Monday December 01 Ag News - CVA Annual Meeting - LENRD Approves New Irrigated Acres for '26 - AgCeptional Conference moving to West Point - NE Ag Expo Next Week in Lincoln - and more!

 Central Valley Ag reports strong financial performance and reinvestment at Annual Meeting

Central Valley Ag (CVA) Cooperative hosted its Annual Meeting at the Holthus Convention Center in York, Neb last week. CVA achieved $35.2 million in total profit, including $19.1 million in local profit, from $1.93 billion in total sales for the 2025 fiscal year, ending on August 31, 2025. The cooperative also returned over $15.3 million in cash to its members through equity redemptions and patronage dividends.

“CVA’s results this year reflect the strength of our members and the dedication of our team. We remain committed to delivering the products, services, and innovation that help our producers succeed, and I’m pleased that this performance allows us to return significant value back to our member-owners,” said Nic McCarthy, CEO of CVA.

In addition to its financial success, CVA continued its focus on enhancing services to its patrons. The cooperative invested $106.3 million in capital expenditures during fiscal year 2025, funding significant improvements and expansion projects to better serve member-owners.

“Investing in our infrastructure, our people, and the future of our cooperative is essential to long-term success. These capital projects ensure we can continue meeting the needs of our members today while positioning CVA for the opportunities ahead,” said McCarthy.

As part of the Annual Meeting, CVA announced the results of its Board of Directors election, conducted through a mail-in ballot process. Voting stockholders elected the following producers to serve on the board:
· Region 3: Ben Loseke
· Region 5: Chris Luethje
· Region 7: Ron Benson
· Region 8: Mark Philips
· Region 9: Jacob Porter
· Region 10: Paige McNeill

The Board also elected the following officers:
· Chairman: Luke Carlson (York, NE, Region 5)
· Vice Chairman: Mark Philips (Akron, IA, Region 8)
· Secretary: Jacob Porter (Mankato, KS, Region 9)

“Our focus remains on creating value for our member-owners. Whether through strategic investments, operational excellence, or innovative solutions that help producers thrive. At CVA, we are dedicated to ensuring our cooperative remains strong.” Said CEO Nic McCarthy.



Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors November Meeting Recap

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors met on Tuesday, November 25th for their monthly Board Meeting.

LENRD Water Resources Staff provided a summary of variance applications received during the sign-up period for new irrigated acres in the District. 169 applications were received from October 15 – November 17th. Up to 400 acre-feet of new depletions in the Hydrologically Connected Area (areas in close proximity to surface water) and up to 3,750 new irrigated acres in the Non-hydrologically Connected Area will be added in the District once the applications are finalized. Up to 350 new irrigated acres may also be added in the Quantity Management Subareas.

Doug Hallum, Water Resources Manager, provided an update on ongoing water quality sampling programs in the District. The LENRD has partnered with Dr. Martha Rhoades and Dr. Troy Gilmore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to expand the LENRD’s groundwater monitoring program through a project called Groundwater Monitoring for Public Health. The goal is for the LENRD to sample 561 wells across the District. Water samples from at least 5% of groundwater wells will be analyzed for nitrate/nitrite and over 30 other agrichemical chemical compounds such as atrazine, glyphosate, and their transformation products.

The wells are selected at random, and surveys have been sent for voluntary participation. So far, 216 well locations have been sampled including: 136 domestic, 74 municipal, 3 LENRD monitoring, and 3 livestock. Eighty-seven sites are on the docket to be sampled in the near future. The goal is to have all 561 wells sampled by November 2026.

The Board approved a request for the purchase of a new pick up for the Water Resources Department. A request for bids was sent to four vehicle dealers, three in Norfolk and one in Columbus, for the new vehicle. Bids were received for four different makes – Toyota, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford. Administrative staff recommended the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 at the price of $42,845.00, which was provided by Norfolk Motor Co. in Norfolk, NE. The vehicle is a standard ½ ton work pick up equipped with four-wheel drive that will be used primarily by Water Resources field staff. It has been customary for the LENRD to purchase a new vehicle with the intention of having it in the fleet long-term until a replacement becomes necessary. The Board also approved the purchase of a 2026 Chevy Silverado 1500 from Sid Dillon of Wahoo for the Logan East Rural Water District. The cost of the vehicle is $48,633 plus tax, including trade-in value.

Other administrative items on the agenda included approving the meeting schedule for 2026 and the inclusion of a Roth retirement option in the LENRD employee compensation plan.  The inclusion of this option will allow any NRD employee to divert some of their compensation, after taxes, into their 457-retirement account.  They can then withdraw the funds at retirement, without any tax liability.

