Wednesday February 04 Ag News - NC Policy Priorities - NE Ranch Wins Environmental Award - Sheep & Goat Inventory Report - 45Z and Food for Peace Announcements - and more!

Cuming County Feeders Membership Social
Date: Monday, February 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. CT
Location: Cattle & Cask, 2201 M Ave, Wisner 
Doors open at 6pm - Meal and Social 
A sit-down meal will be continuously served from 6pm to 8pm.... please eat when it is convenient for you.  
Also, please pay your dues now to prevent a backed-up line at the door....
If you have a question about your Nebraska Cattlemen dues, please email lederer@necattlemen.org. 

Mark your calendars for the Cuming County Feeders banquet on Sat March 21st at the Nielsen Community Center in West Point.... watch your inbox and mailbox for more information on this event soon.



Northeast Nebraska Cattlemen Membership Meeting                
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2026
6:00 p.m. Social - 7:00 p.m. Prime Rib Dinner
Wakefield Legion, 211 Main St.  - Wakefield
$50.00 / person
Social Hour sponsored by Peoples Company, Wayne - Chris Englund and Galen Wiser
Speaker:   Agricultural Finance and Planning - Hurley & Associates Agri-Marketing Centers, Wayne
Need more info?  Contact:  Joel Bruns 402-922-0112  or  Payton Janke 402-369-2930



Saunders Co Livestock & Ag Assoc. Feb Meetings

Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Prague Parish Hall, Prague
6:30 PM Social Time
7 PM Dinner
Business Meeting to follow
Your sponsors for the meeting will be Holganix, Jessica Alderson, and Steve Spicka Insurance.

Monday, February 23, 2026
Colon Parish Hall, Colon
6:30 pm Social Time
7 pm Dinner
Business Meeting to follow
Your sponsors for the meeting will be Farm Credit Services, Columbus and Lincoln, and Pioneer Hybrids.
FOR THE LESS FORTUNATE, BRING A NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ITEM FOR THE FOOD PANTRY.

Thank you for paying your 2026 Dues. If you have not paid, please contact one of your Association Directors.

We have scholarships available for 2026 graduating seniors who are children or grandchildren of Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association members for at least 3 years. You can do one of three things:
· Call Cheyenne Chromy at (402)547-7107
· Check website bit.ly/saunderscountylivestockag
· Email Cheyenne.Chromy@gmail.com for an application.

Join and support your Association! 



Nebraska Cattlemen Announces Policy Priorities

The Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) Board of Directors announced its policy priorities for the second half of the 109th Legislature following the review of over 70 bills and constitutional amendments by the NC Legislative Committee.

LB977 – Motorists Encountering Livestock on Roadways
NC strongly supports LB977, which aims to protect producers and livestock on state roadways by requiring drivers to yield. Specifically, this bill would update the definition of “vulnerable road user” to include livestock handlers, requiring motor vehicles to yield when encountering livestock being led, herded, or driven. Nebraska Cattlemen views LB977 as a commonsense safety measure which will protect producers, motorists, and livestock—especially in rural areas where transporting animals on roadways is an essential part of daily agricultural operations.

LB814 – Valuation of Agricultural and Horticultural Land
NC supports LB814, which would reduce agricultural and horticultural land value for property tax purposes from 75% to 50% and provide direct property tax relief to producers across the state. LB814 is a meaningful step toward a more stable and equitable property tax framework for agricultural producers, who continue to shoulder a disproportionate share of the state’s tax burden.

Multiple Bills – Modifications to Nebraska Brand Statutes
NC reaffirmed its position to oppose voluntary statewide brand inspection and to support the Nebraska Brand Committee as a standalone entity. Additionally, NC reaffirmed its support for modernizing operations and modifying fees for the Nebraska Brand Committee. NC supports LB1187 to increase certain brand fees and opposes LB1258, which would repeal mandatory brand inspection in the inspection area of Nebraska.

