Friday April 03 Ag News - Reiners on USDA mission to Vietnam - CVA Approved Equity Redemptions, Donates to NE FFA Foundation - LRP for Ranchers course - Evaluate Alfalfa Stands - and more!

Nebraska Farmer Joins USDA Mission To Vietnam

The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) recently participated in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Trade Reciprocity for U.S. Manufacturers and Producers trade mission to Vietnam, where the delegation engaged with key coarse grain and co-product stakeholders in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

USGBC Vice Chairman Jay Reiners of Juniata, Nebraska, USGBC Deputy Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania (SEA&O) Chris Markey, USGBC Vietnam Representative Tran Trong Nghia and USGBC Regional Ethanol Consultant Kent Yeo joined the mission’s principal, USDA Under Secretary Luke J. Lindberg, for the program.

“The Council’s close alignment with USDA on expanding international markets for the U.S. corn, sorghum and barley farmer was further reinforced by this constructive mission to Vietnam,” said Reiners said.

“We appreciate Under Secretary Lindberg’s recognition of Vietnam’s potential as a key growth market for U.S. coarse grains and co-products, as well as its role as a strategic gateway to broader regional expansion for our farmers’ products.”

Vietnam is one of Asia’s fastest growing fuel markets, with annual consumption of gasoline projected to surpass three billion gallons per year in 2027. The upcoming E10 policy, which will apply to the country’s RON95 grade of gasoline, will complement the existing E5 RON92 mandate implemented in 2018 – meaning 100 percent of gasoline in Vietnam will be blended with ethanol beginning in June. The new policy is expected to create a fuel ethanol demand of approximately 240 million gallons per year.

Vietnam continues to be a major market for U.S. DDGS and has recently emerged as a top export market for U.S. corn. More than 1.1 million metric tons (MMT) of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) were exported to Vietnam in marketing year (MY) 2024/2025, making it the third largest export market for U.S. DDGS. Vietnam was the eighth largest customer of U.S. corn in MY 24/25 and is the seventh largest export market for U.S. corn in the current marketing year.

The mission commenced in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s economic hub, where the delegation met with key ethanol customers, including PVOIL, to discuss procurement and implementation strategies ahead of the country’s introduction of E10 gasoline. The Council’s delegation also participated in the Food & Hospitality Vietnam Trade Show, the largest food and beverage expo in Vietnam, alongside other USDA cooperators promoting U.S. food and agricultural products.

The delegation continued to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and political nucleus, to conduct site visits and meetings with key importers. This included a visit to Haiphong International Container Terminal (HICT), a business roundtable with coarse grain and co-product importers and the USDA Ag Hall of Fame Reception, where Under Secretary Lindberg presented the U.S.–Vietnam Agricultural Hall of Fame Award to six Vietnamese companies.

Under Secretary Lindberg and the Council’s team also held an E10 promotional event at Petrolimex’s flagship retail fuel station, where Petrolimex Chairman Pham Van Thanh attended to discuss E10 and dispensed gasoline for local motorbike and passenger vehicle customers. The activity further underscored the strong partnership between Petrolimex, Vietnam’s largest fuel distributor, and the U.S. ethanol industry.

The Council, Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association signed a quadripartite memorandum of understating (MOU) with Petrolimex in 2025 to assist the company in its preparation for increased ethanol blending.

“The significant agricultural trade partnership between Vietnam and the U.S. will only strengthen in the coming years with continued growth of the Vietnamese animal feed industry and rollout of E10 gasoline. The Council stands ready to support the Government of Vietnam and the Vietnamese industry in expanding protein production, dairy production and ethanol use,” Markey said.



Central Valley Ag approves $2.5 million in Age-Based Equity Redemptions

Central Valley Ag (CVA) Cooperative is proud to announce the approval of approximately $2.5 million in Age-Based Equity redemptions for eligible member-owners who have reached at least 65 years of age as of December 31, 2025. The CVA Board of Directors authorized the redemptions, reinforcing the cooperative’s commitment to returning value to its members.

“Our success is rooted in the dedication and loyalty of our member-owners,” said Nic McCarthy, CVA President and CEO. “These equity redemptions reflect our ongoing commitment to returning value and recognizing those who have helped build and sustain CVA over the years.”

The approved redemptions include both Qualified and Non-Qualified Based Equity. Qualified Age-Based Equity Redemptions are non-taxable and Non-Qualified Age-Based Equity Redemptions are taxable.

“Our member-owners are the foundation of CVA’s strength and future,” said Luke Carlson, CVA Board Chairman. “By staying financially disciplined and forward-looking, we’re able to support today’s members while ensuring the cooperative remains strong for the next generation.”

CVA remains dedicated to building a cooperative system that benefits members today and for generations to come. For more information, visit www.cvacoop.com. 



Fuel up for FFA campaign raises $2,757 for Nebraska FFA Foundation

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is proud to announce a donation of $2,757.15 to the Nebraska FFA Foundation following its Fuel Up for FFA campaign during National FFA Week. During this time, CVA donated 5 cents from every gallon of fuel purchased at CVA fuel sites with a CVA fuel card. Through this promotion, CVA and its fuel customers helped support the next generation of agricultural leaders. 

"FFA students represent the future of agriculture and leadership," said Jeff Ingalls, SVP of Energy at CVA. "When customers purchased fuel at CVA locations, they directly helped provide opportunities for young people who will drive our industry forward." 

The donation was presented during the Nebraska State FFA Convention held during March 25-27 in Lincoln, Neb. The convention provides students from across the state with opportunities to participate in leadership development events, connect with industry professionals and grow their leadership skills. 

"We are grateful to everyone who fueled up for FFA," said Stacey Agnew, executive director of the Nebraska FFA Foundation. "Thank you to CVA for creating this promotion and for your continued support of FFA. Because of individuals and sponsors like you and CVA, the Nebraska FFA Foundation is able to invest in growing leaders, building communities, and creating career connections for students, teachers and programs across the state." 

Funds raised through this campaign support leadership development programs, state convention experiences, and local chapter initiatives across Nebraska. 



