Monday August 24 Ag News - NE Women in Ag Launches Crop Ins. Course - NeFU Fall District Meeting Schedule - Trump Ground Beef Announcement, Reaction - Nigeria Opens to US Red Meat - Nematode Treats in Soybeans - and more!

New Online Course Helps Farmers Navigate Crop Insurance Options

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program is proud to announce the launch of a new online course, "Crop Insurance for Farmers," designed to give agricultural producers the knowledge and tools they need to better understand their crop insurance options and make informed risk management decisions.

Crop insurance is an important part of managing production and financial risk, but selecting the right coverage can feel overwhelming. This course breaks down the fundamentals of crop insurance into practical, easy-to-understand lessons that producers can apply to their own operations.

Participants will learn:
    Understand the roles of the USDA Risk Management Agency, Approved Insurance Providers, insurance agents and adjustors.
    Explore key concepts such as Actual Production History (APH), coverage levels, projected and harvest prices, guarantees, liabilities, premiums and indemnities.
    Compare major policy types, including Yield Protection and Revenue Protection, and explore how different coverage options work.
    Explore real-world scenarios to see how choices such as unit type and coverage level, along with changes in yields and prices, can affect crop insurance protection.

The course is designed to help producers become more confident when discussing crop insurance with their insurance agent and better understand how different choices may fit their operation.

Take advantage of this free online course, launching Sept. 1. Participants receive 60 days of access beginning on their enrollment date. Sign up today: go.unl.edu/cropins.

“Crop insurance can be an important risk management tool, but producers need to understand what they are buying and how their coverage works,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture Program. “This course is designed to give farmers the foundation they need to ask better questions and make more informed decisions.”

The material is supported by USDA/NIFA Award Number 2024-70027-42470. All attendees are welcome to participate regardless of race, gender or any other protected status.



CAP Webinar: From Conventional to Organic: Managing Leases and Records
Sep 10, 2026 12:00 PM 

Transitioning to organic production requires careful planning beyond the field. This webinar will explore how the transition can affect farmland leases, responsibilities between landowners and tenants, and record-keeping requirements. Participants will learn practical strategies for maintaining records, and addressing organic production expectations in lease agreements.

With Shannon Sand, Extension Agricultural Economist, and Glennis McClure, Extension Farm and Ranch Management Analyst, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability.

Register at the webinar home page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



2026 NeFU Fall District Meetings    
    Meal on your own with meeting to follow.
    Open to the public. Bring a friend, neighbor, family member, or member prospect.
    Read Fall Meeting Checklist in advance. Prepare for election of officers & two  
        candidates to serve as delegates to NFU Convention. Get business done first.
    Recent NFU Fly-In report, election prospects, & state issues reports will be given.
    If possible, invite local candidates for a short talk and answer questions. 

NeFU District 6 Fall Meeting
Monday, September 21, 2026
6:00 Supper with Meeting to Follow
Pizza Hut, 1781 E 23rd Avenue S, Fremont, NE 68025
President: Paul Poppe (402) 380-4508
Director: Andrew Tonnies (402) 590-7096

NeFU District 7 Fall Meeting
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
6:00 pm Supper with Meeting to Follow
Perkins Restaurant, 1229 Omaha Avenue, Norfolk, NE 68701
President: Keith Dittrich: (402) 990-7570
Director: Art Tanderup: (402) 278-0942

NeFU District 5 Fall Meeting
Tuesday, September 29, 2026
5:30 Supper with Meeting to Follow
DaVinci's Restaurant, 745 South 11th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
President: Amy Svoboda (402) 817-9647 Cell
Director: Ron Todd-Meyer (402) 879-5800 Cell



Trump says 300,000 metric tons of beef will enter U.S. tariff-free

President Donald Trump says the United States will temporarily allow a significant increase in beef imports in an effort to bring down high ground beef prices for American consumers.

Trump announced Friday on Truth Social that the U.S. will allow up to 300,000 metric tons of product to enter the country over the next 90 days without an out-of-quota tariff.

Trump said the beef importers have committed to selling the product at 25% below current market prices.

He says the move will lower prices for working families while giving the domestic cattle herd time to rebuild.



Ricketts Issues Statement in Support of Nebraska Farmers and Ranchers

Friday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement in support of Nebraska farmers and ranchers:

“I appreciate the Administration’s work to lower grocery prices. Short term policy shifts do not equal long term solutions.  Flooding the market with lower quality beef compromises Nebraska farmers and ranchers.  They should be enabled to grow herd sizes and meet consumer demand.”



NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN DISAPPOINTED BY PRESIDENT TRUMP'S BEEF IMPORT STATEMENT

Friday, in response to President Trump's Truth Social post regarding beef imports, Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) President Craig Uden issued the following statement:

“The President’s statement on Truth Social today could not have come at a worse time for producers who are making critical decisions regarding heifer retention and herd expansion. Long-term market stability is imperative for herd expansion, and this type of short-term messaging hinders beef cattle producers by creating uncertainty instead of letting a cyclical market do its job.”



Statement by Mark McHargue, NE Farm Bureau President, Regarding Announcement of Tariff-Free Beef Imports

"Friday's announcement from President Trump unveiling the tariff-free importation of 300,000 metric tons of beef could not have come at a worse time for Nebraska's cow/calf producers. Right now, thousands of Nebraska ranchers are in the process of selling newly weaned calves and Nebraska remains ‘The Beef State’ with over 6.15 million head of cattle located in the state, second only to Texas. Unfortunately, the market's reactions to today's announcement are as troubling as they are predictable. At the producer level, this means lower prices at the time of year when millions of cattle producers are making marketing and herd retention decisions. At the consumer level, given that the United States imports around 2.5 million tons of beef product, most of it being lean trim for hamburger, it is doubtful this influx makes much of a difference on retail prices."

"At the same time, the strength of cattle markets is one of the few bright spots within agriculture, and even with strong prices, Nebraska cattlemen are making tough decisions given severe drought, wildfires, and higher input costs including hay and fuel. Temporary injections of tariff-free beef to ‘maybe’ address higher beef prices only creates short-term pain on feeder calf prices without long-term solutions for cattle producers. Supply and demand aren’t a far-reaching academic concept, it is the real-world scenario our cattle industry finds itself in, and short-sighted government policy only serves to provide long-term damage to an unbelievably complex beef supply chain."  



ICA RESPONDS TO ANNOUNCEMENT ON FOREIGN BEEF IMPORTS

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association President Craig Moss issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s post regarding beef imports:

"President Trump's announcement today about importing foreign beef is extremely disappointing to the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and its members. The President's comments and decisions have created unnecessary market volatility today. The drop in the markets will directly impact their profitability and bottom line, and in turn impacts decisions our producers are making about expanding their cattle herds. We believe the government should avoid intervention and let the market work,” said Craig Moss, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association president. “Members of the Iowa Cattlemen's Association have been reaching out to express their concerns. Just a week ago, many cattle feeders in the state lost one of their marketing options with the closing of Tyson’s Joslin plant; today they are taking another hit with this announcement. What we know is that consumer demand for the high-quality beef raised by U.S. producers has remained strong. Consumers have been willing to pay for beef. Simply put, it is supply and demand economics. Iowa’s cattle industry is uniquely positioned to play a significant role in expanding the nation’s cattle herd. There is no better place to grow than right here in Iowa. We have productive pastureland, forage and feed resources, strong crop and livestock integration, and the infrastructure needed to support that growth.”

As this story continues to unfold, the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association will remain diligent in advocating on behalf of our members and making their voices heard.



NCBA Statement on President Trump’s Truth Social Post

Friday, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Chief Executive Officer Colin Woodall issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s post regarding beef imports: 
 
“NCBA is disappointed by the President’s statement. While America’s cattle producers share the goal of keeping groceries affordable for consumers, flooding the market with government-subsidized, below-market beef is not the way to rebuild the American cattle herd. Cattle markets have already turned sharply lower this morning, to the detriment of farmers and ranchers. This is a critical time of year for cattle producers, as we approach the season where they are making decisions regarding their herds. Cattle farmers and ranchers are responding to strong market signals and historically high demand, and we are already working to rebuild after years of ongoing drought, high input costs and other challenges that have reduced U.S. cattle numbers. Today's announcement and other market interventions throw cold water on the prospect of herd expansion and sacrifices long-term stability for short term messaging.” 



Increased Beef Imports Could Create Long-term Damage

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on President Trump’s plan to import an additional 300,000 metric tons of beef in addition to already record-high beef imports.

“Farmers and ranchers are extremely disappointed to learn that President Trump plans to flood the American market with hundreds of millions of pounds of foreign-raised beef. The U.S. is already importing beef at record levels. This decision would be an unprecedented move and would translate to nearly an additional 60% increase in imports over the next 90 days.