LB1038 – School Funding and Property Tax Provisions
Nebraska Cattlemen is closely monitoring LB1038, which aims to restructure school funding formulas, adjust levy limits, and eliminate several existing property tax credit mechanisms. While NC appreciates the Legislature’s continued focus on long‑term property tax reform, the organization is opposed to removing existing property tax credits without limiting school spending or property tax growth. NC believes school finance reforms must preserve the relief provided by historic tax credits without further increasing the tax burden on agricultural landowners.

LB761 – NDWEE Permitting and Well Fees
NC is neutral on LB761, which proposes adjustments to water well registration fees and updates funding mechanisms for several environmental programs. While NC recognizes inflationary costs and the importance of ensuring environmental programs remain functional and adequately funded at the state level, NC encouraged the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (NDWEE) to adjust fees related to livestock waste control and well registration fees at a more moderate level. NC is dedicated to finding a compromise with the Legislature and NDWEE.

Nebraska Cattlemen looks forward to working with senators and stakeholders to advance policies that strengthen Nebraska’s beef industry and protect the state’s rural economy.



National Environmental Stewardship Award Presented to Nebraska Ranch

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced today that Wine Glass Ranch in Imperial, Nebraska, is the 2025 Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) National winner. The award, which annually recognizes the outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of cattle producers, was presented to the Pribbeno family, during CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

“This ranch has been in my family for 140 years, and we are the stewards of the ground,” said Logan Pribbeno with Wine Glass Ranch. “We are grazing the best and leaving the rest for the benefit of our soil health.”

Jeff and Connie Pribbeno and their son and daughter-in-law Logan and Brianna Pribbeno own and operate Wine Glass Ranch, located in western Nebraska near the Colorado border. The Pribbenos believe long-term care for their operation's ecology translates to profitability, which is why they have married together the values of ranching for profit and environmental stewardship to make a living.

The cow-calf, stocker and grain operation thrives despite the arid climate and fragile sandy soil. The family installed more than 200 miles of cross fence, creating 90 paddocks for their rotational grazing system. At any given point, 95% of the ranch is resting, and this practice has increased plant diversity and the return of native grasses such as Sand Bluestem and Indian grass, a species difficult to grow in sandy soil. With a focus on soil health, the Pribbenos work closely with several state and federal agencies on conservation projects, and those partnerships have helped them with their stewardship efforts. 

“You don’t build something like this without a lot of thinking and dreaming and sharing it together,” reflected Pribbeno. “Achieving these goals together; there’s nothing better.” 

Established in 1991, ESAP identifies outstanding land stewards in the cattle industry. Each year, regional award winners are recognized, and one is honored as the national winner. 

2025 Regional Winners:
Region I: Whispering Hills Farm, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Region II: M&D Overstreet Ranch, Kathleen, Florida
Region III: Smith Family Farms, Bankston, Iowa
Region IV: McFaddin Ranch, Victoria, Texas
Region V: G&G Livestock and Cathey Cattle Company, Polson, Montana
Region VII: Wine Glass Ranch, Imperial, Nebraska

ESAP is generously sponsored by companies and federal agencies who share the cattle industry’s commitment to caring for the environment and protecting natural resources. Sponsors including U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, Corteva Agriscience, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service partner with NCBA to promote environmental stewardship throughout the beef supply chain. For more information, visit www.environmentalstewardship.org. 



NDOT Aeronautics Division Strengthens Drone Security Through Approved Drone List

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Aeronautics Division has published a list of approved drones in compliance with the Secure Drone Purchasing Act (LB660). Under this law, NDOT Aeronautics Division must create and maintain the list in order to meet state and federal cybersecurity standards. The list is published and maintained at  dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/drones.

Starting Jan. 1, 2027, Nebraska State Agencies are prohibited from purchasing drones that have not been evaluated by the Division and included on the list of approved platforms. Political subdivisions are to comply to the extent practicable. The initial list of approved platforms includes 50 different models from 38 manufacturers. The list will be continuously updated as additional platforms are evaluated at the request of state agencies or political subdivisions.  Drones included on the list must meet strict cybersecurity standards, such as data encryption and network security. The Secure Drone Purchasing Act is part of a broader legislative effort to enhance government procurement processes and ensure the security of the state, its businesses, and its residents.

