Wednesday January 21 Ag News - NE Supports Sulfer Research - PVC Banquet - NRD Legislative Conference - IPPA New President - MLP & OFSCLP Deadline Jan 23 - and more!

 Nebraska Supports Global Crop Research

Nebraska has joined an international research collaboration focused on understanding sulfur use and deficiencies in major crop systems around the world. Sulfur is an essential plant nutrient, and growing evidence suggests that shortages may be limiting crop yields in many regions.

The initiative brings together the University of Nebraska Lincoln, the University of Colorado Boulder, the International Fertilizer Association, and The Sulphur Institute. The two-year project will collect and analyze global data on sulfur availability, fertilizer use, and crop demand to better understand where deficiencies exist and how severe they may be.

By working with research partners across multiple continents, the project aims to help countries measure sulfur shortages and develop improved nutrient management strategies. This work supports higher crop productivity while also reducing unnecessary fertilizer use, which can lower environmental risks in regions where nutrients are applied in excess.

“This collaborative project will provide essential information to improve crop production through better sulfur management and fertilizer recommendation,” said Patricio Grassini, professor of agronomy and horticulture at Nebraska and one of the project’s principal investigators. The project will ultimately benefit “a wide range of stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, policymakers and the private sector.”

Researchers involved in the initiative note that sulfur deficiencies are becoming more common due to several changes in agriculture. These include reduced atmospheric sulfur deposition, cleaner fertilizers with lower sulfur content, higher yielding crops with greater nutrient demand, and declining soil organic matter.

That combination of factors “could result in a situation where the soil cannot meet the sulfur required by crops, requiring the addition of fertilizers containing this essential nutrient,” said Ron Olson, senior agronomist at The Sulphur Institute.

The project will use multiple approaches to diagnose sulfur deficiencies, including soil and plant testing, nutrient balance studies, and sulfur omission trials. It will focus on major cropping systems across North and South America, Asia, Australia, and Europe. The team will also complete a global assessment of sulfur fertilizer use and balances, filling a major knowledge gap in crop nutrition research.



NE Corn Board to Meet on January 28, 2026

The Nebraska Corn Board will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Nebraska State Fair office (501 E Fonner Park Road, Suite 200) in Grand Island, Nebraska.

The meeting is open to the public, providing the opportunity for public comment. The board will conduct regular board business.

A copy of the agenda is available by writing to the Nebraska Corn Board, 245 Fallbrook Blvd. Suite 204, Lincoln, NE 68521, sending an email to NCB.info@nebraska.gov or by calling 402-471-2676.

The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer checkoff investment of a one-cent-per-bushel on all corn marketed in the state and is managed by nine farmer directors. The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board is to increase the value and sustainability of Nebraska corn through promotion, market development and research.



Platte Valley Cattlemen Banquet is Feb 14
Caleb Franzen, Platte Valley Cattlemen President

It's the time of year again for the Platte Valley Cattlemen 2026 annual banquet. This year it will be held on Saturday, February 14th, at the Humphrey Community Center. We are looking forward to an enjoyable night and another outstanding banquet. The night will be full of laughs from a guest comedian. Afterwards there will be music as we enjoy the rest of night. We look forward to seeing you there. Our annual Banquet is our major fundraiser for the year. Thanks to your continued support, our organization has been able to promote the beef industry and inform our members of current issues and policies.

In the past, your dollars have enabled us to promote "Beef Month" in May, ensure quality speakers for our monthly meetings, offer an educational tour, promote 4-H and FFA programs at the county fairs, and assist in awarding substantial scholarships.

Your request for tickets would be greatly appreciated by February 4th. Thank you in advance for your continued support of the Platte Valley Cattlemen, and I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, February 14th.



NRD Legislative Conference Highlights Technology in Natural Resources Decision-Making

From artificial intelligence to advanced data tools, the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts’ annual Legislative Conference will spotlight innovative technologies helping inform policy and guide natural resources management decisions across Nebraska, Jan. 27-28, 2026, in Lincoln.

The two-day conference brings together Natural Resources Districts (NRDs), elected officials and public-private partners integrally involved in conservation, technology, and policymaking. The conference also provides attendees with an opportunity to learn how Nebraska’s NRDs work with landowners, state and federal agencies, and members of the public to protect Nebraska’s natural resources.

Governor Jim Pillen will kick off the event Tuesday, Jan. 27, followed by a property tax reform panel with the Nebraska Association of County Officials, Nebraska League of Municipalities, and Nebraska Association of School Boards; and a discussion of proposed legislation of interest to the NRDs. During the evening Senators Reception, NRD leaders will meet with state senators to discuss natural resource challenges and successes in their districts.