New Online Course, “Livestock Risk Protection Insurance for Ranchers,” Launches April 1

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program is pleased to announce the launch of a new online course, Livestock Risk Protection Insurance for Ranchers, available beginning April 1.

This self-paced course is designed specifically for ranchers who want to better understand the Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) Insurance program and how it can be used to manage price risk. Whether participants are new to livestock insurance or looking to refine their risk management strategies, the course provides practical guidance tailored to agricultural producers.

The course is taught by University of Nebraska–Lincoln agricultural economist Elliott Dennis, who specializes in livestock markets and risk management.

“Price volatility is one of the biggest risks livestock producers face,” Dennis said. “LRP can be a useful tool for managing that risk, but many producers aren’t familiar with how it works or when it makes sense to use. This course is designed to walk ranchers through the fundamentals and help them determine how LRP may fit into their operation.”

Participants in the course will:
· Learn the fundamentals of Livestock Risk Protection Insurance
· Explore when this insurance product may be most useful
· Discuss strategies for selecting optimal coverage levels

Livestock Risk Protection Insurance for Ranchers is $50 per participant. To enroll, visit go.unl.edu/ae.

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



SPRING ALFALFA PLANT EVALUATION 
- Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator 

As temperatures begin to rise, don’t’ forget to take a bit of time to assess alfalfa stand health going into this year’s growing season. Snow cover over the winter helped insulate plants from extreme temperatures, but exposed plants, older stands, or late harvested alfalfa still have a potential for winter kill.  

Even before plants begin to green up, individual plant assessments can be done.  While assessment before green-up occurs may seem a bit preemptive, pre-scouting now can focus scouting efforts to problem areas later on when time becomes precious during spring planting.  

    Dig up 4-5 random plants per 20 acres, being sure to get the crown and a good portion of the tap root (around 6 inches at least).  Split the root and crown open. A healthy plant will be white and firm while winter damaged taproots will be yellow to brown in color and stringy. Yield will begin to be impacted when damage is greater than 30% of the total root/crown area.

    Look for alive, in-tact basal buds at the crown of the plant.  Buds formed last fall will start growth sooner and boost first cutting yields.  A lack of basal buds doesn’t mean that the plant won’t recover, but first cuttings may be smaller.

    If plants have begun growth, look at where it is occurring on the crown.  Healthy plants will have growth fully throughout the crown while damaged plants will often have asymmetrical growth with more stems on one side than the other.

If more than 30% of the plants assessed have significant damage, yield for the upcoming year may be impacted. Options like interseeding perennial grasses, seeding a warm season forage crop after the first harvest, or terminating the stand may need to be considered.



Tyler Bose Advocates for Sorghum Producers in Washington, D.C.

Tyler Bose of Arcadia represented Nebraska sorghum producers last week in Washington, D.C., as part of his role on the legislative committee with the National Sorghum Producers. During his time on Capitol Hill, Bose met with policymakers and advocated for issues important to sorghum producers, working to advance policies that support agriculture in Nebraska and across the country.

Bose wrapped up his visit by attending the Great American Agriculture Celebration at the White House, joining agricultural leaders from across the nation.

“It’s an honor to represent Nebraska sorghum producers on a national stage,” said Bose. “Having the opportunity to visit directly with policymakers and share our story is critical to ensuring agriculture and sorghum specifically, continues to have a strong voice in Washington.”

Nebraska Sorghum Producers expressed appreciation for Bose’s leadership and commitment to the industry.

“Tyler’s involvement shows just how important it is for growers to be engaged beyond the farm,” said Kristine Jameson, Executive Director for Nebraska Sorghum. “These conversations help shape the future of agriculture, and it takes dedicated leaders like Tyler to make sure our industry is represented.”

Bose’s experience also highlights the value of leadership development within the sorghum industry. Programs like Leadership Sorghum, offered through the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, provide growers and industry professionals with opportunities to build skills, expand their networks, and engage in advocacy efforts that impact agriculture at every level.

Applications are now open for Leadership Sorghum Class VIII. The program equips participants with the tools and experiences needed to step into leadership roles and represent the sorghum industry both locally and nationally.

“Getting involved in programs like Leadership Sorghum is one of the best ways to grow as a leader and make a difference,” said Bose. “We encourage anyone with a passion for agriculture to apply.”

Nebraska sorghum producers and industry partners are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and apply.

For more information or to apply, visit: https://www.sorghumcheckoff.com/press-releases/united-sorghum-checkoff-program-opens-applications-for-leadership-sorghum-class-viii/



IRFA Urges EPA to Include Biodiesel in Clean School Bus Program

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) submitted comments this week in response to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) request for information on the Clean School Bus (CSB) Program. The EPA sought feedback on a broad range of fuel options that school buses could use to reduce emissions, including biofuels, natural gas, and hydrogen, in their revamping of the program. 

In its comments, IRFA strongly recommended allocating substantial resources towards biodiesel infrastructure to enable the use of B20 (20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel) or higher blends, engine modification technologies for buses to use blends as high as B100, and incentivizing the purchase of biodiesel to allow school districts to try it in their fleets. 

Key points from IRFA’s comments include: 

Biodiesel is a Drop-In Solution That Works Today 
“Unlike electric buses, which require significant capital investment both in terms of new vehicles and charging infrastructure, biodiesel blends of up to B20 can be used in every diesel school bus operating in America today. These fuels require no engine modifications, no new vehicles, and no specialized training. IRFA recommends allocating CSB Program funding toward biodiesel fueling infrastructure, including onsite storage tanks for school districts. While B20 is a drop-in fuel option, providing support for the initial capital investments required to install biodiesel-specific infrastructure, school districts will be more likely to try B20 or even higher blends.” 

Cold Weather Concerns 
“This modification technology [referring to products such as the Optimus Ecosystem, technology that upgrades heavy-duty diesel engines to run on 100% biodiesel] is currently enabling the use of year-round B100 in some of the United States’ coldest cities. Ames, Iowa; Madison, Wisconsin; and Washington, D.C. have all adopted these engine modification systems for their heavy-duty public works vehicles, including snowplows, demonstrating that concerns about biodiesel in cold weather can be addressed with affordable solutions.” 