“For almost a year now, we’ve been advising the administration that America’s ranchers are working to rebuild beef herds that had to be sold off due to drought. Despite high beef prices in grocery stores, prices paid to farmers and ranchers for their cattle have fallen sharply over the past two months, and beef packing plants are shutting down across the U.S. Further undercutting a fragile recovery by swamping markets with foreign products and attempting to manipulate prices threatens to wipe out any progress that has been made.

“We appreciate the president’s goal of reducing grocery costs, but short-term measures could have long-term negative effects for consumers and for ranchers who are making decisions on whether to retain or expand their herd. Growing dependence on foreign-grown food could ultimately lead to even higher grocery costs and reliance on other nations for our food security. We urge the president to strongly reconsider his plan.”



NFU Statement on Increased Beef Imports

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew today released the following statement after the Trump administration announced its plan to allow up to 300,000 metric tons of ground beef to be imported into the United States with lower tariffs over the next 90 days.

"Consumers deserve to know where their beef comes from, and American farmers and ranchers deserve credit for raising it. Imported beef is just a handout for monopoly meatpackers, who can mix cheap imported beef with American beef and pocket the difference, with no guarantee consumers ever see lower prices or ranchers see fair ones. Mandatory country-of-origin labeling fixes that: it holds packers accountable and lets the market work honestly for everyone. The Senate Agriculture Committee has already taken steps to advance it. Congress should finish the job and pass this commonsense, bipartisan policy now."



Nigeria Now Open to a Wide Range of U.S. Red Meat Products

In a significant market access win for U.S. agriculture, Nigeria is now open to a wide range of U.S. beef and pork products. While Nigeria previously accepted only a limited number of processed meat items, the USDA Export Library now states that U.S. red meat products can be exported to Nigeria unless they are specifically excluded.

Nigeria still does not accept beef or pork offal or bone-in hams. Smoked, dried and cured beef and pork products are also excluded. But beef cuts and all pork cuts except bone-in hams are now eligible to be shipped to Nigeria, which has the sixth largest population in the world at more than 240 million. It is the third largest economy in Africa, behind South Africa and Egypt.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom said this is an important breakthrough in a market that holds excellent long-term potential for the U.S. red meat industry.

“There are certainly challenges that must be overcome, and it will take some time to gain a foothold in the Nigerian retail and foodservice sectors,” Halstrom said. “But the first step in developing a new market is to secure meaningful access, and USMEF thanks the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative for their persistent efforts to open Nigeria and other promising markets throughout the world.” 



New Management Guides Help Soybean Farmers Combat Rising Nematode Threats

As soybean harvest approaches, farmers have a narrow, high-value window to uncover a hidden yield thief. Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) and other parasitic nematodes can cut yields sharply with no visible symptoms, and fall, right after harvest, is the best time to test soil and find out what's lurking. To help farmers act on that window, the Soy Checkoff is directing growers to the Soybean Nematode Management Guides, a set of science-based tools it helped fund to identify and manage four yield-robbing nematode species.

“Protecting soybean yield starts with knowing what's in your fields, and these guides put that knowledge directly in farmers' hands,” said Laurie Isley, United Soybean Board director and Michigan farmer. “As a farmer, I know how much an invisible pest like SCN can cost you before you ever see a symptom above ground. This is exactly the kind of practical, science-based tool your checkoff investment is meant to deliver.”

Nematode management isn't one-size-fits-all, as several species can infest soybean fields, each with distinct life cycles, symptoms and impacts on yield. Funded by the checkoff and developed by Extension plant pathologists and nematologists, the Soybean Nematode Management Guides provide soybean farmers with science-based tools to soil test and identify nematode infestations, develop tailored management strategies, and recover lost yield potential caused by:
    Soybean cyst nematode (SCN): Known as the No. 1 yield-grabbing pathogen of the soybean crop in North America, SCN causes up to 30% yield loss without demonstrating noticeable aboveground symptoms, leading to annual losses exceeding $1.5 billion.1
    Root-knot nematode (RKN): Another widespread threat, RKN species, including Southern RKN, can cause 25% yield loss in individual fields and is found in most soybean production regions in the U.S.
    Root lesion nematode (RLN): A collection of more than 100 species, RLN's impact on yield extends beyond soybeans. With a broad host range, RLN can also reduce yield in rotational crops, including corn, and lead to recurring economic losses.
    Reniform nematode: A significant pathogen in the southern U.S. for cotton and soybean farmers, reniform nematode can cause more than a 10% yield loss in individual fields.

Research conducted by The SCN Coalition of 271 farmers in southern soybean areas shows roughly 80% of farmers are aware of SCN and RKN, while other nematode species that impact soybean yield, like RLN and reniform, are less understood. When high numbers of these nematodes coincide with drought or other stressful environmental conditions, soybean yield reductions can become even more severe. Other research findings include:
        44% said they scout or conduct nematode soil sampling
        57% rely on aboveground symptoms to diagnose nematodes
        72% rely on crop rotation to manage nematodes
        65% support checkoff-funded research to develop new nematode management tools

“Thanks to efforts from The SCN Coalition, soybean farmers have been exposed to active SCN management messages, but nematode pressure doesn't stop there,” said Dylan Mangel, plant pathologist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “Addressing these lesser-known and still damaging nematode species helps farmers close information gaps and take a more comprehensive approach to protect yield from nematodes. It's also an opportunity for the Coalition to expand its reach and impact.”

While it's impossible to eliminate nematode pressure from an infested field, the Soybean Nematode Management Guides arm soybean farmers with multiple active management strategies shown to effectively reduce plant-parasitic nematodes' impact on yield.

“An integrated approach using multiple active management strategies can keep nematode populations low and protect soybean yield,” said Horacio Lopez-Nicora, soybean pathologist and nematologist at The Ohio State University. “By adopting a proactive, informed management plan and using the practices found in these management guides, farmers can reduce plant-parasitic nematode pressure and help protect soybean yield and overall crop productivity.”

“These management guides are designed with the farmers' needs in mind,” Isley said. In addition to step-by-step soil testing instructions and symptoms identification, the guides include management options like planting resistant soybean varieties, crop rotation, use of nematode-protectant seed treatments and other cultural practices that promote root health. “Along with working with your local agronomic expert, farmers can equip themselves with practices to manage nematode pressure to meet their soybean yield goals.”

Available online and for digital download, the four Soybean Nematode Management Guides are ready for use, putting the power of proven strategies in the hands of soybean farmers and their crop advisors to help actively manage these pests and protect yield.

Visit https://www.thescncoalition.com/field-guides/ to access the Soybean Nematode Management Guides. 

Friday August 21 Ag News Extra - Cattle on Feed up 2% as of Aug 1 - US Milk Production up 2.2% in July - says USDA Reports

United States Cattle on Feed Up 2 Percent

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.1 million head on August 1, 2026, according to USDA's monthly Cattle on Feed report released Friday, August 21. The inventory was 2 percent above August 1, 2025.

On Feed - (1,000 hd - Aug 01 '26  -  % Aug 01 '25)
Colorado ............:               905     -      103             
Iowa ...................:               670     -       97              
Kansas ...............:              2,260    -      100              
Nebraska ...........:              2,470    -      103                
Texas .................:              2,510    -      101           

Placements in feedlots during July totaled 1.42 million head, 11 percent below 2025. Net placements were 1.37 million head. Placements were the lowest for July since the series began in 1996. During July, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 310,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 215,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 320,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 322,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 185,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 70,000 head.

Placements - (1,000 hd -  July '26   -  % July '25)
Colorado ................:              85     -      77         
Iowa .......................:              55     -      83        
Kansas ...................:              375    -      86      
Nebraska ...............:              380    -      86      
Texas .....................:              290    -      100      

Marketings of fed cattle during July totaled 1.62 million head, 7 percent below 2025. Marketings were the lowest for July since the series began in 1996. Other disappearance totaled 55,000 head during July, 8 percent above 2025.

Marketings - (1,000 hd -  July '26   -  % July '25)
Colorado ..............:              105      -      84    
Iowa .....................:               63       -     97      
Kansas .................:              405      -      95        
Nebraska .............:              435      -      91       
Texas ...................:              330      -      92      


The estimates ahead of the report broke down like this: 
  - On-feed numbers on Aug. 1 at 102.5% of a year ago - Range of 102.3% - 102.9% 
  - Placements in July at 93.5% - Range of 92.3% - 95.1%  
  - Marketings in July at 92.6% - Range of 92.2% - 93.4%. 


------------


July Milk Production in the United States up 2.2 Percent

Milk production in the United States during July totaled 20.1 billion pounds, up 2.2 percent from July 2025. Production per cow in the United States averaged 2,075 pounds for July, 3 pounds above July 2025. The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.71 million head, 199,000 head more than July 2025, but unchanged from June 2026.

Friday August 21 Ag News - Rural Mainstreet Index Indicates Expaning Economy - ENREEC Hosts Crop Prod/Soil Health Clinic - NeFB Disaster Relief Funds - Red Mead Prod Down 2% - 500+ Recognized as Centruy/Heritage Farms in Iowa - and more!

