Wednesday May 20 Ag News - Renewable Fuels Month in NE - NE PSC on Hansen-Mueller Grain Claims - Ricketts introduces MARKET Act - Dectomax Conditional Approval against NWS - Meat Consumption Increases - and more!

Pillen Proclaims May as Renewable Fuels Month

Tuesday, the Nebraska Ethanol Board (NEB) proudly joined Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen in proclaiming May as Renewable Fuels Month.
 
Nebraska’s ethanol industry is a cornerstone of our state’s prosperity. Nebraska’s 24 ethanol plants produce over 2 billion gallons of homegrown renewable fuel annually, with a total economic impact of over $6 billion per year. The industry supports rural communities and provides thousands of high-quality careers across the state, including directly creating 1,800 jobs with average salaries near $80,000. For drivers, ethanol means lower prices at the pump—reducing the cost of gas by 77 cents per gallon, and delivering more than $750 in savings per year to the average U.S. family. Furthermore, ethanol often improves vehicle performance while driving down emissions.
 
Nebraska Ethanol Board Executive Director Ben Rhodes issued the following statement:
 
“Today’s proclamation of May as Renewable Fuels Month sends a clear message that Nebraska values the farmers, producers, and workers who make our ethanol industry a national leader. This industry fuels our vehicles and saves consumers money, and it also fuels development and growth across our state. The Nebraska Ethanol Board thanks Governor Pillen for his support, as well as our legislative partners who champion ethanol at both the state and federal level. While May is the perfect time to celebrate Renewable Fuels Month, the NEB remains committed to promoting and advocating for ethanol all year long.”
 
Fueled by Nebraska—a partnership of the Nebraska Ethanol Board, the Nebraska Corn Board, and Renewable Fuels Nebraska—along with the Nebraska Soybean Board and the Nebraska Sorghum Board, invite you to join them to celebrate renewable fuels this May. Learn more and find ethanol retail locations at fueledbynebraska.com.



NE PSC APPROVES GRAIN CLAIMS

The Nebraska Public Service Commission approved an order Tuesday, May 19, determining claims against the $1 million grain dealer security of Hansen-Mueller Co. 

The order follows a months-long process to identify, verify and evaluate claims submitted by Nebraska producers after Hansen-Mueller filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and ceased operating as a licensed grain dealer in the state.

In all, 12 Nebraska producers submitted verified claims for unpaid contracts and grain deliveries totaling $1,107,868. The Commission collected the full $1 million grain dealer bond previously held by Hansen-Mueller under its state license and will distribute those proceeds on a prorated basis. The resulting payments to producers will be approximately 90.43 cents per dollar of each approved claim.

“This outcome demonstrates the importance of Nebraska’s grain dealer regulatory framework,” said Commission Vice Chair Kevin Stocker. “While it’s unfortunate that not all losses can be fully recovered, the process ensured that every valid claim was carefully reviewed and that available funds will be distributed as fairly and efficiently as possible.”

The Commission opened the claims docket in February. Following public notice, affected producers and landowners were directed to submit claims and supporting documentation for review.

After confirming all known claimants had been identified and provided an opportunity to participate, the Commission held a public hearing in April. Evidence presented included contracts, scale tickets, reconciliation sheets and sworn affidavits demonstrating compliance with requirements for recovery under Nebraska law.

Based on that record, the Commission determined that all 12 claims filed with the agency met the requirements outlined in state law and are eligible for recovery through the grain dealer bond.

The Commission will disburse payments at the conclusion of required lien searches and any applicable appeal period.

No further official Commission action is expected in this docket. Hansen-Mueller’s bankruptcy proceedings and any related regulatory matters, however, may continue in other jurisdictions.



Nebraska Division of Midwest Dairy Awards Six Scholarships to Students for 2026-2027 Academic Year

The Nebraska Division of Midwest Dairy awarded $5,000 in scholarships to six high school and college students for the 2026-2027 academic school year. Recipients were evaluated on past and present leadership involvement in school and community, past and present involvement in the dairy community, career aspirations on how they plan to represent the dairy industry in the future and required current transcript and letters of reference. In the selection process, preference was given to those pursuing a career within and/or supporting the dairy industry.