The conference continues Wednesday, Jan. 28, with breakout sessions for attendees, including:
    From Hype to Help: Practical AI
    Agricultural Data Management and Analytics Platform
    Higher Yields, Lower Costs - But New Legal Risks (Ag AI and Ag Data)
    Cyber Security and Fraud Prevention
    Accounting for Groundwater Use with Remote Sensing, Big Data, and the Internet of Things
    Making Informed Decisions About Third-Party Software
    Reducing the Loss of Productive Farmland through Agricultural Land Easements
    Building Resilient Nebraska: NRDs’ Role in Engagement, Mitigation, and Preparedness
    Don’t Break the Bank: Balancing Multiple Streambank Stabilization Objectives
    NRD Perspectives on the Water Quality & Quantity Task Force
    Updates from the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment
    Nebraska Community Foundation Overview

More than 300 natural resources stakeholders are expected to attend the conference, which is presented by the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts with a range of local and national sponsors including HDR, JEO Consulting Group, Olsson, the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, and the Nebraska Water Center.

Conference Registration is available on the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts’ website: https://www.nrdnet.org/events.



Frazer Named New President of Iowa Pork Producers Association
    
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is pleased to announce that Dean Frazer of Conrad has been named the new President of the Association during the organization’s 2026 Annual Meeting held on January 20 in Des Moines.

Frazer succeeds outgoing president Aaron Juergens and officially begins his leadership term guiding Iowa’s largest state organization representing pork producers. The Annual Meeting brought together producers from across the state to celebrate accomplishments from the past year and set the course for continued progress in the future.

The Frazer family has been involved in raising pigs for more than 155 years. Dean and his wife, Linda, operate a farrow-to-finish operation under Frazer Farms LLC, raising approximately 36,000 hogs annually and managing around 2,800 acres of corn and soybeans near Conrad, Iowa. Their son Grant and his wife Josie are also part of Frazer Farms, continuing the long-time family tradition. Dean has been deeply engaged in the pork industry for decades, serving on the IPPA Board of Directors and contributing to the association’s mission to support and strengthen Iowa’s pork community.

Prior to becoming president, Frazer served as President-Elect, Vice President of Market Development, and District 3 Director on the IPPA Board. In these roles he helped shape strategic initiatives in promotion, consumer education, and market expansion. In addition, he has been actively involved with the Grundy County Pork Producers since 1987 and has contributed to state-level committees including swine health and well-being and the African Swine Fever Task Force.

“I’m honored to serve as IPPA President and look forward to working with our board, staff and members to build on the solid foundation of leadership and innovation that defines Iowa’s pork industry,” Frazer said. “Together, we will continue advocating for producers, strengthening markets and supporting responsible pork production across the state.”

Frazer’s commitment to the pork industry extends beyond production. He and Linda were recognized with the Master Pork Producer Award in 2009, reflecting their long-standing contributions to the industry and community.

Under his leadership, IPPA will focus on expanding market opportunities, advocating for producer interests, and fostering strong consumer connections to Iowa pork.

During the annual meeting, the delegates passed three resolutions:
·        That IPPA, in cooperation with the National Pork Board, will support the development of a comprehensive assessment including research to determine the advantages and disadvantages of a pork cuts quality grading system. A report summarizing the work will be shared at the 2027 IPPA Annual Meeting.

·        That IPPA and the National Pork Producers Council support accurate and truthful labeling by continuing to defend the use of ‘meat’ and ‘pork’ to refer to only products that originate from live animals and actively oppose the use of ‘meat’ or ‘pork’ when referring to lab-grown or plant-based alternative proteins.

·        That the IPPA Board of Directors will work with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship to develop a statewide mandatory swine premises identification program within one year.

·        The delegates passed a complimentary resolution to recognize Aaron Juergens for his outstanding efforts as IPPA president in 2025. 



Webinar Shares Latest Update on PRRS Disease

An upcoming educational webinar will focus on porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, commonly known as PRRS, one of the most serious health challenges facing the swine industry today.

The online event is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Central Standard Time.

PRRS is a viral disease that affects pigs of all ages. It is known for causing reproductive failure in breeding animals and respiratory illness in young and growing pigs. Due to its widespread impact and long-term production losses, PRRS is considered the most economically significant swine disease in North America.

Understanding the disease is essential for producers who want to protect herd health and maintain farm profitability.

The webinar is hosted by the Iowa Farm Bureau as part of its farmer education efforts. The session will feature Dr. Derald Holtkamp, a professor in the Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine within the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University. Dr. Holtkamp is widely recognized for his expertise in swine health and disease management.

During the webinar, Dr. Holtkamp will explain how PRRS spreads, why it remains difficult to control, and how it affects swine production systems. He will also discuss current prevention and management strategies that producers can use to reduce disease risk.