Rural Mainstreet Index Rises Above Growth Neutral
Almost Half of CEOs Expect Decline in Farm Income Ahead

According to the August survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) climbed slightly above growth neutral for only the second time in the past six months. Readings range between 0 and 100 with 50.0 representing growth neutral.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for August rose to 50.3 from 42.1 in July.

“Despite higher input costs and improved, but still relatively weak grain prices, bank CEOs rated approximately 52.5% of farm borrowers in good condition with the remaining 47.5% rated in fair condition,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Approximately, 47.5% of bankers expect farm income to decline in the next 12 months. Roughly 36.8% anticipate little or no change in farm income, while the remaining 15.7% expect a slight increase in farm income over the 12-month period.

Farming and ranchland prices: For the first time since April of this year, the farm and ranchland price index fell below growth neutral. The farm and ranchland index dropped to 47.2 from 52.8 in July.

“Though farm and ranchland values have been holding up much better than farm and ranching income, weak grain prices, lower farm liquidity and somewhat tougher credit standards have restrained growth in farmland values,” said Goss.

Farm equipment sales: The August farm equipment sales index sank to a very weak 22.2 from July’s 27.8. This is the 36th straight month that the index has fallen below growth neutral.

“Tariffs on imported steel/aluminum and the conflict in Iran continue to create volatility in the agricultural sector. Producers are not as willing to purchase new farm equipment due to volatility, along with low and negative cash flows,” said Goss.

As a result of weak farm equipment sales, bankers reported that borrowing to support farm equipment purchases accounted for only 5.3% of agriculture lending, while real estate loans represented 52.6% of ag lending. Operating loans accounted for 31.4%, livestock loans represented 5.6% and 5.1% accounted for other remaining loans as reported by bank CEOs in August.

According to trade data from the International Trade Association (ITA), regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first half of 2026 were $5.77 billion, compared to $5.38 billion for the same period in 2025, for a gain of 7.3%. Regional exports of agricultural goods and livestock between 2025 and 2026 expanded by $3.09 billion to $3.14 billion (+1.6%) to Mexico, and $117.8 million to $352.8 million (+199.5%) to China. For the same comparison period, regional ag and livestock exports to Canada fell from $429.0 million to $427.7 million (-0.3%).

Confidence: Rural bankers remain pessimistic about economic growth for their area over the next six months. The August economic confidence index slumped to 31.6 from July’s 34.2.

“Weak grain prices, higher input costs and volatility stemming from the Iran war and tariff uncertainty continue to weigh on banker confidence,” said Goss.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The state’s Rural Mainstreet Index for August increased to 47.9 from 42.6 in July. The state’s farm and ranchland price index for August declined to 45.8 from 52.2 in July. Nebraska’s new hiring index fell to 48.7 from 49.8 in July. According to trade data from the ITA, Nebraska exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first half of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, slumped by $75.8 million for an 11.3% fall. The greatest downturn in Nebraska ag exports were to Canada with a 28.0% drop from 2025 to 2026.

Iowa: August’s RMI for the state increased to 46.2 from 41.4 in July. Iowa’s farm and ranchland price index for August slumped to 44.2 from 52.3 in July. Iowa’s new hiring index for August fell to 47.0 from July’s 49.9. According to trade data from the ITA, Iowa exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first half of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, expanded by $61.4 million for a 6.2% gain. The greatest upturn in Iowa ag exports were to Japan with a 24.5% gain from 2025 to 2026.

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.



Crop Production and Soil Health Clinic Aug 27th at ENREEC

Nebraska Extension is pleased to bring you the Crop Production and Soil Health Clinic at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension, and Education Center on Thursday, August 27th.

The Clinic will run from 8:45 am to 4:00 pm, with registration starting at 8:00 am. 

The Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center is located at 1071 County Road G, Ithaca, NE 68033. 

This day will feature in-the-field, hands-on sessions that will center around two themes:

Innovative practices for those interested in regenerative, sustainable farming.
·  Biochar and Compost Extract Effects – Britt Fossum, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture and Jenny Brhel, Water and Cropping Systems Extension Educator
·  Beyond cereal rye: Summer annuals as cover crops – Katja Koehler-Cole, Water and Cropping Systems Extension Educator

Topics related to corn and soybean production to close out the 2026 growing season.
·  Corn and Soybean Growth: What Have We Seen in 2026 – Jenny Brhel and Aaron Nygren, Water and Cropping Systems Extension Educators
·  Corn and Soybean Disease Update – Tamra Jackson-Ziems, Plant Pathology Specialist
·  Corn and Soybean Insect Update – Justin McMechan, Crop Protection and Cropping Systems Specialist, and Silvana Paula-Moraes, Crops Integrated Pest Management Specialist
·  Phosphorus and Potassium Recommendations – Javed Iqbal, Nutrient Management and Water Quality Specialist
·  Weed Science Update on Growth Regulators, Herbicide Programs, and Adjuvants - Luka Milosevic, Post-Doc Research Associate and Jon Scott, Research Technologist

A total of 7 CCA CEU credits have been applied for, covering 1 Soil and Water CEU, 1 Crop Management CEU, 2 Nutrient Management CEU's, and 3 Pest Management CEU's.

Please register by August 26th by clicking on this link: https://go.unl.edu/cmdc26 , calling Saunders County Extension at 402-624-8030, or by scanning the below QR code.

For those needing no CCA credits, there is a $35 registration fee to attend, which includes training, lunch, and reference materials. For those needing CCA credits, there is a $75 registration fee to attend.  

More information can be found at https://enreec.unl.edu/2026CropAndSoilHealthClinic/.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Disaster Relief Fund provides $365,000 to farmers and ranchers, continues accepting applications

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Disaster Relief Fund has distributed $365,000 to Nebraska farmers and ranchers recovering from this spring's devastating wildfires, providing assistance to agricultural producers facing losses that often are not covered by insurance.

Established by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation following the March 2026 wildfires, the Disaster Relief Fund has raised $418,218 through the generosity of individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities committed to helping Nebraska agriculture recover. To date, two rounds of applications have been completed, with 100% of donated funds going directly to disaster relief efforts.

"The response from Nebraskans has been incredible," said Mark McHargue, president of Nebraska Farm Bureau. "When disaster strikes, our neighbors step up. These donations are helping farm and ranch families recover from losses that can take years to rebuild."

The Disaster Relief Fund helps address losses that are common after large-scale disasters, including damage to fencing, grazing land, feed supplies, and other agricultural needs that may not be fully covered by insurance or other assistance programs.

Applications remain open, and Nebraska farmers and ranchers who experienced qualifying disaster-related losses are encouraged to apply. Farm Bureau membership is not required to be eligible for assistance. The fund will continue accepting both applications and donations until further notice.

"As recovery continues, we know there are still producers working through the financial impact of these fires," McHargue said. "Whether someone needs assistance or wants to help a neighbor, we encourage them to visit the Disaster Relief Fund website to learn more."

To apply for assistance, make a donation, or learn more about the Nebraska Farm Bureau Disaster Relief Fund, visit www.nefb.org/disaster. 



Commercial Red Meat Production Down 2 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.29 billion pounds in July, down 2 percent from the 4.36 billion pounds produced in July 2025.

Beef production, at 2.09 billion pounds, was 5 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.37 million head, down 7 percent from July 2025. The average live weight was up 28 pounds from the previous year, at 1,438 pounds.

Veal production totaled 1.5 million pounds, 29 percent below July a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 6,700 head, down 32 percent from July 2025. The average live weight was up 21 pounds from last year, at 380 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.19 billion pounds, up 1 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.3 million head, down slightly from July 2025. The average live weight was up 4 pounds from the previous year, at 286 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 9.7 million pounds, was down 12 percent from July 2025. Sheep slaughter totaled 172,200 head, 9 percent below last year. The average live weight was 111 pounds, down 4 pounds from July a year ago.

By State        (million lbs.  -  % of July '25)
Nebraska ......:     616.9     -      99       
Iowa .............:     715.4     -      102       

January to July 2026 commercial red meat production was 30.5 billion pounds, down 2 percent from 2025. Accumulated beef production was down 5 percent from last year, veal was down 25 percent, pork was up 1 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 10 percent. 




514 Iowa Century and Heritage Farm Families Honored at the 2026 Iowa State Fair

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Brent Johnson today honored 514 Iowa farm families with Century or Heritage Farm designations during ceremonies at the 2026 Iowa State Fair. The annual recognition celebrates families who have owned their farms for 100 and 150 years, respectively.

This year, 274 Century Farms and a record 240 Heritage Farms were recognized in the historic Livestock Pavilion. The 2026 ceremonies carry added significance as Iowa celebrates America250, the 50th anniversary of the Century Farm Program and the 20th anniversary of the Heritage Farm Program.

