
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Duration: Summer 2026 and/or 2026-2027 School Year
Application Due Date: October 10, 2025

Research and Demand Internship
Host: Nebraska Corn Board
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Duration: Summer 2026 and/or 2026-2027 School Year
Application Due Date: October 10, 2025

Communications and Investor Relations Internship
Host: National Corn Growers Association
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Duration: Summer 2026
Application Due Date: October 11, 2025

Public Policy and Analysis Internship
Host: National Corn Growers Association
Location: Washington, D.C.
Duration: Summer 2026
Application Due Date: October 10, 2025

Agriculture Broadcasting and Digital Communications Internship
Host: Nebraska Rural Radio Association and Market Journal
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Duration: Summer 2026
Application Due Date: October 10, 2025

Event Management Internship
Host: U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council
Location: Washington, D.C.
Duration: Summer 2026
Application Due Date: October 10, 2025

Promotion and International Relations Internship
Host: U.S. Meat Export Federation
Location: Denver, Colorado
Duration: Summer 2026
Application Due Date: October 10, 2025

“Each year, the interns we recruit, and host raise the bar for the next, easily proving a high return on investment for the next generation,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, NCB chair. “Each internship is uniquely poised and designed for various skills of undergraduate students who are delving into various future career areas. With agriculture being more than farming, these broad opportunities showcase how vast the industry is, and the plentitude of skills needed for its success. We look forward to the next group of interns we will recruit, sponsor and host.”

Nebraska Corn Board 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, October 10, 2025. 



Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association Awards $100,000 in Scholarships to 68 Students

The Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association (INEDA) is pleased to share that it has awarded $100,000 in matching scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year to 68 students pursuing careers with Iowa and Nebraska equipment dealerships. 

“The Andrew Goodman Scholarship program allows Grosshans International to financially support individuals with a passion for the ag equipment and technology field,” said Doug Glunz of Grosshans International. “It serves as an important resource for recruiting and developing skilled professionals who contribute to our customers' success.” 

The Andrew Goodman Scholarship program, created in 2008, helps address the technician and employee shortage and also helps dealers attract and nurture homegrown talent. Since 2008, INEDA has awarded more than $935,000 to 792 students through the program. 

INEDA President and CEO Mark Hennessey shared his pride in supporting students, stating, “INEDA and our members are honored to help students pursue their goals and aspirations. Technical education lays a strong foundation for numerous career paths, and an equipment dealership is the ideal place for those dreams to take shape.”

The Andrew Goodman Scholarship is an annual matching scholarship program available to all employees/potential employees of members of INEDA in good standing. INEDA matches scholarship amounts awarded by dealers to eligible applicants up to $1500 per applicant per year. Applications are due annually by April 15. 

This year, the following dealers provided matching awards: 21st Century Equipment, AgriVision Equipment, AKRS Equipment, Bobcat of Omaha, Bodensteiner Implement Company, Butler Ag Equipment, Central Iowa Farm Store, Grosshans International Inc, K.C. Nielsen, LTD, Keim Farm Equipment Co., LandMark Implement, O'Brien County Implement, Platte Valley Equipment, LLC, Red Power Bancroft Implement, Sinclair Tractor, Titan Machinery, True Ag and Turf, LLC, West Point Implement, and Van Wall Equipment.

“The Andrew Goodman Scholarship is a valuable partnership that supports K.C. Nielsen team members pursuing a technical education, said Jamie Wubben, HR Manager of K.C. Nielsen LTD. “It plays a key role in their growth and development by helping them gain essential mechanical and hands-on skills for future careers as service technicians.  This scholarship also demonstrates our strong commitment to education and the long-term success of our future leaders.”



Soybean gall midge confirmed in five new Iowa counties in 2025
Ashley Dean, ISU Extension Education Specialist, Entomology 

Currently, soybean gall midge is known to occur in 185 counties across seven states in the Midwest (go to https://soybeangallmidge.org/soybean-gall-midge-distribution to see the full distribution). 
Eight new counties have been confirmed in 2025, with five of those being in Iowa. The Hodgson lab, agronomists, and farmers found soybean gall midge larvae in Union and Clarke counties in southern Iowa and Tama, Poweshiek, and Grundy counties in central Iowa.

These new detections mean that 56 counties in Iowa have soybean gall midge in at least one field. That’s over half of the state! If you find soybean gall midge in any county th at has not been highlighted in the map above, send photos and location inform ation to Erin and Ashley to confirm identification. More information on what to look for can be found in the soybean gall midge encyclopedia article.

Research to understand effective management of soybean gall midge is underway, but no research-based management recommendations exist at this time. You can find summaries of current and past research projects in the webinar recordings here: https://soybeangallmidge.org/soybean-gall-midge-series-videos. 



New Iowa Pork Industry Center Publication Focuses on Conjunctivitis Causes, Treatment, Control

Conjunctivitis (sometimes referred to as “pinkeye”) in swine is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctival membranes of the eye. Causes can include common infectious pathogens and non-infectious avenues such as high levels of dust or ammonia, elevated hydrogen sulfide levels and allergenic bedding material.

pigs behind a fenceA new publication from the Iowa Pork Industry Center, Conjunctivitis in Swine, has information on how to recognize the condition and what to do when it is detected in your animals. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach swine veterinarian Chris Rademacher, who is one of the authors, said many cases are observed during the late nursery to early grow-finish phase. Conjunctivitis also is a common complaint among producers, including those involved in swine exhibition opportunities.

“Both prevalence and severity in a group depend on the route of infection and transmission,” he said. “For example, Chlamydia suis is a common agent, yet other viruses such as PRRS, Influenza A and pseudorabies should be ruled out with veterinarian assistance.”

Non-infectious agents, including high levels of dust or ammonia, irritant bedding material and transport events (stressors), may also lead to conjunctivitis.

If conjunctivitis is detected in your animals, Rademacher said commercial and exhibition swine producers should assess the environmental conditions, take swab samples and work with their veterinarian on the next steps. Iowa State researchers are also looking for cases from which to collect swab samples as part of a study on which pathogens are most prevalent. Producers with potential affected sites can contact Dr. Megan Hindman by email at mpieters@iastate.edu for more details.

The publication, IPIC 211, is available at no charge from the ISU Extension Store https://shop.iastate.edu/extension/farm-environment/animals-and-livestock/ipic211.html.

The other authors of the publication are Megan Hindman, DVM, clinical assistant professor; Maria Clavijo, DVM, PhD, research associate professor; Daniel Linhares, DVM, MBA, PhD, Roy A. Schultz Professor in Swine Medicine;  and Locke Karriker, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVPM, professor and chair, all from ISU veterinary diagnostic and production animal medicine; and Michele Moncrief, DVM, post-doctoral research associate, Swine Medicine Education Center.



Raising Your Dairy Best Heifer: Webinar Series Returns for Season 2

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team will offer the second season of the Raising Your Dairy Best Heifer webinar series. The series, intended for dairy producers, will cover practical heifer management topics.

“Nearly 25% of dairy production costs are related to raising heifer replacements, so a considerable amount of feed, time and facilities must be invested to optimize growth for heifers to calve at an appropriate age,” said Jennifer Bentley, dairy field specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “The topic of raising your ‘dairy best’ heifers can have significant financial and herd benefits.”

Each webinar will cover a different topic related to heifer management and include a Q&A session at the end for any questions participants may have.

