Wednesday November 05 Ag News - Farm Income Projected Up 42% in NE - NE PSC Re-instates Hansen-Mueller - Grazing Soybean Residue - NE Dairy Ambassador '26 - and more!

Federal Payments, Cattle Prices Push Nebraska Farm Income Higher in 2025

Nebraska net farm income is projected to increase by 42% in 2025, to $8.42 billion, according to the latest projections from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the University of Missouri. The Nebraska outlook mirrors the national forecast of a 41% rise in U.S. farm income.

The projected increase of $2.48 billion over 2024 net farm income levels is largely driven by higher livestock receipts and government payments in the state, even as crop receipts continue to decrease, according to the Fall 2025 Nebraska Farm Income Outlook. The report is a collaboration between the Center for Agricultural Profitability at Nebraska and the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at Missouri.

Total farm receipts in the state are expected to increase by $1.85 billion (5%) as the projected $3.22 billion (16%) increase in livestock receipts would more than offset the $576.65 million (5%) decrease in crop receipts. 

Nebraska producers are projected to receive more than $2 billion in government payments in 2025, a dramatic increase over 2024. The increase primarily comes from economic and ag disaster assistance payments from the American Relief Act passed in late 2024. The projected payments are based on the amount of assistance distributed to date and the expected remaining payments, although ongoing signups and delays from the federal government shutdown are expected to push some of the remaining payments into 2026. While there has been talk of potential additional assistance for producers for ag trade losses, the projections do not presume any programs or payments unless and until they are approved. 

Brad Lubben, an agricultural policy specialist at Nebraska, said government payments are helping to hold up national and state-level income projections while farmers may be experiencing continued tight margins.

“The aggregate outlook for increased farm income in 2025 really hides a divide between ag sectors,” Lubben said. “Beyond higher government payments, livestock receipts are climbing on stronger cattle prices while crop receipts continue to decline with lower corn and soybean prices. The result is a farm economy that looks stronger on paper than many producers may feel in their day-to-day operations.”

The projected 5% decline in 2025 crop receipts to $11.4 billion is the latest drop in what has been a 29% decline since their $16 billion peak in 2022. The report indicates lower corn prices and declines in soybean and wheat production as the main drivers. 

The report forecasts cattle receipts to rise 17% to $20.85 billion in 2025, along with modest increases for hog, poultry and egg receipts. Dairy receipts are projected to decline about 5%. 

Overall production expenses across Nebraska farms are projected to rise 6% this year to $30.39 billion, a record high attributed to higher feeder cattle prices that are expected to push livestock expenses up 24%. Fertilizer and soil amendment expenses are expected to rise 5%, while fuel and oil expenses are projected to decline by 5% in 2025. Net rent to Nebraska landlords is also projected to decrease 3% this year.

Other key findings from the report include:
    Crop insurance indemnities are projected to decline by 56%, reflecting fewer weather-related losses compared to 2024;
    Corn receipts are projected to decrease by 3% due to a 9% drop in average prices;
    Corn acreage in Nebraska is expected to increase by 700,000 acres (7%) in 2025, while soybean acreage is projected to fall by 450,000 acres (8%);
    Soybean receipts are projected to decrease by 7% in 2025, but higher production levels and prices are expected to rebound in 2026;
    Wheat receipts are forecast to drop 32% in 2025 due to lower production and prices but are projected to rebound in 2026;
    Feed expenses are expected to fall by 8% from last year, offering some cost relief for livestock operations;
    Interest expenses are forecast to decline by 2%;
    Despite strong 2025 projections, Nebraska net farm income is expected to decrease by 1% in 2026 as government payments return to average levels.

“The information in the Farm Income Outlook is intended to inform policymakers, industry analysts and agricultural practitioners about the expected profitability of the local agricultural sector and its main drivers,” said Alejandro Plastina, director of the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at Missouri. “When planning for 2026, it is important for farmers and ranchers to take action to secure sufficient liquidity to operate under sustained tight margins, barring unanticipated new government payments or pent-up demand for agricultural commodities.”

The next Nebraska Farm Income Outlook will be published in the spring. 