“As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, we are reminded that the story of American agriculture runs straight through the story of our country,” said Secretary Naig. “For generations, farm families have helped feed, fuel, defend and sustain this nation. The values that built America, including hard work and personal responsibility, private property and ownership, perseverance and the determination to leave something better for the next generation, are reflected in each of these Century and Heritage Farm families. There is an intense sense of pride that comes with keeping a farm in the family for 100 or 150 years, and these families represent an incredible legacy of sacrifice, stewardship and progress. As we look ahead to America’s next 250 years, agriculture will remain fundamental to our nation’s success because of families like these who continue to carry that proud tradition forward.”

The Century Farm Program has a special connection to America’s milestone celebrations. The program was established by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation in 1976 as part of the Nation’s Bicentennial Celebration. Fifty years later, Iowa is once again celebrating a major American milestone while recognizing the farm families whose dedication and perseverance have helped shape the state and nation.

“Iowa’s Century and Heritage Farms have been foundational in the growth and prosperity of our great state, and it’s an honor to recognize and celebrate their family farm legacies,” said Brent Johnson, Iowa Farm Bureau President. “Celebrating this special achievement is a testament to the deep roots and generations of hardworking farm families who continue to move Iowa forward.”

The Heritage Farm Program was established in 2006 to recognize the extraordinary achievement of families who have maintained ownership of their farms for at least 150 years. This year’s record 240 Heritage Farm recipients comes as the program celebrates its 20th anniversary. Since the programs began, more than 21,000 Century Farms and more than 2,400 Heritage Farms have been recognized across Iowa.

America250 was also incorporated throughout this year’s recognition ceremonies. Each 2026 Century and Heritage Farm family received a certificate and farm sign featuring the America250 seal and was photographed in front of a special America250 backdrop.

Visit IowaAgriculture.gov to search the database of Century and Heritage Farm recipients - click here: https://centuryfarms.iowaagriculture.gov/. 



Global Feed Milling Leaders Attend Iowa State University Training Course

Last week, the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) led 10 feed milling industry stakeholders from Colombia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, New Zealand and Panama to Iowa State University (ISU) for interactive sessions showcasing advanced feed manufacturing and mill management practices to improve operational efficiencies and storage that fully capitalize on the nutritional value of U.S corn and co-products.

“The Council works around the world with our customers to demonstrate U.S corn and co-products' superior advantages, as well as identifying and helping overcome key challenges such as on-site storage and improving processing operations,” said Mark Sevier, USGBC manager of global strategies and trade.

“For example, customers from the countries represented on the team face significant challenges in maintaining quality during storage because of hot and humid climates, lack of training and limited investment in appropriate equipment. These hands-on courses systematically address end-users' issues and open the door for increased exports of U.S. corn around the world.”

The weeklong course combined classroom instruction with hands-on training at ISU’s Kent Feed Mill & Grain Science Complex, covering key feed milling principles including hammer and roller milling, particle size analysis, batching and mixing, steam generation and conditioning, pelleting, cooling and post-pelleting applications.

Participants received practical training in mixer uniformity, pelleting and pellet durability and hardness testing, along with instruction on maintaining the quality of stored grains, distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and other ingredients.

Key players in the local and national corn value chain then hosted the team for tours to offer insights into the scale and efficiency of U.S. corn production and use. USGBC member POET welcomed the group to one of its ethanol plants in Iowa Falls to observe DDGS production and a local farm showcased its corn crop.

“Some of the companies invited to this program have already participated in commercial trials key to demonstrating and maximizing the value of U.S. corn, providing sustained outreach to important regional customers,” Sevier said.

“U.S. farmers set the standard for corn quality, and maintaining that quality during transit and storage is a priority for international end-users that the Council is working with to enhance U.S. corn’s global competitiveness.”



Growth Energy: EPA Waiver Secures E15 Sales for the Rest of Summer, Illustrates Need for Year-Round Fix

Growth Energy, the nation's largest biofuel trade association, commended the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today for issuing a temporary emergency fuel waiver that clears the way for the continued sale of E15, a fuel blend made with 15% ethanol that costs less than standard fuel and is approved for use in 96% of cars on the road today.

E15 requires a waiver from the EPA in order to be sold in the summer. The agency has been issuing these emergency waivers consistently since May, and today's announcement supports continued E15 availability across the U.S. for the remainder of the summer driving season.

"Today's announcement aligns with this EPA's track record of giving retailers the certainty they need to keep E15 on the market all year long," said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. "Now we need Congress to follow suit by passing legislation to permanently allow year-round E15 every year. Retailers, farmers, and drivers shouldn't have to rely on EPA to provide separate waivers each year in order to have access to this more affordable fuel option. We applaud EPA for taking this initiative, and hope Congress does the same when it returns from recess by getting year-round E15 to the president's desk." 



NASDA and NALC roll out new data on agricultural bankruptcy

This week, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and the National Agricultural Law Center announced the launch of Data on Economic and Bankruptcy Trends in Agriculture (DEBT), a data project that aims to provide a more comprehensive view of bankruptcy trends across the agricultural sector. The project compiles agricultural bankruptcy filings under both Chapter 11 and Chapter 12.
 
“A goal of our memorandum of understanding with the National Agricultural Law Center was to expand collaboration to inform agricultural policy and education,” NASDA CEO Ted McKinney said. “The DEBT project accomplishes exactly that by providing better data and a more complete picture of the economic conditions U.S. farmers are facing.”
 
“DEBT is a first step in gaining a definitive, foundational picture of agricultural bankruptcy filings in the U.S. from 2021 onward,” NALC Director Harrison Pittman said. “We look forward to collaborating with NASDA and others partners and stakeholders in building on this foundation.”
 
Historically, farms filing bankruptcies have been tracked through Chapter 12 filings, which is specifically designed for family farmers and family fishermen with regular annual income. It provides eligible farms with a process for reorganizing debt while continuing to operate. 
 
However, agricultural businesses might file under Chapter 11, a broad business reorganization chapter, when they do not qualify for Chapter 12 because of circumstances like off-farm incomes. Like Chapter 12, Chapter 11 allows the farm to continue operating while developing a plan to restructure and repay its debts.
 
This project examined bankruptcy filings from January 2021 through June 2026. To find farms that filed under Chapter 11 rather than Chapter 12, NASDA and NALC worked with long-time NASDA partner SAS, an advanced analytics company that turns data into usable information. Utilizing Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER), an online system allowing access to federal court files, case dockets and legal documents, SAS developed an automated process to cross-reference that information with publicly available data from the USDA Farm Service Agency. When an entity appeared in a bankruptcy filing and as a USDA Farm Service Agency program recipient, SAS used that as an indicator that the entity was an agricultural operation.
 
Of the 1,401 agricultural bankruptcy filings mapped, 201 were filed under Chapter 11. All 1,200 filings under Chapter 12 were counted, as a requirement to file for Chapter 12 protection is that the filing entity must be a farmer or fisherman.
 
Because not all farms participate in USDA Farm Service Agency, the Chapter 11 results may not capture every agricultural operation that filed under that chapter. However, by compiling agricultural bankruptcy filings across both chapters, the DEBT project provides a more comprehensive view of trends across the agricultural sector.
 
The data can help identify changes over time, geographic patterns and emerging financial challenges affecting agricultural operations. These filings can offer a clearer picture of the financial realities facing U.S. agriculture for attorneys, policymakers, researchers, lenders and others seeking to understand and respond to those challenges. Learn more about the project, methodology and findings at https://nationalaglawcenter.org/debtproject/.

Thursday August 20 Ag News - USDA Precision Ag Center at NIC - BQA Training in West Point Aug 25 - NE Corn Board Elects New Leadership - NEB's Rhodes Elected to ACE - IA Corn Meets with DOJ on Fertilizer Prices - and more!

Flood Celebrates $37 Million Investment in National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture at UNL’s Innovation Campus

Wednesday, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement celebrating the U.S. Department of Agriculture's announcement of $37 million to fund construction of the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Innovation Campus.

"The USDA's announcement of $37 million to fully fund the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture is a major win for ag research, Nebraska producers, and Lincoln's economy," said Congressman Flood. "This investment reflects the administration's commitment to keeping Nebraska at the forefront of ag innovation. Thank you to Secretary Rollins and Undersecretary Hutchins for backing our farmers and ranchers by investing right here in Nebraska."

Funding for the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture has long been a priority for Congressman Flood. In the Unicameral, Flood worked to move the Nebraska State Fair to pave the way for construction of the ARS center in Lincoln on the former fairgrounds site. In the House of Representatives, Congressman Flood has helped secure more than $41 million in federal funding for the project, including $25 million in FY24, and $16 million in FY26. He testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies in support of funding for the center in 2025 and 2026.



Fischer Applauds USDA Announcement of $37M for Agricultural Research Service Facility at UNL

Wednesday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement that the agency will direct $37 million to the construction of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facility at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln’s (UNL) Innovation Campus:

“This is great news for UNL and the future of the ARS facility. Over the years, I have worked hard to secure over $70 million dollars in federal investments for this project. I thank Secretary Brooke Rollins and Under Secretary Scott Hutchins for recognizing the importance of funding this facility. I look forward to continuing to work to get this project fully finished.”