A complete list of dates and speakers is available below:
    Oct. 1 – “What's all the Fuss about Pair Housing Calves? Benefits and Management Considerations,” Melissa Cantor, assistant professor of precision dairy, Penn State University
    Oct. 8 – “Positive Biofilms in Calf Health,” Sarah Morrison, research scientist, Miner Institute
    Oct. 15 – “Utilizing Genetics to Improve Dairy Calf Health and Performance,” Isaac Haagen, assistant professor in dairy production, University of Minnesota
    Oct. 22 – “Weaning: The Other Transition,” Jennifer Bentley, dairy field specialist, ISU Extension and Outreach
    Oct. 29 – “Colostrum Delivery Strategies,” Donald Sockett, veterinary microbiologist/epidemiologist, Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, and Ryan Breuer, clinical associate professor, University of Wisconsin – Madison School of Veterinary Medicine
    Nov. 5 – “Practical Tips for Managing Heifer Body Condition,” Gail Carpenter, associate professor, dairy extension specialist, Iowa State University
    Nov. 12 – “Fresh Cow Success Starts with the Heifer: Calving Pen Readiness,” Howard Tyler, associate professor of animal science, Iowa State University
    Nov. 19 – “Pasture-Raised Potential: Grazing Dairy Heifers for Performance and Profit,” Larry Tranel, dairy specialist, ISU Extension and Outreach
    Dec. 3 – “Heifer Mastitis,” Pamela Adkins, assistant professor, food animal medicine and surgery director of the Master of Public Health Veterinary concentration area, University of Missouri

Those interested in participating in the webinar series can register online https://go.iastate.edu/DAIRYBESTHEIFER2.



August Cattle on Feed
Charley Martinez, Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee

The monthly cattle on feed report came out this past Friday. Total cattle on feed, on August 1, was estimated to be 10.92 million head. That puts cattle on feed 2% lower than July 1, 2025, and 2% lower than last year’s August 1 cattle on feed report. From a yearly perspective, August is usually the month that has the lowest amount of cattle on feed. Thus, the lower amount of cattle compared to last month was expected.

Placements for July 2025 totaled 1.598 million head, which is 11% higher than in June 2025 and 6% lower than in July 2024. The annual lowered placement difference was highlighted by Colorado and Texas placements, which were 110,000 head and 290,000 head, and put them at 24% and 25% lower compared to July 2024. Kansas and Nebraska were up 21% and 22% compared to a year ago with 435,000 head and 440,000 head placed in July.

Marketings were estimated to be 1.749 million head in July, which is 2% higher than June 2025, and 6% lower than July 2024. Many states in the report were estimated to below 90% of their marketings from a year ago, which contributed to the 6% lower estimate compared to July 2024. Similar to the placement numbers, Texas and Colorado had sizable differences compared to last year. Texas’ marketings for July were estimated to be 360,000 head, which was 3% higher compared to June, but 14% lower compared to a year ago. While Colorado marketings was an estimated 125,000 head, which is unchanged from June 2025, but 17% lower than July 2024.

When comparing placements and marketings to last year, they both are 6% lower than last year. Similarly, as of last week, year-to-date slaughter (18.89 million head) is 6.9% lower compared to last year. Thus, as we are about to start the fall run, it will be interesting to see what the coming month’s cattle on feed reports have. In particular, the next quarterly report will have heifer on feed estimates. The estimates will give us another indication of how the industry is reacting (rebuilding vs not) to the all-time high feeder calf prices that many have experienced this year. 

Monday August 25 Ag News - Pro Farmer '25 yield estimates - Keeping manure "clean" - Cold Storage highlights - Groups react to EPA's Small Refinery Exemptions decisions - and more!

Pro Farmer national corn and soybean crop estimates

Corn: 16.204 billion bu.; Average yield of 182.7 bu. per acre
Corn +-1% = 16.366 billion bu. to 16.042 billion bu.; 184.5 bu. to 180.9 bu. per acre

Corn
Profound discoveries were made across the Tour states, with drier-than-expected conditions in Ohio. The Indiana and Illinois corn crops were decent but lacked luster. Early-season stresses and intense summer heat have bolstered crop stress across the eastern Corn Belt. 

Corn in South Dakota and Nebraska showed strong potential, but are not free of disease risk. There was no shortage of moisture in either state. 

Reports of disease increased drastically in Iowa, but yield potential is strong. The crop is far from finished, which spurs concern of how the crop final crop will look. 

Minnesota is the obvious bright spot. A record Tour yield was carved with minimal disease pressure likely allowing for a solid finish.

Soybeans: 4.246 billion bu.; Average yield of 53 bu. per acre
Soybeans +- 2% = 4.33 billion bu. to 4.16 billion bu.; 54.1 bu. to 51.9 bu. per acre

Soybeans
Ohio has potential for an impressive crop, with pod counts second only to 2014. Late-season heat and dryness may ding top-end.

Indiana pod counts were strong, but down 2.3% from last year. The crop was more mature than year’s past, indicating stress could be pushing the crop toward the finish line.

Illinois had stellar pod counts, but moisture was light and the crop was the most mature in Tour history.

Iowa beans measured a record and are on pace for matuity, but disease presence could ultimately hinder potential.

Soil moisture in South Dakota should allow the crop to end on a high note with maturity a touch ahead of schedule.

Mighty Minnesota eclipsed the 2010 record and has the strongest moisture profile since 2007.

The national estimates above reflect Pro Farmer’s view on production and yields. They take into account data gathered during Crop Tour and other factors such as weather during Crop Tour, crop maturity, historical differences in Tour data versus USDA’s final yields,m areas outside those sampled on Tour, etc. With USDA incorporating FSA certified acreage into its August crop estimates this year and our analysis showing it was a reasonable estimate, we made no acreage adjustments from USDA’s August Crop Production Report.



NeFU Submits Letter to EPA on 2026 and 2027 RFS Volumes

On August 8th, Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU), Nebraska’s longest ethanol advocate submitted their formal comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the agency’s proposed rule establishing volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for 2026 and 2027. NeFU comments expressed support for the volume increases and urged EPA to finalize and adopt without delay.

The proposed rule recommends an increase of roughly 2 billion gallons in the U.S. total renewable fuel volume by 2027 while keeping the conventional corn ethanol volumes at 15 billion gallons, and partially waiving the 2025 cellulosic biofuel volume requirements.

NeFU’s comments also supported biomass-based diesel volume requirements and the use of higher blend ethanol utilization. In part, the letter said:

“We write this letter in strong support of the proposed increases from 2025 in the biomass-based diesel volume requirements for compliance years 2026 and 2027. NeFU also strongly supports maintaining the “implied” conventional biofuel volume requirement at 15 billion gallons for these years. The 15 billion gallon requirement provides incentives for using higher ethanol blends. Although EPA continues to focus on E15 and E85, there are numerous offerings of mid-level ethanol blends for use in flexible fuel vehicles that it does not appear that EPA includes in its analysis. Further, mid-level ethanol blends can be utilized in non-flexible fuel vehicles, and we urge EPA to take action to allow their use under the Clean Air Act.”

NeFU pointed out Nebraska is the nation’s second largest ethanol producing state, and ranked third in corn production. 



What’s in Your Manure? Keeping Plastic and Other Junk Out of Your Fields
Leslie Johnson - Animal Manure Management Educator, Nebraska Extension

If you've ever looked out over a freshly fertilized field and noticed a tangle of net wrap or a bit of old plastic poking out of the soil, you're not alone. Recent work on my own farm reminded me of something that might be bugging you too: finding plastic and other junk in livestock manure and worse, seeing it show up in the field.

We all know that a good, clean manure application is important for soil health, crop performance, and even how our operation looks to others. But getting there takes more than just spreading what’s in the pit or pile. It starts all the way back at the feed source and it follows through every step from pen to crop harvest...using preventative common sense.

One of the biggest culprits I see is net wrap and twine (see photo). Look, I get it, it’s tempting to just toss a whole bale into the feeder or tub grinder and keep moving. We're all busy. But that plastic wrap doesn’t just disappear. If animals don’t eat it (which can cause serious health issues), it gets collected with the manure and ends up in the spreader. From there, it makes its way to your field or worse, into your equipment.

Let’s not forget about wildlife either. They can ingest plastic or get tangled in it, leading to injuries or death. So, take an extra minute to remove that wrap and twine properly. It’s a small step with big impact.