PSC APPROVES AGREEMENT TO REINSTATE HANSEN-MUELLER GRAIN DEALER LICENSE

The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has reached an agreement reinstating Hansen-Mueller Co.’s grain dealer license and requiring the company to resolve its debts with Nebraska farmers. The Commission voted Tuesday to approve the agreement protecting Nebraska’s grain community.

Hansen-Mueller was suspended from doing business as a grain dealer in Nebraska on Oct. 24, following a PSC Grain Department investigation into complaints that the company failed to pay multiple farmers. Since that action, the company has worked closely with PSC staff to address the financial concerns and provide safeguards for Nebraska grain producers and sellers.

“Our decision today balances the public interest with the opportunity for Hansen-Mueller to correct previous concerns,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram, District 3. “Our top priority was making sure these debts were paid during this crucial time in the harvest season, and we’re pleased that the company has already begun issuing the outstanding funds.”

Under terms of the agreement, Hansen-Mueller must:
    Immediately fulfill all outstanding payment obligations to Nebraska grain producers;
    Fulfill all outstanding payment obligations to Nebraska grain dealers and warehouses by Feb. 27, 2026; and
    Remain in compliance with all standard requirements for a Nebraska grain dealer license.

The agreement means the PSC will dismiss its October complaint and will not assess civil penalties against the company. 

“This is a positive outcome and provides the oversight necessary to ensure Nebraska’s grain community is protected,” said Commission Vice Chair Kevin Stocker, District 5. “The Commission will continue to demand accountability and monitor the company’s compliance with this agreement.”

Hansen-Mueller began issuing some outstanding payments electronically and via mailed checks the week of Oct. 27. The PSC encourages any producers who have not received their expected payment from Hansen-Mueller within the next two weeks to contact the Grain Department at (402) 471-0222 or psc.grain@nebraska.gov. 

Note: The agreement does not apply to some producers and sellers, such as those who negotiated deferred payment or “price later” contracts with Hansen-Mueller. However, anyone who has done business with Hansen-Meuller, whether before or during the suspension period, may contact the Grain Department for guidance, or to report concerns. 

The PSC encourages producers and sellers to always be vigilant in business dealings and to work with Nebraska-licensed grain dealers and warehouses.

For more information, including the lists of licensed grain dealers and warehouses in Nebraska, visit the PSC Grain Department website https://psc.nebraska.gov/grain.



SOYBEAN RESIDUE FOR FORAGE 
- Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator 

Bean fields are opening up after harvest and cows may be moving in to get them off pasture when other forage options are unavailable. Soybean residue or stubble can occasionally be baled and used in rations.  Before we use it however, we need to set expectations.  Is soybean residue a quality forage?

Soybeans themselves are very high in protein and fat. They are about 40% Crude Protein and about 20% fat which is why soybean residue can be perceived as great feed.  With such a high fat content, too may beans can cause issues with the rumen, so any spilled piles should be cleaned up before animals are sent out to graze.

 Soybean residue itself however has a much different feed composition. The empty pods and stems contain only 4 to 6% CP and the TDN is only 35 to 45%. The leaves are slightly higher in protein at 12%, but break down quickly after plants reach maturity and harvest has taken place.

These feed values will not begin to support the nutritional requirements of a dry cow even if there is some grain left in the field. So, while soybean residue can be grazed and can be used to move animals from overused pasture, supplemental feed is required.

When baled, soybean residue can be worked into a ration as a roughage source if other sources are less available. Just like grazing, baled soybean residue does not even come close to providing the feed value of corn stalk bales. Producers should also consider if removing litter from already lightly covered bean fields is worth the effort and potential erosion risks.

Soybean residue may not be the quality we often think. Residue alone will not even meet a dry cow’s nutrient requirements, so supplementation will be need.



Applications Now Open for 2026 Nebraska Dairy Ambassador Program

Students with a strong interest in promoting dairy can now apply to be a dairy ambassador in one of five states across the Midwest, including Nebraska. The Dairy Ambassador program is a unique educational and leadership opportunity that allows students to connect with consumers to share about dairy, represent Nebraska’s dairy farmers, and gain valuable network experience with peers and dairy industry professionals.