Emissions and Health Improvements 
“Studies have consistently shown that biodiesel is a simple and effective way to reduce tailpipe emissions from heavy-duty engines. Compared to replacing an entire bus, as would be required under a transition to electric school buses, the emissions reduction per taxpayer dollar is much higher by simply dropping B20 into existing buses, or potentially making the relatively small investments required to adopt B100 modification technology. If the goal is to protect as many children as possible from potentially harmful tailpipe emissions, while working within the funding currently available, biodiesel is a far more effective option.” 

Biodiesel “Buy Down” Incentives 
IRFA participated in a study with Humboldt Community School District in Iowa to evaluate the benefits of switching its fleet from conventional diesel to B11. The study found a 3.4% increase in fuel economy, an 11.2% decrease in fuel burned for DPF regeneration, and consistent results when more buses in the fleet were switched to biodiesel. These results were discussed in the comments. 

In addition, IRFA said the following about incentivizing studies with school districts:  

“IRFA recommends that EPA allocate CSB grant funds toward helping “buy down” higher biodiesel blends for participating school districts. They may be interested and willing to make the switch to blends such as B20, but making any kind of change can be a risky decision, especially for districts with limited budgets. As demonstrated by the Humboldt pilot study, school districts that are incentivized to compare biodiesel blends with conventional diesel will see benefits, making continued adoption more likely.” 

In conclusion, IRFA stated: “Biodiesel is a clean-burning solution that can reduce emissions exposure for children, improve fuel economy, and reduce maintenance needs across existing school bus fleets.”  




Ag Groups Call for End to Fertilizer Duties

Over 50 state ag groups and eight national organizations sent a letter to the International Trade Commission this week urging the agency to revoke the countervailing duty orders on imports of phosphate fertilizer from Morrocco. 

The letter – signed by the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Cotton Council, National Sorghum Producers, Society of American Florists, USA Rice, US Rice Producers Association – said that continuing the duties will further worsen the dire economic conditions faced by American farmers.  

“Maintaining the phosphate fertilizer [countervailing duties] will allow a small set of powerful corporations to continue to limit supply options for farmers,” the letter said. “This has already prevented farmers from accessing the tools that meet their crop production needs and resulted in lower yields and negative economic impacts.” 

The duties stem from a decision in 2020 by ITC to impose duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. The decision came after the U.S.-based Mosaic Company petitioned the agency to do so.  

Mosaic claimed at the time that unfairly subsidized foreign companies were flooding the U.S. market with fertilizers and selling the products at extremely low prices. The petition was supported by another U.S. company, J.R. Simplot.  

The duties are now being examined under a sunset review process that will determine if they should continue. 

The duties have had major effects on the phosphate fertilizer market. At least one Moroccan company halted shipments of phosphate fertilizers into the U.S., which led to price hikes and tight supply conditions, saddling farmers with a hardship that has only become more dire in recent weeks with the conflict in the Middle East. Phosphate (DAP) prices peaked in 2022 during the Russia-Ukraine crisis, but have only eased moderately since, with the corn/phosphate price ratio (the amount of bushels needed to buy a ton of fertilizer) reaching record highs in 2025. 

The letter said that these fertilizer companies have gained at the expense of America’s farmer.  

“These companies—one of which the CEOs receives $9.8 million in annual compensation—do not need import protection to keep them healthy,” the letter said. “Farmers on the other hand do need help. The United States simply does not have sufficient domestic phosphate resources to meet agricultural demand on its own.” 

A recent letter from farmers to Mosaic and Simplot calling on them to rescind their petition went unanswered. 

The sunset review will progress over the next year, culminating in a decision by the ITC to determine if the duties should continue. The final decision is expected in the spring of 2027.  



February U.S. Ethanol and DDGS Exports Remain Robust Despite Pullback
Renewable Fuels Association

U.S. ethanol exports edged 1% lower in February to a still-strong 209.9 million gallons (mg), though volumes remained 36% above year-ago levels. More than half of February shipments went to Canada and the European Union, with the balance distributed across nine other countries. Canada remained the top overall destination, even as exports eased 12% to a 10-month low of 61.2 mg, and it accounted for 70% of all denatured fuel ethanol shipments. The European Union continued to lead as the largest market for undenatured fuel ethanol. Total ethanol exports to the European Union surged 42% to a record 49.8 mg, led by the Netherlands. Exports to India jumped 120% to a three-month high of 26.7 mg. Brazil fell 30% from January to 25.7 mg; even so, U.S. exports to Brazil in just the first two months of 2026 already exceed Brazil’s full-year 2025 imports by 25%. Rounding out the top markets were Colombia (10.0 mg, -17%), the United Kingdom (9.3 mg, +17%), South Korea (6.9 mg, -2%), Mexico (6.5 mg, +57%), the Philippines (5.9 mg, -48%), and Peru (5.8 mg, up fourfold). Year-to-date U.S. ethanol exports totaled 421.9 mg, 25% ahead of the same period last year.

U.S. ethanol imports remained minimal in February, with just 138,663 gallons arriving from Brazil and Canada. Total imports for the year remain below 200,000 gallons.

U.S. exports of dried distillers grains (DDGS), the animal feed co-product generated by dry-mill ethanol plants, declined 9% in February to 919,855 metric tons (mt). Much of the decline reflected a 23% drop in shipments to Mexico, the top destination, to 174,775 mt. South Korea increased 2% to 123,571 mt, while Indonesia rose 11% to 101,868 mt. Colombia slipped 19% from a record high to 84,597 mt. Vietnam dipped 1% to 70,438 mt, its lowest shipment volume in a year. Other major markets included Canada (46,460 mt, -14%), Turkey (45,245 mt, -24%), the European Union (40,639 mt, +17%), Morocco (40,233 mt, +63%), and Japan (26,250 mt, -12%). The remaining one-third of February shipments was spread across 27 additional countries. Year-to-date DDGS exports reached 1.93 million mt, 16% above the same period last year.