An unmanned aircraft system (UAS), commonly referred to as a drone, includes the aircraft and all supporting equipment needed for operation. The Nebraska Department of Transportation utilizes drones to improve safety, efficiency and decision-making across the state’s transportation system by enabling safer data collection, reducing traffic disruptions and limiting staff exposure to hazardous conditions.



Nebraska Master Irrigator invites farmers to ‘Shop Talk’ on irrigation and nitrogen challenges

Nebraska Extension invites farmers, agricultural professionals and conservation partners to participate in a local 2026 Nebraska Master Irrigator "Shop Talk" discussion. These will be two‑day, discussion‑based programs offered across four locations focused on tackling today’s most pressing irrigation and nitrogen management challenges.

Designed to encourage producer‑to‑producer learning, these interactive sessions will provide a forum to "talk shop" with peers and industry leaders while exploring ways to grow more with less, improve margins, and strengthen the long‑term sustainability of Nebraska’s soil and water resources. The first day of each location will focus on irrigation while the second day will focus on nitrogen. Profitability and regenerative agriculture will be themes throughout.

"The strength of these discussions comes from bringing experts from across agriculture to the same table," said Crystal Powers, Water and Cropping Systems educator with Nebraska Extension. "By connecting farmers with conservation partners, researchers and ag businesses, we create a space where real‑world experience, science and innovation work together to solve the irrigation and nitrogen challenges facing Nebraska agriculture."

Participants will engage in discussions centered on practical strategies for:
    Getting the most out of existing irrigation and nutrient management equipment
    Saving water and reducing pumping costs
    Improving soil health and adopting regenerative agriculture practices
    Reducing fertilizer losses and addressing in‑season nitrogen challenges
    Using support tools and emerging technologies
    Learning from TAPS and on‑farm research participants
    Connecting with NRD & NRCS incentive and cost‑share opportunities

"We are armed with so much intelligence, science and research that building a trust model is what comes next, and I think that’s where Master Irrigator will reside," said Roric Paulman, a grower from western Nebraska.

Sessions run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. CT at the following locations:
    Grand Island: Feb. 25 and March 2
    Beatrice: Feb. 27 and March 18
    Norfolk: March 6 and March 11
    North Platte: March 13 (nitrogen only)

This event is sponsored by University of Nebraska Extension, USDA-NRCS, Nebraska Water Center, and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska. Lunch is provided thanks to the support of participating ag business partners.

The program qualifies for select Natural Resources District (NRD) Nitrogen Certification Training, and Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Continuing Education Credits have been applied for.

Registration by city is now open at the UNL Water website https://water.unl.edu/register-2026-nebraska-master-irrigator-discussions and closes Feb. 20. For registration details, additional information, or accommodation requests, contact Crystal Powers at cpowers@nebraska.edu



January 1 Sheep and Lambs Inventory Down 1 Percent

All sheep and lambs inventory in the United States on January 1, 2026 totaled 4.99 million head, down 1 percent from 2025. Breeding sheep inventory at 3.61 million head on January 1, 2026, decreased 1 percent from 3.66 million head on January 1, 2025. Ewes one year old and older, at 2.85 million head, were 1 percent below last year. Market sheep and lambs on January 1, 2026 totaled 1.38 million head, up 1 percent from January 1, 2025. Market lambs comprised 94 percent of the total market inventory. Market sheep comprised the remaining 6 percent of total market inventory.

State        (1,000 hd  -  % Jan 1 '25)
Nebraska ......:   74.0    100     
Iowa ............:  161.0    101     

The 2025 lamb crop of 3.03 million head was down slightly from 2024. The 2025 lambing rate was 105 lambs per 100 ewes one year old and older on January 1, 2025, down 1 percent from 2024.

