Wednesday March 18 Ag News - NE Leaders on Nat'l Ag Week - Wildfires info, resources, calf health - Grain Dust Explosions lower in '25 - False Animal Health Info - and more!

Nebraska Leaders Honor Agriculture Week While Standing with Farmers, Ranchers and Communities Facing Historic Wildfires

Nebraska leaders, farmers, students, and industry partners gathered at Raising Nebraska on the Nebraska State Fairgrounds on March 17 to recognize National Agriculture Week and highlight the vital role agriculture plays in the state’s economy and communities. This year’s observance comes as historic wildfires have devastated parts of Nebraska, impacting farm and ranch families, livestock, and rural communities. The event, hosted by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, showcased Nebraska agriculture’s innovation, resilience, and commitment to community support.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our state, supporting farmers and ranchers, creating jobs, and driving innovation in industries like ethanol production and the growing bioeconomy,” said Mark McHargue, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation. “Right now, many farmers and ranchers are facing tremendous losses from these wildfires. Nebraska agriculture is a strong community, and when one part of our state hurts, we all come together.”

Governor Jim Pillen signed the official proclamation recognizing National Agriculture Week March 15–21. He also recognized First Lady Suzanne Pillen for her leadership through the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation Bushels of Stories program, which helps young Nebraskans learn about farming, ranching, and the people who produce their food, recognizing the farmers and ranchers who sustain Nebraska’s economy and rural communities.

“This week reminds us how important agriculture is to Nebraska,” Gov. Pillen said. “At the same time, our thoughts are with families impacted by these historic wildfires. Farmers and ranchers are resilient, and Nebraskans will stand together to help our neighbors recover and rebuild.”

Agriculture leaders emphasized the growing bioeconomy, including ethanol, as a way to create new markets for farmers while supporting rural communities during challenging times.

“Ethanol adds value to Nebraska crops and strengthens our rural economy by turning what farmers grow into clean energy and new products,” said Sherry Vinton, director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. “Nebraska agriculture is rooted in resilience, and clean-burning ethanol plays an important role in supporting our rural communities and consumers—both in strong times and as they bounce back from challenges.”

Students from Husker Motorsports at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln also highlighted ethanol’s role in innovation, including high-performance racing and renewable fuel development.

“Ethanol’s high-octane performance makes it a strong fuel for motorsports and shows the potential of renewable fuels grown by Nebraska farmers,” said Curtis Krause of Husker Motorsports. “As we celebrate agriculture this week, we also stand with farmers and ranchers impacted by wildfires and support the communities working to recover.”

In response to the wildfires, the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation announced the launch of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Disaster Relief Fund to support farmers, ranchers, rural firefighters, and rural communities affected by the fires.

“The losses many families are experiencing right now are heartbreaking,” McHargue said. “The Nebraska Farm Bureau is establishing a disaster relief fund to provide support. Our agricultural community has always stepped up to help neighbors in times of need, and we will continue to do so.”

To donate, visit https://www.nefb.org/disaster and click the NEFB Disaster Relief Fund button.



Vigilance in monitoring calf health following exposure to wildfire smoke

Wildfires occurring in western and central Nebraska mirror a broader trend of increasing wildfire frequency and magnitude across the western United States. While the immediate impacts of wildfire are devastating to beef production and rural communities, the effects of wildfire smoke may also pose risks to both human and animal health. In the weeks and months following a wildfire event, producers should remain vigilant and monitor calves for signs of respiratory disease or illness.

Combustion of biomass during wildfires produces carbon dioxide and water vapor but also generates ash, a mixture of inorganic compounds. Of particular concern is ultrafine particulate matter (< 2.5 µm), which can travel deep into the lung alveoli and enter the bloodstream. In humans, these particles have been associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.

Limited research has examined wildfire smoke exposure in cattle. However, work conducted by Ranches and others (2026) in a small group of Simmental × Jersey calves reported increased concentrations of cortisol, an indicator of stress, following exposure to smoke from a wildfire approximately 10 miles away from the study site. In the same study, concentrations of ceruloplasmin, a marker of systemic inflammation, were elevated following the wildfire event. Antibodies including IgM and IgA were also increased, suggesting activation of the immune system.