These may include biosecurity practices, monitoring programs, and coordinated industry efforts aimed at limiting virus transmission.

The presentation will also highlight ongoing research and collaborative approaches being used to combat PRRS. By sharing the latest information, the webinar aims to help farmers make informed decisions that support animal health, productivity, and long-term sustainability of their operations.

The webinar is designed for pork producers, veterinarians, and anyone involved in swine production. Registration is available online https://www.iowafarmbureau.com/events, allowing participants to join remotely and ask questions during the session.

For additional information about the webinar, interested individuals may contact Zach Brummer, Farmer Education Program Manager with the Iowa Farm Bureau.



Iowa Corn Growers Applaud Introduction of SF 2067 

On Tuesday, the Majority Leader of the Iowa Senate Mike Klimesh introduced Senate File 2067. The bill proposes widening the corridor to find new paths for the carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) pipeline, relying on eminent domain only after all reasonable alternatives have been exhausted. 

Iowa Corn Growers Association Vice President and farmer from Knoxville, Iowa, Steve Kuiper, released the following statement: 

“The Iowa Corn Growers Association appreciates Senate Majority Leader Klimesh for introducing Senate File 2067 and advocating for increased flexibility as Iowa fights to pursue low-carbon ethanol markets. 

“Iowa’s corn farmers are continuing to see corn prices decline and input costs rise. Without access to low-carbon fuels through the carbon pipeline, farmers will lose the ability to participate in new markets, like sustainable aviation fuel or marine fuel, and be forced to watch idly by as other states, such as Nebraska, adopt CCS technology. 

“All of Iowa must work together to find solutions that allow our state to pursue CCS projects and maintain the profitability of our state’s corn and ethanol industry. This bill is a step in the right direction, and we look forward to continuing to partner with Iowa’s legislators to find common ground that benefits all of Iowa.” 



Acres of Opportunity conference explores new paths for farm income

With some forecasts showing net farm income could drop by nearly a quarter in 2026, Iowa farmers are looking for ways to make every acre count. Acres of Opportunity, a one-day conference hosted by Iowa Farm Bureau Federation on February 21 at the Clay County Regional Events Center in Spencer, gives farmers a chance to learn from industry experts and other farmers who have successfully diversified their operations.

“Roughly 30% of Iowa’s family farms are 49 acres or less, and those farmers are exploring what’s possible—and profitable—on smaller pieces of land,” said Amanda Van Steenwyk, Iowa Farm Bureau’s farm business development manager. “At the same time, traditional farms tackling slim margins are looking to add value or explore new markets to what they’re currently doing. Iowa Farm Bureau felt it was important to bring everyone together to share what’s worked, what hasn’t and what ideas they can take back home to help their farms flourish.”

Keynoting the event is Adam and Jenn O’Neal, founders of PepperHarrow Farm in Madison County, Iowa. The O’Neals will discuss how their flower and lavender operation grew into a destination farm that blends production, agritourism and customer experience.

The conference will also feature Mollie Ficocello, Annie Gorder and Grace Lunski of 3 Farm Daughters who will share how they turned their North Dakota family farm into a nationally recognized pasta brand.

In addition to the keynote presentations, attendees will choose from a variety of breakout sessions including:
    From Overwhelmed to Optimized: Tech Made Simple for Small Businesses — Lashonda Brown, Bootstrap Biz Advice
    Profitable Practices: Managing Meat Goats and Sheep on Your Farm — Greg Christiansen, Grandview Livestock
    The Power of Compost: Boosting Yields and Soil Health — Abe Sanquist, Natural Fertilizer
    Cultivating Experiences: Agritourism at Its Best — Adam and Jenn O’Neal, PepperHarrow Farm
    Tech Meets Tradition: GPS Collars for Grazing Systems — Matt Vermeersch, NoFence
    Berry Growing 101: Starting and Thriving on a Small Scale — John Sieser, Treasures Acres Farm
    Unlocking Opportunities Through Choose Iowa — Beth Romer, Choose Iowa, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
    More than Honey — Chelsa Bronnenberg, Spring Valley Farms
    Unlocking USDA Funding for Small and Medium Farms — Malik Miller, Norma’s Basket

Registration for Acres of Opportunity is free for Farm Bureau members. For more information or to register, visit https://www.iowafarmbureau.com/acres. To become a member, visit iowafarmbureau.com. 




Reminder: Apply for the On-Farm Stored Commodity Loss and Milk Loss Programs by January 23

USDA reminds producers to apply by Friday, Jan. 23 for the Milk Loss Program (MLP) and the On-Farm Stored Commodity Loss Program (OFSCLP).