USDA Dairy Products February 2026 Production Highlights

Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 1.16 billion pounds, 3.9 percent above February 2025 but 9.0 percent below January 2026. Italian type cheese production totaled 506 million pounds, 6.8 percent above 
February 2025 but 8.8 percent below January 2026. American type cheese production totaled 451 million pounds, 1.9 percent above February 2025 but 9.3 percent below January 2026. Butter production was 221 million pounds, 9.1 percent above February 2025 but 8.2 percent below January 2026.

Dry milk products (comparisons in percentage with February 2025)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 159 million pounds, up 8.7 percent.
Skim milk powder - 28.2 million pounds, down 8.3 percent.

Whey products (comparisons in percentage with February 2025)
Dry whey, total - 67.3 million pounds, up 12.0 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 84.7 million pounds, up 1.0 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 38.3 million pounds, up 5.8 percent.

Frozen products (comparisons in percentage with February 2025)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 57.6 million gallons, up 3.7 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 29.6 million gallons, down 2.8 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 1.64 million gallons, up 23.0 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 3.06 million gallons, up 2.0 percent.

Thursday April 02 Ag News - New NE Ag Labor Guide - Spring Cattle Health webinar - North American Manure Expo Tours - Corn/Soy Feb Crush Stats - Fertilizer Price Trends - and more!

USDA Crop Progress - State Stories - April 1, 2026

NEBRASKA:     For the week ending March 29, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies rated 60% very short, 33% short, 7% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 49% very short, 41% short, 10% adequate, and 0% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 13% very poor, 38% poor, 40% fair, 9% good, and 0% excellent.

IOWA:     Warm temperatures were experienced across the State in March. The average Statewide temperature was 40.3 degrees Fahrenheit through March 29th, 4.3 degrees above normal. On March 21st, many areas of the State saw high temperatures in the 90s, setting records for the earliest 90-degree temperature. Statewide precipitation was 2.0 inches, 0.2 inches above normal. A mid-month blizzard affected much of the State and high winds were an issue periodically throughout the month. Areas were still reporting dry conditions. Activities included fertilizer and manure applications as well as preparing machinery for upcoming planting. Spring tillage was beginning where conditions allowed, with scattered reports of small grains being planted. Overall, livestock conditions have been normal, despite the large temperature fluctuations and previously mentioned blizzard. Lambing and calving were in full swing.



New Nebraska Ag Labor Guide Helps Employers Manage Farm and Ranch Employees

Hiring and managing a team of employees is one of the toughest parts of running a farm or ranch today. To help navigate those hurdles, Nebraska Extension has published the Nebraska Agricultural Labor Guide to support employers through every stage of the employee relationship. 

Developed by a team of extension educators and specialists, the guide designed to give agricultural employers in Nebraska a practical starting point for thinking through labor decisions before problems arise. The guide also helps employers identify areas where clearer communication, stronger systems and better planning can improve the workplace for both managers and employees.

It breaks down the employment process and best practices in the following areas: 
    Recruitment and hiring: How to define a role and find the right fit
    Onboarding: Getting new hires started on the right foot
    Development and Operations: Managing day-to-day training and safety
    Retention: Strategies for keeping your best workers on board
    Termination: Navigating the difficult process of ending employment

"In agriculture, your people are often the biggest factor in long-term success," said Shannon Sand, an extension agricultural economist and one of the guide’s authors. "But managing well takes intentional planning, and this guide is meant to help ag employers think through those decisions in a structured, practical way."

The Nebraska Agricultural Labor Guide is available now on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, https://cap.unl.edu/labor.

This material is based upon work that is supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under agreement number 2021-38640-34714 through the North Central Region SARE program. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and should not be construed to represent any official USDA or U.S. Government determination or policy.



Saunders Co Lvst & Ag Assoc Meeting April 6
Dan Kellner, President, Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association

Spring is in the air, which means planting is just around the corner! Please join us for an informational meeting:

Monday, April 6, 2026
Pre-Planting Meeting
Yutan Country Club
6:30 PM Social
7:00 PM Dinner

Sponsors and speakers are:
Mid-Continent Irrigation - Kevin Harris, Fremont, NE
E St. Precision Ag - Josh Johnson, Ithaca, NE

Please help us recognize the 2026 Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Scholarship winners, Julia Vrana, Alex Barry, Peter Chohon, Roselynn Pokorny, and Chase Hartman.

We will be making a financial contribution to the 3 FFA Chapters that had submitted applications.

There are a few who have not paid dues, please get a hold of one of your directors to get those paid.

The Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Twilight Tour is being planned for June 29, 2026. Details to follow.



NeExt to host webinar on spring cattle health challenges

The program, Nebraska Cattle Health Outlook: New World screwworm update, scours prevention and diagnostics, and UNL research on bovine pinkeye, will be held April 16 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Central Time via Zoom.

The webinar is designed for Nebraska beef producers and allied industry professionals seeking timely, research-based information on late-spring herd health risks.

Dr. Matt Hille, assistant professor and diagnostic pathologist at the Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center, will lead the session. Hille earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University and spent five years in feedlot and cow-calf practice in South Dakota before returning to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to complete a doctorate and residency in anatomic pathology. His work focuses on infectious diseases and immunology in beef cattle.

Topics will include:
    An update on New World screwworm
    Prevention and diagnostic strategies for calf scours
    University of Nebraska–Lincoln research on bovine pinkeye

The webinar will provide practical guidance to help producers make informed herd health decisions heading into the late spring and summer months.

Registration is available at: https://pears.io/events/nebraskaextension/5109/

For more information, contact Brock Ortner at 308-327-2312 or bortner2@nebraska.edu.



NeFB Accepting Applications for Student Project Grants
 
Nebraska Farm Bureau will award $8,000 in grants from the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation Charles Marshall Fund to help students start or grow their 4-H or FFA projects. Grant amounts of $250, $500, $750, and $1,000 will be distributed until funds are exhausted.

Age 15 and below: applicant's parent(s) must be a Farm Bureau member. Age 16+: applicant
must be a Student Farm Bureau member. To join Nebraska Farm Bureau, visit www.nefb.org.
 
Applications will be evaluated by a panel of judges (Nebraska Farm Bureau members and/or
staff). The criteria for selection will be based on the completeness of the application in each
area:
    Project Summary
    Budget and Goals
    Financial Need
    Personal & Advisor Statements

Fill out the online application here https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/fa3e86f25ab941a0b1c145375deffba1. 

Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 PM (CST) on April 12. Applicants will receive notification of the results by May 15, 2026.

For additional information, please contact Audrey Schipporeit at audreys@nefb.org.



Tours Announced for 2026 North American Manure Expo
Leslie Johnson - Animal Manure Management Extension Educator

Visitors to the 2026 North American Manure Expo being held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Wayne, Nebraska on July 28-30 will have the chance to explore some of the region’s most innovative and sustainability‑focused agricultural operations during the event’s official tour day on July 28, 2026. All tours will begin and end at the Wayne County Fairgrounds, offering participants a convenient launch point for a day of hands‑on learning.

Organizers have curated five tours, each highlighting different aspects of manure management and livestock production, as well as conservation and agricultural innovation in Nebraska. Participants will have the option of choosing one or two half-day long tours or one full-day tour. While the full day tour is the “family friendly” option, families are welcome on any of the tours.

Innovation in Livestock and Manure Equipment
This tour features a half‑day exploration of two livestock operations and one manufacturing facility. Participants will visit Zobel Family Farms, a three‑generation beef and pork operation recognized with the 2013 Environmental Stewardship Award for its commitment to responsible production practices. The tour then stops at Bar K, a beef feedlot that showcases a lined runoff holding pond that feeds to a center pivot and a modern manure management system designed to protect the environment. The final stop is West Point Implement, a regional leader in manure application and feedlot management equipment, including the well‑known SpreadAll Manure Spreader line.

Composting, Renewable Energy, and Modern Cattle Care 
This tour is a half‑day experience highlighting agricultural operations that transform waste into valuable resources. Stops include Bacon Hill Farm, home to an anaerobic digester that generated methane‑powered electricity beginning in 2005 and operated for 15 years as part of Olean Energy; Doernemann Composting, a permitted facility established in 1999 that provides composting services alongside a construction and demolition landfill; and Reigle Cattle Company, a family‑run cattle operation that recently expanded with the addition of new roller‑compacted concrete pens.

Poultry Production and Manufacturing 
This tour offers a half‑day look at the poultry industry from barn to processing and equipment manufacturing. Tour stops include the Lincoln Premium Poultry Processing Plant, a state-of-the-art Fremont facility built to supply Costco’s rotisserie chickens and capable of processing more than 10 million pounds of chicken each week while employing roughly 1,200 workers. Additionally, participants will visit Mighty Giant, a small factory that produces tub grinders and litter-loading equipment essential for poultry manure handling.

Research, Technology, and Regenerative Farming 
This tour is a half‑day experience that introduces visitors to agricultural research and sustainable production practices. The tour includes the Haskell Agricultural Laboratory, a University of Nebraska site featuring long‑term organic versus inorganic fertilizer trials, nitrogen‑sensing technology, and insights into nearby egg producer Michael Foods. It also stops at the Kvols Beef Feedlot, a multi‑generation livestock operation that expanded with the addition of a deep‑pit beef barn and shares real‑world experiences with the system. The final stop is the Junior Pfanstiel Farm, a 270‑acre regenerative organic operation focused on reducing chemical inputs and improving soil fertility through the use of cover crops.

Family‑Focused 
This tour is a full‑day experience designed for visitors of all ages and features a blend of agriculture, wildlife, and Nebraska history. The tour begins at Pfanny’s Farm, a family‑owned agrotourism destination dedicated to land stewardship and known for combining traditional and modern crop and livestock management practices that support long‑term soil and natural resource health. Participants will also visit 4 Aces Dairy, a 180‑head robotic dairy where automation significantly reduces labor needs and guests can observe milking technology in action through a 24/7 viewing room. The tour continues with a stop at Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area, home to a 50‑acre fishing lake and more than 2,000 acres of prime habitat for deer, turkey, pheasant, and quail, where visitors will enjoy a boxed lunch. The day concludes at the Ashfall Fossil Beds, a rare type of fossil site called lagerstätten that provides an exceptional ecological “snapshot” of ancient organisms.

A Day Designed for Learning and Inspiration
With options suited to professionals, families, and anyone curious about modern agriculture, the 2026 North American Manure Expo tours offer a unique window into the future of manure management, conservation, and food production. Learn more about the manure expo and watch for registration at manureexpo.com.



YEUTTER INSTITUTE SYMPOSIUM TO EXAMINE FUTURE OF GLOBAL TRADING SYSTEM

The past year has brought massive changes in U.S. trade policy, including a landmark Supreme Court ruling on tariffs and preparations for an unprecedented review of the trade agreement with the United States’ two largest trading partners, Mexico and Canada. Experts from industry, law, academia and government will examine those and other factors impacting international trade during an April 21 symposium sponsored by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Clayton Yeutter Institute of International Trade and Finance.

The fifth biennial CME Group Foundation Symposium of the Yeutter Institute will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Nebraska East Union’s Great Plains Room and center on the theme “Toward a New International Trading System.” The event is free and open to the public and includes lunch.

Trade’s ramifications for agriculture will be the focus of one of the event’s three panels. Steve White, farm broadcaster with the Rural Radio Network, will moderate the discussion, addressing “The Stakes for U.S. Agriculture.” The panel’s members will be Jordan Dux, senior director of national affairs for the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation; Jayson Beckman, the Mike Yanney Yeutter Institute Chair in the Department of Agricultural Economics; and Joe Glauber, research fellow emeritus for the International Food Policy Research Institute and former chief economist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Online registration is available for in-person attendance. The event also will be livestreamed through the Yeutter Institute’s website, https://yeutter-institute.unl.edu.

For those eligible, the event will provide three credits of continuing legal education.

Ken Levinson, CEO of the Washington International Trade Association and WITA Foundation, will lead a panel on “Perspectives from Law, Policy and Industry.” Mike Boyle, president of Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corporation, U.S.A., will provide observations as a panelist. Boyle, a Lincoln resident, holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Nebraska. The panel also will include two speakers with extensive government experience: Kathleen Claussen, professor at the Georgetown University Law Center and a former associate general counsel for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative; and Angela Ellard, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, who served for more than two decades as majority and minority chief trade counsel in the U.S. Congress before serving as deputy director-general of the World Trade Organization from 2021 to August 2025.