Physiological stress and inflammation can negatively affect cattle performance and immune function. When immune defenses are compromised, calves may become more susceptible to respiratory pathogens. In the development of bovine respiratory disease (BRD), opportunistic bacterial pathogens—including Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Histophilus somni, and Mycoplasma bovis—are normally present at low levels in healthy calves. However, when viral infection or physiological stress suppresses immune function, these bacteria can proliferate in the respiratory tract, leading to morbidity, reduced performance, and potentially death.

Because stressors such as wildfire smoke may increase disease susceptibility, monitoring calves closely for early signs of illness is important. One practical approach is the D.A.R.T. method, which helps producers identify calves that may require further evaluation.

D – Depression: Observe calf posture and behavior. Droopy ears or head carriage, lethargy, increased time spent lying down, and separation from pasture mates may indicate illness. Because cattle are prey animals and tend to hide sickness, subtle behavioral differences may only become apparent after calves become accustomed to your presence.

A – Appetite: Reduced appetite—whether at the feed bunk or during nursing—can indicate a health challenge. On pasture, reduced gut fill relative to herdmates may also signal decreased intake.

R – Respiration: Healthy cattle typically take 10–30 breaths per minute. Increased respiratory rate, shallow breathing, or abnormal sounds such as coughing or raspy breathing may indicate respiratory disease. Nasal discharge or excessive eye secretions may also accompany illness.

T – Temperature: Rectal temperatures of approximately 103.5–104.0°F or greater are indicative of fever and warrant further attention.

Early detection and treatment of sick calves improves the likelihood of recovery and helps reduce performance losses associated with respiratory disease. Extra vigilance and responsiveness may help mitigate adverse health outcomes in the weeks and months following exposure to wildfire smoke. 



After Wildfire: Livestock Care, Documentation, and Recovery for Nebraska Cattle Operations

Recent wildfires in Nebraska have left many cattle operations facing urgent management decisions. Once humans are safe, producers should focus on three priorities: stabilizing livestock through health checks and access to clean water and feed, documenting losses and engaging with insurers and/or assistance programs, and developing a grazing recovery plan that protects rangeland health going into the next grazing season.

Cattle Care
Cattle should not be allowed back into recently burned areas. Ashes, smoldering fencelines, hay piles, and hot spots can cause significant injury to hooves and soft tissues.  

If producers evacuated before all livestock were accounted for, make sure neighbors or first responders know where animals may be. In addition to brands, temporary identification such as paint or chalk marks, can help reconnect animals with owners later.  

Plan to evaluate livestock multiple times over the coming days and weeks. Burn-related hoof damage, in particular, may take time to show up.  

As you assess cattle, take time to examine the areas most vulnerable to heat and smoke damage:  
    Hooves, udders, sheaths, and testicles for burns or swelling
    Eyes and muzzle for soot, abrasions, or ulceration
    Respiratory signs such as coughing or rapid breathing  

On days when smoke drifts across the area, avoid working or exerting cattle unnecessarily. Respiratory irritation from smoke can worsen with handling.  

Cows in late gestation and pairs may need extra monitoring. Post-fire stress can weaken maternal behavior or reduce milk production. Burned or singed udders may prevent calves from nursing.

Consult your veterinarian early for burn treatment, pain management, antibiotics if needed, and guidance about which animals are likely to recover. In some cases, humane euthanasia may be the best choice. Severely injured animals may also be unable to move safely or may not be accepted at packing plants, so evaluate transport options carefully.  

Water and Short-Term Nutrition
Water access is critical. Displaced and stressed cattle often require more water. Animals that have gone without may overdrink when water becomes available again. When possible, cattle that have been without water for more than a day should be slowly adapted back to water by providing them with access to small amounts of water every half hour (3-5 gallons for cows and bulls, 1-2 gallons for growing cattle) until the cattle are no longer thirsty. Offering clean water from several access points helps avoid crowding and reduces digestive issues linked to sudden intake.  

Forage losses may require temporary feeding support. Having forage available maintains rumen health. However, if no forage is available, a low-protein (12-14% CP), low starch (8-12% crude fiber) commercial feed product can be used for 4-5 days to minimize weight loss until hay and/or grazing can be secured. If hay supplies have to be stretched, a combination of limit feeding hay and feeding a 28-32% range cube may help maintain body condition. Consult a nutritionist or your local Nebraska Extension Livestock Educator for help with developing a feeding plan in these scenarios.