State           (1,000 hd  -  % 2025)
Nebraska ......:    61.0       98   
Iowa ............:    125.0     104   

Shorn wool production in the United States during 2025 was 20.5 million pounds, down 5 percent from 2024. Sheep and lambs shorn totaled 3.00 million head, down 3 percent from 2024. The average price paid for wool sold in 2025 was $1.40 per pound for a total value of 28.7 million dollars, down 7 percent from 30.8 million dollars in 2024. As of January 1, 2026, 28 percent of the total sheep and lambs were hair sheep or wool hair crosses.

By State       (1,000 sheered - lbs/fleece - 1,000 lbs.)
Nebraska ..........:    33.0       7.0         230 
Iowa ................:   130.0       5.4         696 

By State         ($ price/lb. - total value $1,000)
Nebraska .......:      0.70          161   
Iowa ..............:      0.30          209   

Sheep death loss during 2025 totaled 185,000 head, down 3 percent from 2024. Lamb death loss decreased 3 percent from 370,000 head to 360,000 head in 2025.

January 1 All Goats and Kids Inventory Up 1 Percent
All goats and kids inventory in the United States on January 1, 2026 totaled 2.51 million head, up 1 percent from 2025. Breeding goat inventory totaled 2.07 million head, up 1 percent from 2025. Does one year old and older, at 1.54 million head, were 1 percent above last year's number. Market goats and kids totaled 444,000 head, up slightly from a year ago.

Kid crop for 2025 totaled 1.52 million head for all goats, up 1 percent from 2024. 

Meat and all other goats totaled 2.01 million head on January 1, 2026, up 2 percent from 2025. Milk goat inventory was 415,000 head, down 1 percent from January 1, 2025, while angora goats were down 11 percent, totaling 89,000 head.

Milk Goats & Kids           (% Jan 1 '25)
Nebraska ..........:    3,200    110   
Iowa ................:   26,000     96   

Meat and Other Goats and Kids  
Nebraska ..........:   29,000     97   
Iowa .................:   45,000     98   

Mohair production in the United States during 2025 was 430,000 pounds. Goats and kids clipped totaled 85,000 head. Average weight per clip was 5.1 pounds. Mohair price was $6.40 per pound with a value of 2.75 million dollars.



Iowa Soybean Farmers Welcome Latest 45Z Guidance by Treasury

The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) applauds today’s action by the U.S. Department of the Treasury for releasing updated proposed guidance that addresses much needed improvements to the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, an essential tool for supporting biofuels including biodiesel made from U.S. soybeans. The changes include stronger support for domestic feedstocks like U.S. soybeans following amendments enacted within the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) in July 2025.

“Soybean farmers have long supported updates to federal biofuel policies that prioritize soy-based fuels, which also help build domestic markets for the crops we produce,” says Tom Adam, ISA president and soybean farmer from Harper. “This long-awaited guidance will help support Iowa’s soybean farmers, processors and biofuel producers, while providing a dose of much needed certainty heading into the spring planting season.”

Key changes addressed in the Treasury’s latest guidance ensure the 45Z tax credit supports domestically produced biofuels by disqualifying feedstocks imported from outside North America.

“While the 45Z credit is a key piece of biofuel policy, work is still needed to ensure Iowa farmers are positioned to help support our nation’s energy leadership,” says Matt Herman, ISA chief officer of demand and advocacy. “We look forward to a swift finalization of EPA’s Renewable Volume Obligation under the federal Renewable Fuel Standard and review of the forthcoming GREET calculators, including release of the various GREET calculators.”

Renewable Volume Obligations (RVO) remain the largest driver of domestic soybean and corn consumption. EPA has proposed 5.61 billion gallons and 5.86 billion gallons for biomass-based diesel in 2026 and 2027, which, if finalized, would mark a significant volume increase from recent years.

Iowa is the nation’s leading biodiesel-producing state and soybean oil producer. In 2025, Iowa used 1.68 billion pounds of soybean oil to produce 224.5 million gallons of biodiesel. This volume is equivalent to nearly 144 million bushels of soybeans, or roughly 24% of the state’s total crop. According to a 2024 study by Decision Innovation Solutions, biodiesel contributes $123 million in labor income, $520 million in value added and $2.2 billion in total output (sales) to Iowa’s economy.