Jill O’Donnell, the Yeutter Institute’s Haggart-Work Director, will moderate the third panel, focusing on “Path Dependency and the Future of Trade.” The panel will include Bob Koopman, Hurst Senior Professorial Lecturer at the American University School of International Service and former chief economist for the World Trade Organization, as well as Maria Pagan, former deputy U.S. trade representative and U.S. ambassador to the World Trade Organization and former deputy general counsel for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

The symposium is made possible by support from the CME Group Foundation. The Yeutter Institute is named after Clayton Yeutter (1930-2017), a Eustis, Nebraska, native who served as the U.S. secretary of agriculture and the U.S. trade representative. Yeutter earned three degrees from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln — a Bachelor of Science, Juris Doctor and doctoral degree in agricultural economics.



Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks

Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 6.43 million tons (214 million bushels) in February 2026, compared with 6.84 million tons (228 million bushels) in January 2026 and 5.69 million tons (190 million bushels) in February 2025. Crude oil produced was 2.48 billion pounds, down 6 percent from January 2026 but up 10 percent from February 2025. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.76 billion pounds during February 2026 decreased 3 percent from January 2026 but increased 9 percent from February 2025.

Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 469 million bushels in February 2026. Total corn consumption was down 7 percent from January 2026 but up 1 percent from February 2025. February 2026 usage included 92.7 percent for alcohol and 7.3 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.24 million bushels, down 7 percent from January 2026 but up 7 percent from February 2025. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 425 million bushels, was down 8 percent from January 2026 but up 1 percent from February 2025. Corn consumed in February 2026 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 92.2 percent and 7.8 percent, respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.63 million tons during February 2026, down 8 percent from January 2026 and down 4 percent from February 2025. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.19 million tons in February 2026, down 11 percent from January 2026 but up 8 percent from February 2025.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 242,146 tons during February 2026, down 4 percent from January 2026 but up 6 percent from February 2025. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 170,163 tons in February 2026, down 12 percent from January 2026 and down 3 percent from February 2025.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 3/27/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending March 27, ethanol production scaled down 3.7% to 1.08 million b/d, equivalent to 45.15 million gallons daily and the lowest weekly volume since January. Output was 1.1% higher than the same week last year and 2.7% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.5% to 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.96 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks shrank 4.3% to 26.0 million barrels. Stocks were 2.3% less than the same week last year and 0.2% below the three-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions except the Rocky Mountains (PADD 4).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, slid 2.7% to a 4-week low of 8.69 million b/d (133.52 bg annualized). Demand was 2.2% more than a year ago yet 3.6% below the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol improved 1.6% to 903,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.88 bg annualized and a 14-week high. Net inputs were 0.6% more than year-ago levels and 1.1% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports increased 3.4% to an estimated 123,000 b/d (5.2 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



4 Fertilizer Prices Rise Double-Digits

Retail fertilizer prices are continuing to jump higher but recent increases have become much more pronounced -- with four of the fertilizers seeing double-digit increases from a month ago. According to prices tracked by DTN for the fourth week of March 2026, all eight of the major fertilizers are more expensive compared to last month.

Five of the eight major fertilizers had considerable price increases compared to prior month. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Urea led the way higher as the nitrogen fertilizer was an incredible 35% higher compared to last month. The liquid fertilizer had an average price of $826/ton; last week the price was $677/ton. Both anhydrous and UAN32 were 20% higher looking back a month. Anhydrous had an average price of $1,035/ton while UAN32 was at $558/ton.

UAN28 was 17% higher looking back to the prior month and had an average price of $484/ton. 10-34-0 was 7% more expensive than last month and had an average price of $710/ton.

The remaining three nutrients were slightly higher in price compared to last month. DAP had an average price of $857/ton, MAP was $906/ton and potash $489/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.90/lb.N, anhydrous $0.63/lb.N, UAN28 $0.86/lb.N and UAN32 $0.87/lb.N.

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier: potash by 6%, 10-34-0 9%, MAP 11%, DAP 12%, UAN32 32%, both anhydrous and UAN28 34%, and urea by 46%.



USDA Announces April 2026 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for April 2026, which are effective April 1, 2026. USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.        
     
Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans
FSA offers farm operating, ownership and emergency loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation.       

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for April 2026 are as follows:        
    Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 4.750%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 5.750%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct, Joint Financing): 3.750%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 1.750%
    Emergency Loan (Amount of Actual Loss): 3.750%     

FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders. To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.     

Commodity and Storage Facility Loans  
Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.    
    Commodity Loans(less than one year disbursed): 4.625%       
 Farm Storage Facility Loans:  
    Three-year loan terms: 3.625%  
    Five-year loan terms: 3.750%  
    Seven-year loan terms: 3.875%  
    Ten-year loan terms: 4.125% 
    Twelve-year loan terms: 4.375%  
 Sugar Storage Facility Loans (15 years): 4.500%          

To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. 

Wednesday April 1 Ag News - USDA Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks summaries - Wildfire Recovery - 2026 NE Youth Summit - Iowa E15 Sales up 60% - Iowa Drone Workshop in May - and more!

US farmers expect to plant less corn and more soybean acres

Producers surveyed across the United States intend to plant 95.3 million acres of corn in 2026, down 3% from last year, according to the Prospective Plantings report released today by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).

Planted acreage intentions for corn are down in 37 of the 48 estimating states. Acreage decreases of 300,000 acres or more from last year are expected in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. If realized, the area of corn planted in Nevada and Washington will be the largest on record, while Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island will be the smallest on record. 

Soybean growers intend to plant 84.7 million acres in 2026, up 4% from last year. Acreage increases from last year of 300,000 or more are expected in Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Record high acreage is expected in Wisconsin.