Documentation and Working With Insurance and Assistance Programs
Before moving carcasses or starting repairs, take clear, date stamped photos of carcasses or injured animals; damaged fences, tanks, and infrastructure; and burned hay or feed.

Record tag numbers, brands, and locations where possible. Contact your insurance provider early for instructions.  

Carcasses should be handled according to state approved disposal methods. Nebraska Statute §54-2946 limits disposal to burial, incineration, composting, rendering, or land filling. Timing of disposal often depends on insurance and regulatory guidance. Follow local directives closely and take steps to prevent contamination around disposal sites or damaged feed areas.  

Producers may qualify for several USDA programs, but it’s important to contact the local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office promptly. These programs can help with livestock mortality, water and feed transport, and grazing losses. Coordinate any fencing or grazing changes with the FSA and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) beforehand to ensure documentation and eligibility requirements are met. To locate your local USDA Service Center, visit https://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator  

Keep veterinary statements and sale receipts for animals that decline or die in the weeks following the wildfire, as these may still qualify for compensation if linked to the event.  

Burned pastures need time to recover. Plan for deferred or rested grazing and reevaluate stocking rates as you track regrowth through spring and early summer. Infrastructure such as fences, tanks, and pipelines should be inspected and repaired before turnout. Temporary fencing can help keep cattle away from sensitive areas undergoing recovery.  

The stress of wildfire recovery shouldn’t be overlooked. The Nebraska Rural Response Hotline (800-464-0258) provides confidential support for emotional, financial, and legal concerns associated with disasters.  

Sources
    March 17 Webinar, Confinement Feeding Cow-Calf Pairs in the Face of Limited Perennial Grass Options, 6:30 PM MDT, sign up to watch and/or receive the recording at https://pears.io/events/nebraskaextension/4863/
    Nebraska Dept. of Ag. Fire Response Resources: https://nda.nebraska.gov/disasterresources
    Nebraska Extension Livestock Disaster Education, https://disaster.unl.edu/agriculture/livestock/
    Cattle surviving the devastating Texas Panhandle wildfires need immediate care, Texas A&M AgriLife, https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2024/02/28/cattle-surviving-the-devastating-texas-panhandle-wildfires-need-immediate-care/
    Emergency cattle nutrition strategies after a wildfire, https://extension.okstate.edu/articles/2024/emergency-cattle-nutrition.html
    Prep4AgThreats, https://www.prep4agthreats.org/Natural-Disasters/wildfires-and-livestock
    Managing Burned Pastures After a Wildfire- How to Graze, https://beef.unl.edu/managing-burned-pastures-after-wildfire-how-graze/



Grain dust explosion incidents decrease, fatalities increase

Seven U.S. grain dust explosions in 2025 caused 10 injuries and four fatalities, according to a nationwide annual summary.

The number of explosions is slightly below the 10-year national average of 8.5 and down from the nine that occurred in 2024. Even though there were fewer explosions, the number of injuries and fatalities increased compared to two injuries and no fatalities in 2024. 

The explosions occurred in two grain elevators, one farm-operated grain elevator, one seed processing facility, one feed mill, one flour mill and one biofuel plant. 

The probable ignition sources were identified in one case as smoldering grain, one as equipment maintenance work, one as an overheated bearing and one as a dust fire. Three ignition sources were unknown.  

Grain dust, which caused five explosions, was the most common fuel source. Wood dust and an unknown source fueled other explosions. 

“The incidents occurring across a variety of agricultural industries highlight persistent vulnerabilities in explosive dust management,” said Kingsly Ambrose, Purdue University professor of agricultural and biological engineering and the report’s author. “The increase in fatalities and injuries underscores the urgent need for broader adoption of dust control practices and stronger safety interventions to prevent future injuries and loss of life.”

Texas and Ohio had two explosions each, and Minnesota, North Dakota and Nebraska each had one explosion. 

Ambrose said work to prevent explosions in all states starts before harvest. 