Whether your animals are housed inside or out, stuff happens. Tools break. Gloves and tags fall in. The wind blows in plastic grocery bags or feed sacks. Bits of wood rot and fall apart. And sometimes, concrete chips away during pen cleaning.

All of that can end up in manure. So regular pen inspections and quick cleanups are key. The more junk you pull out early, the less ends up in the pit, pile or field.

This is also a good time to talk about mortality management. If an animal dies in the pen and isn’t removed quickly, it can spread disease and breed flies.  Also, over time, bones and tissue decomposing in pits clog up pumps and spreaders. A quick daily walkthrough can catch these issues early and keep your system flowing the way it should.

When manure is clean, equipment runs smoother; spreader beaters are less likely to jam, and hoses don’t plug as often. And when it’s time to apply manure and let’s be honest, we’re usually racing against weather, that reliability is priceless.

But it’s not just about avoiding breakdowns during application. Foreign materials left in the manure can cause problems later. I’ve personally pulled net wrap off closing wheel bearings on our planter more times than I’d like to admit. I’ve heard horror stories of twine messing up tillage tools and concrete chunks being sucked into windrowers, balers, and combines. None of that is cheap or quick to repair.

A little bit of maintenance up front saves a lot of frustration down the road. Whether it’s removing twine from bales, picking up fallen tools, or walking pens to check for debris, every step you take keeps manure and fields cleaner and safer. Let’s keep plastic and other junk out of manure and off fields. Crops will grow well and uniformly, equipment will run smoothly, and you will have peace of mind.



CAP Webinar: Succession Planning Beyond Family: Gifting Land and Legacy
Aug 28, 2025 12:00 PM 
With Jessica Groskopf, Extension Educator and CAP Agricultural Economist 

What happens to the farm or ranch when no one in the family is coming back to run it? It’s a hard question and one that more and more landowners are facing. But with some planning and the right support, it’s possible to create a clear path forward that honors your wishes. This webinar is a continuation of the July 17 session on succession planning without a family heir. In this session, we’ll focus specifically on strategies for gifting land or assets to non-family members and charitable organizations.

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 use this link to register. 



Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Joins Nebraska Farm Bureau for SAF Conference, Farm Tour, and Ag Industry Events 

Nebraska Farm Bureau welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen Alexander Vaden to Nebraska on Aug. 15 for a day of connecting with producers, touring agricultural facilities, and engaging with industry leaders. 

During his visit to Nebraska Sec. Vaden spoke at the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Conference at SAC Air Museum near Omaha. Nebraska Farm Bureau joined the Nebraska Corn Board and Renewable Fuels Nebraska in hosting the event, bringing together leaders from agriculture, energy, aviation, and government to chart a cleaner future for air travel. 

U.S. Rep. Mike Flood opened the event with a call to harness Nebraska’s agricultural strength to fuel innovation. Sessions throughout the day explored the potential of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to reduce emissions while creating new markets for corn, soybeans, and other biofuel feedstocks grown in the state. Sec. Vaden was the keynote speaker. 

Next on the agenda was a farm tour of Douglas County President Ryan Ueberrhein, who farms near Valley. There several local farmers attended the session with Sec. Vaden discussing current crop conditions, market outlooks, trade and the innovations driving Nebraska agriculture.  

The next stop was a group tour of the Greater Omaha Packing Co., a beef processing plant. Although production lines were not running, Deputy Secretary Vaden and Nebraska Farm Bureau leaders met with CEO Henry Davis and President Mike Drury to learn about the company’s operations, Nebraska beef’s competitive advantages, and current challenges facing processors. 

The day ended with dinner, where Deputy Secretary Vaden joined leaders from Nebraska’s top agricultural organizations for a discussion on policy priorities, industry trends, and opportunities to strengthen Nebraska’s role in feeding the world. 

Hosting Deputy Secretary Vaden allowed Nebraska Farm Bureau to showcase the strength and diversity of Nebraska agriculture. It’s essential that national leaders experience firsthand the people, values, and operations that power our state’s economy and feed the nation.  



Soil and Water Conservation Society Honors Nebraska Award Winners

The Nebraska Chapter of the Soil & Water Conservation Society (SWCS) honored 5 individuals recently at the state chapter meeting in Wahoo, NE. The Nebraska Chapter was also honored at the 80th SWCS International Conference in Costa Mesa, CA. SWCS is a nonprofit scientific and educational association dedicated to advancing the science and art of good land use and improvement of natural resources.

State SWCS Chapter Award Winners
Each year, the Nebraska SWCS Chapter recognizes and honors work from people who promote its goals in the state.

Outstanding Service Award
The Outstanding Service Award is given to Society members in recognition of unusual efforts in helping the Society develop and carry out its program over a long and sustained period.

Craig Derickson, Lincoln, has been a member of Nebraska SWCS since 1981. He served as an officer many years ago in the Panhandle region and has served on various SWCS committees, including the Water Quality Committee and the Science and Policy Committee. He is a former Berg Fellow and SWCS Fellow. Craig is currently an At-large Director of the Nebraska Chapter.

Craig worked for more than 40 years with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Conservation and Survey Division of the University of Nebraska to carry out soil and water conservation activities. Craig worked at the field level to gather scientific data on soils and plants for developing conservation practice standards used by farmers and ranchers to apply conservation practices. Craig served in local NRCS field offices as a conservationist and later as Supervisory District Conservationist to direct operations for delivering science-based conservationist assistance. Craig served at the Regional and National level to manage conservation programs that provide funding for NRCS staff to deliver technical and financial assistance to help producers implement conservation practices that improve the environment and on-farm productivity and economic viability. Craig also served on many committees and task forces focused on conservation needs, professional development of employees, civil rights and diversity, and special alliances with conservation partners. These experiences with senior leaders in NRCS and conservation partners across the nation prepared Craig to be a leader in conservation initiatives after his retirement in 2020.

In May of 2023, Craig and eight other motivated conservationists established an independent, non-profit, the Nebraska Soil Health Coalition. The purpose of the Coalition is to advance producer-centered education, outreach, and adoption of soil health management systems to build resilient farms, ranches, and communities across Nebraska. In less than two years, the Coalition has progressed from a start-up to now a fully functioning non-profit. The Coalition has received grant funding to allow it to hire a Network Director and has launched a pilot project with about 20 participating producers and community leaders in south central Nebraska in the Hastings area.

In addition to the work above, Craig has been assisting the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation Foundation (NSWCF) to develop strategies for more effective fundraising and philanthropy activities. Craig is working with the NSWCF to get fresh ideas and potential training on fund raising and development activities. One purpose of the NSWCF is to provide scholarship funding to students enrolled in natural resources and related science-based college programs. Craig and the Foundation Board would like to increase the Foundation financial status to a level that exceeds $100,000.

Honor Award
The Honor Award recognizes non-members for outstanding accomplishments reflecting the society's objectives.

Thomas Hoegemeyer, Lincoln, is a plant breeder and scientist with his own independent company, the Hoegemeyer Hybrid company. After retiring from his family business, Tom served as professor of practice at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in Agronomy & Horticulture where he wrote and co-authored many scientific papers on crop production. Tom also taught Agriculture classes at Midland College in Fremont NE.

Throughout his professional career Thomas has concerned himself and his private business activities with the proper use of land, water and natural resources. Thomas has been involved in plant genetics and related agricultural sciences over the past five decades.

Thomas promoted findings from the Nebraska Healthy Soils Task Force report and its conclusion that two significant barriers to adoption of healthy soil management practices by agricultural producers are uncertainty of the positive economic return on investment in healthy soil management practices and the lack of education and information available to a broader audience.

Thomas is a founding member and current President of the Nebraska Soil Health Coalition. The purpose of the Coalition is to advance producer-centered education, outreach, and adoption of soil health principles to build resilient farms, ranches, and communities across Nebraska.