ASA and NOPA Applaud Treasury’s Updated 45Z Guidance, Urge Swift Finalization of Strong Pro-American RFS

Tuesday, the American Soybean Association (ASA) and National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) applauded the U.S. Department of the Treasury for releasing updated proposed guidance which implements critical improvements to the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, including changes that support domestic feedstocks like U.S. soybeans, following congressional amendments enacted as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

This action from Treasury marks important progress in achieving the Trump Administration’s goal of unleashing American energy dominance through U.S.-grown biofuels. However, this guidance must be paired with swift finalization of the administration’s Renewable Fuel Standard proposal which will further promote pro-farmer and pro-American biofuel production. Together, the revised 45Z tax credit and robust RFS renewable volume obligations will ensure that federal biofuel policies support the farm economy and rural manufacturing.

“Updating federal biofuel policies to prioritize soy-based fuels is a key ASA priority, and we applaud Treasury for this action which will help build domestic markets for U.S. soybeans,” said Scott Metzger, ASA President and Ohio farmer. “While Treasury’s work to update tax guidance is critical, ASA strongly urges the administration to immediately finalize RFS blending targets that complement the work of Treasury and Congress, by setting robust biofuel volumes and implementing new policies that will prioritize the utilization of U.S. soybeans in production.”

“These policies work hand in hand,” said Devin Mogler, NOPA President and CEO. “Treasury’s updated 45Z guidance is an important step forward, but it must be reinforced by finalizing the RFS as proposed. A strong RFS that includes the import RIN reduction mechanism is critical to putting American farmers and rural manufacturing first and providing the certainty our industry needs to continue to invest and grow so we can crush more soybeans right here in the U.S.”

Congressional changes in the OBBBA directed Treasury to update 45Z guidance to ensure the tax credit would support the entire domestic biofuel value chain by limiting eligibility to fuels produced using North American feedstocks. Over the past several years, a surge in used cooking oil and tallow imports from overseas has resulted in domestic biofuel markets that no longer prioritize homegrown agricultural feedstocks like soybean and canola oil. Disqualifying those imported waste feedstocks from 45Z eligibility will support U.S. soybean farmers, the U.S. oilseed processing industry, and rural communities that stand to benefit from a strong, domestic biofuel value chain.

Additionally, the guidance removes the indirect land use change penalty on agricultural feedstocks—a longstanding barrier for agriculture that is based on theoretical modeling rather than real-world data and fails to reflect the ever-increasing efficiency and sustainability of U.S. farming. Removing the ILUC penalty will effectively double the value of the 45Z tax credit for soy-based biofuels and provide eligibility for other feedstocks like canola.

ASA and NOPA look forward to continued engagement with the administration as it works to finalize the RFS and implement biofuel policies that strengthen domestic production, expand rural manufacturing, and reinforce American energy leadership.



Pleased with Latest 45Z Proposal, Corn Growers Commend Administration

A proposal released today by the U.S. Department of Treasury on a tax credit designed to help the biofuel industry sell into the aviation sector was met with positive reception among the nation’s corn growers.  
 
“Treasury’s proposal is a definite step in the right direction and will allow corn growers to transition into and supply the aviation sector,” said Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower. “Being able to fuel commercial planes with fuel derived from corn would be important to the long-term economic viability of farming. After today we are one step closer to that possibility.”

Last year, Congress preserved and improved aspects of the tax credit in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Today’s guidance reaffirmed many of those improvements.  
 
Corn growers said they were particularly pleased to see the direct reference to agricultural practices in the proposal.  

“This is good news for farmers as we continue look for any and all avenues to secure and enhance markets for corn,” Bower said. “This administration has shown that it understands the importance of biofuels to American farmer’s future, this proposal confirms that.”  