“Keep your equipment in good working condition, and do preventative maintenance before the start of harvest or handling season,” Ambrose said. “Check for repairs so you don’t have any accidents. For example, belt misalignment in a bucket elevator can lead to friction, heat generation and an increased risk of dust explosion.” 

Once grain is harvested, Ambrose urges people to pay close attention to the conditions the grain is kept in. Improper aeration leads to fungal growth, which causes grain and feed to smolder, increasing the risk of igniting dust in the grain bins. 

“Dust is not good, both for dust explosions and for human health,” Ambrose said. “Housekeeping is very important. Keep the place clean. Make sure there is no visible settled dust or suspended dust in the air.” 



2026 Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey Offers Planning Guidance for Iowa Producers

Farmers who depend on custom work or provide custom services can review rates reported by others across the state in the latest Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey https://shop.iastate.edu/extension/farm-environment/farm-and-business-management/farm-business-management/fm1698.html.

For over 50 years, the survey, conducted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, has provided guidance for Iowans who hire custom work and those who do custom work for others. According to the most recent Iowa Farmland and Tenure Survey, only 3% of Iowa farmland is fully operated under custom farming agreements. A much greater proportion of farm operations within the state utilize custom work for occasional operations throughout the year.

The 2026 Farm Custom Rate Survey is based on 205 responses and 4,698 custom rates provided by Iowa farmers, custom operators and farm managers. Thirty-two percent of respondents perform custom work, 20% hire work done, 47% indicated doing both and 2% did not indicate whether they perform or hire custom work.

Farm tasks in the report range from field preparation to planting to harvest, with cost data that reflects the average, median and range for each task. Rental rates for select machinery, grain bins and hourly machinery operating wages are also included. New operations surveyed in 2026 include drone spraying and side-dressing anhydrous ammonia.

Ann Johanns, program specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach and editor of Ag Decision Maker, said this report is a valuable resource for custom operators and those who hire custom work done.

“This survey report is heavily used by Iowans and across the Midwest, as the 116,000 downloads in the past year show,” she said. “The 2026 survey report shows increases across all categories of operations surveyed, ranging from 0.3% for bin and machinery rental rates to 8.5% for pre-harvest operations, which include tillage, spraying, fertilizer application and planting.”

The custom rate survey is intended to serve as a guide. Actual custom rates may vary according to the availability of machinery in a given area, timeliness, operator skill, field size and shape, crop conditions and the performance characteristics of the machine being used.

Fuel
Diesel fuel was estimated at $2.89 per gallon when invitations to complete the custom rate survey were sent in early February. However, fuel prices have increased since then; as reported by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Iowa Production Cost Report (Bi-Weekly), No. 2 Diesel (farm) went from an average of $2.59 in January to $3.12 in the most recent March 2026 report.

A $0.50-per-gallon increase in fuel prices will raise total machinery costs by approximately 5%. Another way to adjust custom rates is to use Fuel Required for Field Operations, which contains estimated fuel consumption values per acre for many common operations. Multiplying the fuel used per acre by the change in fuel price since the survey was conducted can provide an estimate of the most recent cost increase per acre.

Estimate machinery costs
Custom work rates should account for all ownership and operating costs associated with the equipment being used. Custom operators and those who hire custom work done are encouraged to utilize additional resources, such as Estimating Farm Machinery Costs, for specific operations. New web-based calculators and downloadable decision tools are included to allow users to enter their own estimates and calculate machinery and implement costs.

A price comparison series for fuel, fertilizer and crop prices is updated regularly on the Ag Decision Maker website https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/energy/xls/agmrcfuelvsgrain_monthly.xlsx.

The information available in the 2026 Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey is only possible due to the responses provided each year. If you are interested in joining the 2027 Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey mailing list, send your mailing or email address to Ann Johanns at Iowa State University, Borlaug Learning Center, 3327 290th Street, Nashua, IA 50658 or aholste@iastate.edu.



NCBA on false animal health information being spread online
CEO Colin Woodall 
 
“The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is aware of online rumors that allege a new or unknown animal disease is circulating in a feedlot in the Texas Panhandle. These claims are false. Animal health officials from USDA, state officials in Texas, along with leaders at Texas Cattle Feeders Association, have confirmed there is no such disease present.