Beef Quality Assurance Program Aug 25 in West Point

Beef Quality Assurance is a nationally coordinated, state implemented program that provides systematic information to U.S. beef producers and beef consumers of how common sense husbandry techniques can be coupled with accepted scientific knowledge to raise cattle under optimum management and environmental conditions.

The BQA mission is to guide producers towards continuous improvement using science-based production practices that assure cattle well-being, beef quality, and beef safety with an overall end goal to maximize consumer confidence in beef and beef products.

West Point: Aug. 25, 6:30 p.m.
West Point Livestock Market
839 South Colfax St.

$20/person or $100 flat fee for operations with 5+ members.

Visit www.bqa.unl.edu for upcoming certification dates and links to register.

Questions: call 308-632-1230

 

New Leadership Elected for the Nebraska Corn Board for 2026-2027

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) elected three farmers to serve leadership roles at its recent board meeting on August 12. The leadership roles are effective immediately and have a one-year duration.

Andy Groskopf, District 8 director, was elected chair of NCB. Groskopf farms near Scottsbluff, where he farms irrigated corn and dry edible beans. He has been farming for over 20 years and is the fourth generation managing the family farm. He attended Western Nebraska Community College for automotive technologies. Groskopf has been on NCB since 2018.

Ted Schrock, District 6 director, was elected vice chair of the board. Schrock farms near Elm Creek where he farms with his father, brother, uncles, cousins and son where they grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa, wheat and run a cow-calf operation. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Schrock has served on NCB since 2018.

John Krohn, District 7 director, was elected secretary/treasurer of the board. Krohn farms near Albion with his father, growing corn and soybeans on land that has been in his family for more than 120 years. He is the fifth generation to operate the family farm. Krohn earned his degree in agronomy from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and worked as a production supervisor for Cargill before returning to the farm full-time. He practices sustainable production methods, including no-till farming and cover crops. Krohn has served on NCB since 2021.

“Andy, Ted and John are all stepping into new leadership roles this year, and each is ready to serve Nebraska's corn farmers in this new capacity,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of NCB. “Their willingness to lead will serve us well as we continue to promote Nebraska's corn industry and drive initiatives that benefit our state's corn producers.”

The full board comprises nine corn farmers from across the state. Eight members represent specific Nebraska districts and are appointed by the Governor of Nebraska. The Board elects a ninth at-large member. Board members serve three-year terms with the possibility to be reappointed. 



NEBFARMPAC Endorses Chris Backemeyer for First Congressional District 

Nebraska Farmers Union’s Political Action Committee, NEBFARMPAC announced its endorsement of Democratic candidate Chris Backemeyer for the First Congressional District in the general election.

Vern Jantzen, NEBFARMPAC President from Plymouth said, “As voters, we hire, retain, and if necessary, fire the public officials that work for us. When times are good and things are working as they should, we stay the course and retain our management. When times are tough and things are not working as they should, as managers of our own interests, voters must make changes and hope for badly needed long overdue improvements.” 

John Hansen, NEBFARMPAC Secretary said, “Our Board is painfully aware of the fact that agriculture is facing another year of losing money thanks to record high ag input costs and below the cost of production ag commodity prices. Agriculture is facing the worst financial crisis since the 1980s. Business as usual these days is about farms and ranches losing money, equity, and their generations old farm and ranch operations. Too many of our farmers have lost too much money for too many years to continue.”

“Our PAC Board also knows our current Farm Bill is badly outdated and has failed production agriculture, and is no longer a meaningful income safety net given today’s farming risks. Farmers are not going out of business, not getting their farm operating loans renewed, and being forced to liquidate their farm equipment and land because the status quo is not working for them. Our Congress has failed agriculture during this economic crisis because even though they control both Houses of Congress, they have failed to pass an updated or improved Farm Bill for the past three years. Production agriculture, Nebraska’s largest single industry cannot count on this Congress to do their job, or have our backs as we continue to see too many of our neighbors be forced out of their generations old farming operations,” said Vern Jantzen.

NEBFARMPAC Secretary John Hansen said, “Chris Backemeyer has attended our District meetings and state convention. He has asked for and received briefings on the issues we face. He listens to our members. He takes their concerns about unaffordable health care insurance seriously. His family comes from agriculture. His experience in international relations and diplomacy is a real plus in our eyes. He knows how to work with others. He is a good listener. He understands just how important family farm and ranch agriculture is to our rural communities, state, and nation, and that when agriculture is doing well, everyone else in our society does better. We think he will be a breath of fresh air.”



ACE Elects Board of Directors During Annual Business Meeting

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) elected and re-elected members to its board of directors during the organization’s annual business meeting on August 19, ahead of ACE’s 39th annual conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Board members re-elected to three-year terms include:
    Badger State Ethanol – David Kolsrud
    Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company – Harmon Wilts
    Mid-Missouri Energy – Chris Wilson
    Nebraska Ethanol Board – Ben Rhodes
    South Dakota Corn Growers Association – Dave Ellens

Additionally, Andrew Larson with ICM, inc., was elected to serve on the board, succeeding Adam Anderson.

ACE also welcomed two new members to its board: Kim Herzog, CCO of Encore Energy and Bill Pracht, President and CEO of East Kansas Agri-Energy.

“After several years as an ACE member, Encore is thrilled to deepen our involvement by joining the Board of Directors,” said Herzog. “ACE’s incredible team consistently delivers value-added events and initiatives, and the membership is full of industry experts with vast experience that we’re grateful to learn from. We look forward to contributing our own expertise to the board, giving back to an organization that has provided so much value to us.”

“I’m honored to represent East Kansas Agri-Energy on the ACE board,” said Pracht. “I look forward to bringing an open mind and years of experience to a great board and working together to build a better industry.”



Iowa Corn Farmers Meet with Top DOJ Official on Fertilizer Industry Consolidation

Iowa corn farmer members from across the state Tuesday met with Department of Justice (DOJ) Associate Attorney General of the United States, Stanley E. Woodward, Jr. about the pressures U.S. farmers are facing due to continued fertilizer price increases caused by major consolidation within the fertilizer industry. 

Farmers shared first-hand accounts of sharp fertilizer price increases, citing examples of prices doubling from year to year and instances where they could not even obtain price quotes. Iowa corn farmers emphasized that the fertilizer industry is exploiting government payments intended to support farmers, ultimately diverting those funds to boost fertilizer companies’ profits. They stressed that family farms in Iowa and across the nation cannot withstand this ongoing exploitation, and they urged the DOJ to investigate potential anti-competitive practices and to demand greater transparency in fertilizer pricing. 

When asked who from the DOJ would take the lead on this issue and produce real answers for Iowa corn farmers, the Associate Attorney General answered, "I will," and promised to return to Iowa with an answer for all farmers with the DOJ's findings. 

The Iowa Corn Growers Association will continue to keep the fertilizer industry’s consolidation at the top of the DOJ's mind and continue fighting on behalf of Iowa's corn growers. 



Weekly Ethanol Production for 8/14/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending August 14, ethanol production scaled back 2.5% to a 5-week low of 1.09 million b/d, equivalent to 45.74 million gallons daily. Yet, output was 1.6% higher than the same week last year and 6.0% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate ticked down 0.2% to 1.11 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 17.08 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks climbed 1.3% to 25.1 million barrels, the largest weekly level since the start of May. Stocks were 10.7% more than the same week last year and 10.1% above the five-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, slumped 3.1% to an 11-week low of 8.69 million b/d (133.57 bg annualized). Demand was 1.7% less than a year ago and 3.4% below the five-year average.

Conversely, refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol improved 1.2% to 926,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.23 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.1% more than year-ago levels and 0.6% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports expanded 18.3% to 129,000 b/d (5.4 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



5 Fertilizer Prices Slightly Lower Than Last Month; 3 Higher

Retail fertilizer prices continue to be somewhat mixed for the second full week of August 2026, according to retailers tracked by DTN. For the fourth week in a row, five fertilizers were lower in price compared to last month while the remaining three were slightly higher. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Unlike last week, only one nutrient had a sizeable price move. UAN28 was 7% less expensive compared to last month. The average price of nitrogen fertilizers was $446/ton. Four other fertilizer prices were just slightly lower. Urea had an average price of $678/ton, 10-34-0 $718/ton, anhydrous $964/ton and UAN32 $458/ton.

The remaining three nutrients were just slightly more expensive looking back a month. DAP had an average price of $917/ton, MAP $960/ton and potash $495/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.74/lb.N, anhydrous $0.59/lb.N, UAN28 $0.80/lb.N and UAN32 $0.72/lb.N.