Nebraska Division of Midwest Dairy awards educational scholarships to full-time undergraduate and graduate college students attending an accredited college, and whose family owns a dairy farm, or those who are employed on a dairy farm in Nebraska that are contributing to the Midwest Dairy checkoff. It’s all part of  the organization’s continued commitment to invest in creating dairy advocates as well as developing the next generation of dairy leaders.

Congratulations to the following 2026 Nebraska Scholarship Award Recipients:
• Sudeep Sachinthaka, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was awarded $1,500 and is enrolled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, pursuing his master’s degree in animal science and minoring in Specialization in Ruminant Nutrition (Dairy Nutrition). Sudeep is the son of I V Rathnasiri and M A Buddihimathie.

• Carter Behnken, of Omaha, Nebraska, was awarded $1,000 and is currently at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in ag economics and minoring in Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship. Carter is the son of Craig and Tracy Behnken.

• Kammy Held, of Leigh, Nebraska, was awarded $1,000 and is currently attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in agriculture education. Kammy is the daughter of Keal and Heather Held.

• Isaac Guenther, of Bancroft, Nebraska, was awarded $500 and will be attending Northeast Community College, majoring in electrical construction and control. Isaac is the son of Andrew and Cassie Guenther.

• Tanyn Larson, of Creston, Nebraska, was awarded $500 and is enrolled at Northeast Community College pursuing her degree in nursing. Tanyn is the daughter of Bob and Kelsey Larson.

• Halie Racicky, of Mason City, Nebraska, was awarded $500 and is currently attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney, majoring in early childhood education. Halie is the daughter of Greg and Joyce Racicky.

Applications and requirements for the 2027-2028 Midwest Dairy Nebraska Division Scholarships will be available December 1, 2026. For more detailed information about the Midwest Dairy Nebraska Division Educational Scholarships, go to: MidwestDairy.com.



Ricketts Introduces MARKET Act to Protect Agriculture Exports from Communist China

Tuesday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Moving Away from Risk to Key Export Targets (MARKET) Act.  This legislation would protect American agricultural exports from Communist China’s unfair trade practices and determine alternative markets for American agricultural exports.

"Nebraska farmers and ranchers feed the country and fuel the world.  But Communist China threatens this,” said Senator Ricketts.  “Relying on one major buyer carries risks, which is why we must develop new markets for agricultural commodities.  The MARKET ACT prevents Nebraska farmers and ranchers from being beholden to Communist China.”

“U.S. agriculture is extremely vulnerable to trade disruptions, a fact which soybean farmers know all too well,”  said Scott Metzger, President of the American Soybean Association and Ohio soybean farmer. “Soybeans are the largest exported commodity in the U.S., and the biggest global market for soybeans is China. Unfortunately, we have seen how strong markets like China take decades to build but can disappear overnight when trade tensions flare up.  ASA thanks Senator Ricketts for his leadership in introducing the MARKET Act to ensure U.S. soybeans remain competitive in global export markets by enhancing the work of USDA and USTR on agriculture trade.”

The MARKET Act would:
    Require the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to conduct an annual assessment determining market access for commodities displaced by a potential trade dispute with foreign adversaries like Communist China;
        Commodities in the assessment include soybeans, corn, beef, chicken, pork, tree nuts, sorghum, cotton, and dairy. 
    Require the Secretary of Agriculture to provide recommendations that mitigate potential threats from China, including legislative and regulatory actions that reduce barriers to agricultural exports in markets outside of China.

BACKGROUND
Nebraska is the nation's fifth largest agricultural exporter, with nearly $8 billion in agricultural exports last year.  It is top in the nation for beef and veal exports, and leads across corn, feed grains, and soybeans.  The vast majority of these exports are to the Indo-Pacific, giving Communist China outsized leverage in disrupting Nebraska trade.  The MARKET Act would help agricultural exporters de-risk from Communist China’s markets and unfair trade practices.