The Prospective Plantings report provides the first official, survey-based estimates of U.S. farmers’ 2026 planting intentions. NASS acreage estimates are based on surveys conducted during the first two weeks of March from a sample of nearly 74,000 farm operators across the nation. Other key findings in the report are:
    All wheat planted area for 2026 is estimated at 43.8 million acres, down 3% from 2025.
    Winter wheat planted area, at 32.4 million acres, is down 2% from both the previous estimate and from last year.
    Area planted to other spring wheat for 2026 is expected to total 9.42 million acres, down 6% from 2025.
    Durum wheat planted is expected to total 1.95 million acres for 2026, down 11% from last year.
    All cotton planted area for 2026 is expected to total 9.64 million acres, up 4% compared to last year.

2026 By State            (1,000 acres  -  % of '25)
Nebraska Corn...........:      10,300       96       
Nebraska Soybeans...:       5,200       107        
Nebraska Hay............:       2,250        98        
Nebraska Wheat........:         900        95        
Nebraska Sorghum....:         250       100        
Nebraska Oats...........:         125       100        
Iowa Corn ................:      13,100        97        
Iowa Soybeans.........:       9,900       105        
Iowa Hay..................:       1,060       105        
Iowa Oats.................:          130       108        

Today, NASS also released the quarterly Grain Stocks report to provide estimates of on-farm and off-farm stocks as of March 1. Key findings in that report include:
    Corn stocks totaled 9.02 billion bushels, up 11% from the same time last year. On-farm corn stocks were up 21% from a year ago, while off-farm stocks were down 2%.
    Soybeans stored totaled 2.10 billion bushels, up 10% from March 1, 2025. On-farm soybean stocks were up 3% from a year ago, while off-farm stocks were up 16%.
    All wheat stored totaled 1.30 billion bushels, up 5% from a year ago. On-farm all wheat stocks were down 3% from last year, while off-farm stocks were up 8%.
    Durum wheat stored totaled 46.5 million bushels, up 21% from March 1, 2025. On-farm Durum stocks were up 40% from a year ago, while off-farm stocks of Durum wheat were down 4%.

By State (1,000 bu -'25 on farm-'25 off farm-'25 total - '26 on farm-'26 off farm-'26 total)
Nebraska Corn.........:   500,000    441,845     941,845       620,000     409,658   1,029,658 
Nebraska Soybeans..:    39,500     105,905    145,405        48,000      126,632     174,632 
Nebraska Wheat.......:      1,950     31,575       33,525          2,200       31,103       33,303 
Iowa Corn................:   790,000     681,769   1,471,769     980,000     598,826   1,578,826 
Iowa Soybeans.........:   160,000    199,894     359,894       155,000     203,351     358,351 



NRCS Offers Disaster Assistance to Agricultural Producers in Nebraska Impacted by Wildfire

Agricultural operations in Nebraska were significantly impacted by recent wildfires. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has technical and financial assistance available to help farmers and livestock producers recover from adverse natural disaster events. Impacted producers should contact their local USDA Service Center to report losses and learn more about program options available to assist in their recovery from crop, land, infrastructure, and livestock losses and damages.

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is available to provide technical assistance during the recovery process through planning and implementation of conservation practices on farms, ranches and working forests impacted by natural disasters. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) can also provide financial assistance to help producers implement conservation practices on land impacted by natural disasters. A special emergency sign-up is open for EQIP for those impacted by the wildfires across the state of Nebraska beginning March 25, 2026. The core conservation practices offered include: Grazing Management, Cover Crops, Fencing, Mulching, Annual Forages for Grazing Systems, and Emergency Animal Mortality Management. A ranking threshold of 10 or greater must be met for eligible applicants. Impacted producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center for program applications and practice requirements. 



Pillen Announces Date of 2nd Annual Youth Summit, Invites Students to Register

Tuesday, Governor Jim Pillen announced that the 2026 Governor’s Youth Summit will take place in Kearney, Nebraska at the Younes Conference Center North on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The Youth Summit will coincide with the annual Governor’s Summit. This year marks the second Youth Summit; the inaugural event was held in August 2025.

“All of us in Nebraska agree, our kids are our future,” said Gov. Pillen. “Following the giant success of the first-ever Youth Summit, it was a no brainer to expand this year’s event. Participating students can make incredible connections with local businesses to jumpstart their journey to a dream career right here in Nebraska.”

The Youth Summit is tailored to juniors and seniors in high school and freshmen and sophomores in college. There is no cost to attend. However, the event is expected to reach full capacity quickly, so interested students are encouraged to sign up now.

The Governor’s Youth Summit is not a traditional career fair—it is a relational experience to match Nebraska’s most promising young talent and most influential industry leaders.

Prior to the event, students create a profile on CareerPathway.com. Based on their career aspirations, they are matched with available internships, apprenticeships, scholarships, or jobs. Then, during the Youth Summit, they meet in-person with business or college leaders to explore these career opportunities. Additionally, students at the Youth Summit learn from educators, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs about how to set themselves up for career success as they approach graduation.

For more information about the Governor’s Youth Summit, go to govsummit.nebraska.gov/youth. 



Iowa Reports E15 Sales Up 60%, Becoming the “New Normal” Fuel

Tuesday, the Iowa Department of Revenue released the 2025 Retailers Motor Fuel Gallons Annual Report, showing E15 sales increased 60% in only one year to over 410 million gallons sold. At the end of 2025, almost half of Iowa fuel stations offered E15, with the blend accounting for 27% of gasoline sales.

“The massive growth in E15 sales reflects the success of Governor Reynolds’s E15 Access Standard,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. “With Iowa drivers saving an average of 15 cents per gallon by choosing E15, the cost savings equal an estimated $61.5 million. E15 is well on its way to becoming the new normal fuel in Iowa.” 

The report also showed that almost 51 million gallons of biodiesel were sold in various blends during 2025. This is down from about 82 million gallons of biodiesel sold in all blends during 2024. 

“2025 was the predictable result of being completely unsettled by federal policy,” commented Shaw. “Low RFS blend levels for 2025, combined with no guidance on federal tax credits during the same period, disrupted the biodiesel market. Iowa biodiesel took a big hit but can weather the storm and rebound quickly with the right policies put in place.” 

The Iowa Department of Revenue identified retailers for the report using information from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s motor fuel license database and from internal records. 



