Monday June 22 Ag News - Rural Mainstreet Index Hits 2 Year High - Girls who Grill NE Event - NE Ext Launches ScoutNebraska - New Ag Labor Guide from NeExt - ISU Hosts Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days - USTR Update on USMCA - and more!

Rural Mainstreet Index Expands to Two-Year High
Tariffs Are Top Banker Issue

According to the June survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) expanded above growth neutral after four straight months below the threshold.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for June climbed to 52.6, its highest level since July 2023 and up from May’s 45.7.

“More than half, or 52.6%, of bankers reported that small business growth in their service area was stable, while 42.1% indicated modest declines. The remaining 5.3% reported modest growth for small business in their area,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

When asked to name the top federal action needed to drive farm and ranch income higher, 41.9% named lowering global tariffs; approximately 26.3% reported passage of a 5-year farm bill as the number one needed action; roughly 16.0% identified another federal bridge assistance program as the greatest need; and the remaining 15.8% identified year-round E-15 as the top policy changed needed for farming and ranching growth.

Farming and ranchland prices: For a second consecutive month, the farm and ranchland index increased, rising to 55.3 from 50.1 in May. “Though farm and ranchland values have been holding up much better than farm income, weak farm income, lower farm liquidity and tougher credit standards have restrained farmland values,” said Goss.

Bank CEOs estimated average cash rent per acre for non-irrigated farmland at $251 per acre, which is essentially flat from June 2022’s value of $250 per acre.

According to the most recent trade data from the International Trade Association (ITA), regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first four months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, climbed by 4.8% to $3.86 billion. Regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock to China for the first four months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, rose by 126.5% to $260.0 million. Even so, 2026 exports of agriculture goods and livestock to China for the first four months continue to lag, compared to the same time period in 2024.

Farm equipment sales: The June farm equipment sales index increased to a weak 28.9 from May’s 18.2. This is the 34th straight month that the index has fallen below growth neutral.

“The 2026 conflict in Iran and tariffs on imported steel/aluminum has created even more volatility in the agricultural sector, impacting agricultural equipment sales by tightening farmer operating margins via increasing input costs,” said Goss.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The state’s Rural Mainstreet Index for June improved to 52.2 from 51.4 in May. The state’s farm and ranchland price index for June rose to 54.8 from 51.8 in May. Nebraska’s new hiring index dropped to 47.0 from 47.7 in May. According to trade data from the ITA, Nebraska exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first four months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, sank by 15.0% to $381.7 million.

Iowa: June’s RMI for the state rose to 52.3 from May’s 44.3. Iowa’s farm and ranchland price index for June expanded to 54.9 from 48.4 in May. Iowa’s new hiring index for June improved to 47.1 from May’s 40.3. According to trade data from the ITA, Iowa exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first four months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, climbed by 4.9% to $729.1 million.

The survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural agriculturally- and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index is a unique index that covers 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and the late Bill McQuillan, former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in January 2006.



Girls Who Grill Brings Nebraska Women Together Around Beef

Female influencers from across Nebraska gathered at Ruhlman's Steakhouse in Ashland on June 16 for the Nebraska Beef Council's "Girls Who Grill" event. The unique group included registered dietitians, media personalities, content creators and beef producers, creating an engaging atmosphere where participants could network, share experiences and deepen their knowledge of the beef industry.

The event was part of a national initiative supported by the Beef Checkoff to promote beef and educate consumers during the summer grilling season. Designed to bring together women with diverse skill sets and areas of influence, Girls Who Grill provides opportunities for participants to learn more about preparing beef on the grill while building relationships with other women who share an interest in food, nutrition, agriculture and consumer education.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees explored Nebraska's beef industry while learning practical grilling skills they can use at home and share with their audiences. Participants gained insight into the variety of beef cuts available in today's grocery stores and learned more about beef's versatility, nutrition, and value.

The hands-on experience included preparing compound butter to complement grilled steaks and learning key grilling fundamentals, such as the importance of a thermometer to determine doneness and maintaining proper food safety protocols. Participants then put their new skills into practice by grilling several popular beef cuts, including flat iron, flank, sirloin and ribeye steaks.