Senator Ricketts has worked toward developing alternative markets for American agricultural exports.  The Working Families Tax Cuts Act strengthens alternative export markets through a trade promotion program that provides $285 million annually for expanding commercial export markets, doubling funds for the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development program.  Senator Ricketts’ PLOT Act and AFIDA Improvement Act also reduce the malign influence of foreign adversaries like Communist China in American agriculture.



Ricketts on the Senate Floor: Proud of Nebraska Farmers and Ranchers

Tuesday, on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) expressed his support for Nebraska farmers and ranchers and highlighted Nebraska’s leadership in beef and renewable fuels. May is Beef Month and Renewable Fuels Month.

Senator Ricketts also discussed the MARKET Act, legislation he introduced today to identify new export markets for American ag products and ensure our farmers and ranchers are not beholden to Communist China.

"Last week the Senate passed my resolution to proclaim May as Beef Month throughout the entire country, and again, this is our leading industry in Nebraska, the beef industry,” said Ricketts.  “We are the leading state for exporting beef, $1.7 billion worth.  We're a leader in the categories that describe beef.  In fact, we've got over 6 million head of cattle.  We've got the three highest beef-producing counties in the country, in Nebraska.  We're very proud of our beef industry, and of course it's the best-tasting beef in the entire world…It's also Renewable Fuels Month, and Nebraska is again a leader in renewable fuels — 2.2 billion gallons. Not only is this important for creating jobs in our small towns and rural communities, but this is one of the ways that consumers can save money at the pump.”

“Communist China, at the end of the day, is a bad trading partner.  We need to make sure we hold them accountable for the commitments they make, and I expect this administration will do just that,” said Ricketts.  "They have a track record of doing that.  In addition, we need to look at diversifying our export markets.  That is why I am introducing the MARKET Act.  The MARKET Act would instruct the US Department of Agriculture and the US Trade Representative to look at ways that we can mitigate our dependence on Communist China and look for new markets.”



GOVERNOR REYNOLDS SIGNS ICA-BACKED LEGISLATION SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF PRODUCERS

Tuesday, Gov. Kim Reynolds signed Senate File 2219 into law, a bill that the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) supported, which requires school districts to exempt student absences for school-sponsored activities, such as FFA.

Engaging the next generation of agriculturists is vital to the success of the agriculture industry. The idea for this bill, originally proposed by Senator Dawn Driscoll, emerged at the ICA Southeast Regional Meeting in Washington County last December. The bill was floor managed by Sen. Lynn Evans and Rep. Heather Hora.

“Experiential learning is an essential part of our next generation’s education,” said Craig Moss, ICA president. “As a father of two young boys with an interest in the industry, I know that these programs provide meaningful, hands-on education that strengthens their leadership skills, teaches responsibility, and helps shape their career path. Thanks to the Governor’s support of SF 2219, parents are no longer faced with the difficult decision of their child being penalized for participation in these valuable learning opportunities.”

Ensuring that students are supported academically while participating in these official programs reinforces Iowa’s commitment to agricultural education and leadership development.

“There is significant discussion right now surrounding the future of the beef industry and how we strengthen and expand the domestic cattle herd,” said Bryan Whaley, ICA CEO. “While this is an immediate issue, the solution requires a long-term approach, and that is what makes this bill so important. Ensuring we have a pipeline of young people interested in careers in agriculture and the beef industry is essential. That engagement starts early and is closely connected to opportunities for exposure through organizations like FFA and other school-sponsored activities. I applaud Gov. Reynolds for her continued commitment to supporting a strong and vibrant agriculture industry here in Iowa.”

Senate File 2219 was one of several ICA-backed bills to make it to the Governor’s desk following this year’s legislative session. ICA greatly appreciates the support of the bill’s sponsors and the Governor for their work on behalf of Iowa’s beef cattle industry. 