Thomas helped create several important goals and strategies for the Coalition to advance the conservation of natural resources in Nebraska, including:
● Building a shared vision across all Nebraskans for increasing the economic, environmental, and societal resilience of Nebraska’s agricultural land resources;
● Enhancing agricultural landowners’ and farm managers’ understanding of and willingness to embrace with their producer operators soil health practices for greater profitability based on ecologically sound principles;
● Advocating for sound policy decisions through the lens of resilient soils while always promoting voluntary actions and respect for property rights; and
● Building public awareness of and appreciation for the multiple ecosystem services provided by enhancing soil resilience of the State’s agricultural lands.

Thomas was instrumental in working with leadership at the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NDNR) in securing funding for the Coalition to establish its first pilot project and to bring on staff to carry out the plans of the Coalition. Thomas is well respected by many Nebraska conservation partners and brings strong credibility and technical knowledge to the work of the Coalition.

David Meyer, Aurora, is a retired plant scientist with Corteva Agriscience specializing in regenerative agriculture and plant breeding. Throughout his career David worked to promote the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices and the integration of human health and viable communities into project planning. David has worked on international projects funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, USAID and recently completed a trip to Tanzania to assist with a church project.

David serves as the President of The Grain Place, an organic farming operation in the Aurora area. Throughout his career spanning more than four decades David has worked to promote the sustainable use of our natural resources and the proper use of land, water and related natural resources.

David is a founding member and current Board members of the Nebraska Soil Health Coalition.

Merit Award

The Merit Award is given in recognition of an outstanding effort or activity by a group, business firm, corporation, or organization that promotes wise land use. There are two recipients this year:

Kay Walter and Tim Rinne, Lincoln, are among the founders of the Hawley Hamlet Neighborhood Garden, a nationally recognized urban agriculture and neighborhood-building effort, containing many native plants, vegetable beds and over 60 fruit and nut trees. Each year, over 20 families from within the block or across the street garden in their own plots to raise food for their households. Greenhouses extend the growing season for salad greens. In 2023, the Hamlet was officially recognized as a farm by USDA. They received the Nebraska Farmers Union Presidents Award in 2024 in large part for their work with the Hawley Hamlet. As a nonprofit public charity, the Hawley Hamlet's mission is to sustain the garden and to offer or to partner with organizations that provide educational programming on such topics as permaculture, ecology, soil management, native prairie plants, pollinators, organic gardening, etc. They offer tours to groups and to the public. Among many groups touring in 2024 were the Natural Resources Conservation Services leadership and new staff from around the country who were in Lincoln for training. The garden was selected for the 2024 Lincoln Tour for Rewilding Urban Environments. Recently, Kay and Tim were featured in The Seed, a publication of the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, and the Hawley Hamlet has been named as a Land Steward affiliate of the NSA. The Hamlet has been featured in national publications including Yes! Magazine and Mother Earth News; in many newspaper and state articles, in Backyard Farmer episodes and TedX Lincoln YouTube episodes. 



USDA Cold Storage July 2025 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers on July 31, 2025 were down 2 percent from the previous month and down 5 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were down 1 percent from the previous month but up 1 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were down 3 percent from the previous month and down 11 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were down 28 percent from last month and down 25 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on July 31, 2025 were up 4 percent from the previous month but down 2 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were up 2 percent from the previous month and up 3 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 9 percent from last month but down 11 percent from July 31, 2024.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on July 31, 2025 were down slightly from the previous month but up 1 percent from July 31, 2024. Butter stocks were down 7 percent from last month and down 6 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks on July 31, 2025 were up 22 percent from last month but down 5 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were up 8 percent from last month but down 5 percent from a year ago.



NCGA Comments on EPA’s Small Refinery Biofuel Exemptions

The president of the National Corn Growers Association released a statement today after the Environmental Protection Agency announced its decision to exempt some small refineries from blending biofuels in their supplies at levels required under the Renewable Fuel Standard.

With today’s announcement EPA has taken an important step toward resolving a stubborn issue that has lingered without resolution for too many years, according to Illinois farmer and NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr.

“With government reports projecting record high corn yields this year, we continue to focus on corn demand, including increasing ethanol sales,” Hartman said. “We want to see the Renewable Fuel Standard continue to be implemented as it was intended, and we want to extend year-round, nationwide consumer access to 15% ethanol fuel blends through the summer months. Both will ensure greater energy security and lower gas prices for consumers.”

Out of the 175 outstanding petitions, EPA indicated it is granting full exemptions to 63, granting partial exemptions to 77, denying 28 petitions and determining seven to be ineligible.

Small refineries are allowed to submit petitions to EPA each year, requesting hardship exemptions from requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The standard, originally passed and signed into law in 2005, requires refiners to include ten percent biofuel blends in their fuel production.



Smith Statement on EPA SRE Action

Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE), co-chair of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus, released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency announced action on Small Refinery Exemption petitions.

"Renewable fuels provide homegrown, reliable, and affordable energy to power American energy security. As we celebrate 20 years of the RFS, small refinery exemptions should be an extraordinary exception rather than a part of the business plan. I appreciate Administrator Zeldin’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the RFS and look forward to hearing more details about how today’s announcement will be incorporated into the overall volumes for future obligation years."



IRFA Responds to EPA's Refinery Exemption Warning

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a long-awaiting decision on 175 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) refinery exemption (SRE) requests dating from 2016 to 2024. In total, the EPA granted 63 full exemptions and 77 partial exemptions totaling 5.34 billion gallons. EPA denied 28 claims and found another 7 ineligible. 

“We must get RFS refinery waiver uncertainty out of the market and today’s action by EPA takes a big step forward,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. “While we can quibble with the justification of the SREs granted, the EPA was spot-on in reissuing the same retired RFS credits back to the refiners who received an exemption. This is consistent with past actions when the shoe was on the other foot and is in line with the overall goals of the RFS. One absolutely vital question remains: how or if the SREs from 2023 to 2025 will be reallocated. That is a two-billion-gallon uncertainty hanging over the market and the pending RFS blending rule for 2026 and 2027.” 

Also today, EPA announced that in the near future it will release a proposed rule to outline how the exempted RFS volumes of the 2023 and later compliance years, expected to be over two billion gallons, could be reallocated. EPA has previously stated that it will account for projected SREs for 2026 and 2027 when finalizing the RFS blending levels for those years. EPA stated: “The supplemental proposal will seek to balance the goals of the RFS in supporting the production and use of renewable fuels while taking into account economic impacts, following the law, and ensuring opportunity for stakeholder comment.” 

“Full and complete reallocation of the 2023 and newer SREs is the vital point,” stated Shaw. “In the end, that will determine whether the EPA upholds President Trump’s commitment to the RFS and to American farmers. If true reallocation does not occur, then EPA is effectively reducing the already low RFS blending levels for 2025. IRFA was heartened by EPA’s announcement today that it will propose reallocating the exempted volumes. We now anxiously await EPA’s reallocation proposal, at which time we will be commenting in the strongest possible terms that reallocation of every SRE gallon must occur, and we will implore the EPA to end the SRE uncertainty before finalizing the 2026-2027 RFS rule.” 

When granted, SREs allow a refinery out of their blending obligation under the landmark RFS program, which is the bedrock renewable fuels policy in the U.S. The EPA sets an RFS blending level for each year. As a result, any SRE effectively reduces the RFS blending level. To avoid this, the RFS law called on EPA to estimate the amount of SREs likely to be granted and to factor this into the RFS blending level formula each year, a process commonly referred to as “reallocation” because it essentially upholds the RFS blending level while shifting any exempted obligation from those parties to the obligated parties that did not receive exemptions. 