Seven of the eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. Potash is 2% higher, urea and UAN28 are both 6% more expensive, 10-34-0 and MAP is 7% higher, DAP is 11% more expensive and anhydrous is 27% higher looking back to last year.  One fertilizer is lower than a year ago: UAN32, which is 6% lower than a year earlier.



U.S. dairy exports rise 9% in the first half of 2026
US Dairy Export Council

U.S. dairy exports rose 9% in milk solid equivalent (MSE) terms in the first half of 2026. Robust global demand, particularly for U.S. cheese and butterfat, helped put U.S. dairy trade on a record pace for the year. 

Export value grew 12% to $5.31 billion, a growth rate that, if maintained, would vault annual exports above the $10 billion mark for the first time. 

U.S. cheese export success in the first half of 2026 was geographically widespread. Year-over-year shipments to our No. 1 market, Mexico, grew 32% (+30,224 MT). Exports to our No. 2 market, South Korea, jumped 36% (+13,653 MT). Shipments to Central America rose 25% (+7,735 MT); Southeast Asia was up 55% (+6,628 MT); and volume to South America increased 31% (+4,708 MT). What’s more, growth extended across all HS subcategories, with double-digit gains in natural cheese (e.g., cheddar and colby), fresh cheese (e.g., mozzarella and cream cheese), grated and powdered, blue, and processed. 

Amid increasing GLP-1 usage and broader cultural attention on health, domestic demand for high-protein whey has been insatiable. So insatiable, in fact, that less of it is available for export. WPC80+ exports have fallen 21% (-8,482 MT) so far this year as a result. Volumes declined to almost all major regions, including South Korea, China, Canada, South America, and Europe. 

Butterfat exports have been one of the standout stories of 2026, building on momentum carried over from last year. Volume has more than doubled year-over-year in several months and come close to it in others. Even June's slower pace largely reflects tougher YOY comparables (as volumes are now lapping already-strong 2025 numbers) rather than any real loss of steam. This growth rests on a straightforward dynamic: U.S. supply is abundant, prices are competitive, and buyers around the world are responding. 

Wednesday August 19 Ag News - Pro Farmer Crop Tour Results Nebraska - DWFI Helps Ukraine Agriculture - HHD Debuts Ag Tech Pavilion - IDALS Cattle & Conservation Working Lands Expands - and more!

Pro Farmer Crop Tour Results from Nebraska

Pro Farmer Crop Tour scouts spent one and a half days in and out of corn and soybean fields in Nebraska Monday and Tuesday this week as part of the 33rd year of the event.  On Tuesday evening in Nebraska City, Pro Farmer announced the Nebraska numbers, pegging the corn yield at 163.61 bushels an acre, which would be down 8.85% from their estimate last year and down 5.6% from their 3 year average.  For soybeans, Pro Farmer announces pod counts for a three foot by three foot area. This year's pod counts came in at 1219.6 pods, down 9.5% from their 2025 number and just 0.6% below the 3 year crop tour average.  Western leg crop scouts will spend the day Wednesday touring western Iowa corn and soybean fields, with the eastern leg scouts working from Illinois into Iowa.  



Nebraska expertise supports Ukraine's irrigation restoration efforts

Ukraine is working to upgrade aging irrigation systems and rebuild critical agricultural infrastructure damaged by the Russian invasion. To support that effort and strengthen the country’s recovery, a delegation of Ukrainian water managers, agricultural leaders and irrigation stakeholders traveled to Nebraska to learn about irrigation equipment, technologies and business.  

Hosted by the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute (DWFI) at the University of Nebraska, the delegation visited university research facilities, irrigation manufacturers and government leaders to learn how Nebraska's expertise in water management, precision agriculture and agricultural technology can contribute to Ukraine's ongoing irrigation reforms. 

The visit positioned Nebraska's irrigation industry and agricultural leaders central to business and trade relations with one of the world's largest agricultural restoration efforts. 

A country's irrigation potential, disrupted by war 
Ukraine has one of the highest potential irrigated areas in Europe. In 1991, the country had around 6.4 million acres with irrigation infrastructure and over 8 million acres with drainage infrastructure. However, much of that area deteriorated. According to the World Bank, irrigated cropping area was just over 1 million acres around 2021, but declined by 73% with the war, particularly with the destruction of the Kakhovka reservoir in 2023.  

Ukraine's irrigation and drainage needs present a global challenge. The national strategy for irrigation development aims to support irrigation expansion on 1.8 million acres. However, the World Bank’s estimate for potential irrigation is upwards of 4.5 million acres. That area will be much higher as temperature and water scarcity rise.  

Behind all these figures are producers working to keep their farms operating despite damaged infrastructure, unreliable electricity, scrambled internet, disrupted export routes and the ongoing risks of land mines and other perils of war. For Ukraine, restoring irrigation is essential to sustaining livelihoods, strengthening food production and building resilience for its future. 

Ukraine pursuing farmer-led water reforms 
Looking toward long-term recovery and resilience, Ukraine has pursued significant reforms to how irrigation and drainage systems are managed. Even as the conflict continues, Ukraine’s farmers are investing in irrigation and advancing reforms designed to strengthen local farmer ownership of water infrastructure. While difficult amidst war, reforms made now will accelerate recovery. 

Supported through the U.S. Government-funded Ukraine Agriculture Growing Rural Opportunities (AGRO) Activity, Ukraine has begun transferring responsibility for on-farm irrigation and drainage infrastructure from the state government to farmer-led Water Users Organizations (WUOs). The Association of WUOs is now the largest association of farmers in Ukraine. The reforms are designed to improve efficiency of irrigated production; strengthen local decision-making on water use in agriculture; and create favorable conditions for private investment in irrigated agriculture.  

As farmers and water managers assume greater responsibility for irrigation infrastructure, demand is growing in Ukraine for modern new technologies and equipment, engineering expertise and trusted industry partners. 

Nebraska: A hub for irrigation expertise 
Home to globally recognized expertise in irrigation, water management and agricultural innovation, Nebraska is a prime destination for Ukrainians to identify equipment to address a range of irrigation and drainage needs.   

During their ten-day visit, delegates toured the University of Nebraska's Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC), met with state leaders including Secretary of State Bob Evnen and Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Sherry Vinton, and visited companies including Valmont Industries, Lindsay Corporation, Reinke Manufacturing, 360 Rain, T-L Irrigation and Agri Drain to learn how technologies could support crop water productivity and agricultural resilience, even during wartime. DWFI provided opportunities for business-to-business networking that serve to deepen U.S.-Ukraine commercial cooperation. 

"The potential for irrigation in Ukraine is right now much larger than the actual irrigated land,” said Nicholas Brozović, DWFI director of policy. “That creates a business opportunity for Nebraskan companies, as well as an opportunity for producers in Ukraine to increase agricultural production, which ultimately strengthens regional and global food security." This end goal is at the heart of DWFI’s work. 

Comparing technologies from the factory to the field 
The trip gave delegates the opportunity to meet company sales and leadership teams and tour manufacturing facilities. They learned about the supply chain and distribution networks to deliver equipment in Ukraine and visited equipment in operation in the field, including equipment affected by recent wind damage. Seeing equipment in operation enabled them to evaluate suitability to their current conditions. The delegates signed several memoranda of understanding to continue conversations with industry after returning home. 

"The first takeaway was that we've seen all of the key manufacturers here and how it is done,” said Dmytro Kohkan, head of the Association of WUOs. “We found specific equipment that is not present in my country, and that is the area where we can continue our cooperation." 

Few places offer the concentration of irrigation expertise found in Nebraska, making it possible for delegates to meet with manufacturers and compare technologies in a single visit. 

"Nebraska is really the natural place for [this delegation] to visit because they can meet a range of companies producing different types of irrigation equipment and understand what best meets their needs," said Nicole Lefore, DWFI associate director. "The delegation is very interested in understanding how U.S. companies and U.S.-produced equipment can meet the very specific needs and deliver to Ukraine, particularly given the challenges related to the conflict." 

Nebraska's irrigation industry: a partner in rebuilding Ukraine 
Rebuilding and modernizing Ukraine’s irrigation systems are even more urgent with rising food demand and changing weather. The World Bank has estimated that restoring Ukraine's water resources and irrigation infrastructure will require roughly $12 billion in public and private investment. 

As Ukraine continues rebuilding and updating its irrigation infrastructure, the business connections formed between Nebraska companies and Ukrainian WUOs may help support future investment, technology adoption and agricultural resilience in both regions. 

"We believe that irrigation is not just an option, it's a necessity...” said WUO manager Nikolai Nalbandian, “We believe that after the war ends there will be a prosperous time for Ukraine, for foreign investment and irrigation will have even more value than today."



Nebraska’s Personal Income Higher  

Nebraska Farm Bureau reported last week that Nebraska’s real first quarter gross domestic product was off 0.90%. The news is more positive for personal income. The Bureau of Economic Analysis said the state’s personal income rose 8.8% in nominal terms in the first quarter, third highest in the nation. 