Though there was some conversation about moving the day of the meetings to Wednesday, Directors ultimately decided to stay with the original schedule of the 2nd and 4th Thursday. The 2026 meeting dates are as follows: January 8, 22; February 12, 26; March 12, 26; April 9, 23; May 14, 28; June 11, 25; July 9, 23; August 13, 27; September 10, 24; October 8, 22; November 12, 24 (Tuesday); December 10, 22.

To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be December 18, 2025, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live. 



Washington County Cattlemen Meeting
Date: Monday, December 1, 2025
Social: 6:00 p.m. CT
Meal and Meeting: 7:00 p.m. CT
Location: Blair Marina (600 Marina Dr, Blair)
Contact: Jennifer Arp, 402-657-2166



Dodge County Cattlemen to Meet Dec 2

You're invited to attend the Dodge Co Cattlemen Meeting happening Tuesday, December 2, 2025! Event details are as follows: 
Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Social: 6:30 p.m. CT
Social Hour Sponsor: Scribner Grain 
Meal/Program: 7:30 p.m. CT
Location: Z’s Bar and Grill (436 Main St, Scribner, NE 68057)
Speakers: Will & Kristine Pretorius, Beef production in South Africa
                    Nebraska Cattlemen update from Matthew Melchor
Thank you for your membership and they hope to see you there! 



AgCeptional Conference Announces New Partnership and Move to West Point for 2026

The 17th Annual AgCeptional Conference, held last week in Norfolk, Nebraska, brought exciting announcements about the future of the long-standing event.

Hosted in partnership with Northeast Community College for the past 17 years, the AgCeptional Conference provides a full day of learning, inspiration, and networking for those involved in the agricultural industry. Each year, the event draws nearly 350 attendees from across the region on the Friday before Thanksgiving.

This year, the conference committee announced a new partnership with the Nebraska Women in Agriculture Program at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. The collaboration will strengthen the conference’s educational impact and provide additional resources and opportunities for participants.

“We are excited to be partnering with the AgCeptional committee to help advance their programming so we can continue to serve those in the region” said Jessica Groskopf, Director of Nebraska Women in Agriculture.

In addition to the new partnership, the committee revealed that the 2026 AgCeptional Conference will be held in West Point, Nebraska, at the Nielsen Community Center. The move, scheduled for November 20, 2026, opens new possibilities for the event, including vendor exhibits, a coffee truck, and a social hour to close out the day.

Organizers say the changes reflect the conference’s continued growth and commitment to serving women and professionals in agriculture through relevant programming and new opportunities to connect.

For more information about the AgCeptional Women’s Conference visit wia.unl.edu/agceptional All attendees are welcome to participate regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status.



Retired Northeast Dean Honored for Work in Creating Ag Conference

Corrine Morris was honored for her vision and work in agriculture -- but to hear her describe it – the job didn’t seem like work.

The retired dean of Agriculture, Math & Science at Northeast Community College was honored with an Award of Merit at the AgCeptional Conference on Friday, noting her vision for women in Agriculture 17 years ago was to have a place to connect, learn, grow and celebrate their impact. The result was the AgCeptional Conference.

Morris, who retired from Northeast in 2021 but still helps with the conference, was called up in a surprise announcement by Joan Ruskamp, a farmer and cattle feeder who served as the emcee. The theme of the conference was “Your Brand Your Story.”

“Your passion, leadership, and grit have influenced thousands of women and strengthened the agricultural community across Nebraska and beyond,” Ruskamp said. “Today, it is our honor to recognize your AgCeptional service.”

Morris appeared humbled by the honor when she came on the stage with Ruskamp before about 350 people, who were attending the day-long conference at the Lifelong Learning Center. Farm Credit Services sponsored the award.

“I don’t know if you should be rewarded for doing something you love so much,” Morris said.

Some prose from Morris was included in this year’s program. It stated in part:

A woman in agriculture can take the lead whatever the challenge, whatever the need.

She’ll rise to meet demands of the day in her own unique phenomenal way. She’s much more than just exceptional. Yes, she is what we call AgCeptional.

A story to tell, a lesson to learn. AgCeptional women are taking their turn. The seeds they plant grow tall and strong. They’ve been ignored for far too long. Let’s give credit where credit is due. AgCeptional women are making it through.”

Ruskamp acknowledged Morris for “planting the first seeds of what has grown into this incredible conference.”

