Tuesday November 25 Ag News - Last Weekly Crop Progress Report of '25 - Grazing BT Corn Residue - NE Passes TX in COF - and more!

 Final 2025 USDA Crop Progress Report of 2025 Growing Season

U.S. winter wheat conditions improved last week, USDA NASS said in its final national Crop Progress report of 2025 released on Monday.

CORN
-- Harvest progress: Corn harvest is slightly behind at 96% complete, 4 percentage points behind last year's 100% and 1 percentage point behind the five-year average of 97%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting moved ahead by another 5 points last week to reach 97% complete nationwide as of Sunday, equal to last year's pace and the five-year average. 
-- Crop development: An estimated 87% of winter wheat had emerged as of Sunday, 1 point behind last year's 88% and 2 points behind the five-year average of 89%. 
-- Crop condition: An estimated 48% of winter wheat that had emerged was in good-to-excellent condition, up 3 points from 45% the previous week. However, that is behind last year's rating of 55% good to excellent. 



USDA Weekly Nebraska Crop Progress Report - Nov 24

Nebraska corn harvest jumped ahead 18 points compared to last week, but still remain 6 points behind its five-year average.

Corn Harvest
Nebraska - 92% complete - 98% 5YA

Winter Wheat 
Nebraska - 99% planted (100% 5YA) -  93% emerged (98% 5YA) - 54% good to excellent 

Topsoil Moisture
Nebraska - 1% Surplus - 52% adequate

Subsoil Moisutre 
Nebraska - 2% Surplus - 51% adequate



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

Mostly dry conditions and above normal temperatures allowed for 5.2 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending November 23, 2025, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities were fertilizer and manure applications as well as fall tillage.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 4 percent very short, 27 percent short, 67 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 4 percent very short, 27 percent short, 66 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus.

Corn harvested for grain is virtually complete at 99 percent complete.



GRAZING BT CORN RESIDUE 
– Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator 

Corn residue is a valuable resource for grazing, but some producers believe cattle performance has declined with the rise of Bt corn hybrids. While Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) traits protect corn against pests like corn borer, it has led some to question whether these hybrids affect the nutritional quality of corn residue. Today, let’s take a look and see.

In short, research indicates no significant difference in the digestibility of residue between Bt and non-Bt corn. Studies conducted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) from 2001 to 2011 compared calf gains on Bt and non-Bt residue and found no variation in performance. Similar findings were reported in Iowa State studies with beef animals and UNL studies with dairy cattle.

So why do some producers feel otherwise? One possible explanation is increased cattle size. Larger animals require more feed than smaller animals of the past, and if stocking rates have not been adjusted accordingly, cattle may not be getting enough feed.

A second impact may be the reduced plant damage Bt corn from pests. Paired with more efficient harvesting methods, less grain may be left behind in the field for cattle to forage. This could lead to the perception of lower performance.

Finally, another factor is yield. As corn yields have increased, the quality of the residue, particularly leaves and husks, may have decreased. More energy is directed toward grain production, with less for the plant itself. Since leaves and husks are the main dietary components for grazing cattle, any decline in their quality can make it harder for cattle to meet their nutritional needs.

While Bt traits do not directly affect corn residue’s quality for grazing, secondary factors like animal size, less grain on the ground, and the impact of higher yields on residue quality must be considered. Effective grazing management is critical, especially for high-yielding fields, to ensure cattle are adequately fed. 



A Historical Rarity in The COF Report
David Anderson, Extension Specialist – Texas A&M University

USDA caught up on some back Cattle on Feed reports when they released the latest COF report on Friday, November 21st. The report included a historical rarity, Texas slipped to number 2 in cattle on feed, behind Nebraska. While a rare event, this change in trivia rankings is an important indicator of overall industry directions going forward.

The report did not contain many surprises compared to the pre-report estimates. Placements were 10 percent smaller than last October and marketings were 8 percent fewer. The combination left the number of cattle on feed down 1.6 percent compared to November 1, 2024.

Beyond the headline numbers, the most interesting and important number in the report was the number of heifers on feed. Heifers on feed would have been in the October report that was delayed due to the shutdown but, it was included in the current November report. There were 4.355 million heifers on feed on October 1, 2025. That was 245,000 fewer than October 1, 2024 and the fewest heifers on feed for an October since 2018. It also represented the 5th consecutive quarter of year-over-year declines in the number of heifers on feed. That would seem to be positive news if looking for evidence of herd expansion.

But, a rough estimate of the number of heifers on feed in October 2024 would have included spayed heifers imported from Mexico over the prior 6 months. Over the April-September 2024 period 266,559 spayed heifers were imported. So the decline in heifers on feed reflects no imported heifers from Mexico and any decline in domestic placements in feedlots. The expectation is that fewer spayed heifers would have been imported this year compared to last year but, considering imports the report doesn’t indicate much heifer retention.