“IRFA has loudly applauded the Trump administration and the EPA for the proposing record-high RFS blend levels for 2026 and 2027,” stated Shaw. “We would hate to see these volumes rendered meaningless due to billions of gallons of un-reallocated SREs. So while we greatly appreciate that the Trump Administration has signaled they will reallocate 2023 and newer refinery waivers, we must examine those details. At the end of the day, the penalty for the failure of the previous RFS rules under the prior administration to include SRE forecasts should not be paid solely by renewable fuels producers. The integrity of the RFS depends on it.” 



ASA Statement on EPA Small Refinery Exemption Actions

The American Soybean Association thanked the Environmental Protection Agency last week for its work to address the significant backlog of small refinery exemptions the agency inherited. EPA’s actions will create greater certainty for the biofuel value chain and support the largest biomass-based diesel feedstock provider—U.S. soybean farmers.

“EPA’s swift actions to address its inherited backlog of small refinery exemptions will restore certainty to the Renewable Fuel Standard, which supports a key domestic market for U.S. soybeans,” said Caleb Ragland, ASA President and farmer from Magnolia, KY. “U.S. soybean farmers are facing dire economic impacts this year, and the work of EPA to clear the backlog of pending SREs will help ensure stability for biofuel production moving forward. Paired with the robust proposed renewable volume obligations for 2026-2027 and provisions to bolster the use of domestic feedstocks like U.S. soy, the future of the domestic biofuel value chain is bright.”

ASA strongly supports EPA’s proposed rule for 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligations, specifically the significant increase in overall volumes for biomass-based diesel and discounting of credit generation for fuels made from imported feedstocks. Soybean farmers applaud the continued work of the EPA to ensure U.S. agriculture remains a key player in domestic biofuel production. 



Farm Bureau Comments on EPA Small Refinery Action

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement regarding small refinery exemptions, which impact renewable fuel production.

“Renewable fuels have been a tremendous success story for the country and the rural economy. The Renewable Fuel Standard has reduced our country’s dependence on foreign oil, reduced air pollution, increased farm income, and provided good-paying jobs in rural America.

“Farmers rely on a robust renewable fuel standard with strong renewable volume obligations that further build the biofuels market. EPA’s measured approach will prevent overuse of small refinery exemptions that would risk undermining the RFS and the biofuels market for farmers.

“With the proposed RFS rule increasing domestic fuel production and prioritizing home-grown crops, we urge EPA to build on this momentum in its reallocation guidance by ensuring the volume lost to exemptions is replaced. Supporting a robust biofuels market allows our country to reduce fuel prices and move closer to energy independence.” 

Friday August 22 Cattle on Feed Report + Chicken & Eggs Report

USDA United States Cattle on Feed Down 2 Percent

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 10.9 million head on August 1, 2025. The inventory was 2 percent below August 1, 2024.

By State                  (1,000 hd  -  % Aug 1 '24)
Colorado .......:               880            92           
Iowa .............:               690           106            
Kansas ...........:             2,270           103          
Nebraska .......:             2,390           103          
Texas ............:              2,490            91           

Placements in feedlots during July totaled 1.60 million head, 6 percent below 2024. Net placements were 1.55 million head. During July, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 340,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 245,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 365,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 378,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 195,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 75,000 head.

Placements by State (1,000 hd  -  % Aug '24)
Colorado .......:               110             76            
Iowa .............:                 66            118           
Kansas ...........:               435            102          
Nebraska .......:               440             98          
Texas ............:               290             75            

Marketings of fed cattle during July totaled 1.75 million head, 6 percent below 2024. Other disappearance totaled 51,000 head during July, 9 percent below 2024.

Marketings by State (1,000 hd  -  % Aug '24)
Colorado .......:                125             83          
Iowa .............:                  65            118         
Kansas ...........:                425            100          
Nebraska .......:                480             94             
Texas ............:                 360             86           



USDA July Egg Production Down 3 Percent

United States egg production totaled 8.79 billion during July 2025, down 3 percent from last year. Production included 7.48 billion table eggs, and 1.31 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.19 billion were broiler-type and 116 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during July 2025 totaled 359 million, down 3 percent from last year. July eggproduction per 100 layers was 2,452 eggs, up slightly from July 2024.

By State July '25   -  Total layers  -  Eggs Production - % Change July '24
Nebraska ..........:       8,795,000          228,900,000            +7.2
Iowa .................:      45,893,000        1,207,500,000           +11

Total layers in the United States on August 1, 2025 totaled 362 million, down 2 percent from last year. The 362 million layers consisted of 297 million layers producing table or market type eggs, 60.2 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 4.60 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on August 1, 2025, averaged 79.0 eggs per 100 layers, up slightly from August 1, 2024.

Friday August 22 Ag News - Rural Mainstreet Index - CVA aquires 81/20, promotes Carlson to SrVP Agronomy - Pro Farmer Day 4 results - and more!

 Rural Mainstreet Economy Continues to Weaken Under Pressure
One in Five Grain Farmers to Experience Negative Cash Flow

For the sixth time in 2025, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) sank below growth neutral 50.0, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for August fell to 48.1 after rising above growth neutral to 50.6 in July and 51.9 in June. The index ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 representing growth neutral.

“Weak agriculture commodity prices for grain producers continue to dampen economic activity in the 10-state region. Bank CEOs and chief loan officers expect almost one-fifth, or 19.5%, of grain farmers to experience negative cash flow for 2025. This is unchanged from January of this year, when approximately one-fifth of grain farmers were expected to experience net losses,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Farming and ranch land prices: For the 15th time in the past 16 months, farmland prices slumped below growth neutral. The region’s farmland price dropped to 46.2 from 47.9 in July. “Elevated interest rates, higher input costs and volatility from tariffs have put downward pressure on farmland prices,” said Goss.

According to trade data from the International Trade Association (ITA), regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first half of 2025, compared to the same 2024 period, fell from $6.2 billion in 2024 to $5.4 billion in 2025, for a decline of 12.7%. For the first half of 2025, Mexico was the top destination for regional ag exports, accounting for 57.1% of total regional agriculture and livestock exports.

Farm equipment sales: The farm equipment sales index slumped to a very weak 14.6 from 16.7 in July. “This is the 24th straight month that the index has fallen below growth neutral. High input costs, tighter credit conditions, low farm commodity prices and market volatility from tariffs are having negative impacts on the purchases of farm equipment,” said Goss.

Despite weakness in the farm-based economy, bankers continue to report little change in farm loan payments, delinquencies and bankruptcies. On average, bankers reported a 1.2% increase in farm loan delinquencies and bankruptcies over the past six months. This rate has changed little since 2023 when farm income began its descent.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The Nebraska Rural Mainstreet Index for August sank to 43.2 from 51.1 in July. The state’s farmland price index for August fell to 42.8 from July’s 48.8. Nebraska’s new hiring index improved to 53.7 from July’s 46.1. According to trade data from the International Trade Association, Nebraska exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first half of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, rose by $175.6 million, for a 36.2% gain. Mexico was the top destination to begin 2025, accounting for 67.5% of 2025 Nebraska agriculture and livestock exports. 

Iowa: August’s RMI for the state declined to 35.5 from 49.7 in July. Iowa’s farmland price index for August dropped to 35.4 from 46.3 in July. Iowa’s new hiring index for August rose to 46.6 from 43.0 in July. According to trade data from ITA, Iowa exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first half of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, climbed by $149.8 million, for an expansion of 18.1%. Mexico was the top destination for state exports, accounting for 72.6% of 2025 Iowa agriculture and livestock exports.

The survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural agriculturally- and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index is a unique index that covers 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and the late Bill McQuillan, former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in January 2006.



New Appointment and Leadership Elected for the Nebraska Corn Board

Gov. Jim Pillen recently appointed Lisa Lunz to serve as the District 4 director of the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB), which represents Knox, Cedar, Dixon, Dakota, Thurston, Burt, Dodge, Washington, Colfax, Stanton, Cuming, Wayne, Madison and Pierce counties. Lunz, from Wakefield, is replacing Debbie Borg, from Allen, who served on the board since 2013 and chose not to seek reappointment.

