Thursday March 26 Ag News - NE Water Task Force Delivers Report - NCB Recognizes Award Winners - EPA Summertime E15 Waiver - Fertilizer Prices Ratchet Higher - and more!

 Pillen Receives Water Quality & Quantity Task Force Report

An initiative launched by Governor Jim Pillen aimed at protecting and preserving Nebraska’s vital water resources, met a milestone today. In March of last year, Gov. Pillen kicked off the first executive-level meeting of the state’s Water Quality and Quantity Task Force, a group consisting of members representing industries, businesses and other relevant expertise. At today’s meeting, the Task Force presented the Governor with a report outlining key recommendations to protect and strengthen Nebraska’s water resources statewide.

“We are the envy of the nation because of our water resources, and we must do everything possible to protect and enhance those resources. The approach we are taking is through innovation and education, not more regulation,” said Gov. Pillen.

“I appreciate the efforts of the Task Force, and I believe that these recommendations will ensure Nebraska’s water supply remains strong for generations to come,” he added.

Upon announcing the Task Force in the spring of 2025, Gov. Pillen charged its members with providing actionable recommendations to improve water quality, with an emphasis on reducing nitrate levels in groundwater, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the State’s water resources.
 
The Task Force is made up of 20 individuals from across Nebraska. Members attended four full Task Force meetings between June 2025 and March 2026, and organized them into four subcommittees, which met monthly: Methods and Resources, Nitrate Legacy and Drinking Water Access, Water Conservation and Quantity, and Financing and Incentives.

The Task Force recommended 14 goals, which prioritize innovation and education to protect water quality and quantity while supporting Nebraska’s agricultural productivity and economic vitality. Each goal includes action items and metrics to track success. Those goals are:
    Expand water measurement across the State for groundwater and surface water
    Develop strategies to support large water users and continued economic growth in the State
    Expand water storage opportunities and management of water consumption
    Ensure nitrogen fertilizer recommendations are agronomically, economically, and environmentally appropriate for Nebraska producers
    Incentivize producers to increase the percentage of nitrogen applied in season versus out of season to improve overall nitrogen use efficiency
    Increase adoption of sensor- and model-based nitrogen recommendation technology
    Increase adoption of soil health practices which will allow producers to increase nutrient cycling and reduce overall nitrogen application rates over time. Improved soil health will also maximize water infiltration and crop utilization while minimizing runoff
    Support Nebraska producers by providing education on nitrogen fertilizer and irrigation best management practices to reduce nitrate leaching and to protect groundwater resources
    Develop consistent education, marketing, and outreach materials related to water quality, quantity, and public health for use across the State
    Provide support and resources to public and private drinking water well owners to ensure safe and reliable drinking water for Nebraskans
    Expand rural water systems and regionalization of water systems
    Establish a centralized clearing house to inventory and prioritize water quality and quantity projects across Nebraska
    Identify and implement sustainable, diversified funding models to support the development, implementation, and maintenance of priority water projects in Nebraska
    Recommend funding priorities for the ONE RED implementation grant and potential funding sources

Jesse Bradley, Director of the Department of Water, Energy, and Environment and a member of the Task Force said, “I greatly appreciate the governor’s leadership in establishing the Task Force last year.  The goals and actions that have been developed through this effort will serve to sharpen our focus on these important water quality and quantity outcomes and we are excited to get to work on implementation.”

In addition to the Task Force’s recommendations, the final report also includes a review of existing water management authorities and programs, as well as appendices with meeting information. The full report is housed on DWEE’s website: https://dnr.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/about/News/TaskForceWaterQualityQuantity/TaskForceReport_03.25.2026Full.pdf.



Nebraska Corn Board Recognizes Agriculture Awards Winners

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) recognized four exceptional recipients for their dedication and contributions to the state's corn industry.

The highest recognition is the Ag Achievement Award. This honor, first presented in 1991, was designed to recognize outstanding and generous efforts to further the state’s corn industry. Dr. Terry Hejny and Duane Kristensen received the Ag Achievement Award for their efforts to promote Nebraska's corn industry.

Dr. Hejny grew up on a diversified crop and livestock farm in Seward County. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) in 1980, then went on to earn his master’s degree in 1998 and doctorate in 2010.

Dr. Hejny has been actively involved in the agricultural industry through local, state and national organizations. A LEAD program alumnus, he became director in 2007. In his role, Dr. Hejny led delegations to more than 40 countries, fostering global understanding and cooperation.