Back to the rankings, Texas reported 10,000 fewer cattle on feed than Nebraska, 2.63 million head versus 2.64 million head. The last time Nebraska exceeded Texas in cattle on feed was May 2018. The lack of Mexican feeder cattle imports is the most important factor in this ranking reversal.

There were a couple of other interesting things to ponder in the report. There were more steers on feed than a year ago at this time. At first glance we might think that seems surprising given the decline in cow numbers even with more days on feed. The total number of cattle on feed continues to be larger than we might expect given overall declines in cattle numbers.



Chefs Showcase the Versatility of Beef in Iowa Culinary Competition

The Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Restaurant Association, Choose Iowa, and Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce celebrated the conclusion of their statewide culinary competition Monday during the Iowa Hospitality Showcase at the Iowa Events Center in downtown Des Moines.

This year’s two-part competition challenged chefs from across Iowa to create an entrée featuring a Beef Tri-Tip Roast, sourced through B&R Quality Meats and Martin Bros. Distributing Co., paired with locally raised Choose Iowa ingredients and the signature heat of Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce.

“Iowa’s beef producers take tremendous pride in raising high-quality beef, and it’s exciting to see chefs bring that story to life on the plate," said Kylie Peterson, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Iowa Beef Industry Council. "We especially love this competition because it challenges chefs to work with an underutilized cut like Tri-Tip and highlight its incredible versatility and flavor. It’s a true celebration of the farmers, food artisans, and culinary professionals who make our state exceptional."

2025 Culinary Competition Winners
    Winner: Chef Tessa Cardoza, Maxwell’s on the River, Muscatine
    Runner-Up: Chef James Vido, The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, Cedar Rapids
    People’s Choice: Chef Anthony Nace, Park Street Kitchen, Hilton Des Moines Downtown
    Choose Iowa Award: Chef Andrea Love, Dinner Delights, Des Moines
    Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce Award: Chef Anthony Nace, Park Street Kitchen, Hilton Des Moines Downtown

Competing Chefs
Andrea Love (Dinner Delights, Des Moines); Anthony Nace (Park Street Kitchen + Bar, Des Moines); Arturo Mora (Roots 95, Johnston); Arletta McCoy (Lady Jerk Soul Food & Catering, Des Moines); Dale Rinderman (Big Grove Brewery, Des Moines); James Vido (The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, Cedar Rapids); Luis Carrion (Tullpa Restaurant, Des Moines); Patrick Zachar (Aunt Maude’s, Ames); Tessa Cardoza (Maxwell’s on the River, Muscatine); Trevor Schueneman (Mac & Rita’s, Carroll), Wesley Zeitz (Z’s Eatery & Draught Haus, Indianola); Zach Boyke (Aura Restaurant & Lounge, Clive).



Fareway, IFBF partner with truckload donation to Iowa food banks

Fareway Stores, Inc. and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) announced Monday the donation of a truckload of protein to Iowa’s six Feeding America food banks as part of their annual Meat the Need partnership. The donation, delivered this morning to the Food Bank of Iowa, includes 23 pallets totaling 25,000 pounds of protein —the equivalent of 100,000 servings for Iowans in need. Dos Rios taco meat (12,000 lbs.) was secured through a partnership with Two Rivers, while the ground pork portion (13,000 lbs.) was purchased from Webster City Custom Meats.

“Fareway is honored to join forces with the Iowa Farm Bureau for the fourth year of Meat the Need,” Jeff Cook, vice president of retail market operations, Fareway Stores, Inc., said. “Together, we’re making a meaningful impact by providing protein to families who need it most. This donation reflects our ongoing commitment to serving the communities where our employees and customers live.”

This marks the fourth consecutive year of the Meat the Need initiative, which ensures families across Iowa have access to essential protein during a critical time of year.

“Iowa farmers take great pride in growing and raising the food that supports our communities,” Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson said. “Food insecurity is a challenge that many families are currently facing, and Iowa Farm Bureau is proud to partner with Fareway again to ‘Meat the Need’ and provide fresh, high-quality protein to those who need support.”

This donation arrives at a pivotal moment, as food banks across Iowa are serving a record number of individuals — many seeking assistance for the very first time.

“Protein is critical for a balanced diet, yet it’s often the hardest item for food banks to source. Thanks to Fareway and the Iowa Farm Bureau, thousands of Iowans will have access to high-quality protein this season,” Tami Nielsen, president & CEO, Food Bank of Iowa, said. “We are deeply grateful for their continued generosity and partnership.”



Farmers Appreciate Efforts to Improve Endangered Species Act

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on departments of the Interior and Commerce proposed rules to improve Endangered Species Act regulations.

“Farm Bureau appreciates the Trump administration’s efforts to improve implementation of the Endangered Species Act. Farmers and ranchers take seriously the responsibility of protecting the environment, and these proposals will provide them with more certainty as they manage the land they often both live and work on. We are committed to working with the administration and Congress to advance the larger goal of modernizing the Endangered Species Act to protect wildlife and promote voluntary efforts to preserve at-risk species.”