“Corinne, with deep appreciation and admiration, we present you with this Award of Merit, recognizing your remarkable contributions, your unwavering dedication, and the powerful legacy you continue to build here each year,” Ruskamp said.



Nebraska Ag Expo Returns to Lincoln Dec 9-11

Get ready for one of the largest agricultural events in the U.S., as the Nebraska Ag Expo returns to the Sandhills Global Event Center in Lincoln, NE, from December 9-11, 2025. This must-attend event brings together 1,700 ag industry experts from 26 states and 6 Canadian provinces, along with thousands of farmers and ranchers from Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, South Dakota, and beyond, all under one roof.

As the second largest indoor farm show in the country, the Nebraska Ag Expo offers a unique, three-day opportunity to explore the latest advancements in agriculture—from big iron machinery to precision ag, soil health solutions, irrigation innovations, and cutting-edge livestock production technologies. Attendees can discover the latest tools and technologies designed to optimize farming operations, improve yields, and drive sustainability.

Expo Highlights:
·       Innovation Hub: Back by popular demand, the Innovation Hub will spotlight 73 trailblazing companies
in the LivestockMarket Pavilion, offering a glimpse into the future of ag tech and solutions that are
changing the game in agriculture.
·       ExpoEDU Speaker Series: Attendees can sharpen their knowledge with ExpoEDU, a curated series
of educational sessions offering expert insights on key agricultural topics, also held in the
LivestockMarket Pavilion.
·       127 NEW exhibitors addressing the needs of farmers

“This year’s Expo promises to be bigger and better than ever, empowering farmers and ranchers to take their operations to the next level,” said Expo Director Tom Junge. “From state-of-the-art machinery to emerging tech and industry trends, the Nebraska Ag Expo is the place to be for anyone looking to stay ahead in agriculture.”

The Sandhills Global Event Center, located at 4100 N 85th Street in Lincoln, NE, will once again play host to this ag powerhouse event. Parking is free, and show hours are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Thursday. General admission is $10 at the door, but attendees can save $5 by purchasing tickets online in advance. Students (with a valid high school or college ID) and children under 14 attend free of charge.

For full event details, including a list of exhibitors and the program schedule, visit the Nebraska Ag Expo website. Stay connected with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@NebraskaAgExpo) for updates leading up to the event.

The Nebraska Ag Expo is owned and managed by the Iowa Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association (INEDA). This year’s event is generously sponsored by Diamond Sponsors: Farm Credit Services of America and AgDirect; Platinum Sponsor: Nebraska Farm Bureau; Gold Sponsors: Stine Seed Company and Sukup Manufacturing; and Silver Sponsor: Spraytec.



New Online Course, “Tax Strategies for Farms and Ranches,” Launches December 1

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program is pleased to announce the launch of a new online course, Tax Strategies for Farms and Ranches, available beginning Dec. 1.

This is a self-paced course designed specifically for farmers and ranchers seeking to take control of their tax planning. Whether you’re new to tax management or looking to refine your approach, this course provides practical strategies tailored to agricultural producers.

In this course, you will:
  - Strengthen your collaboration with your tax professional to ensure clear communication and 
effective planning.
  - Develop a reliable, organized record-keeping system that not only meets tax requirements but 
also helps you maximize eligible deductions and credits.
  - Shift your perspective on taxes from simply minimizing what you owe to strategically 
optimizing your after-tax income for greater financial success.

The course includes curated materials from trusted agricultural tax resources, including USDA, RuralTax.org, and the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

“Taxes shouldn’t be something producers only think about once a year,” said Jessica Groskopf, Director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture Program. “By taking a more strategic approach, producers can work more effectively with their tax professionals and make decisions that support the long-term success of their farm or ranch.”

Tax Strategies for Farms and Ranches is offered at no cost, but will only be available from Dec. 1, 2025, through Feb. 28, 2026. To enroll, visit: https://go.unl.edu/ae. 

This course is part of the Agri-Essentials program, supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2024-70027-42470. All participants are welcome regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status.



Pillen Announces Joint Response to Tyson Closure
 
Saturday, Governor Jim Pillen announced a collaboration between multiple agencies and community organizations to assist Lexington families impacted by the upcoming closure of Tyson’s meat processing facility.  
 
“The whole state is behind the community of Lexington as they face this tough transition,” said Gov. Pillen. “Our state agencies are working together to provide the support this community deserves.”
 
The state departments of Labor (DOL), Health and Human Services (DHHS), Economic Development (DED), and Agriculture (NDA) are partnering with each other and with local Lexington organizations to connect Tyson’s workers and their families with various assistance programs and support.
 