Iowa Farm Bureau launches two-day farm succession planning workshop for farm families

Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s (IFBF) Take Root program is helping farm families take the next step in securing their legacy with a two-day summer immersive workshop, ‘Real Talk to Real Timelines,’ Aug. 12-13, at the West 48 Conference Center in West Des Moines. Designed for multigenerational farm families, the workshop builds on the success of IFBF’s well-established and widely trusted Take Root program, offering a structured, hands-on setting to begin important succession planning conversations and build a clear path forward for the future of the family farm.

‘Real Talk to Real Timelines’ will provide farm families with guided conversations, facilitated planning sessions and one-on-one time with an attorney and other planning experts to achieve a clear, actionable transition plan. A tangible succession plan binder will help family members navigate the transition planning process while establishing the family farm vision, roles, ownership structure, governance, tax considerations, pay and benefits, long-term strategy and more.  

“For more than a decade, Iowa Farm Bureau’s Take Root program has helped hundreds of farm families navigate one of the most important conversations they will have—how to preserve not only their farm operation, but the values, relationships and legacy behind it,” said Amanda Van Steenwyk, IFBF farm business development manager. “This immersive workshop is designed to give families the time, guidance and support to make thoughtful decisions together and leave with a completed workbook that outlines their vision, roles, ownership strategy, timelines and next steps—creating a meaningful path forward for a smooth transition and a lasting family farm legacy.”

Registration for Real Talk to Real Timelines: A Take Root Immersive Farm Succession Workshop opens May 18 and is limited to 10 Farm Bureau member families. The cost is $150 per family and $50 to add two additional family members.  Early bird registration for $50 off through June 8 using promo code “FBEARLYBIRD.”   For more information or to join Iowa Farm Bureau, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com.



Strohbehn Named Iowa Pork Producers Association Producer Education Director
    
The Iowa Pork Producers Association has named Jesi Strohbehn as its new Producer Education Director. Strohbehn began her role in April and will lead efforts focused on engaging with pork producers, supporting industry initiatives and strengthening connections across Iowa’s swine community.

In this role, Strohbehn will be responsible for developing informational materials for Iowa pig farmers, administering pork quality improvement programs and working with key stakeholder groups such as Iowa Farm Animal Care and the Iowa Pork Industry Center. She will also work directly with producers to provide resources and support, while contributing to programs centered on swine health, research and innovation within the pork industry.

Strohbehn most recently served as an Agriculture Compliance Investigator for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s organic program. In that role, she conducted organic inspections for processing facilities, livestock operations and crop producers. Prior to that, she worked for Zoetis as an Area Application Specialist with the Improvest team, providing on-farm implementation expertise across the Midwest and gaining hands-on experience in swine health and production practices.

“With her industry experience and rural Iowa roots, Jesi has a strong understanding of the producers we represent,” said Pat McGonegle, CEO of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “She will be a great asset to our producer education efforts.”

Originally from Winthrop, Iowa, her agricultural background and previous work in the swine industry have shaped her passion for supporting pork producers and advancing the industry.

“I’m excited to meet Iowa’s pork producers and to be back working in the swine industry full time,” Strohbehn said. “This role offers a great opportunity to learn and experience a wide range of areas, from swine health to innovative research. I’m especially excited to work alongside people who are passionate about continuing to improve pork production.”

Since starting her role, Strohbehn has begun connecting with producers and is looking forward to expanding education efforts and supporting continued growth and innovation within Iowa’s pork industry.



Conditional Approval Granted for 100 mL Bottle of Dectomax®-CA1 for the Prevention and Treatment of New World Screwworm Larvae

Zoetis Inc. today announced that Dectomax/Dectomax®-CA1 (doramectin injection) was recently granted conditional approval of the 100 mL vial size for the prevention and treatment of infestations caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax (New World screwworm) larvae in cattle, and prevention of reinfestation for 21 days.

With previous conditional approval of the 250 mL and 500 mL sizes, Dectomax-CA1 Injectable is now available in all three sizes. Dectomax-CA1 remains the only nonprescription product conditionally approved by the FDA to prevent and treat infestations caused by New World screwworm larvae in cattle.