Lunz is a fourth-generation farmer from north of Wakefield, Nebraska. With 37 years of farming experience alongside her husband Jim, Lisa has deep roots in the agricultural community. The Lunz family grows corn and soybeans.

Lisa is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in animal science. Beyond her farm, she has served in various leadership roles, including as the Dixon County Supervisor, school board member and member of the Nebraska Soybean Board. She has also held leadership positions in the Dixon County Farm Bureau and Ag Builders of Nebraska. Lisa's commitment to the corn industry extends beyond her farm, demonstrating her dedication to promoting Nebraska's corn growers.

"I'm pleased to welcome Lisa Lunz to the Nebraska Corn Board,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of NCB. “With her extensive farming experience and leadership background, Lisa will be a valuable addition to our organization. We're looking forward to her insights and contributions as we work together to promote the interests of Nebraska's corn growers. I also want to thank Debbie Borg for her time serving on NCB. She is a big thinker who challenges the status quo, and helped push the organization further into success."

Lunz’s position is effective immediately following her appointment by Gov. Pillen. Additionally, Dan Nerud of Crete, and Adam Grabenstein of Farnam were reappointed to serve as district 1 and 5 directors, respectively.

NCB also elected three farmers to serve leadership roles at its recent board meeting on August 19. The leadership roles are effective immediately and are year-long in duration, with the possibility of being reelected.

Brandon Hunnicutt, District 3 director, was reelected as chair of NCB. Hunnicutt farms near Giltner with his father and brother. On his farm, Hunnicutt grows yellow corn, white corn, non-GMO corn, popcorn and soybeans. He earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from UNL and has served on the board since 2014. Hunnicutt has also served on the National Corn Growers Association board of directors, Field to Market and in various national leadership roles.

Andy Groskopf, District 8 director, was reelected vice chair of the board. Groskopf farms near Scottsbluff, where he farms irrigated corn and dry edible beans. He has been farming for over 20 years and is the fourth generation managing the family farm. He attended Western Nebraska Community College for automotive technologies. Groskopf has been with NCB since 2018.

Ted Schrock, District 6 director, was reelected secretary/treasurer of the board. Schrock farms near Elm Creek where he farms with his father, brother, uncles, cousins and son where they grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa, wheat and run a cow-calf operation. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Schrock has served on NCB since 2018.

Jay Reiners, At Large director, continues the role of past chairman of the board after serving as chairman. Reiners lives near Juniata, where he manages the family operation. He has been farming for over 30 years and is the fourth generation managing the family farm. He graduated with an associate’s degree in general agriculture from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). Reiners has been with NCB since 2017.

“The leadership elected take on great responsibility, leading Nebraska’s corn checkoff organization in executive roles, representing all 36,000 corn farmers in the state,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of NCB. “Their continuity and experience will serve us well as we continue to promote Nebraska's corn industry and drive initiatives that benefit our state's corn producers.”

The full board is comprised of nine corn farmers from across the state. Eight members represent specific Nebraska districts and are appointed by the Governor of Nebraska. The Board elects a ninth at large member. Board members serve three-year terms with the possibility to be reappointed.  



Randolph, Neb. location to become CVA 81-20 effective September 1 

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is pleased to announce the acquisition of ADM's 50% ownership interest in the 81-20 Grain LLC joint venture, making CVA the sole owner of the facility located in Randolph, Nebraska. Effective September 1, 2025, the location will be rebranded as CVA 81-20. 

Originally operated as a partnership between CVA and ADM, the Randolph site has been a strategic location for delivering premier grain and agronomy services to area farmers. With this acquisition, CVA will continue to provide uninterrupted service while fully integrating the facility into its cooperative system. 

"This move reinforces our long-term commitment to northeast Nebraska and the farmers we serve," said Jeff Bechard, Senior Vice President of Grain at Central Valley Ag. "We're excited to bring the Randolph team fully into our CVA family and build on the great service foundation already in place." 

The transition will be seamless for customers and employees, with no disruption in services. CVA 81-20 will operate under the same customer-first principles that have guided the cooperative for decades. 



Chris Carlson tapped as CVA Sr. VP of Agronomy

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is proud to announce Chris Carlson as the Senior Vice President of Agronomy. With over two decades of experience at CVA and deep roots in agriculture, Carlson brings his dedication of leadership, innovation, and a lifelong commitment to serving growers. 

A native of Wausa, Neb., Carlson grew up on a diversified farm operation, gaining firsthand experience in both row crops and feedlot management. 
Chris Carlson

 After earning an associate degree from Northeast Community College, he transferred to Wayne State College, where he completed a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business in 1998. He is currently pursuing a teaching certificate to further his leadership in the agricultural industry. 

Carlson began his career with CVA in 2000 as the location manager in Bloomfield, Neb. His passion for agriculture and dedication to delivering solutions for growers made him a key asset to the organization. After 15 years at Bloomfield, he was promoted to Regional Sales Manager in 2015, and became Director of Sales in 2016. Now, as Senior Vice President of Agronomy, he continues to foster the culture of CVA with the same commitment that has defined his career. 

"Being a part of CVA means being part of something bigger, it's a family," said Carlson. "I've always felt a calling to serve and support our growers, and I'm honored to continue that mission in this new role." 

Chris and his wife Nicole have been married for 23 years. They live on their family farm outside of Wausa with their two sons. Their oldest, Cashe, is a sophomore at Northeast Community College and currently completing a sales internship with CVA in Harrington. Their younger son, Mac, is a junior in high school. 

"We're excited to have someone of Carlson's caliber leading our agronomy division," said Nic McCarthy, President/CEO of CVA. "His passion for agriculture, deep community ties, and unwavering dedication to our cooperative values make him the right leader for this role." 



NeFU Encourages Eligible Cattle Producers to File Claims in the $83.5 Million JBS Lawsuit

Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU) State President John Hansen is encouraging eligible cattle producers to file claims as part of the $83.5 million JBS Lawsuit before the September 15, 2025

Hansen said, “If you sold cattle to JBS, Tyson, Cargill, or National Beef from June 1, 2015 to February 29, 2020, you really ought to click on the website below to explore the claim filing process. The filing process is very doable. In our view, the more claims filed, the better it is for individual beef producers who did not get paid a fair and competitive price for their beef, and for the future competitiveness of the beef industry as a whole. This settlement is a tool beef producers can use to help themselves while also helping put more competition into beef markets.  We hope beef producers take advantage of this hard-fought opportunity to help themselves.”

The class action lawsuit, filed in 2019 by National Farmers Union, R-CALF USA, and four individual ranchers, alleged anticompetitive conduct by JBS, Tyson, Cargill, and National Beef. On February 20, 2025, the Cattle and Beef Antitrust Litigation received preliminary approval of an $83.5 million settlement with JBS.

The deadline to submit a claim is September 15, 2025. Eligible cattle feeders and futures traders may now submit claims through the settlement website, www.CattleAntitrustSettlement.com, where more information is available. 

Who is eligible?  “All persons and entities who or which: (i) within the United States, directly sold to a Defendant one or more fed cattle for slaughter from June 1, 2015 to February 29, 2020 other than pursuant to a Cost-Plus Agreement and/or a Profit Sharing Agreement (the “Producer Class”); and/or (ii) held a long position in Live Cattle Futures traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange prior to June 1, 2015, and subsequently liquidated the long position through an offsetting market transaction at any point prior to November 1, 2016 (the “Exchange Class”). 