Milk Loss Program
MLP provides up to $1.65 million in payments to eligible dairy operations for milk that was dumped or removed without compensation from the commercial milk market because of a qualifying natural disaster event in 2023 and/or 2024. The following are examples of eligible losses:
    Delayed pickup of milk due to impassable roads from extreme snow drifting or other qualifying natural disasters.
    Power outages due to qualifying natural disasters.
    Infrastructure losses.

On-Farm Stored Commodity Loss Program
Producers who suffered losses of eligible harvested commodities while stored in on-farm structures in 2023 and/or 2024 due to a qualifying natural disaster event may be eligible for assistance through OFSCLP which provides up to $5 million to impacted producers. The following are examples of eligible losses:
    Flood destroys a grain bin with stored grain following torrential rains.
    Wildfire destroys a hay storage facility.
    Wildfire destroys grain stored in ag bags.
    High winds during a winter storm ripped open ag bags.
    Tornado destroys a grain bin full of stored grain.

NOTE: FSA County Committees may determine if storing a commodity in bags of a particular size is normal production practice for the commodity in that county.

How To Apply
Submit MLP and OFSCLP applications to your local FSA county office. 



U.S. Soy Exports Continued to Grow in Marketing Year 2024/25

The United States exported 68.7 million metric tons (MMT) of U.S. Soy (whole soybeans, soybean meal and soybean oil) during marketing year (MY) 2024/25. That represents a 12.8% increase year-over-year (YOY) and a 2.95% gain over the 5-year average, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Global Agricultural Trade System (USDA GATS).  

This increase is supported by export expansion across all three categories:
    Whole beans up 10.7% YOY at 51.2 MMT.
    Soybean meal up 13.9% YOY at 16.3 MMT (record exports in this category).
    Soybean oil up 304% YOY at 1.1 MMT.

“With ample production and supply capacity, the United States remains well positioned to meet both domestic and global demand for whole soybeans, soybean meal and soybean oil.” said Jim Sutter, Chief Executive Officer for the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC).

“When it comes to U.S. Soy exports, trade flows continue to shift across regions, yet global demand remains strong and increasingly diversified,” Sutter added. "Growth across the Americas, Middle East and North Africa, South Asia and Southeast Asia continue to expand and reinforce the importance of broad-based demand for high-quality, sustainable protein.”

“Additionally, lower soybean prices — while not favorable for U.S. farmers — offer a value to buyers in international markets to experience the high quality and positive attributes of U.S. Soy, which serves to build demand now and in the future.”

The top five growth markets for the U.S. Soy complex during the past five years, according to data from USDA’s GATS were: Turkey, up 342%; Vietnam, up 89%; Venezuela, up 68%; Colombia, up 48%; and Bangladesh, up 40%.

Sutter noted that gains in several markets reflect a mix of improved market access and rising demand for animal protein.

“The significant increase in U.S. Soy exports to Turkey is driven by the resolution of a market access issue and growing domestic demand,” Sutter said. “During the 2019/20 and 2020/21 marketing years, Turkey restricted imports of genetically modified soy, limiting trade flows of U.S. Soy.”

In Venezuela, the upward trend can be attributed to strong expansion in poultry production and consumption.[1] “Overall, growth markets for U.S. Soy are showing increasing per capita protein consumption. As countries scale up poultry, pork, aquaculture and other livestock production, USSEC representatives engage with nutritionists to demonstrate the nutrient value of different formulations utilizing U.S. Soy,” Sutter said. “We bring technical expertise to dozens of markets around the world.”

Bangladesh has also materialized as a rapidly expanding market, driven largely by its developing poultry and aquaculture sectors.[2] That demand has supported new investments in the local crush industry, which added capacity in 2025.

Sutter added that growing global demand has helped absorb increased U.S. soybean meal supplies tied to rising domestic crush capacity.

“Last year, there was uncertainty about whether global markets could absorb additional soybean meal,” Sutter said, “but we saw a consecutive year of record exports of U.S. soybean meal, with 16.3 MMT exported.”

Most of that soybean meal landed in Philippines, Mexico, Colombia and Canada. Sutter added that soybean oil exports also rose sharply, led by purchases from India, the world’s largest importer of vegetable oils.[3] The top five markets for U.S. soybean oil in MY 2024/25 were India, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela and Dominican Republic. “It is good to see this strong demand for oil exports providing an alternative to domestic demand when appropriate,” Sutter said.

“While uncertainty continues to impact international trade, one thing is clear: global demand for soy is strengthening,” Sutter said. “As a source of high-quality, sustainable nutrition, U.S. Soy is an excellent solution to help meet the demand, enabling sustainable food and nutrition security.”

USSEC’s role is to work in markets around the world to ensure customers understand the U.S. Soy advantage and how to source it.