The Nebraska Dairy Ambassador Program offers selected students the chance to engage in a variety of activities, such as representing the dairy industry at the Nebraska State Fair and agricultural literacy festivals, partnering with organizations to promote dairy at key events, and participating in dairy industry meetings and leadership opportunities designed to develop communications and advocacy skills.

To be eligible in Nebraska, applicants must be enrolled full-time as an undergraduate or graduate in a Nebraska post-secondary school or a Nebraska high school senior (12th grade), and 18 years of age by January 1 during the current program year. In addition, applicants may be accepted into the program for up to two years.

Applicants are not required to have an agriculture background but must have a strong interest in dairy and the resources to communicate effectively through email, text messaging, and in-person.
This is a one-year program, running from January through December 2026 and up to seven students will be selected as Nebraska Dairy Ambassadors. Ambassadors will receive a $100 stipend for each Midwest Dairy-approved event they attend, and travel expenses related to participation will be covered. Upon successfully completing the program, ambassadors will be eligible for an educational scholarship of up to $1,000.

Eligible students can apply online at www.MidwestDairy.com, by navigating to the “Young Dairy Leaders” section and selecting “Ambassador Program”. Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the “Dairy Ambassador Application”. Be sure to select Nebraska under “Select State”. Applications are due December 1, 2025. Selected ambassadors will be notified by January 10, 2026.

For more information or questions, contact Tracy J. Behnken - Manager, Farmer Relations at tbehnken@midwestdairy.com or 531-207-4291.



ASA Welcomes Expanded Market Access for U.S. Soy in Bangladesh

The American Soybean Association (ASA) welcomes Tuesday’s announcement that leading Bangladeshi agribusiness companies have signed letters of intent to significantly increase purchases of U.S. soybeans and soybean meal over the next 12 months. This commitment not only supports Bangladesh’s protein needs but also strengthens economic opportunities for U.S. soybean farmers here at home.

In Marketing Year 2023/2024, Bangladesh was a top 15 market for U.S. soy exports, and the country holds tremendous growth potential in the coming years. The letters of intent reflect a commitment of $1.25 billion in U.S. soy purchases over the next year, more than triple the $364 million Bangladesh imported in MY 2023/2024. This action underscores both rising demand in Bangladesh’s growing poultry, aquaculture, and food sectors and the strong global competitiveness of U.S. soy.

ASA appreciates the efforts of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), and administration officials to help open and strengthen markets for U.S. soy around the world, including in South Asia.

“This news is a major win for soybean farmers and a meaningful step in expanding reliable market access for U.S. agriculture,” said ASA President Caleb Ragland, a soybean farmer from Magnolia, Kentucky. “As Bangladesh’s demand for protein grows, U.S. soy farmers stand ready to supply a dependable, sustainable product that delivers value for our global partners and supports farm families and rural communities across America.”

ASA looks forward to continued collaboration to support market-development efforts, promote U.S. soy’s sustainability and nutritional advantages, and strengthen global food and feed supply chains that benefit American farmers and international consumers alike.



Livestock sector optimism fuels a modest rise in farmer sentiment in October

U.S. farmer sentiment edged slightly higher in October, with the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rising 3 points to a reading of 129. The increase was fueled primarily by a rise in the Index of Current Conditions, which climbed 8 points to 130, while the Index of Future Expectations was virtually unchanged at 129, just 1 point higher than in September. Farmers’ appraisals of current conditions highlight a “tale of two economies”: Livestock producers remain highly optimistic about their farm conditions, partly supported by record-high profitability in the beef sector, while crop producers report a more pessimistic view of the current situation on their farms due to low profit margins across major crop enterprises. The barometer survey took place Oct. 13-17.

The Farm Financial Performance Index dropped to 78 in October, 10 points lower than in September, reflecting a sharp decline in farmers’ financial performance expectations over the past few months. In May, the index stood at 109, 31 points above the October reading, before steadily falling through the spring and summer. Similar to the Index of Current Conditions, there continues to be a disparity between crop and livestock producers: Crop farmers expect their financial performance to fall well below that of a year ago, while livestock producers anticipate results similar to the previous year. Despite the overall decline in financial expectations, the Farm Capital Investment Index increased by 9 points to 62, boosted once again by optimism among livestock producers.