"The event was awesome and I really appreciate the invite from the Nebraska Beef Council,” said Brooke Snyder, registered dietitian with UNO Athletics. "I learned practical techniques that anyone can use, and I loved connecting with other Nebraska women who share a passion for food and nutrition."

The event concluded with participants enjoying the steaks they prepared and reflecting on what they learned and how they plan to incorporate the experience into their own lives while sharing their knowledge with friends, family and followers.

"Girls Who Grill is about more than teaching grilling techniques, it's about creating connections and empowering women with the knowledge and confidence to prepare great-tasting beef at home," said Ann Marie Bosshamer, executive director of the Nebraska Beef Council. "By bringing together influencers from a variety of backgrounds, we're able to share the story of beef with more consumers while showcasing the quality, versatility and enjoyment that beef brings to the table."

Through events like Girls Who Grill, the Nebraska Beef Council continues to connect consumers with Nebraska's beef community while building confidence in selecting, preparing and enjoying beef throughout the grilling season. 



ScoutNebraska Brings Live Crop Scouting to Nebraska Farmers
Dylan Mangel - NE Extension Plant Pathologist

Nebraska Extension has launched ScoutNebraska, a new social media platform designed to help farmers, crop consultants and agricultural professionals stay up to date on crop health concerns and disruptive pests across the state.

Weekly live scouting updates will be available throughout the summer on Fridays at 11 a.m. on the ScoutNebraska YouTube channel. Viewers can also watch recorded videos on how and when to scout for specific pests, including western bean cutworm, tar spot, southern rust and more.

Follow @ScoutNebraska on YouTube and Facebook, and search #ScoutNebraska on X and other social media to see photos and videos from Nebraska Extension crop scouting efforts across the state. Farmers, crop consultants and agricultural professionals are also encouraged to use the hashtag to share photos of pests or crop health issues from Nebraska fields.

Nebraska Extension will monitor #ScoutNebraska posts and provide diagnostics and management recommendations when possible. Shared images can also help support statewide monitoring efforts and resources such as the Crop Protection Network’s Crop Lookout tool https://cropprotectionnetwork.org/crop-lookout.

Recent #ScoutNebraska posts include examples of wheat freeze injury following this spring’s freezing temperatures and ongoing drought stress. Additional updates will be shared throughout the growing season.

Contact your local Nebraska Extension educator if you have pest or crop health concerns in your fields.



UNL Field Pea Plot Tour to Showcase Variety Trials and Agronomic Research

As interest in field peas continues to grow across Nebraska, producers are invited to get a firsthand look at current research and variety performance during a field plot tour on Tuesday, June 23. 

Beginning at 10 a.m. Central time at the research farm near Haskell Ag Lab of the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC), the tour will feature: 

Spring and pea variety trials and agronomic studies on seed rates for different planting populations and the effect of seed treatment with zinc (Zn) and genetics on cadmium (Cd) accumulation in seeds. The variety trial will feature a total of 19 pea varieties from five different seed companies, including Progene Plant Research, Puris, Valesco Genetics and Meridian Seeds.

The tours provide an opportunity for farmers and others to learn more about new varieties and other topics such as agronomy and marketing of pea. Participants will walk the plots and discuss opportunities and challenges for expanding field pea production in the northeastern part of Nebraska.

Speakers from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) and the pea industry (seed companies and processors) will speak during the tours:
    UNL Professor Dipak Santra, alternative crops breeding specialist, Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center (PREEC), Scottsbluff, Nebraska
    Michael Kurtzhaals, Research technologist, Eastern Nebraska Extension and Education Center (ENREEC)
    Chris Werth and Bhavesh Reddy Mudupa, Puris Grains
    Brian Dawson, Ingredion Incorporated

There will be no formal presentations, and attendees are encouraged to share their own experiences and observations.

Agenda
    10 a.m. — Sign-up with donuts and beverages and coffee
    10:15 a.m. — Transport to the plot site
    10:30 a.m. to noon — Plot tour and presentation with questions and answers
    Noon to 1 p.m. — Lunch and presentation/discussion

Producers, agronomists and industry partners are welcome. No registration is required. Come walk the peas and help shape the future of field pea production in Nebraska. 

