Friday December 12 Ag News - NeFB Leadership '26 - NE State Dairy Assoc Teams with Centro Hispano - NE Sustainable Ag Society Meeting - IA Pork Congress Coming in Jan - Ethanol Exports Slip - and more!

 Nebraska Farm Bureau Announces New Leadership Appointments Across Key Committees

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) has welcomed a new slate of farmer and rancher volunteers to serve on key committees that help guide the organization’s leadership development, consumer engagement, and grassroots advocacy efforts. These committees play a vital role in strengthening Nebraska agriculture, and the newly appointed members will contribute their experience, passion, and diverse perspectives to advance Farm Bureau’s mission.

Six members were appointed by the NEFB Board of Directors to the Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Committee. The committee provides vital feedback to the NEFB Board of Directors, helping shape the statewide YF&R Program and cultivate future Farm Bureau leadership.

New Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee representatives are:
Sheridan Swotek of Buffalo County will represent the Central Region. Swotek is in her sixth year of teaching agriculture and advising the Kearney FFA Chapter and is the fifth-generation of her family’s ranch in Sheridan County.

Parker Jessen of Morrill County will represent the Northwest Region. Jessen is a fourth-generation farmer in Western Nebraska with a diversified crop operation and cattle.

Taylor Nielsen of Lancaster County will represent the Southeast Region. Nielsen grew up on a fourth-generation, dryland row crop farm. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Leadership Education.

Addy Donelson of Platte County will serve as the Student-At-Large representative. Donelson grew up on her family's cow/calf operation. She is currently a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she is majoring in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communications with minors in Public Policy and Agricultural Leadership.  

Trey Stewart of Cuming County will serve as the Student-At-Large representative. Stewart grew up on his family’s row crop and livestock farm and runs a poultry and pork entrepreneurship business. He is attending Northeast Community College, majoring in agribusiness with a double minor in animal science and animal nutrition.  

Grant Jones of Chase County will serve in a new capacity as the Chair of the YF&R Committee while also representing the Southwest Region. Jones has a has a cow/calf, row crop, and shrimp operation.

The NEFB Promotion and Engagement Committee, formerly known as the Promotion and Education Committee, also welcomed new members following the adoption of its updated name. The change reflects a strengthened focus on engaging consumers of all ages and fostering a positive public perception of agriculture. Four new volunteers were appointed to the committee.

New Promotion and Engagement Committee representatives are:
Joan Ruskamp of Colfax County will serve in a new role as the Metro At-Large representative. Ruskamp and her family run a feedlot, which has been in the family for more than 100 years.

Jordan Classen of Platte County will serve at the Central Region representative. Classen has a Black Angus operation that supplies beef for their direct-to-consumer business, Classen Mercantile. 

Jaylynn Ravenscroft of Cherry County will serve as the North Central Region representative. Ravenscroft is a fifth-generation cow/calf and Red Angus seedstock producer. 

Karen Grant of Madison County will serve as chair of the Promotion and Engagement Committee for the 2026 calendar year. Grant owns a farrow-to-finish pig farm and grows corn, soybeans, and alfalfa.  

“Nebraska Farm Bureau is driven by members who step forward to lead,” said Mark McHargue, president of Nebraska Farm Bureau. “We are incredibly grateful to these volunteers for giving their time, insight, and commitment to agriculture. Their voices and experiences help shape our programs, strengthen our advocacy, and ensure we continue telling the positive story of Nebraska agriculture. I am excited to see the impact they will make in the year ahead as we work together to promote agriculture and support farm and ranch families.”



Centro Hispano and Nebraska State Dairy Association Announce Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Nebraska’s Dairy Workforce 

Centro Hispano and the Nebraska State Dairy Association (NSDA) are proud to announce a new strategic partnership designed to support dairy producers and their essential workforce across the state. 

Through this collaboration, Centro Hispano will provide NSDA members with specialized legal navigation, cultural consulting, and workforce development services and tools aimed at strengthening retention, compliance, and communication in Nebraska’s dairy operations. 

The partnership focuses on providing on-site, virtual, and regional services that address real challenges faced by dairy operations, including immigration-related legal questions, communication barriers, and workforce retention. Key components of the collaboration include: 

Immigration Legal Services & Compliance Guidance led by DOJ-accredited representatives; 
Know Your Rights and Resource Education sessions for workers; and 
Presentations for employers on their immigration legal requirements. 

These efforts will enhance compliance, improve safety and retention, and foster greater trust between dairy producers and the immigrant workforce that sustains the industry. 

Centro Hispano and NSDA share a commitment to building strong, culturally competent, and legally informed workplaces. Together, they aim to create a model of collaboration that not only supports business success but also promotes the dignity and stability of the people behind the work. 