In previous barometer surveys, most producers said they expect the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide compensation for weak commodity prices, similar to the 2019 Market Facilitation Program. This month, respondents were asked how they would use a potential supplementary payment from the USDA on their farms. More than half (53%) said they would use it to pay down debt, while one-fourth (25%) said they would strengthen their farm’s working capital. Fewer producers said they would invest in farm machinery (12%) or cover family living expenses (11%).

The Short-Term Farmland Value Expectations Index rose 7 points in October to 113, following four months of declines. The shift in sentiment reflects more producers anticipating farmland values to increase rather than hold steady, reversing September’s trend. This month, 30% of respondents said they expect farmland values to rise over the next year, up from 24% in September. The percentage expecting values to fall remained essentially unchanged at 17%, compared to 18% the previous month.

“U.S. farmers are adjusting to ongoing economic pressures in different ways,” said Michael Langemeier, the barometer’s principal investigator and director of Purdue’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. “Livestock producers are seeing strong returns and remain optimistic, while many crop producers are contemplating management changes for 2026 to help cope with tighter margins.”

To learn more about how crop producers will respond to weak operating margins, the October survey asked respondents who planted corn in 2025 about any crop production management changes they plan to make in 2026 in response to low corn prices. Nearly one-third (30%) said they do not plan to make any changes, while 29% said they plan to reduce phosphorus applications. Twenty-seven percent said they intend to adopt lower-cost seed traits or varieties, 16% plan to reduce nitrogen applications, while just 11% said they would lower corn seeding rates in 2026.

Policy uncertainty continues to influence farmer sentiment. In October, 58% of producers said they expect increased use of tariffs by the U.S. to strengthen the agricultural economy, up from September but still below the 70% reported in April and May. Meanwhile, 16% of respondents said they were uncertain about the impact of tariff policies on the agricultural economy, double that of both April and May. Despite this uncertainty, roughly 70% of producers said they believe the U.S. is headed in the “right direction.”



Farm Bureau Welcomes Next Era of Supporting Farmer Mental Wellbeing

The American Farm Bureau Federation is expanding the reach of its landmark Farm State of Mind initiative to a broader coalition of food and farming sector partners by joining forces with the Farm Family Wellness Alliance to launch the Farm State of Mind Alliance.

Building on the work started as a pilot project in 2020 by Farm Foundation and National 4-H Council, the Farm Family Wellness Alliance expanded in 2023 to support offering Togetherall and Personal Assistance Services products to farm families nationwide.

Coming together under Farm State of Mind, managed by Farm Bureau, will centralize resources and amplify unified messaging, allowing for an even greater impact in rural communities.

“This is a critical time for mental health in rural America. Farmers and ranchers are facing economic uncertainty, the likes of which we haven’t seen in a generation,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “I’ve heard firsthand from Farm Bureau members how our Farm State of Mind resources are changing lives in rural communities. I’m so proud to broaden our coalition and bring even more organizations alongside us to share the message that it’s okay not to be okay.”

Farm Bureau first began focusing on the issue of rural mental health in 2017 through a collaboration with National Farmers Union. The two organizations, along with Farm Foundation and 4-H, will participate in the Farm State of Mind Alliance as Founding Members.

“Family farmers and ranchers face enormous pressures today, and the effects on their mental health can’t be ignored,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “No one should have to carry that weight alone. Through the Farm State of Mind Alliance, NFU is proud to continue our work with partners across agriculture to make mental health care more accessible, break down barriers to support, and strengthen the sense of community that has always defined rural America.”

Existing Farm State of Mind resources will remain available at farmstateofmind.org, including a comprehensive, searchable national resource directory for rural mental health services, as well as the landmark peer-to-peer support program, Togetherall, which served as the cornerstone for the original Alliance managed by Farm Foundation.

“Farm Foundation is honored to be a founding partner of the Farm Family Wellness Alliance, opening the door for rural families facing challenges to access the support they deserve,” said Shari Rogge-Fidler, president and CEO of Farm Foundation. “In this next chapter, as the administration of these critical services moves to the American Farm Bureau Federation, we’re proud to see this work continue in a way that strengthens and centralizes mental health and wellbeing resources for farm families. AFBF’s broad reach and deep network of affiliates will help ensure even more farmers can find care and community when they need it most.”