Husker Harvest Days brings Women in the Field to the forefront 

Husker Harvest Days is bringing together women in agriculture for a thought-provoking session and a Women in the Field networking event on Wednesday, Sept. 10. from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Attendees will have the chance to hear from Natalie Kovarik, a fourth-generation cattle rancher turned social entrepreneur, during Fortune Favors the Brave: Harvesting Success in Agriculture Through Acts of Bravery, hosted by Farm Progress and Discover Ag.

“Women in the Field is a Farm Progress initiative that celebrates the vital role women play in agriculture, from hands-on farming to leadership positions,” said Emily Mauermann, director of marketing and product development for Farm Progress. “This program is about recognizing their contributions today and inspiring the next generation to shape the future of the industry.”

Keynote Session & Reception
The session will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 12 to 12:30 p.m. in the Hospitality Tent, Lot #33. Kovarik will share her journey of building a first-generation cattle ranch and a thriving online career, highlighting how strategic risk-taking and acts of bravery have shaped her success. Through a mix of agricultural anecdotes, practical wisdom and humor, Kovarik will inspire attendees to pursue their agricultural ambitions.

Following the session, attendees are invited to a meet-and-greet networking reception from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the same location. The reception offers an opportunity for women to connect, share experiences and enjoy light refreshments. Attendees will have the chance to engage directly with Kovarik, ask questions and learn more about her inspiring journey.

Natalie Kovarik, co-host of the Discover Ag podcast and TV series, is a fourth-generation cattle rancher and social entrepreneur. She and her husband operate Kovarik Cattle Co. in the Nebraska Sandhills. Known for her engaging storytelling and practical insights, Natalie inspires others to embrace boldness and innovation in agriculture.

Event Details 
Registration is now open at www.HuskerHarvestDays.com for complimentary three-day passes to the world’s largest totally irrigated working farm show. The show will take place at its permanent site in Grand Island, Nebraska, from Sept. 9-11, 2025. Gates will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.  



Pro Farmer Crop Tour - Day 4 Results 

Iowa Corn Yield - 198.43 bu/acre - 193 LY - 186.5 3YA
Iowa Soybean Pod Count - 1384 3x3' square - 1312 LY - 1225 3YA 
Minnesota Corn Yield - 202.86 bu/acre - 165 LY - 179 3YA
Minnesota Soybean Pod Count - 1248 3x3' square - 1036 LY - 1041 3YA

Pro Farmer will release their final 2025 yield and production estimates later today shortly after the trade closes. 



Commercial Red Meat Production Down 4 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.36 billion pounds in July, down 4 percent from the 4.55 billion pounds produced in July 2024.

Beef production, at 2.18 billion pounds, was 4 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.54 million head, down 7 percent from July 2024. The average live weight was up 30 pounds from the previous year, at 1,410 pounds.

Veal production totaled 2.1 million pounds, 37 percent below July a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 9,900 head, down 44 percent from July 2024. The average live weight was up 37 pounds from last year, at 359 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.16 billion pounds, down 4 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.3 million head, down 4 percent from July 2024. The average live weight was down 1 pound from the previous year, at 282 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 11.1 million pounds, was down 2 percent from July 2024. Sheep slaughter totaled 189,200 head, 2 percent above last year. The average live weight was 115 pounds, down 5 pounds from July a year ago.

Commercial Red Meat Production By State 
                             (mil lbs.  -  % July '24) 
Nebraska ....:          623.8             95       
Iowa ...........:         703.5             94       
Kansas ........:          473.9             97       

January to July 2025 commercial red meat production was 31.1 billion pounds, down 2 percent from 2024. Accumulated beef production was down 3 percent from last year, veal was down 38 percent, pork was down 1 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was up 4 percent. 



July Milk Production in the United States up 3.4 Percent

Milk production in the United States during July totaled 19.6 billion pounds, up 3.4 percent from July 2024. Production per cow in the United States averaged 2,063 pounds for July, 34 pounds above July 2024. The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.49 million head, 159,000 head more than July 2024, and 10,000 head more than June 2025.

Iowa ......:      507 million pounds, +1.0% from July '24      



EU Trade Commitments Create Environment for Shared Prosperity

Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee's Trade Subcommittee, released the following statement after the United States and the European Union announced details on the Agreement on Reciprocal, Fair, and Balanced Trade.

"This joint statement shows what American producers, manufacturers, and digital providers have long known to be true--the European Union proliferated burdensome tariff and non-tariff barriers on U.S. products. I'm grateful for the tireless work of President Trump's trade team to knock these unfounded barriers down one by one. I look forward to seeing the EU fulfill these commitments, which will create an environment for shared economic prosperity and security."



NPPC Optimistic on US-EU Trade Framework
 
The White House announced a United States-European Union Framework on an Agreement on Reciprocal, Fair, and Balanced Trade. The administration stated the Framework Agreement aims to resolve trade imbalances and maximize the U.S. and EU’s combined economic power in an ongoing process to improve market access and increase the U.S./EU trade and investment relationship.
 
National Pork Producers Council President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from McComb, Ohio, thanked the administration for including U.S. pork, saying “America’s pork producers are encouraged by the specific inclusion of pork in the U.S.-EU framework to address tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade. We look forward to continued collaboration to address longstanding market access issues.”

For decades, pork trade between the U.S. and the EU has been weighted to favor EU interests. In 2024, the U.S. exported $7 million of pork products to the EU while importing over $709 million from the EU. To compare, the U.S. currently exports more pork to Honduras than to the 27 countries total that make up the EU.

NPPC will continue to engage with the Trump administration and international partners to maintain and open new market access for U.S. pork.



USMEF Statement on Updated Details of the U.S.-EU Trade Framework

The White House Thursday released a U.S.-EU joint statement offering updated details on the trade framework with the European Union announced last month.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued the following statement:

USMEF is encouraged to see that the European Union will provide preferential market access for pork and bison meat, has committed to streamlining requirements for U.S. pork sanitary certificates, and intends to address other non-tariff barriers affecting agricultural trade – including its deforestation regulation.

These changes are long overdue, and USMEF greatly appreciates the Trump administration making agricultural market access a top priority in negotiations with the EU and with other key trading partners. The U.S. has been a net importer of red meat from the EU due to the vast barriers the EU imposes on imports, and addressing the EU’s tariff and non-tariff barriers is absolutely essential for U.S. export growth.

It is also critical that U.S. beef exports to the EU – which are already heavily restricted – face no further regulatory obstacles related to deforestation. With U.S. agriculture posing negligible risk to global deforestation, USMEF thanks the Trump administration for securing a commitment from the EU to address concerns of U.S. producers and exporters regarding the EU Deforestation Regulation. 



U.S. Dairy: Trade Deal With Europe Must Deliver Real Change

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) welcomed the release of the Joint Statement on United States – European Union Framework on an Agreement on Reciprocal, Fair, and Balanced Trade. U.S. dairy leaders stressed that America can no longer afford to tolerate Europe’s entrenched protectionism, which has cost U.S. dairy farmers billions and stifled real market access. The Framework provides an essential opportunity to address those harms to benefit American dairy farmers and manufacturers. 

According to the White House, the new agreement would provide preferential market access for U.S. dairy products and commit to resolving certain non-tariff barriers including streamlining requirements for dairy export certificates. Both elements are vital to improving Transatlantic trade relations. 

“U.S. farmers win when competition is fair, but there’s nothing fair about Europe’s system,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “An agreement with the EU has the potential to unlock billions in new opportunities for American dairy. To get there, dairy exporters need to see market access opportunities into the EU mirror those the EU already enjoys when it ships butter, cheese and other dairy products into the U.S. market. We look forward to working with the Administration to ensure the EU follows through on delivering results that farmers can see in their milk checks.”

Exports are a lifeline for American dairy farmers, processors, and the rural communities they support. But Europe has turned trade into a one-way street. Trade that is reciprocal, fair and balanced requires leveling the playing field for U.S. exporters including ending the abuse of GIs as disguised protectionism and ensuring that EU tariffs and nontariff barriers do not shut out U.S. producers from selling products that are globally recognized and respected.