“Dr. Hejny has had a profound impact on many in Nebraska's agriculture industry, initially in agriculture extension and then leading a program in which many Nebraska Corn Board members have participated,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of NCB. “His dedication to leadership development and global cooperation has created a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the future of our industry.”

The Ag Achievement Award was also presented to Duane Kristensen, a strong leader in the agricultural community both state and nationwide. Kristensen earned a degree in agricultural economics from UNL and later served on the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Alumni Board, the Chancellor’s Advisory Board and the Nebraska Alumni Association Executive Board.

Kristensen began his career as a grain merchandiser while expanding the family farm. In 1986, during the farm crisis, he joined the ethanol industry with American Diversified Corporation in Hastings. The plant was later acquired by Chief Industries, where he spent much of his career helping it grow.

He held leadership roles with the American Coalition for Ethanol, the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council and helped organize what is now Renewable Fuels Nebraska. He retired from Chief Industries in 2021.

“Duane has shown a life of service and achievement for agriculture, making a deep impact on the ethanol and corn industry,” said Andy Groskopf, NCB vice chairman. “As the growth of ethanol use and availability has grown, Duane’s dedication and tireless work have helped create new demand for our corn.”

The Nebraska Corn Board also presented its Ag Vision Award, which honors those who advance the board's goals of enhancing demand, adding value and ensuring sustainability, to Randy Gard and Timpte, Inc.

Gard has over 30 years of executive leadership and management experience. He served as president and CEO of Chief Automotive Technologies in Grand Island when it was part of Dover Corp., a Fortune 500 company.

As chief operating officer of Bosselman Enterprises and a member of the Nebraska Ethanol Board, Gard has promoted ethanol and biofuels development, creating new markets for Nebraska corn growers and supporting the state's ethanol industry growth.

In addition to his corporate roles, he is actively involved in state and federal governmental affairs, particularly in ethanol, biodiesel, hydrogen and EV markets. He has championed legislative bills focusing on renewable fuel incentives for retailers and continually advocated for the opportunity that ethanol and biofuels can have in today’s liquid fuel space.

“Randy is a true champion for Nebraska's farmers and the ethanol industry,” said Brandon Hunnicutt. “His dedication to promoting renewable fuels and connecting the fuel retail sector with biofuels has made a lasting impact on our industry.”

Timpte, Inc. was the other recipient presented with NCB’s Ag Vision award.

Timpte, Inc., founded in 1884, is the longest-operating semi-trailer company in North America. The privately owned company began building wagons for westward settlers in Denver before evolving into a manufacturer of commercial trailers. It is now headquartered and primarily manufactures in David City and is the top-selling dry bulk commodity trailer in North America.

In 2025, Timpte opened a new 190,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Lincoln to support its David City operations.

“As farmers, the equipment we use plays an instrumental role in our operations,” said Ted Schrock, secretary/treasurer of NCB. “Being based in Nebraska allows farmers to buy local and support our state’s economy. Timpte's expansion continues to build support for Nebraska's corn industry.”

Each award winner was identified and selected by NCB. 



EPA Issues Emergency Waiver for Summer 2026 E15 Sale

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a temporary emergency fuel waiver that will allow the sale of E15 fuel nationwide during summer 2026. Amidst ongoing efforts to create a permanent federal legislative solution, the emergency waivers are needed to allow the continued sale of E15 in this summer.
 
“We welcome Wednesday’s announced emergency waiver,” said Nebraska Ethanol Board (NEB) Executive Director Ben Rhodes. “This action ensures that drivers around the country will have uninterrupted access to cleaner, cheaper E15 during the upcoming summer. This waiver comes at a time of fuel supply chain disruptions worldwide, and we thank EPA for taking appropriate action.”
 
E15, a blend of gasoline and 15% ethanol, has long been approved by the EPA for use in vehicles model year 2001 or newer and saves consumers $0.10 per gallon on average compared to E10. E15 is available at around 140 fueling stations in Nebraska, and each year, Nebraska drivers save at least $300 million by choosing ethanol blends.
 
“Issuing emergency waivers is the correct and necessary decision, but we remain committed to a permanent legislative resolution to this issue,” Rhodes said. “This is now the fifth consecutive summer requiring an emergency E15 waiver. The best path forward is a permanent Congressional action allowing E15 to be sold throughout the year, every year. We will continue to work tirelessly for that solution.”