Bower said he hopes Treasury will keep up the momentum by working with other agencies as they update the crucial 45Z-CF GREET model to appropriately account for farmers’ hard work.  He said NCGA will provide comments on the proposal and participate in the public hearing May 28th.  



NGFA applauds extension of U.S. Grain Standards Act, urges full reauthorization

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded Congress for passing the fiscal year funding package that includes an extension of the authorization for the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA) through Sept. 30, 2026, providing critical continuity for the federal grain inspection and weighing system.

NGFA thanked congressional leadership in both chambers for advancing the measure, as well as the leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees – Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) and Ranking Member Angie Craig (D-Minn.) in the House of Representatives, and Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.), and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) in the Senate – for their continued attention to this critical issue.

NGFA has long emphasized the importance of maintaining uninterrupted authority for the USGSA to ensure the integrity, transparency, and reliability of the U.S. grain marketing system for both domestic and international customers.

“This extension is an important step that helps avoid uncertainty for the grain trade and reinforces confidence in U.S. grain quality and inspection services,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “We appreciate congressional leaders in both parties recognizing the essential role the USGSA plays in supporting U.S. agriculture and global trade.”

While welcoming the temporary extension, NGFA stressed that Congress should move expeditiously to complete a full five-year reauthorization of the USGSA. A longer-term reauthorization would provide greater stability, allow for needed operational improvements, and ensure the Federal Grain Inspection Service can continue to modernize and meet the needs of a rapidly evolving marketplace.

NGFA has consistently supported a timely, bipartisan reauthorization that preserves the core strengths of the USGSA while providing USDA with the certainty needed to administer the program effectively.

“We urge Congress to move quickly to enact a full five-year reauthorization,” Seyfert said. “Providing long-term certainty is essential to maintaining the competitiveness, credibility, and reliability of U.S. grain in the global market.”



ASA Applauds USDA–WFP Food for Peace Agreement

Tuesday, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a new agreement with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to deliver up to $452 million in assistance under the Food for Peace (FFP) program. An interagency agreement signed in December between USDA and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) authorized USDA to carry out emergency food assistance under the program.

“ASA has long supported efforts to move the Food for Peace program to USDA’s jurisdiction,” ASA President and Ohio soybean farmer Scott Metzger stated. “We applaud today’s announcement between USDA and WFP. U.S. soybean farmers play an important role in helping to feed the world alongside other American-grown commodities, and we are glad that our crops will help feed the most vulnerable populations around the world.”

ASA looks forward to continuing to support USDA efforts to combat global hunger by ensuring high-quality, high-protein U.S. soybeans and products made with them remain a key component of international food assistance programs. 



Joint Statement from NMPF and USDEC on USDA Food for Peace Funding Allocations

The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council today commended USDA’s Food for Peace funding allocations for fiscal year 2025 that include support for Ready-to-Use Supplementary Foods that incorporate milk powders. The announcements follow a USDEC and NMPF request for continued support for the program used to treat malnutrition globally. 
 
Statement from Gregg Doud, President and CEO of NMPF:
“NMPF appreciates USDA’s announcement today of fiscal year 2025 funding allocations for Ready-to-Use Supplementary Foods under the Food for Peace program. This common-sense program supports the U.S. dairy producers who supply milk powders used in RUSF while treating those most in need.”  

Statement from Krysta Harden, President and CEO of USDEC:
“U.S. dairy farmers and processors feed the world, and USDA’s announcement today of continued funding for Ready-to-Use Supplementary Foods is a critical component of that effort. Our farmers and manufacturers supply the milk powder used in these vital, lifesaving products that are used to treat chronic malnutrition worldwide. Thank you to USDA for continuing to support this essential program.”  



Trump Administration Expands Export Financing Opportunities to Support American Farmers

As part of the Trump Administration’s efforts to expand American agricultural exports, Luke J. Lindberg, Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, announced that USDA is expanding financing options under the Export Credit Guarantee Program, known as GSM-102.