“This holiday season will look different for these families, but we know that Nebraskans show up for each other,” said Gov. Pillen. “We are seeing that happen in Lexington.”
 
On December 3 and 4, a Rapid Response layoff services event will be held for all Tyson workers at the Dawson County Fairgrounds. Agencies will cover resources such as unemployment insurance benefits, job search resources, and economic support programs. Tyson will convey timing for next week’s Rapid Response event to workers. 
 
The Department of Labor reminds workers to file an unemployment claim when their employment ends, not before. Individuals who quit their jobs due to an upcoming layoff are generally not eligible for unemployment benefits. DOL is providing reemployment services to impacted workers. Inquiries can be emailed to ndol.rapidresponse@nebraska.gov.

“This is a difficult time for the community and the impacted workers, but they have truly come together to help make DOL’s efforts possible.  An event of this size would not be happening this quickly without community support,” said Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber. “Nebraska employers are also coming together for job fairs, with more details to be announced soon.”
 
In addition to efforts by state agencies, the Lexington Community Foundation has information about local organizations that are providing and accepting assistance to support workers. Flyers are attached to this release in both English and Spanish. In addition to the included QR code, people can log onto givebiglexington.org for information.



Soy Transportation Coalition Elects Officers During Annual Meeting

The Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) elected its officers during the organization’s annual meeting in Anaheim, California, on November 20, 2025.   

During the annual meeting, Raylen Phelon of Melvern, Kansas, was elected chairman.  Phelon has served as the STC vice chairman over the past year.  He and his wife, Karen, have three children and raise soybeans, corn, wheat, cattle, and hay.  Phelon also serves as vice chairman of the Kansas Soybean Commission.       

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve as chairman of the Soy Transportation Coalition,” said Phelon.  “One of the reasons I am so enthusiastic about serving in this role is that the STC is an organization that gets real things done and continues to keep its focus where it should be – helping farmers be more successful.  I look forward to helping continue this record of success.”    

C.J. Chalfant, a soybean and corn farmer from Hartford City, Indiana, was elected vice chairman.  He and his wife, Abbey, have two children.  Chalfant served as STC secretary-treasurer over the past year.  He also serves as a director on the Indiana Soybean Alliance.

“One of the most effective ways to improve the competitiveness of soybean farmers is to improve our transportation system,” said Chalfant.  “The Soy Transportation Coalition continues to explore and pursue opportunities to enhance rural roads and bridges, highways and interstates, our freight railroads, our inland waterways, and our ports.  Each link in the supply chain is important.  I look forward to continuing to help move the needle in these areas on behalf of my fellow soybean farmers.” 

Nathan White, a soybean and corn farmer from Norborne, Missouri, was elected secretary-treasurer.  Nathan is married to his wife, Kylie.  He also serves as a director on the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council.

“I appreciate the opportunity to continue serving my fellow soybean farmers in this new capacity,” said White.  “The soybean industry is currently experiencing a lot of challenges and uncertainty.  By improving the transportation system farmers rely upon, we can make a positive difference.  I look forward to continuing to serve on this very effective organization.” 

In addition to the business meeting, the STC board toured the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach and met with senior leaders from both organizations.  The STC continues to explore and pursue opportunities to collaborate with the Ports at Los Angeles and Long Beach to enhance the cost-effectiveness, reliability, and competitiveness of the soybean supply chain. 

Mike Koehne of Greensburg, Indiana, concluded his service on the STC board due to term limits.  Koehne served as chairman of the STC over the past year.  During the annual meeting, the STC board recognized Koehne for his years of service to the organization – particularly as a past chairman.  Koehne will continue his service to the soybean industry as a director on the American Soybean Association, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council.        

“Serving on the Soy Transportation Coalition has been a highlight during my time volunteering for the soybean industry,” said Koehne.  “I look forward to watching the organization continue to be an effective advocate for U.S. soybean farmers.  My congratulations to Raylen, CJ, and Nathan as the newly elected officers of the STC.  I will always look back on my time with the STC and be grateful to have served with a fantastic organization.”     

“It is a true pleasure and honor to work on behalf of such a group of exceptional farmer leaders,” explains Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition.  “I look forward to working with Chairman Phelon, Vice Chairman Chalfant, and Secretary-Treasurer White in continuing to build on our momentum.  I sincerely appreciate the years of service of Mike Koehne.  He is a passionate and effective leader on behalf of the soybean industry.  He helped make the STC better.”