Statement by Mark McHargue, President, Regarding Emergency Waiver on E15

"Wednesday's announced emergency waiver to allow for the sale of E15 this summer is certainly welcomed news, and we appreciate EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for again accepting this commonsense waiver. At the same time, our fight to secure a long-term fix to this issue continues. The economic conditions surrounding Nebraska's crop sector remain unbelievably trying, and growth in both domestic and international demand is desperately needed. Passage of Sen. Fischer and Congressman Smith's Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which permanently allows for the year-round sale of E15, will boost ethanol demand which in turn will help support the bottom lines of Nebraska's farm families and our state's overall economy. Congress must act and act soon!" 



Fischer Applauds E15 Waiver, Calls for Permanent Solution

Wednesday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an emergency waiver to allow the sale of E15 gasoline during the summer season:

“I thank EPA Administrator Zeldin and the Trump administration for issuing another emergency waiver for E15 to be sold year-round across the country. This will undoubtedly bring some short-term relief to our farmers and ranchers, and ease fuels costs on Americans. The fact remains that this is not a long-term solution, and it is far past time for Congress to make this permanent. My Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailers Choice Act gets it done, and I am working to end the need for these emergency waivers and give consumers the year-round flexibility choice they deserve.”



Ricketts Issues Statement on EPA’s E15 Announcement

Wednesday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it would issue a temporary emergency fuel waiver to allow the sale of E10 and E15 this year.

“This is good news for Nebraskans and all Americans.  E10 and E15 saves consumers money at the pump, supports Nebraska agriculture, cleans our environment, and promotes energy independence.  The next step is a permanent fix.  Congress should make year-round, nationwide E10 and E15 permanent.”



ICGA Appreciates Summer E15 Waiver, But Pushes for Permanent Fix 

Wednesday, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin announced a temporary emergency waiver allowing the sale of nationwide E15 during the 2026 summer months. Effective May 1, the waiver aims to prevent fuel supply disruptions while providing Americans with lower-cost options at the pump. 

Iowa Corn Growers Association President Mark Mueller, who farms in Waverly, Iowa, released the following statement: 
 “The announcement of the summer-time waiver for E15 is a positive move in the right direction, and ICGA appreciates President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for hearing the needs of Iowa corn farmers and drivers. But the waiver is strictly a bandage, and we need Congress to provide a permanent fix with passage of nationwide, year-round E15. Corn farmers need increased domestic demand, and consumers need relief at the pump. The time is now for Congress to get this issue across the finish line. 

“Additionally, ICGA appreciates Iowa Governor Reynolds for leading a letter with six other Midwest Governors calling for the emergency waiver, which was then followed by a similar letter from renewable fuels trade groups supporting the request. Governor Reynolds continues to champion Iowa ethanol, and corn growers remain appreciative.”  



Naig Welcomes Nationwide Emergency Waiver for 2026 Summertime E15 Sales

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement today after the Trump Administration issued an emergency waiver authorizing nationwide sales of E15 during the summer of 2026.

“I appreciate the Trump Administration allowing the nationwide sale of E15 this summer. This is a win for farmers, drivers, and homegrown American energy. I also want to thank Iowa’s congressional delegation for continuing to push for year-round E15.

But to be clear, our farmers and consumers shouldn’t have to rely on short-term emergency waivers every year. Congress has had multiple chances to provide farmers, biofuel producers and fuel retailers with the long-term certainty they need by fixing this issue permanently, and they have failed to get it done.

It’s long overdue for Congress to finally pass a permanent nationwide fix for year-round E15, which will save Americans money at the pump, support a critical market for farmers, and boost American energy independence.”



Corn Growers Praise E15 Waiver, Call for Permanent, Year-Round Solution

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Wednesday that it will use its existing authority to prevent drivers from losing access to lower-cost and lower-emission E15, a higher ethanol blend often marketed as Unleaded 88. In response, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Jed Bower released the following statement: 

“We are deeply appreciative of President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for expanding consumer access to E15 through the summer months. This development will not only help America’s corn growers who are doing their best to navigate tough economic times, but also it will save drivers money at the pump. In fact, drivers save a quarter a gallon on average with E15. 

“This development is no substitute for action that would allow for the permanent, year-round sale of E15. We call on Congress to heed the calls from President Trump and our congressional allies and immediately pass E15 legislation.”