Farm Foundation first began supporting farmer mental health wellness via a pilot project in Iowa in coordination with 4-H.

“When farm families have access to mental health resources and feel supported, they can focus on providing the food, fuel and fiber that sustain us all. Through partnerships like the Farm State of Mind Alliance, we’re building a culture where caring for the people is just as essential as caring for the land,” said Jill Bramble, president and CEO of National 4-H Council. “As we look to the next generation, we know wellbeing programs and resources will support a healthy workforce.”

Additional groups or organizations interested in supporting the work of the Farm State of Mind Alliance will have several options for getting involved, allowing organizations to join at the level that works best for them. Organizations can support mental health wellness through a financial contribution or by amplifying Farm State of Mind resources and messages as an Alliance marketing partner.

To learn more about the FSOM Alliance, visit fsomalliance.org. 



John Deere Customers Use See & Spray Technology Across Five Million Acres in 2025

John Deere’s See & Spray technology was used across more than five million acres of farmland during the 2025 growing season – a land area larger than the state of New Jersey. In 2025, John Deere customers reduced non-residual herbicide use by an average of nearly 50%—saving nearly 31 million gallons of herbicide mix—demonstrating the power of targeted application, even in a season marked by elevated weed pressure and frequent rains.

“See & Spray continues to redefine what’s possible in crop protection,” said Joshua Ladd, Marketing Manager for Application at John Deere. “With See & Spray, farmers can save on input costs, improve weed control, boost yields, and increase their sustainability – all in one pass. Our customers’ results for 2025 show that these benefits are real.”

Precision That Pays Off
Launched in 2021, See & Spray uses boom-mounted cameras and onboard processors to scan over 2,500 square feet per second at up to 15 miles-per-hour, identifying weeds and triggering individual spray nozzles via Deere’s ExactApply™ system. The result? Herbicide is applied only where needed – saving money, reducing waste, protecting crops, and boosting yields.

See & Spray is available via factory installation or a Precision Upgrade kit for MY18 and newer R-series and 400/600 series, existing sprayers and select new John Deere and Hagie sprayers.

Cleaner Fields with Better Yield Outcomes. Proven. 
John Deere recently commissioned research to evaluate the crop health and yield benefits of applying herbicides using See & Spray technology in soybeans. Using third-party researchers and universities, trials were conducted in seven states, including: Mississippi, Nebraska, Arkansas, Indiana, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. These field studies showed an average yield bump of 2 bushels per acre with an upper range of 4.8 bushels per acre where See & Spray technology was deployed when compared to traditional broadcast spraying. Targeted application also reduced crop injury, leading to healthier fields and stronger economic returns.

A separate research study – completed by Beck’s Hybrids** – also demonstrated yield benefits from applying herbicides using See & Spray technology.
 
Application Savings Guarantee
In 2025, John Deere introduced the Application Savings Guarantee – a bold commitment to delivering customer value. With the guarantee, farmers and custom applicators pay for See & Spray, via a per acre fee, when the technology delivers measurable savings. By aligning the technology cost ($1/fallow acre or $5/in-crop acre) with the benefit delivered by the technology (unsprayed acres), John Deere is even more accountable to deliver ongoing value that is more affordable, accessible, and adaptable.

“With this approach, we’re aligning cost with performance,” Ladd said. “If See & Spray doesn’t save you money, you don’t pay. It’s that simple.”

New for the 2026 season, See & Spray users can also opt for an Unlimited Annual License designed for high-use operations. This simplifies per-acre planning and gives customers more control over in-season decisions.

Getting Better Over Time
Multiple new features were delivered to users of See & Spray technology via a free software update for the 2025 growing season. Notable feature updates include:
    Above-Canopy Spray Support: Enables targeted spraying of weed escapes and volunteer corn visible above the canopy, improving late-season weed control and harvest conditions
    Expanded Corn Row Spacing: See & Spray now supports corn rows 20 inches or wider
    Faster Coverage: See & Spray Premium now operates at speeds up to 15 mph