USMEF Statement on America First Trade Promotion Program Opening to Funding Applications

USDA announced that it is now accepting applications for funding under the 2026 America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP). As authorized by Congress in the budget reconciliation bill passed earlier this year, the AFTPP provides an additional $285 million in annual funding for agricultural trade promotion and facilitation to help expand global demand for U.S. agricultural products.

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

With U.S. livestock producers and other industry stakeholders facing high input costs, heightened competition and significant trade barriers in some foreign markets, it is more important than ever to expand and diversify overseas destinations for U.S. beef, pork and lamb, and to defend our hard-earned share in established markets. USMEF applauds the rollout of AFTPP, which will help the U.S. red meat industry capitalize on emerging opportunities. AFTPP funding will complement existing USDA programs, as well as the steadfast foreign marketing support provided by our industry partners. 



ASA/WISHH and Uzbekistan Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Expand Trade

The American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health program and the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand collaboration on developing U.S. soy value chains to advance trade between the United States and Uzbekistan.

Signed amid the trade delegation visit led by Mr. Laziz Kudratov, Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan to New York City, the agreement provides the groundwork for a commitment to improving food security, strengthening private-sector capacity, and building connections between Uzbek buyers and U.S. soy suppliers. The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in areas such as animal feed, poultry, dairy, and aquaculture productivity, soy processing technology, quality standards, and nutrition innovation.

“This agreement is an important milestone for U.S. soy in Uzbekistan,” said Stephen Censky, CEO of the American Soybean Association. “The MoU between WISHH and our new trade partners will continue to open new doors for U.S. soy in the Trans-Caspian region and create even more opportunities that benefit farmers and consumers.”

The signing builds upon WISHH’s expanding leadership role across Central Asia amid its Trans-Caspian strategy, developed to strengthen feed and food systems backed by U.S. soy across the region. It also follows a late October visit from the Uzbek delegation to the ASA/WISHH offices in St. Louis. Gena Perry, executive director of WISHH, and WISHH’s Asia Division met with the trade team to discuss the buying of U.S. soy and expanded WISHH activities in the country.

“Uzbekistan is emerging as a key partner in our Trans-Caspian strategy and a strategic gateway for U.S. soy in Central Asia,” said Perry. “This agreement formalizes years of relationship-building and sets the stage for new trade opportunities that benefit both the Uzbek economy and U.S. soybean growers.”

WISHH’s collaboration with Uzbekistan is supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service through its Market Access, Foreign Market Development, and Regional Agricultural Promotion programs. It also complements WISHH’s ongoing partnerships with the U.S. Soybean Export Council and the United Soybean Board.

WISHH is building off this work and will collaborate with the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, which was an early investor in promoting U.S. soy in Uzbekistan. MSR&PC’s early investments helped lay the groundwork for this milestone partnership that connects U.S. soy to new regional feed and food industries.



ASA, USSEC & WISHH Welcome USDA America First Trade Promotion Program Funding to Strengthen U.S. Soy Global Market Competitiveness

The American Soybean Association (ASA), the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), and ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) expressed strong support for the America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) recently announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). This initiative, which establishes an estimated $285 million in funding for 2026, offers a timely and strategic opportunity to bolster U.S. soybean export development in non-traditional markets for American farmers.

“This funding mechanism reflects a clear commitment to expanding the global footprint of U.S. agriculture,” said ASA President Caleb Ragland. “For U.S. soybean growers, the AFTPP offers renewed momentum behind efforts to work with new markets, deepen existing relationships, and keep American-grown soy at the forefront of global feed and food chains.”

“USSEC welcomes the AFTPP as an important complement to established programs such as Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD),” said USSEC Chair Janna Fritz. “With the pool of resources increasing and an emphasis toward non-traditional markets, U.S. Soy exporters are well-positioned to leverage our proven supply chain, sustainability credentials and industry partnerships to capture next-generation growth.”

In coordination with USSEC and ASA, the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) also plays a vital role in emerging-market development through various capacity-building, education, and technical assistance initiatives on behalf of U.S. Soy.

“WISHH is excited about the potential of the AFTPP to empower new market opportunities, especially in regions where animal-feed and human-food protein demand are expanding,” said WISHH Chair Morey Hill. “Through strategic investments and partnerships enabled by USDA’s funding, U.S. Soy can deliver sustainable, high-quality nutrition solutions while supporting trade and global food-security goals.”

For U.S. soybean farmers, this source of funding will help accelerate efforts to diversify export destinations, strengthen value-added processing, highlight the sustainability profile of U.S. Soy, and reinforce supply-chain reliability for global customers.

By aligning resources toward strategic markets, the U.S. Soy industry stands to enhance its competitiveness and contribute to broader U.S. agricultural export efforts.