NFU Applauds E15 Expansion, Calls on Congress for Permanent Solution

National Farmers Union (NFU) applauds the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) emergency fuel waiver allowing the nationwide sale of E15 gasoline this summer. NFU has long advocated for year-round access to E15 and the expansion of higher ethanol blends, such as E30, and is calling for a permanent solution that strengthens domestic demand for American-grown agricultural products.

“Nationwide access to E15 is a much-needed win for family farmers and consumers alike,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “At a time of increasing global uncertainty, E15 helps lower costs at the pump while creating reliable markets for farmers.”

“However, this remains a temporary fix,” Larew continued. “It’s past time for Congress to deliver common-sense legislation that allows for the year-round, nationwide sale of E15.”




IFA Honors Premier Bank and Jayme Ungs of Peoples Bank for Advancing Beginning Farmer Success on National Ag Day 

In celebration of National Ag Day earlier this week, the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) announced Premier Bank in Rock Valley as the Top Beginning Farmer Loan Program Bank of the year and Jayme Ungs of Peoples Bank in Boone as the Beginning Farmer Loan Program Lender of the Year for 2025.

The awards recognize the lending institution and loan officer who assisted the greatest number of individuals through the Beginning Farmer Loan Program in 2025, helping aspiring farmers secure the financing needed to start, grow and strengthen their operations. 

“Last year, IFA assisted 234 farmers in purchasing more than 32,000 acres through our Beginning Farmer programs—made possible by outstanding partners like Jayme Ungs at Peoples Bank, Premier Bank, and lenders statewide.” 

IFA’s Beginning Farmer Loan Program helps new farmers acquire farmland, buildings, machinery, equipment and breeding livestock through reduced interest rates. Loans are financed by participating lenders or contract sellers using federal tax-exempt bonds issued by the Iowa Finance Authority. Interest received on contract sales or direct loans by individuals is also exempt from state income taxes, creating another incentive to support the next generation of Iowa farmers. 

“Getting started in agriculture can be challenging, and programs like this help remove some of those barriers,” said Jayme Ungs of Peoples Bank. “With the resources and incentives available through the Iowa Finance Authority’s beginning farmer programs, local lenders can help make farmland and equipment more accessible for the next generation of Iowa farmers.” 

IFA’s beginning farmer programs have helped more than 7,700 beginning farmers purchase nearly 500,000 acres across Iowa since its inception. 



ISU Extension and Outreach Week Webinar Series Helps Farmers Manage Digital Farming Risks

As digital tools become essential to modern agriculture, Iowa farmers face growing risks from both cyber threats and extreme weather events. To help producers strengthen their digital resilience, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is offering a three‑part webinar series, Digital Farming Systems Risk Awareness and Management, April 7–9, during ISU Extension and Outreach Week.

The series, developed by the ISU Extension and Outreach farm management team, along with the ISUwoman walking on farm Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach, is part of the Cyber Incident Management Exercises program. The webinar series will equip farmers and agricultural professionals with practical tools to identify, prepare for and manage risks affecting Iowa’s increasingly digitally connected farming systems.

Digital agriculture continues to expand rapidly across the state. According to the USDA’s 2025 data, 72% of Iowa farms use a computer, 84% use a smartphone and 42% rely on precision agriculture technologies. Farmers are also conducting more business online, with 45% purchasing inputs and 38% marketing products online.

“Cybercrimes and weather disasters can be equally devastating to Iowa’s digital infrastructure,” said Ryan Drollette, farm management specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Helping farmers prevent losses and recover quickly when incidents occur is now a core part of risk management.”

All webinar sessions will be held from noon to 1 p.m. CDT.
    Tuesday, April 7: Weather Disasters Impact on Digital Farming Systems
    Wednesday, April 8: Cyber Threats Impact on Digital Farming Systems
    Thursday, April 9: Managing Weather and Cyber Risks in Digital Farming Systems

Farmers, agricultural professionals and industry stakeholders are invited to attend any or all sessions. Participants interested in attending must register online https://go.iastate.edu/PACG6O.

Additional in-person workshop
Participants are also encouraged to attend an upcoming in-person Digital Farming Systems and Crisis Management workshop in Ames on Aug. 24.

The one-day workshop will highlight the digital technology used on Iowa farms and how weather disasters or cybercrimes can cause serious disruptions. Producers will learn about digital risk management and preparedness strategies that can significantly reduce losses in an emergency.