Spreading unverified information like this is not only irresponsible, it is harmful to cattle producers, the beef supply chain, and consumer confidence in a safe and wholesome product. Our industry depends on transparency, science-based animal health protocols, and strong collaboration with state and federal animal health authorities.

We encourage everyone—producers, media, and the public—to rely on credible sources and verified information. NCBA and state affiliate partners will continue working closely with animal health officials to monitor any legitimate concerns and ensure the continued health of the U.S. cattle herd.” 



National Biodiesel Day Celebrates America’s History, Future of Clean Fuel Production

Biodiesel has been an early driver of clean fuel growth in America and a consistent foundation for farm and food security throughout the 21st century. On March 18, National Biodiesel Day, Clean Fuels Alliance America celebrates the industry’s resiliency and looks ahead to new opportunities for growth.

“Biodiesel helped chart the course for today’s clean fuels market in heavy-duty transportation and opened the doors to applications in rail, marine, Bioheat® fuel and aviation,” said Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “We have built that progress on a proud legacy of clean, homegrown fuel led by our nation’s soybean farms.”

National Biodiesel Day commemorates the birthday of Rudolf Diesel, who invented the diesel engine and predicted the importance of biodiesel more than a century ago. “The use of vegetable oils for engine fuels may seem insignificant today, but such oils may become, in the course of time, as important as petroleum and the coal tar products of the present time,” he said in a speech in 1912.

That idea is as important today as ever, Rehagen said.

“Domestic fuel production is the key to protecting our nation's interests, as current events remind us once again,” he said. “Biodiesel is essential to farm security, food security and national security.”

Biodiesel supports farm profitability and stability, enabling farmers to meet growing demand for food and fuel. Biodiesel and renewable diesel production are responsible for 10% of the value of every bushel of U.S.-grown soybeans. Additionally, diverse markets for soybeans create resiliency and stability in agriculture.

The industry expects even more in the future. The U.S. EPA has recognized the potential of clean fuels to grow in the coming years, proposing a renewable volume obligation of 5.61 billion gallons for 2026 and a growth path of annual increases in future years. Other opportunities include state-level low carbon fuel programs and the recent release of the proposed rule for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit.

“America’s soybean farmers and clean fuel producers stand ready as tools to support additional growth are finalized,” Rehagen said. “The need is clear, and this industry will respond in 2026 and beyond.”



ACE 2026 DC Fly-In Marks 15 Years of Grassroots Advocacy on Capitol Hill

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) welcomed ethanol producers, farmers, fuel retailers, and other industry stakeholders from across the country to Washington, D.C., this week, March 17-18, for its 2026 DC Fly-In, marking 15 years of grassroots ethanol advocacy on Capitol Hill.

“The stakes are high for the future of ethanol, agriculture, and rural America, particularly regarding how we increase demand and value for American-made biofuels, so this year’s Fly-In comes at a defining moment,” said Brian Jennings, ACE CEO. “With consequential decisions surrounding year-round E15 legislation, implementation of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, and the future of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), ACE members are in Washington to ensure the voices of rural America are heard.”

ACE members are meeting with Members of Congress, their staff, and federal agency officials, including Aaron Szabo, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation, and Kate Zook, Acting Administrator of USDA’s Office of Energy & Environmental Policy. Key priorities are securing permanent, year-round market access for E15, advocating for strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) blending targets, and ensuring swift and clear guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit—including clarity on how ethanol producers can benefit from low-carbon farming practices. Participants will also highlight opportunities to unlock new domestic and global markets for U.S. ethanol.

“The decisions made in Washington in the coming months will help shape the future of ethanol and rural America for years to come,” said Troy Knecht, ACE President. “After 15 years, this Fly-In remains one of the most effective ways ACE members can engage directly with policymakers and help shape policies that impact their businesses and communities.”

Since launching its first Fly-In in 2009, more than 300 individuals from over 30 states have participated in ACE Fly-Ins, bringing firsthand perspectives from rural America to the policymakers and regulators responsible for shaping the nation’s biofuel policies.



Purina Animal Nutrition Is Offering $30,000 Across 10 Scholarships; Open to Students With Experience in Animal Agriculture

Purina Animal Nutrition, along with the Land O’Lakes Foundation, has opened its scholarship program designed to assist students with experience in agriculture and livestock production in pursuing their passions and furthering their education.