Total personal income in Nebraska was $158 billion with farm earnings accounting for $7.8 billion, or about 5% of the total. Notably, farm earnings in the first quarter exceeded last year’s for the same period by $3 billion. Earnings from manufacturing, health care, and state & local government led the state. 

Government transfer payments including social security, medical, veterans, and unemployment insurance benefits, up 13.6%, also contributed to the state’s higher income. 

Personal income increased in 49 states with only Hawaii seeing a decline. North Dakota had the greatest gain at 22.4%, followed by South Dakota at 11.8%.  Iowa had a 7.7% gain.   



Husker Harvest Days debuts Ag Tech Pavilion  

Husker Harvest Days will debut the Husker Harvest Ag Tech Pavilion (Lot #145) at its Sept. 15-17, 2026, event, providing a dedicated space for producers to explore emerging agricultural technologies and connect directly with the companies developing solutions for modern farming challenges. Presented by Farm Progress in partnership with The Combine and the University of Nebraska (UNL), the Pavilion will bring together leading agricultural technology (ag tech) companies, industry experts, researchers and innovators under one roof.

"Ag tech is transforming how farmers operate, and Farm Progress is excited to be at the forefront of that conversation," said Matt Jungmann, Farm Progress senior national events director. "We're proud to partner with The Combine and UNL to give producers direct access to the innovations that matter most to their operations — now and in the future.”

Hands-On Access to Breakthrough Solutions
Farmers and producers can connect directly with ag tech exhibitors showcasing solutions in precision agriculture, automation and robotics, artificial intelligence, data management and analytics, connectivity solutions, equipment innovation and new technologies.

Expert Sessions Tackle Real Farm Challenges
Beyond the exhibit floor, the Pavilion will feature daily panel discussions and expert presentations focused on the logistics of technology implementation. Each 30-minute session includes time for Q&A and covers topics including:
    Autonomy and automation
    Practical AI applications farmers can use immediately
    Irrigation efficiency with Nebraska's unique water policies
    Robotics integration and ROI
    Drone technology for crop scouting and livestock management

View the full schedule and register for complimentary admission to the show at www.HuskerHarvestDays.com.



IDALS Announces Major Expansion of Cattle and Conservation Working Lands Program  

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced the next phase of the Greater Des Moines Watershed Program — a targeted initiative to scale up the use of conservation practices upstream to improve water quality downstream.

Secretary Naig joined Bryan Whaley, CEO of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, and cattle producers from Calhoun, Pocahontas and Webster counties at the Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters at the Iowa State Fair to announce the expansion of the popular Cattle and Conservation Working Lands program into the 22 counties located within the Greater Des Moines watershed. In addition to increasing the program area, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) will add two more project coordinators to be stationed in Calhoun and Greene Counties to lead outreach and engagement with local cattle producers.

The cost-share program supports cattle and other livestock producers in converting under-performing or highly erodible acres of row crops into pasture and hay ground. This provides land and forage to support the growth of the U.S. beef herd, while reducing soil erosion and improving water quality.

“The Cattle and Conservation Working Lands Program is truly a win-win, balancing productivity while improving Iowa’s water quality and soil health,” said Secretary Naig. “By converting underperforming cropland into grazing land for cattle and other livestock, we can put every acre to its best use and keep working lands working. It's the right thing to do from an environmental perspective and it creates opportunities for young and beginning farmers, generates new revenue for landowners, and makes more land available to grow the cattle herd. Based on the program’s success in Iowa, I would like to see it become a model for reforming the federal CRP program.”

“Cattlemen have been stewards of the land for generations, and we take that responsibility seriously. The health of our soil and water, and improving them, has always been part of that responsibility,” said Bryan Whaley, CEO of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association. “We’re grateful to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and Sec. Naig for the additional allocation of funding from the Farm to Faucet Program to expand the Iowa Cattle and Conservation Working Lands Program, which allows producers to enhance current practices and implement new efforts even quicker. As Iowa producers, we live here, raise our families here, and depend on these same water resources; we rely on clean water just as much as anyone. This is about building on the good work already happening on Iowa farms and giving producers the tools and support to do even more to improve our land and water.”

The Cattle and Conservation Working Lands Program started as a pilot project in Taylor County in 2016, then expanded to include Adams, Carroll, Cherokee, Guthrie, Ida, Page and Woodbury counties. Leveraging the bi-partisan Farm to Faucet funding passed during the 2026 Legislative session, this farmer-led conservation program is once again expanding to Audubon, Boone, Buena Vista, Calhoun, Clay, Dallas, Dickinson, Emmet, Greene, Hamilton, Hancock, Humboldt, Kossuth, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Polk, Sac, Webster, Winnebago and Wright counties.

To date, IDALS has six project coordinators who have helped enroll more than 1,100 producers in the program. More than 16,000 acres of less-productive agricultural land have been converted from row crops to pasture and hay. Participating producers have also established more than 195,000 acres of cover crops, which help hold soil in place, filter nitrates and provide forage for livestock.

Producers in eligible counties who would like to enroll in the Cattle and Conservation Working Lands Program can visit their local USDA Service Center or visit costshare.iowaagriculture.gov.



Cattlemen's Beef Quarters Adds New Menu Items

A longtime Iowa State Fair favorite is celebrating a major milestone. The Hot Beef Sundae turns 20 this year as the Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters welcomes fairgoers with new menu items, beef tallow cooking and more ways to enjoy beef at the 2026 Iowa State Fair.

Two Decades of the Hot Beef Sundae
First introduced at the Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters in 2006, the Hot Beef Sundae was an instant success. The original goal was to serve 4,000 during the Iowa State Fair, a mark reached within the first two days. More than 22,000 Hot Beef Sundaes were served that first year, and two decades later, the Hot Beef Sundae remains a staple at the Beef Quarters, with approximately 19,000 to 24,000 served each year.

Over the years, the Hot Beef Sundae has earned its place among the Iowa State Fair’s most celebrated foods, including being named the 2024 Best Choose Iowa Fair Food and receiving multiple Queen’s Choice Awards.

The Hot Beef Sundae has also become part of Iowa celebrations beyond the fairgrounds, making appearances at graduation parties, family gatherings and other events across the state. The dish features shredded beef and gravy served over a warm bed of mashed potatoes, sprinkled with shredded cheddar cheese and topped with a cherry tomato.

“It is the epitome of comfort food,” said Kylie Peterson, director of marketing and communications for the Iowa Beef Industry Council. “Twenty years later, the Hot Beef Sundae has become a tradition that people look forward to at the Iowa State Fair and a dish that has found its way into celebrations across Iowa.”

This year, fairgoers can join in the celebration with a commemorative 20th Anniversary Hot Beef Sundae T-shirt. Each shirt purchase includes a coupon for one free Hot Beef Sundae at the Iowa State Fair. To redeem the coupon, fairgoers must wear the anniversary shirt and present the coupon during the fair, August 13-23, 2026. The limited-edition shirt offers longtime fans and first-time fairgoers a fun way to celebrate one of the fair’s most beloved food traditions.

New Ways to Enjoy Beef
While the Hot Beef Sundae remains a fan favorite, the Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters is bringing several new additions to the menu in 2026.

The Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters is now cooking with beef tallow and has added two new menu items: the Pastrami Burger and Cattlemen's Breakfast Bowl.

Pastrami Burger
Features a beef patty topped with sliced pastrami, sliced American cheese and Cattlemen’s Gold sauce, all served on a bun.
Cattlemen's Breakfast Bowl

Breakfast Burrito Bowl
Combines scrambled eggs, tater rounds, chopped brisket and beef sausage gravy, topped with shredded cheese.

The Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters is also putting a beef-forward twist on its breakfast menu, now featuring beef sausage gravy in place of traditional sausage gravy.

The new offerings join the Hot Beef Sundae and other beef favorites, giving fairgoers even more ways to enjoy beef throughout the day.
 

Visit the Cattlemen's Beef Quarters
The Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters is located west of the Cattle Barn, directly north of the Horse Barn and east of the Walnut Center.

The Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters will be open August 13-23, 2026, during the Iowa State Fair, with hours from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Breakfast will be served daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.



Michaiah Jones' citrus smoked turkey breast named grand champion of Iowa Farm Bureau's 62nd annual Cookout Contest at the Iowa State Fair

More than 40 contestants competed along the Grand Concourse for $4,600 in cash prizes during Iowa Farm Bureau’s 62nd annual Cookout Contest, with Michaiah Jones of Coralville winning the Grand Champion crown and title. 

Jones’ Citrus Smoked Turkey Breast scored high marks from judges on taste, appearance and recipe creativity. He received $1,000, the champion’s crown and a trophy as the 2026 Iowa Farm Bureau Cookout Contest Champion. Jones also earned $400 for winning the turkey division. 