Participants must register online to attend https://go.iastate.edu/1QUKVU.

For more information, contact Madeline Schultz at Schultz@iastate.edu.



Register Now for World Pork Expo 2026

Registration is officially open for the 2026 World Pork Expo, taking place June 3-4 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa. Presented by the National Pork Producers Council, NPPC, the Expo draws pork producers and industry professionals from across the country and around the world for one of the year’s most anticipated pork industry events.

For two days, the Expo grounds become a hub for innovative ideas, valuable conversation and hands-on industry discovery. From cutting-edge technology and educational sessions to time-honored traditions and live entertainment, attendees experience both the business of pork production and the strong community behind it.

“World Pork Expo is where our industry comes together to reconnect, share ideas and look ahead,” NPPC President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Iowa, said. “It’s an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, see new innovations, have meaningful conversations and be reminded of the strength of the pork industry. Events like this remind us what’s possible when pork professionals come together.”
 
What’s Ahead at WPX
Building on attendee feedback and the momentum of recent years, the 2026 Expo will continue to deliver a two-day experience packed with valuable opportunities for pork producers and industry professionals.
-    The World’s Largest Pork-Specific Trade Show – More than 700 booths featuring the latest equipment, technology, services and solutions across 300,000 square feet of exhibit space.
-    Young Pork Advocates Issues Meet – A one-of-a-kind event where emerging and future industry leaders share their perspectives on key pork production topics.
-    Industry Education – Learning experiences and discussions designed to bring a practical perspective on the issues and innovations impacting pork production today.
-    Networking & Hospitality – From conversations on the trade show floor to hospitality events, live entertainment, and complimentary pork lunches at The Big Grill, World Pork Expo offers plenty of ways to connect and enjoy the experience.

Secure Early Registration Savings
Online registration is now open at WorldPork.org, with early-bird pricing available through May 28.
    Adults 12 and older: $10
    Children 6-11: $1
    Children under 5: Free
    On-site registration: $20 for ages 12 and up, $3 for ages 6 - 11 (kids 5 & under free)

Register early to save on admission and start planning your visit to Des Moines for World Pork Expo on June 3-4.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 3/20/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending March 20, ethanol production expanded 2.1% to 1.12 million b/d, equivalent to 46.87 million gallons daily. Output was 6.0% higher than the same week last year and 7.7% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate increased 0.1% to 1.11 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 17.03 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks swelled 2.9% to 27.2 million barrels, the largest weekly volume in a year. Stocks were 0.7% less than the same week last year but 3.2% above the three-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, rose 2.2% to 8.92 million b/d (137.18 bg annualized). Demand was 3.3% more than a year ago and 1.0% above the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol climbed 1.5% to 889,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.67 bg annualized. Net inputs were 1.3% more than year-ago levels and 1.5% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports dropped 31.6% to an estimated 119,000 b/d (5.0 million gallons/day), a 10-week low. It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Most Fertilizers' Prices Continue Higher, 4 Considerably More Expensive

Retail fertilizer prices continued to be mostly higher during the third week of March 2026, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. Nutrients remained elevated with the military conflict continuing between the United States and Iran. Prices for six of the eight major fertilizers were higher compared to last month, while one was slightly lower and one was unchanged. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

UAN28 led the way higher, as the nitrogen fertilizer was 15% higher compared to last month. The liquid nitrogen fertilizer had an average price of $473 per ton. Urea was 11% higher than a month ago and had an average price of $677/ton. Anhydrous was 8% more expensive compared to last month and had an average price of $931/ton. UAN32 was 5% higher, looking back to the prior month, and had an average price of $489/ton. Two nutrients were slightly higher in price. MAP had an average price of $886/ton and 10-34-0 $671/ton.

One fertilizer was slightly less expensive compared to last month. DAP had an average price of $851/ton.

One nutrient's price was unchanged from last month. Potash had an average price of $487/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.74/lb.N, anhydrous $0.57/lb.N, UAN28 $0.85/lb.N and UAN32 $0.73/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier: 10-34-0 by 3%; potash 7%; MAP 9%; DAP 11%; UAN32 19%; both urea and anhydrous 22%; and UAN28 by 33%.



Sysco Highlights the Value of Beef Quality Assurance

The best beef is raised the right way. This message was reinforced by remarks from Joe Don Eilers, vice president of merchandising for Sysco, who spoke as a panelist at the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Producer Forum during Cattle Con 2026.