Undergraduate students and current high school seniors in the U.S. who have experience raising and caring for small or large livestock, equine, and/or poultry are eligible to apply for one of 10 $3,000 scholarships. Students will be awarded based on applications that illustrate the impact animal agriculture has had on their lives along with detailing academic achievements, leadership skills, community involvement and a clear vision for their future.  

Scholarship applications will be accepted from March 18 through 3 p.m. CST April 16, and awardees will be notified in June. Funds will be distributed for the Fall 2026 semester directly to their current or anticipated educational institution. The scholarship is open to all high school seniors who plan to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited U.S. two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school for the entire upcoming academic semester/term and undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school in the U.S.

To learn more about and apply to the Purina Animal Nutrition Scholarship, visit https://www.purinamills.com/scholarship.



USDA Announces Proposed Delay of Effective Date of Poultry Grower Payment Systems Final Rule

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) took action Tuesday to delay the effective date of the Poultry Grower Payment Systems and Capital Improvement Systems final rule from July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027.

USDA published the final rule Under the Biden Administration on January 16, 2025, that amended 9 CFR Part 201 of its regulations under the Packers and Stockyards Act (P&S Act) (7 U.S.C. 181 et seq.). The final rule was promulgated in support of the Biden Executive Order 14036 (86 Fed. Reg. 36987 (July 9, 2021)), which was revoked by President Trump via Executive Order 14337 on August 13, 2025. (90 Fed. Reg. 40227 (August 13, 2025)). This action is also in alignment with Congressional direction, and given the significant estimated costs, policy, and legal issues associated with the final rule, the Agricultural Marketing Service is seeking public comment on delaying the effective date of the final rule to December 31, 2027, to allow for thorough consideration of these matters.

The final rule: (1) prohibits livestock poultry dealers (LPDs) from reducing a grower’s compensation based on the grower’s ranking under a poultry grower ranking system; (2) establishes a presumptive violation of the P&S Act by LPDs when aggregate gross annual payments based upon a grower’s ranking under a poultry grower ranking system exceeds a certain threshold; (3) holds LPDs to a duty of fair comparison when designing and operating their poultry grower ranking system and requires documentation of compliance with that duty; and (4) requires LPDs to provide certain disclosures when requesting or requiring that broiler growers make additional capital investments.



NFU Urges Swift Finalization of Poultry Tournament Rule

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew Tuesday gave the following statement regarding the delay of the Poultry Grower Payment Systems and Capital Improvement Systems rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) from July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027.

“NFU is disappointed that USDA is delaying the implementation of its rule to increase fairness in poultry contracting and payment systems. Growers have long raised concerns about the unfairness of tournament pricing and the amount and quality of information provided to them by poultry companies. The rule establishes guardrails on the tournament system, giving producers more certainty and transparency so they can operate their farm businesses successfully.

“NFU is eager to see implementation of this long-overdue rule. Delaying it is a disservice to family farmers who deserve a fairer system.”

Background
Broiler chicken growers operate under a tournament-style system, where they must compete against their neighbors for the best price. Growers cannot reasonably avoid certain practices that cause them harm. Growers also lack access to certain information, which inhibits their ability to meaningfully understand, negotiate, and enforce poultry growing contracts with live poultry dealers (LPDs), including in relation to capital investments that LPDs request.

On January 9, 2025, USDA’s AMS announced the finalization of the Poultry Grower Payment Systems and Capital Improvement Systems rule to address unfairness and deception in broiler grower payments, poultry grower tournaments, and capital improvement systems.

The final rule contains three main provisions that NFU and family poultry growers are eager to see enforced:
    Prohibit LDPs from reducing any rate of compensation under a broiler growing arrangement based upon a grouping, ranking, or comparison of growers (commonly called a tournament);
    Establish a duty of fair comparison that requires LPDs to design and operate their broiler grower ranking system to provide a fair comparison among growers; and
    Require LPDs to provide Capital Improvement Discloser Documents to broiler growers when the LPD requires the grower to make an additional capital investment.

The final rule was originally listed in the Federal Register to be effective beginning July 1, 2026.