“This announcement is an important step in the right direction. America’s dairy farmers are done playing second fiddle in Europe’s rigged system,” said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “For too long, the EU has wielded tariffs and red tape, and misused geographical indications, as weapons to shut U.S. products out while European exporters enjoyed extensive access to our shelves. That imbalance has saddled us with a staggering $3 billion dairy trade deficit in 2024 alone. We’re pleased that the Administration is working to finally address this imbalance of opportunity.”



ACE’s 38th Annual Conference Kicks Off in Sioux Falls with ‘Homefield Advantage’ Theme

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) welcomed attendees of its 38th Annual Conference to Sioux Falls this week, bringing together ethanol producers, farmers, retailers, researchers, policymakers, and other industry leaders to advance ethanol’s role in strengthening rural economies, cutting carbon emissions, and expanding market opportunities.

The conference launched with a leadership “Fireside Chat,” setting the stage for the Homefield Advantage theme by spotlighting the top issues and opportunities facing the industry. ACE CEO Brian Jennings, ACE CMO Ron Lamberty, and ACE Board President representing Golden Grain Energy, Dave Sovereign, who is also an Iowa farmer and fuel retailer, began with the implications of a projected record corn crop, underscoring the need for near-term demand drivers—like year-round E15, strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes, and export growth—while also exploring longer-term opportunities through low-carbon farming practices and the 45Z tax credit.

“Year-round E15 is the single most impactful step Congress can take right now to strengthen the farm economy by driving greater demand for ethanol,” Jennings said. “At the same time, the Administration can do its part by finalizing robust RFS volumes and making sure those volumes aren’t undercut by excessive refinery exemptions—reallocating any that are granted. Expanding ethanol demand is a better long-term solution for managing a surplus corn crop than short-term government assistance.”

“From the RFS to expanding exports, we have the tools to keep American ethanol competitive at home and abroad,” Sovereign said. “As a grower and a plant board member, I see firsthand the difference these policies make in our communities.”

“Low-carbon farming and tax incentives like 45Z can transform ethanol’s long-term value,” Lamberty said. “We’re working to ensure both producers and farmers get full credit for the carbon reductions they deliver.”

Following the Fireside Chat, attendees listened to a series of general session panels covering:
    The Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit (45Z), what it means for ethanol producers, and what steps are needed now to position for eligibility and success.
    A global perspective on ethanol trade and market development, with a focus on overcoming tariff, policy, and regulatory hurdles to expand international demand.
    Advancing ethanol opportunities into new markets such as chemical value chains and ensuring farmer premiums and carbon intensity accountability endure past 45Z.

At Thursday’s luncheon, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) delivered a keynote address.

“We’ve been working together a long time on E15; it’s the biggest no-brainer policy in the history of American government,” Congressman Johnson said. “I’m proud to partner with you to unlock more opportunities for homegrown American fuel.”

The conference concludes tomorrow with an awards ceremony and sessions covering:
    State-led initiatives to expand ethanol use, including Nebraska’s E30 demonstration and South Dakota Corn Utilization Council’s latest E15 consumer campaign.
    Plant-level innovations improving efficiency and corn oil recovery.
    New research on ethanol’s potential role in reducing cancer risk.



NCGA Expands National Mycotoxin Effort to Protect Corn Quality and Market Access

Corn growers are stepping up efforts to stay ahead of rising mycotoxin risks by expanding a proven research model that has delivered results for more than a decade.

The Aflatoxin Mitigation Center of Excellence (AMCOE) is now becoming the Mycotoxin Mitigation Center of Excellence, broadening its focus to address a full spectrum of mycotoxins, including aflatoxin, fumonisins, vomitoxin and others, before they create bigger problems for corn producers.

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by mold that can lead to rejected loads, reduced prices and lost market access. They are a significant threat to U.S. corn crops, serving up an estimated $1 billion in losses every year. And with changing weather patterns and growing buyer sensitivity, NCGA, along with state corn associations, are taking a proactive approach to help protect crop quality, value and profitability.

“Aflatoxin and fumonison have been a big issue in our southern corn producing states for several years. We’ve seen vomitoxin become a more prevalent mycotoxin that affects corn production in the eastern Corn Belt as well, so it’s critical that we expand our research focus,” said Chad Epler, chair of NCGA’s research and new uses action team. “It’s about staying ahead, so growers can take the steps they need to in order to protect their crops and mitigate the impacts to our downstream consumers and their customers.”

More Federal Funding Requested
The Center will continue to be grower-led and research-driven, building on partnerships with USDA, university researchers and state corn organizations.

For perspective, corn growers have invested over $5 million in private funding toward aflatoxin research since 2012. NCGA has asked for and received Federal appropriations to support this research. So far, NCGA has recruited $1.5 million in Federal funds and are advocating for more to maximize the center’s work.

Engaging the Entire Corn Value Chain
Because mycotoxins can cause such devastating loss across the entirety of the corn value chain, NCGA has also helped rally the whole industry by launching a national coalition. This group brings together seed companies, ethanol producers, millers, technical service providers and others to align efforts, share data and speak with one voice. This group demonstrates the fact that mycotoxins affect not only corn producers but many other value chain stakeholders as well. This national coalition is working on a comprehensive economic impact study to demonstrate the full impact beyond the farm gate. The coalition is also collaborating on exploring potential solutions to address tools and traits for prevention, strategies to limit DDGS and feed contamination, testing inconsistencies and load rejections, and both on & off farm mitigation strategies.

How does this coalition  benefit corn growers? It means:
·       Research focused on real-world, field-level risks
·       Better testing, resistance traits and management tools
·       Industry-wide coordination to protect corn’s value
·       Engagement and investment of the whole value chain in solutions

Looking Ahead
The Center will release new research priorities and engagement opportunities in the coming months. Growers are encouraged to stay informed through their state associations or visit the NCGA’s Mycotoxin Center of Excellence page for updates https://ncga.com/key-issues/other-topics/research/profile/aflatoxin-mitigation-center-of-excellence-amcoe. 



Feed Grains Roadshow Promotes DDGS Across The Philippines

Last week, the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) traveled across the Philippines to conduct technical seminars in Manila and Cebu for feed millers and importers and a workshop in Davao for local swine and poultry farmers to improve feed formulation strategies and provide advice on the logistics of sourcing U.S. commodities.

“As part of a rapidly growing region, the Council is hoping to deepen technical understanding and confidence among Filipino feed millers, nutritionists, importers and farmers in using sorghum, U.S. distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and other corn co-products like corn fermented protein (CFP),” said Caleb Floss, USGBC regional trade manager.

“Expert-led sessions on feed efficiency and livestock, poultry, aqua and pet food nutrition will help position U.S. suppliers as reliable partners that can improve the productivity of end-users and their customers.”

At each stop on the roadshow, Dr. Scott Tilton of The Andersons, a USGBC member, spoke to attendees about the applications for DDGS and CFP in poultry, ruminant, swine and aquaculture diets. At the Manila seminar, Dr. Anne Huss, a nutritionist from Evolve Consulting Group, spoke about the benefits of DDGS, CFP and sorghum in pet food, a growing market segment in the Philippines.

Each location's presentations also included best practices for DDGS storage and handling from USGBC Regional Technical Consultant Dr. Budi Tangendjaja, who demonstrated the value of DDGS through a feed formulation exercise. Floss then explained the importer and consumer benefits of the Council’s Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol (CSAP), that certifies corn and corn co-product shipments as meeting specific standards for renewable production.

“The Philippines is a demographically young and fast-growing economy. In addition to traditional swine, poultry and aquaculture industries, there are burgeoning opportunities for dairy and pet food," Floss said.

"It's important for the Council to be engaging the local end-users through these roadshows throughout the country to develop a strong, wide base of demand for U.S. feed grain exports.”