Representing one of the nation’s largest foodservice distributors, Eilers shared how best practices in cattle care and beef production influence beef product, ultimately reaching the plates of restaurants and kitchen tables of consumers.

“At the end of the day, quality beef is a safe, wholesome product for our participants to use,” Eilers said, adding the ultimate goal is delivering a mouth-watering steak that keeps customers coming back for more.

Industry collaboration is key to delivering this eating experience, and programs like BQA help ensure consistency from pasture to plate. For decades, BQA has provided science-based guidelines and education to help family farmers and ranchers improve cattle care, product quality and consumer confidence.

“We believe in the value that the BQA program has brought to the industry for decades,” Eilers said. “That mission to bring knowledge about best practices and innovations to producers across the industry has resulted in a better product that we’re able to purchase and ultimately serve to consumers.”

The commitment to cattle care and continuous improvement is also reflected in the Raised with Respect™ program, a partnership between (CAB) and Sysco, now in its third year. The initiative helps expand awareness of BQA principles while supporting educational resources for ranchers and additional collaboration across universities, extension systems and industry partners.

“This campaign is really about bringing another level of awareness to the work BQA has done over the years,” Eilers said, “and creating more opportunities to communicate what can be improved in beef production.”

The commitment to advancing best practices and helping to ensure beef demand recently earned Sysco national recognition; National Cattlemen’s Beef Association named the company the 2026 BQA Marketer of the Year at Cattle Con. This award highlights leaders who go above and beyond to promote BQA and support responsible cattle care across the beef industry.

“As a primary producer-facing program, BQA has been providing guidelines and resources to help cattlemen improve their cattle and resulting beef for decades,” said Josh White, senior executive director of producer education and sustainability for NCBA. “It’s exciting to see this work done on farms and ranches across the country and also lends value for how a large beef seller, like Sysco, tells the beef production story.”

For Eilers, those efforts also help build trust with consumers who want greater transparency about how their food is raised.

“Customers and consumers today want more and more information about the products they’re buying and eating,” he said. “The BQA program really helps us talk about best practices around animal husbandry and environmental stewardship, and that builds confidence in the beef producers raise.” 



Ag and Biofuel Groups Call for Reasonable Guidelines for Aviation Tax Credits

A letter signed by over 20 agricultural and biofuel groups was sent to officials at Treasury, the Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy and the White House today urging them to establish reasonable guidelines that will allow farmers to benefit from a tax credit, called 45Z, which is designed to facilitate the sale of ethanol and other biofuels in the aviation sector.  

The letter was signed by a range of groups, including the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association, National Oil Seed Processors Association and Clean Fuels Alliance of America.  
 
“Farmers are facing structural economic issues where projected costs exceed expected revenues,” the letter said. “As you know, biofuels are a critical market for American farmers, and tax incentives like the 45Z tax credit are essential policy instruments to secure long-term demand for liquid fuels made from American-grown feedstock. Stable, long-term market incentives will help farmers outpace their global competitors, and allow them to make capital, input, and management decisions that shape the next several growing seasons.”
 
The 45Z tax credit was established to facilitate the use of biofuels, like ethanol, in the aviation sector, which would help airlines reduce their greenhouse gas emissions while increasing demand for U.S. ag products.  
 
But as the law goes through the rule-making process, growers are calling on Treasury, USDA and the Department of Energy to establish guidelines for accessing the tax credit. Ag groups are urging the agencies to provide a seat at the table for farmers and recognize their long-standing use of conservation practices.   

Agricultural conservation practices, such as the use of cover crops and no-till or strip-till, improve soil structure and organic matter, increase water infiltration and enhance drought tolerance. These outcomes reduce crop damage during periods of excessive precipitation while also stabilizing yields under drought stress, ultimately lowering risk and reducing indemnity payments.
 
But the letter noted that these practices come at a cost.  
 
“Farmers often must make significant capital investments in equipment, absorb variable costs such as cover crop seed, and undertake significant management changes,” the letter said. “Clear 45Z guidance is critical for farmers and their lenders to plan with confidence. Without regulatory certainty on the inclusion of on-farm practices, those incentives will not materialize at the scale necessary to drive participation.”  

Ag groups say they are hopeful that this inter-agency group works collaboratively and swiftly to finalize their upcoming rulemaking for the benefit of America’s farmers.