Haskell Ag Lab is located at 57905 866 Rd., Concord, NE 68728-2828.



CAP Webinar: USDA Drought Resources
Jun 23, 2026 12:00 PM 
While most areas of Nebraska have received some recent rain, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows a more long-term picture of significant drought over three quarters of the state.  In this webinar, Nebraska USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Nebraska Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) representatives will outline drought response resources available through their agencies to assist producers.

Presenters: Hilary Maricle, State Executive Director, Nebraska FSA; Pat Lechner, Price Support and Conservation Programs Chief, Nebraska FSA; and Rob Lawson, Nebraska State Conservationist, Nebraska NRCS.

2026 Nebraska Legislative Update for Agriculture
Jun 25, 2026 12:00 PM 
The Nebraska Legislature addressed numerous issues and budget challenges during their 60-day session earlier this year. Several bills and developments addressed during the session will impact agriculture across the state. This webinar will feature Dave Aiken, Professor and Ag Law Specialist to provide an update of legislative activity and new laws that directly affect agriculture, from animal agriculture issues surrounding brand law or planning and zoning to broader issues that affect ag data ownership.

Presenter: Dave Aiken, professor and agricultural law specialist, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Center for Agricultural Profitability.

Register for either of the webinars at the Center for Agricultural Profitability's webinar page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



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.



Husker Harvest Days brings NCBA Stockmanship & Stewardship training to Nebraska

Cattle producers will have the opportunity to learn cutting-edge livestock handling techniques from two of the industry's top experts as Husker Harvest Days hosts the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's (NCBA) Stockmanship & Stewardship program, Sept. 15-17. A Farm Progress event, Husker Harvest Days is one of only four locations nationwide selected to host the renowned training program in 2026.

This marks the first time NCBA's nationally recognized program will be featured at Husker Harvest Days. The three-day program will take place in the BEEF Building and will cover low-stress cattle-handling techniques, efficient facility design and expert-led sessions on the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program. The program is integrated into the larger BEEF Showcase, which features live cattle demonstrations, cutting-edge technology and supplementary educational content.

Expert Instructors
Led by Curt Pate and Dr. Ron Gill, the program features two of the most respected names in the cattle industry.

Curt Pate is a nationally recognized expert in stockmanship, horsemanship and safety education, known for practical techniques that improve cattle behavior and reduce stress. Dr. Ron Gill brings more than 20 years of experience as a Texas AgriLife Extension specialist and professor, with expertise in beef cattle nutrition, management and livestock handling techniques.

"This is exactly the kind of practical, hands-on learning our Husker Harvest Days community values," said Sarah Muirhead, livestock brand management director for Farm Progress. "Hosting the NCBA Stockmanship & Stewardship program allows us to expand our focus on beef cattle production and provide ranchers with world-class training that delivers lasting, real-world impact on their operations."

Husker Harvest Days will take place Sept. 15-17, 2026, and will feature the BEEF Showcase located in the Northwest Quadrant of the grounds in Grand Island, Nebraska. The event is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information and to register for a complimentary three-day pass, visit www.HuskerHarvestDays.com.



Webinar To Share Latest Information on New World Screwworm

The Iowa State Dairy Team will host a webinar to share the current information on New World Screwworm on Monday, June 22 from 12 to 1:30 pm CDT. The presenters include Dr. Matthew Brewer, Dr. Alejandrina Da Saliva and Dr Jeff Kaisand. Dr. Phillip Jardon will moderate the program along with Fred Hall.

Matthew T Brewer, DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVM IS U College of Veterinary Medicine. Will discuss the history and Biology of the New World Screwworm.

Alejandrina Da Silva, DVM and Graduate Student ISU College of Veterinary Medicine Will discuss the Reemergence of New World Screwworm in Mexico, outlining her experiences working with NWS and reviewing the current situation and challenges.

Jeff Kaisand, DVM, Iowa State Veterinarian and Division Director for the Animal Industry Division in IDALS. Will review give a regulatory update concerning the New World Screwworm.  

Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device: As no registration is required, Please click this URL to join ...  https://go.iastate.edu/KK2JKB.  

Or go to https://iastate.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 477 680 8475 and password: 904903 Join from dial-in phone line: Dial: +1 305 224 1968 or +1 309 205 3325.

For more information contact Fred Hall at 641.257.9508.



Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days Held Across Iowa in August

Iowa cattle feeders are encouraged to attend one of four upcoming Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days, scheduled for Aug. 24–27 in Carroll, Monticello, Osage and Orange City. Important topics in feedlot production, research updates, new technologies and a market outlook will be featured at each location.

“With the high cost of cattle placements, it is important to use data to drive decisions regarding the feedlot enterprise,” said Aimee Wertz-Lutz, director of the Iowa Beef Center, associate professor and extension feedlot specialist at Iowa State University. “We are excited to bring Cyclone Cattle Feeder Days to multiple regions of Iowa and meet cattle feeders where they are. This program is intended to look at a strategic approach to integrating technology and electronic data capture into feedlot production.” 

Each location will feature the same program agenda and speakers, and all will start at 10 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m. Topics and presenters for the events are: 

    Market outlook and risk management, Balance4Ward
    Optimizing manure value across systems, Dan Andersen, associate professor and extension agriculture engineering specialist at Iowa State 
    Opportunities to incorporate new and current technologies, Wertz-Lutz 
    Research update: Dietary and management strategies to help feedlot cattle be more resilient to stress, feedlot researchers from the animal science department at Iowa State 
    Incorporating new technologies into the feedyard, David Trowbridge with Gregory Feedyards 

Event dates and locations
    Monday, Aug. 24 – Swan Lake Education Center, 22676 Swan Lake Trail Drive, Carroll
    Tuesday, Aug. 25 – ISU Extension and Outreach Jones County Youth Development Center, 800 N. Maple Street, Monticello
    Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Public Safety Center, 432 Main Street, Osage
    Thursday, Aug. 27 – ISU Extension and Outreach Sioux County Office, 400 Central Avenue NW, Suite 700, Orange City

Registration
Registration is $20 per person and is due by Aug. 17 through the hosting county extension office. 

Each program will include a complimentary meal and time to interact with speakers and program sponsors: Balance4Ward, C-Lock, Elanco Animal Health, Iowa Beef Checkoff, Performance Livestock Analytics and the Carroll, Jones, Mitchell and Sioux County Cattlemen’s Associations. 

Additional information, including a complete agenda and registration, can be found on the Iowa Beef Center website. 

For more information, contact Aimee Wertz-Lutz at aimeewl@iastate.edu, Russ Euken at reuken@iastate.edu or Denise Schwab at dschwab@iastate.edu.



USTR Update on USMCA

The Office of the United States Trade Representative and Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy held the second round of bilateral negotiations related to the Joint Review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on June 15-17, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

In addition, Thursday U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Mexican Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard met to discuss the Joint Review and bilateral trade relations.

During the round, the U.S. and Mexican teams advanced discussions on rules of origin for certain industrial goods and economic security, and began conceptual discussions on agriculture, labor, and environment. The teams also discussed trade in steel, aluminum, and automobiles.

The negotiations focused on ensuring that the Agreement benefits the U.S. and Mexican economies and that the benefits of the Agreement accrue primarily to the parties.

In addition, the United States and Mexico agreed to support the establishment of a committee to review the implementation of Chapter 12 (Sectoral Annexes) of the USMCA to enhance regulatory compatibility.

The third round of negotiations will take place next month, in Mexico City, Mexico.



Ambassador Greer to Travel to India and Uzbekistan

This week, USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer will travel to New Delhi, India, to meet with the Minister of Commerce and Industry of India, Piyush Goyal, and other senior Indian officials to discuss the historic United States–India Joint Statement and the Interim Agreement as part of the broader U.S.-India Bilateral Trade Agreement negotiations, launched by President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2025. 

Following the trip to India, Ambassador Greer will travel to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to meet with President Mirziyoyev, the Head of the Presidential Administration Saida Mirziyoyeva, and Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev. Ambassador Greer will conduct each of these meetings with his counterparts to discuss achieving fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade with the United States.