This conditional approval applies to beef cattle, female dairy cattle less than 20 months of age, pregnant beef cows, newborn calves and bulls. Dectomax-CA1 is not for use in calves to be processed for veal. Dectomax-CA1 is not for use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older, except under the conditions of the recently granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

Zoetis has been granted an EUA for use of Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 in dairy cattle, horses, sheep, pigs and deer. The EUA, issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is for the emergency use of the approved/conditionally approved products Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 for the following indications:
    The prevention and treatment of infestations caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (myiasis) in dairy cattle (lactating dairy cows with a 468-hour milk withdrawal period, dry dairy cows, and replacement dairy heifers 20 months of age and older), except for calves to be processed for veal.  
    The prevention of infestations caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (myiasis) in swine, sheep except for lactating sheep, and deer.
    The prevention of infestations caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (myiasis) in horses one year old and older. 

This EUA does not provide full or conditional approval but the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at the FDA has determined Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 may be effective and safe for indications against NWS in these additional species. To date, there are no animal drugs with a full FDA approval for NWS myiasis.

“We continue to work with CVM to find product solutions that may be safe and effective for use in additional species,” says Mike Lormore, DVM, MS, MBA, Director of Cattle and Pork Technical Services at Zoetis. “The recent conditional approval and emergency use authorization will enable additional producers, veterinarians and animal caretakers to implement prevention and treatment procedures to help protect against New World screwworm.”

For more information on New World screwworm, the current conditional approval and the EUA for Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1, visit zoetisus.com/NewWorldscrewworm. 



U.S. Meat Consumption Increases Despite Rising Prices

America’s demand for meat continues to grow, even as the cost of beef, pork and chicken rises. Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kickoff to grilling season, and in the latest Market Intel, American Farm Bureau Federation economists analyzed what prices shoppers may find at the grocery store.

Industry analysis shows meat sales hit $112 billion in 2025, with more than 98% of American households purchasing meat for daily meals. USDA is forecasting consumption of beef, pork and chicken to rise in 2026.

“Beef remains the centerpiece of many cookouts, but record-high prices and historically tight cattle inventories continue to challenge both consumers and producers,” the Market Intel states. “Pork offers relative value and stability, supported by efficient production and strong export markets, even as producers navigate ongoing disease risks. Meanwhile, chicken stands out as the most accessible option, with steady production growth and modest prices helping it maintain its place as America’s most-consumed protein.”

USDA reports the average retail price for beef set a record in April at $9.64 per pound, up about 13% from the previous year. Beef prices remain elevated by strong demand and the smallest U.S. cattle herd in 75 years. This is a result of years of drought, reduced income following the pandemic and elevated operating costs that have led farmers to liquidate their herds.

The average price of pork increased 2.3% from April 2025 to April 2026. Pork chops are the most popular cut. The average retail price for pork chops in U.S. cities was $4.33 per pound in April 2026, up 9 cents per pound from the same time last year. Prices reflect a balanced supply of hogs and growing consumer demand.

For chicken, USDA estimates about 42.2 billion pounds of chicken will be purchased in 2026, up 46 million pounds from 2025. The overall price of chicken fell in April by 0.7% compared to April 2025. Boneless chicken breasts in U.S. cities cost an average of $4.17 per pound in April, down a penny from the same time last year. Poultry flocks continue to recover from avian influenza, which has helped to control price increases.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said, “Home-grown meat continues to be a staple for America’s families. Despite higher prices at the grocery store, families trust America’s farmers and ranchers to grow the food that is put on the grill and on dinner tables across the country. We urge the administration and Congress to prioritize ranchers as they rebuild herds so they can continue to meet the needs of the nation’s families.”

For shoppers looking to save money, retailers and grocery stores generally increase promotional sales and specials as holidays draw closer.

While this is a snapshot of current meat prices, the American Farm Bureau Federation conducts annual surveys of the average cost of a full Thanksgiving dinner and a 4th of July cookout. The 4th of July marketbasket survey will be released on June 26, 2026.