Registration Open for 2026 Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society Annual Conference

The Nebraska Regional Food Systems Initiative (NERFSI) and Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society (NSAS) announce the 2026 annual Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society Conference. An important event for farmers, ranchers, ag educators and food system advocates, the conference takes place Jan. 30-31, 2026 at the Divots Conference Center in Norfolk, Neb. 

Registration is open at https://www.sustainablenebraska.org/conference.

The NSAS has been a cornerstone of sustainable farming and ranching in Nebraska since 1976, and the annual conference has been a mainstay event for 50 years for farmers and ranchers to connect and share knowledge. Designed to serve a broad and inclusive audience committed to advancing sustainable farming practices across the state, the conference serves farmers and ranchers, particularly those engaged in or transitioning to regenerative and conservation-based agriculture, as well as agricultural educators, researchers, extension professionals, nonprofit leaders, and rural community organizers. The conference also prioritizes outreach to beginning and underserved farmers and producers.

“This year’s conference is more critical than ever, especially as Nebraska and the nation grapple with a rapidly evolving agricultural economy and increasing consumer demand for more transparent food systems,” said Ben Jewell, a Rural Prosperity Nebraska Extension educator and team lead for NERFSI. “It provides a crucial forum for farmers, researchers and advocates to exchange practical knowledge, strengthen their networks and share best practices for the industry. The collective impact of implementing these strategies — from improving soil health to increasing local food access — will be vital for the future of our rural economies and the health of our communities.”

Conference highlights include:
More than 30 sessions on topics spanning the agricultural and local food system spectrum, including farm financial and transition planning, farm skills, field crops, livestock, farm and food policy, urban agriculture and local food access, and more.
Keynote speaker Gabe Brown. Brown is featured in the film Kiss the Ground, is an education/resource partner with the Understanding Ag group, and farms with his family in North Dakota. Brown authored "Dirt to Soil,” which shares the story of his farm’s transition from conventional to regenerative farm.
Keynote speaker Stephanie Hartman, MD. Hartman is an assistant professor in the department of internal medicine, division of general internal Mmedicine for the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and will speak on the linkage of soil health to human health.
Opportunities to network with other farmers, researchers, sponsors, service agencies and consumers including a Friday evening reception, fundraising event and exhibit hall.

The cost is $85 per day, or $160 for both days, and includes meals and access to all conference events. Scholarships are available. Registration closes Jan. 15, 2026, at https://www.sustainablenebraska.org/conference. 



The Nebraska Corn Board Is Seeking Applications for Ethanol Infrastructure Grant Program

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) is accepting applications for the Ethanol Infrastructure Grant Program, which helps Nebraska fuel retailers add or expand higher ethanol blend options such as E15, E30 and E85. The program is designed to partner with retailers to increase consumer access to cleaner, more affordable fuels while driving new demand for Nebraska-grown corn through locally produced ethanol.

Retailers can apply for support based on the type of infrastructure they plan to install. Projects that add equipment capable of offering multiple higher ethanol blends, such as blender pumps dispensing E15, E30 and E85, may receive up to $50,000 per location. Retailers planning upgrades to offer E15 only may receive up to $25,000. These options allow retailers to choose the upgrade that best fits their site, whether they are expanding into full higher-blend offerings or taking the first step by adding E15.

“If we want to secure the future of Nebraska’s corn industry, we have to build demand here at home. Every pump that sells higher ethanol blends represents another market for the corn our farmers work to grow,” said Matt Sullivan, Nebraska Corn chairman of the market development committee and farmer from Superior, Neb. “This program isn’t just about adding infrastructure; it’s about capturing more value for our farmers, and we can’t leave that potential on the shelf. This program turns that potential into real gallons and real demand for Nebraska corn.”

Applications must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, January 23, 2026. For further information, visit nebraskacorn.gov/corn-101/corn-uses/ethanol or contact Payton Schaneman at 402-471-2676.



Pork Industry's Largest Winter Event Coming to Des Moines

The pork industry’s largest winter gathering returns to Des Moines in January. The Iowa Pork Producers Association invites pork producers and allied industry professionals to attend the 2026 Iowa Pork Congress, January 21–22 at the Iowa Events Center.

The annual event features 225+ exhibitors, a strong educational program, and two days of networking and recognition for Iowa’s pork industry.

On Wednesday, Jan. 21, the trade show runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. alongside the Student Research Poster Contest. The educational lineup includes:
“Coffee Chat with Eldon: DNR Rules, Court Cases, and Animal Welfare Laws” with Eldon McAfee
Keynote: “Cultivating a Mindset of Growth and Grit in Agriculture” with retired Brigadier General Mike Oster
“Pork, Policy, Politics, and Populism” with entrepreneur and investor Al Tank
“Economic and Livestock Market Outlook” with Dr. Lee Schulz, Ever.Ag

Wednesday evening features the annual Iowa Pork Congress Banquet, highlighted by the Master Pork Awards Program, which honors industry leaders for outstanding efficiency, innovation, and excellence. The banquet will also celebrate the future of the industry with the announcement of the 2026 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team winners, including the crowning of the new Iowa Pork Queen.