Prepare for Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Certification with May Drone Workshop

Iowa State University’s Digital Ag Innovation team, in partnership with Terraplex Ag, will host a two-day Drone Workshop designed to prepare participants for the Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification exam. The workshop will take place May 27–28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, at the Alliant Energy Agriculture Innovation Lab, located at 3800 University Blvd., Ames.

The workshop is geared toward agricultural professionals, drone operators and others interested in using unmanned aerial systems commercially. Participants will receive in-depth instruction on FAA regulations and operations, including Part 107 rules and limitations, airspace classifications and requirements and key concepts needed to successfully pass the Part 107 exam.

The course will include hands-on review sessions, group discussions, FAA-style practice tests and time for a Q&A session. Study materials, including practice exams, are included with registration, and lunch will be provided both days. In-class instruction will also guide participants through the process of registering for the FAA Part 107 exam at an FAA-designated testing center. The FAA exam fee is not included in the workshop registration cost.

The workshop will be led by Sam Welton, director of compliance at Terraplex Ag. Welton brings six years of military experience flying the U.S. Army’s RQ-7B Shadow unmanned aircraft system, five years of operating agricultural spray drones and extensive experience assisting operators with FAA certifications and licensing.

Registration is required. Early registration is $449 by May 1, increasing to $500 after. Registration closes on May 22. Enrollment is limited to a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 30 participants.

To register, visit  FAA Part 107 Test Prep Course, Terraplex Ag https://terraplexag.com/compliance/test-prep.

For more information, contact Doug Houser, digital agriculture extension specialist at Iowa State, at dhouser@iastate.edu.




American Sheep Industry Names Mike Michener as Executive Director

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Michener as its new Executive Director. Michener brings more than 35 years of leadership across agriculture, food systems, and public policy, with a proven track record of strengthening markets, advancing industry priorities, and leading complex organizations.

“We are excited to announce the hiring of Mike Michener as our new executive director,” said ASI President Ben Lehfeldt. “Peter Orwick helped guide our organization for many years and left us in a great place financially to really build on our organization’s commitment to our producers. We are grateful for all the staff and executive board members that helped during this transition, and we are thrilled to move to this next chapter with Mike at the lead.”

Michener most recently served as Principal Consultant at Michener Strategic Advisory, advising multilateral institutions, international organizations, and U.S.-based initiatives on strategy, governance, and stakeholder engagement across agri-food systems.

His previous leadership roles include serving as Deputy Assistant Administrator in the Bureau for Resilience and Food Security at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), where he oversaw major initiatives in agriculture, nutrition, and global food security, including Feed the Future, as well as Minister Counselor to the U.S. Mission to the United Nations Agencies in Rome, representing U.S. interests in global food and agriculture policy.

Earlier in his career, Michener served as Administrator of the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, where he led a significant organizational turnaround and strengthened U.S. agricultural trade and global market engagement. He also held senior roles with the U.S. Department of State, USAID, and the Department of Homeland Security, and served in the U.S. Army.

A native Iowan, Michener recently returned to the state after working in Ukraine and maintains close ties to agriculture through his family’s multigenerational farm. He holds a Master of Public Administration from Bowie State University and a Bachelor of Arts in East European Studies from the University of Maryland University College. He is fluent in Romanian and has proficiency in several other languages.

“I’m honored to join the American Sheep Industry Association and to work on behalf of sheep producers across the country,” said Michener. “The industry has a strong foundation, and I look forward to working with ASI’s leadership, members, and partners to expand market opportunities, strengthen competitiveness, and advance priorities that support producers and rural communities.”

Michener’s experience across government, international institutions, and industry organizations positions him well to lead ASI into its next chapter.

The American Sheep Industry (ASI) is the national organization representing the interests of U.S. sheep producers, advancing the sheep industry through targeted work in policy, animal health, market development, education, and producer-driven leadership.



Reps. Fischbach, Budzinski Applauded for Legislation that Will Diversify Corn Demand

Reps. Michelle Fischbach (R-Minn.) and Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.) introduced H.R. 8137 the Biobased Materials Investment and Production Act to incentivize the production of biobased chemicals and materials, which will create new markets for American farmers..
 
NCGA is working closely with Congress and a coalition of organizations to support and expand the ag bioeconomy. In response to the introduction of the tax legislation, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower released the following statement: 
 
"Corn growers are very appreciative of Reps. Fischbach and Budzinski for introducing this legislation that will diversify demand for our farmers, strengthen rural economies and support domestic manufacturing. Boosting market opportunities for bioproducts made from agricultural feedstocks creates new revenue streams for growers of many different crops, which is particularly helpful during difficult economic times."  




NAWG Urges ITC to Revoke Duties on Phosphate Fertilizers

Tuesday, the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) urged the United States International Trade Commission to revoke countervailing duty (CVD) orders on phosphate fertilizers from Morocco and Russia, citing significant economic harm to U.S. wheat farmers.

In a letter to Secretary Lisa R. Barton, NAWG emphasized that maintaining these duties would continue to impose unnecessary costs on farmers already facing a challenging economic environment.

“Phosphate fertilizer is a critical and necessary component in growing wheat, and the current countervailing duties have placed an unsustainable financial burden on America’s farmers who raise wheat,” said NAWG CEO Sam Kieffer. “Revoking these orders would provide immediate and meaningful relief to growers and strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. agriculture.”

Fertilizer accounts for roughly 38 percent of wheat operating costs, according to USDA projections. Research from Texas A&M University estimates the duties added $6.9 billion in fertilizer costs for U.S. producers between 2021 and 2025, with wheat farmers bearing nearly $1 billion. NAWG’s analysis estimates wheat farmers alone incurred approximately nearly $1 billion in added costs over that period.

NAWG also noted that the U.S. relies on imports to meet phosphate demand, with domestic supply falling short by about 3 million metric tons annually. Reduced imports following the duties have tightened supply and contributed to higher prices.

“America’s wheat farmers are already facing multiple external pressures outside their control, including geopolitical disruptions that have recently exacerbated fertilizer and shipping costs. The Commission now has an opportunity to remove one cost driver that is within U.S. policy control,” Kieffer added.