Under the new policy, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service will offer an 18-month repayment option that allows buyers pay the full loan amount at the end of the term instead of in installments. This new option will initially be available in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia – all regions with strong potential for American export growth – is expected to make U.S. financing more competitive and increase the use of GSM-102.

“This new policy brings GSM-102 in line with current industry practices and gives American exporters new opportunities for financing in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia,” said Under Secretary Lindberg. “It’s another way the Trump Administration is working to support American farmers and producers and bring America’s bounty to the world.”

GSM-102 provides credit guarantees to U.S. banks and, in some cases, to U.S. exporters to help finance foreign purchases of American food and agricultural products by approved foreign banks. While GSM-102 already allows repayment terms of up to 18 months, this is the first time that borrowers will be able to repay the full amount in a single payment at the end of the 18-month term.

USDA expects this change to increase use of the program in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, and to help expand American agricultural exports without increasing the program’s current financial risk.

Under Secretary Lindberg made the announcement during an agribusiness trade mission to Indonesia as part of the Trump Administration’s broader efforts to open to open new markets and reduce trade barriers.

These updates to GSM-102, along with expanded market access from a stronger trade partnership, will help give Indonesian consumers better access to high-quality American food and agricultural products.

The new repayment terms take effect on February 3, 2026. More information about GSM-102 is at www.fas.usda.gov.



CattleCon 2026 Kicks Off in the Heart of Downtown Nashville

Nearly 9,000 cattle producers, industry partners and stakeholders from around the country have gathered in downtown Nashville for CattleCon 2026. The largest cattle industry event of the year kicks off today and runs through Feb. 5. Attendees will participate in business meetings, learn the latest during educational sessions, network with peers and experience all Music City has to offer. 

“We have an excellent lineup of educational and inspirational speakers, and we look forward to seeing everyone this week,” said NCBA President Buck Wehrbein. 

Throughout CattleCon, guest speakers including NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, Jr., New York Times bestselling author Jon Acuff and award-winning songwriter Jimmy Yeary will inspire and spark innovation. The CattleFax team, including CEO Randy Blach and atmospheric scientist Matt Makens, will also provide a glimpse into what 2026 and beyond have in store for the industry. Familiar faces (and voices) Buzz Brainard, host of Music Row Happy Hour, and Bill Cody, Country Radio Hall of Famer and longtime Grand Ole Opry announcer, will also be on hand. 

CattleCon 2026 includes many new activities including “Next Generation Day” on Thursday, Feb. 5. Collegiates are invited to join American National CattleWomen for an engaging and educational session dedicated to shaping the future of the cattle and beef industries. During the Emerging Leaders event on Thursday morning, attendees can connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and explore exciting career and networking opportunities. Attendees can also visit participating “Career Crawl” companies at the NCBA Trade Show to explore internships, job openings and career opportunities while engaging in meaningful conversations with agriculture professionals. 

Another new event is the Prime Cut Awards: Featuring the National Environmental Stewardship Award and Beef Quality Assurance Awards. This signature event on Tuesday evening brings together cattlemen and women for a night of celebration, connection and industry pride.

Education is a cornerstone of CattleCon and new this year, all registration options include Cattlemen’s College sessions and demonstrations. In addition, while roaming the NCBA Trade Show attendees can stop in the Learning Lounge to enjoy informal, face-to-face talks and listen to Cattle Chats which feature beef industry educational sessions. The new Marquee Stage on the trade show floor also offers top-tier programming, live broadcasts and exclusive conversations. 

Nashville is known as Music City, and CattleCon 2026 will celebrate the city’s country music heritage throughout the week. Gracyn Stevens, winner of the 13th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, will perform; Paul Bogart, a CattleCon favorite, will bring his down-to-earth charm to Wednesday’s Boots on Broadway (Almost) event; and country music stars including headliner Vince Gill will shine during Cowboy’s Night at the Opry at the historic Ryman Auditorium on Thursday evening. 

In addition, producers will be hard at work guiding both NCBA policy and Beef Checkoff programs. Annual meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax and National Cattlemen’s Foundation will also take place.