On Thursday, Jan. 22, the trade show continues 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the poster contest display open during show hours, and the convention concluding at 2 p.m. Educational sessions include:
“What’s in the Future for an Iowa Pork Producer - Artificial Intelligence, Data Utilization and Emerging Technologies”
“The Many Moments of a Hog – Let’s Get Creative” (pork fabrication and discussion) with Kari Underly, founder of Range Meat Academy

New for 2026, Iowa Pork Congress will also offer Spanish-language technical training sessions, expanding access to education for pork production employees.

“Iowa Pork Congress is where our industry connects, learns, and moves forward together,” said Aaron Juergens, IPPA president. “From policy and markets to hands-on production and leadership, this event delivers real value for producers and our partners.”

Registration and more information is available at IowaPorkCongress.org.



ASA Elects 2026 Executive Committee, Welcomes 13 New Board Members

During its annual election meeting in St. Louis, the American Soybean Association Board of Directors voted in the executive committee members who will lead the organization through the coming year’s top advocacy priorities, including the farm economy, biofuels, inputs, trade, markets and other critical policy issues for U.S. soybean farmers.

Scott Metzger (OH), who previously served as ASA vice president, will serve as the 2026 ASA president. Metzger began serving on ASA's board of directors in December 2017. He farms 1,400 acres of soybeans, in addition to producing corn, wheat and malting barley.

Caleb Ragland (KY), who served as the 2025 ASA president, moves to the role of ASA chairman. Former chairman Josh Gackle (ND) rotates off the nine-member executive committee.

The ASA board elected Dave Walton (IA) as ASA vice president, a role that puts him in line to serve as the association’s president in 2027.

In addition, the board elected Jordan Scott (SD) as ASA secretary; Tanner Johnson (WI) as treasurer; Jamie Beyer (MN), Ryan Frieders (IL), Randy Miller (IA), and Jimmie Lee Shaw (SC) as at-large members of the executive committee.

ASA celebrated the advocacy of and said farewell to several directors who retired this year, including Stan Born (IL); Paul Casper (SD); Brad Doyle (AR); Steph Essick (IA); John Fleming (NC); George Goblish (MN); Morey Hill (IA); Don Lutz (WI); Ronnie Russell (MO); Robert Shaffer (IL); Pat Swanson (IA); Jimmy Thomas (NC); and Brad Thykeson (ND).

ASA welcomed 13 new directors who begin their nine-year terms, including Scott Gaffner (IL); Corey Goodhue (IA); Derek Helms (AR); Gary Hendrix (NC); Darin Johnson (MN); Brent Kohls (ND); Andrew Lance (MO); Michael McPherson (NC); Charles Miller (IL); Summer Ory (IA); Brent Swart (IA); Steve Trzebiatowski (WI); and Drew Peterson (SD).



Farm Bureau Welcomes USDA Approach to Regenerative Agriculture

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall this week commented on the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) about a new Regenerative Agriculture Initiative that leverages existing programs, the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), to advance regenerative practices.

“We value USDA’s acknowledgement that farmers have long practiced regenerative agriculture on their farms, both through federal conservation programs and on their own. Building on these efforts by leveraging existing voluntary and incentive-based programs to advance additional regenerative goals sounds like smart government to me, especially when farmers remain in the driver’s seat.

“The public trusts farmers more than anyone -- including government -- to lead on regenerative agriculture, based on national polling. We don’t take that trust for granted. Farmers rely on healthy land to grow nutritious crops, raise healthy animals, and ensure our farms thrive for future generations. So, we take seriously our responsibility to care for the land.

“We are still digging into the details of the new initiative and look forward to learning more about how it will be administered to ensure it’s effective and workable for farmers.”



September Exports of U.S. Ethanol and DDGS Tempered after August Surge

U.S. ethanol exports relinquished August’s surge, sliding 21% to a seven-month low of 148.4 million gallons (mg), though still marking the second-strongest September on record. Canada remained the top destination, importing 65.6 mg (-12%) and accounting for 63% of all denatured fuel ethanol sales. Exports to the European Union declined 25% to 35.5 mg, almost entirely routed through the Netherlands and still the primary destination for undenatured fuel ethanol. Other major markets softened as well: Colombia was down 38% to 8.7 mg and India declined 39% to 8.3 mg. In contrast, Peru advanced 60% to 6.0 mg, and Nigeria re-entered the market with 5.8 mg after a three-month absence. Jamaica (3.9 mg), Brazil (2.6 mg), the United Kingdom (2.5 mg—a 33-month low), and Mexico (2.5 mg—a 25-month low) rounded out the top ten markets. Market absences were notable: the Philippines, after averaging 9.8 mg/month through the first eight months of 2025, recorded no shipments, while South Korea imported just 1.7 mg after averaging 8.3 mg/month over the same period. Year-to-date, U.S. ethanol exports reached 1.56 billion gallons, running 13% ahead of last year’s pace.

The United States imported 104,169 gallons of undenatured fuel ethanol in September, sourced from Brazil and Canada. Cumulative imports for the first nine months of the year reached 3.65 mg, essentially matching last year’s levels.

U.S. exports of dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS)—the high-protein coproduct of dry-mill ethanol plants—declined 9% to 1.06 million metric tons (mt), even as several major buyers expanded purchases. Mexico, the leading market, reduced imports by 15% to a seven-month low of 176,408 mt. Meanwhile, South Korea edged up 2% to 147,771 mt; Vietnam climbed 10% to a two-year high of 132,939 mt; Indonesia surged 49% to a 17-month high of 104,906 mt; Turkey rose 49% to a 10-month high of 93,678 mt; and New Zealand increased 10% to a record 76,845 mt. The European Union also expanded imports 54% to 61,416 mt, bolstered by record-high shipments to Portugal. Year-to-date DDGS exports totaled 8.70 million mt, trailing last year by 3%.

The U.S. Census Bureau has not announced a revised release date for October trade data, which had been scheduled for publication last week prior to the government shutdown. RFA will continue to monitor developments and notify stakeholders when the trade series returns to its normal release schedule.



Growth Energy Welcomes Regulatory Progress on California E15

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed news that California’s E15 Multimedia Working Group (MMWG) transmitted its Staff Written Summary to the California Environmental Policy Council (CEPC) Thursday. The publication of the summary is an important step in the ongoing process of giving California drivers access to E15, a more affordable fuel option made with 15% ethanol that can be used in 96% of cars on the road today and that California approved for sale in October.

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor issued the following statement in response:

“Californians deserve access to more affordable fuel options and that’s precisely what E15 would provide. We commend the Multimedia Working Group for its continued work and for taking the steps it needs to take to swiftly get E15 into the marketplace. We will continue to engage with the appropriate agencies, our members, and our retail partners to give California drivers access to lower-cost E15 as soon as possible.”



Secretary Rollins Sends Letter Challenging California’s Proposed Redistribution of Ag Land

Thursday, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins sent a letter to Governor Gavin Newsom (PDF, 1.4 MB) demanding California abandon a proposal that would redistribute agricultural land based on race, ethnicity, and national origin. This letter comes as the California Land Equity Task Force considers a draft proposal that would encourage and facilitate land transfers and financial assistance exclusively to certain minorities.

“[T]he United States Department of Agriculture (the Department) writes to express substantial constitutional concerns regarding the state of California’s proposed redistribution of agricultural land based on race, ethnicity, and national origin. The proposed policies would grievously harm farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers,” the Secretary wrote in the letter.

“All people should be treated equally and what California has proposed directly targets those who work from sunrise to well past sunset, faithfully tending our nation’s land and livestock. Hardworking farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers all deserve a shot at the American dream, and they should not be stigmatized, demeaned, or shut out of opportunities because of their race, sex, ethnicity, or national origin,” the Secretary continued.

Background: In 2022, the California State Legislature established the California Agricultural Land Equity Task Force to develop recommendations for the State Legislature and Governor Newsom on how to “equitably” increase access to minority farmers and tribes. Currently, the Agricultural Land Equity Task Force is reviewing a draft report that is due back to the legislature by January 1, 2026.

You may view the draft report from California here https://sgc.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/Full-Report-ADA-FINAL-CLEAN.pdf. It proposes several ways to redistribute agricultural land to “socially disadvantaged farmers” and claims that “diversity” will result in ecological benefits, environmental protection, and climate resiliency.  It recommends several actions that would apply exclusively to certain minorities. The Report also recommends the support and incentivization of:
The development of local ordinances that would restrict the purchase of land unless you are a certain minority.
The purchase of private land by the state and other non-profits under the guise of agricultural land preservation and only offer leases to certain minority farmers after the purchase.
Exclusive leasing of existing state lands to certain minorities.
Exclusive funding for acquisition of agricultural land by certain minorities.
Exclusive tax credits to certain minorities for not only agricultural land but also infrastructure and student loans.
Transferring public land exclusively to tribes.
Transferring private land specifically to tribes, specifically to African Americans living in California, and exclusively to certain other minorities.
Debt forgiveness for only certain minorities.
The development of zoning laws that require “equitable” land access and specific climate-related agricultural practices.
The prioritization of conservation programs for certain minority farmers over other farmers.