An Iowa State Fair tradition since 1964, more than 2,450 Iowans completed in Iowa Farm Bureau’s Cookout Contest, which celebrates Iowa-raised meat and the commitment Iowa livestock farmers make every day to their animals, land and communities. Competitors signed up to compete in early May and were randomly placed in one of six categories: beef, chicken, lamb, pork, turkey and a youth division for ages 13-18. 

“The Farm Bureau Cookout Contest is a fun way to bring people together around something Iowans know and love — a good, homegrown meal,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson. “It’s also a chance to celebrate the farmers who put food on our tables and take pride in doing it well. Every day, they work to earn consumers’ trust through responsible farming practices and a commitment to producing quality food.”

Other contestants taking first place, and $400 in cash, in their respective categories include: Refugio Contreras of Hampton, beef; Martez Stevenson of West Des Moines, chicken; Mitch Elliott of Muscatine, lamb; and Erik Gutierrez of Glenwood, pork.

Sawyer Brinkman of Carroll won first place in the youth division, receiving a gas grill valued at $1,000 and $300 cash, courtesy of the Iowa Propane Gas Association.

Second place finishers included: Ben Zehr of Keswick, beef; Matthew Stout of Washington, chicken; Logan Kahler of Boone, lamb; Rick Slaymaker of Ottumwa, pork; and Erik Mortens of Polk City, turkey. All second-place category finishers received $200. Chris Andrews of Dayton finished second place in the youth division, winning $150.  

Contreras also earned praise and $200 in the showmanship category for his flair behind the grill, use of side dishes and presentation. 

Prize sponsors for the Farm Bureau Cookout Contest include Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Farm Bureau Financial Services, GROWMARK, Inc., Iowa Propane Gas Association, Iowa Pork Producers Association, the Iowa Beef Industry Council, the Iowa Turkey Federation and the North Central Poultry Association.  

Tuesday August 18 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Reports - NE & IA Crop Production Estimates - NE Corn Board Welcomes Two New Directors - IDALS at Iowa State Fair - Beef Packing Business Changes - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition

Corn and soybean crops continued advancing through late-season development last week, with 27% of corn dented and 87% of soybeans setting pods. Meanwhile, dry conditions continued to take a toll on Nebraska’s pasture and range, with 73% rated poor or very poor, according to Monday's USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service report.

For the week ending Aug. 16, there were 4.9 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 22% very short, 27% short, 49% adequate and 2% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 28% very short, 34% short, 37% adequate and 1% surplus.

Field Crops Report:

Corn
    Silking: 96% — equal to 96% last year and behind 98% for the five-year average.
    Dough: 71% — ahead of 69% last year but behind 73% for the five-year average.
    Dented: 27% — ahead of 26% last year and equal to 27% for the five-year average.
    Mature: 2% — ahead of 0% last year and 1% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 5% very poor, 11% poor, 25% fair, 43% good, 16% excellent.

Soybean
    Blooming: 95% — ahead of 93% last year but behind 97% for the five-year average.
    Setting Pods: 87% — ahead of 79% last year and 85% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 2% very poor, 8% poor, 27% fair, 50% good, 13% excellent.

Sorghum
    Headed: 74% — behind 76% last year and 81% for the five-year average.
    Coloring: 20% — behind 25% last year but slightly ahead of 19% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 7% very poor, 17% poor, 32% fair, 39% good, 5% excellent.

Winter Wheat
    Harvest: 99% — ahead of 98% last year and equal to 99% for the five-year average.

Oats
    Harvested: 92% — equal to 92% last year but behind 94% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 14% very poor, 41% poor, 33% fair, 11% good, 1% excellent.

Pasture and Range
    Condition: 43% very poor, 30% poor, 19% fair, 8% good, 0% excellent.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 3.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Aug. 16, 2026. This is 1.8 days less than last year, when there were 5.1 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 4 percent very short, 15 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 21 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 11 percent surplus. 

Corn silking reached 99 percent, which is 1 percentage point ahead of last year. Eighty-three percent of Iowa’s corn crop has reached the dough stage, which is 6 percentage points ahead of last year. Twenty-six percent of corn reached the dent stage, which is 1 percentage point ahead of last year. Corn condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. 

Soybeans blooming reached 96 percent, which is on par with last year. Eighty-two percent of soybeans are setting pods, which is the same as last year. Soybean condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. 

Ninety-six percent of oats have been harvested, which is 6 percentage points ahead of last year. 

Pasture condition rated 67 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

Corn and soybean good-to-excellent ratings both declined last week, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released Monday.

NASS also reported that just 4% of winter wheat was left to harvest, while the spring wheat harvest was running 8 percentage points ahead of last year's pace.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn silking was pegged at 97%, steady with last year and the five-year average. Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 76%, 6 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 70%. Corn dented was estimated at 29%, 4 percentage points ahead of last year's 25% and 5 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 24%. Corn mature was pegged at 4%, 1 percentage point ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 3%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 60% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition, down 1 percentage point from the previous week of 61% and 11 percentage points below last year's 71%. Fifteen percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, 1 percentage point above the previous week's 14% and 7 percentage points above the previous year's 8%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans blooming was pegged at 96%, 2 percentage points ahead of last year and the five-year average of 94%. Soybeans setting pods were estimated at 85%, 5 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 80%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 61% of soybeans that had emerged were in good-to-excellent condition, 1 percentage point below the previous week's 62% and 7 percentage points below the previous year's 68%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Harvest moved ahead 5 percentage points last week to reach 96% complete nationwide as of Sunday. That was 3 percentage points ahead of last year's 93% and 2 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 94%. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest jumped ahead 17 percentage points last week to reach 41% complete as of Sunday. That was 8 percentage points ahead of last year's pace of 33% and 7 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 34%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 52% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, up 1 percentage point from the previous week's 51%. 



Nebraska Crop Production Report for August 2026

Based on Aug. 1 conditions, Nebraska's 2026 corn production is forecast at 1.77 billion bushels, down 13% from last year's production, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Acreage harvested for grain is estimated at 9.70 million acres, down 8% from a year ago. Average yield is forecast at 183 bushels per acre, down 11 bushels from last year.

Soybean production in Nebraska is forecast at 302 million bushels, down 3.9% from last year. Area for harvest, at 5.29 million acres, is up 10% from 2025. Yield is forecast at 57 bushels per acre, down 8 bushels from last year. 

Nebraska's 2026 winter wheat crop is forecast at 17.6 million bushels, down 54% from last year. Harvested area for grain, at 585,000 acres, is down 27% from last year. Average yield is forecast at 29 bushels per acre, down 18 bushels per acre from 2025.

Alfalfa hay production is forecast at 2.85 million tons, down 11% from last year. Expected yield, at 3.50 tons per acre, is down 0.20 ton from last year. All other hay production is forecast at 2.24 million tons, down 5% from last year. Forecasted yield, at 1.60 tons per acre, is down 0.05 tons from last year. 

Sorghum production of 14.4 million bushels, is down 20% from a year ago. Area for grain harvest, at 175,000 acres, is down 15% from last year. Yield is forecast at 82 bushels per acre, down 5 bushels from last year.

Oat production is forecast at 1.07 million bushels, up 7% from last year. Harvested area for grain, at 29,000 acres, is up 9,000 acres from last year — a 45% increase. Yield is forecast at 37 bushels per acre, down 13 bushels from 2025.

Dry edible bean production is forecast at 1.90 million cwt, down 24% from last year. Area for harvest, at 76,000 acres, is down 23,100 acres from last year. The average yield is forecast at 2,500 pounds per acre, down 20 pounds from last year. 

Sugarbeet production is forecast at 1.03 million tons, down 24% from 2025. Area for harvest, at 34,300 acres, is down 11,500 acres from last year. Yield is estimated at 30.2 tons per acre, up 0.5 tons from a year ago.



Iowa Crop Production Estimates

On Aug. 12, USDA published the 2026 Crop Production report, detailing its forecast Iowa's major commodity crops this season.

Corn
According to the report, Iowa farmers are expected to harvest 2.76 billion bushels of corn across 12.8 million acres of crop ground. In 2025, 2.77 billion bushels of the crop were produced across 13.2 million acres.

USDA is forecasting a 2026 average yield of 216 bushes per acre in Iowa. This is up from the 2025 season when the state’s average yield was 210 bushels per acre. 

Soybeans
According to last week's USDA report, farmers in Iowa are expected to harvest 603.26 million bushels of soybeans this year across 9.73 million acres of crop ground. This is up from 2025, when the department said Iowa farmers harvested 595.63 million bushels of the crop across 9.38 million acres.

USDA forecasts a 2026 average yield of 62 bushels per acre in Iowa, more than 9 bpa higher than the forecasted national average yield.  In 2025, Iowa’s average soybean yield was 63.5 bpa, according to USDA. 



Two New Directors Begin Terms on the Nebraska Corn Board, One Director Reappointed

Gov. Jim Pillen recently appointed Michael Bergen to serve as the District 3 director of the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB), which represents Hamilton, Merrick, Polk and York counties. Bergen, from Aurora, is replacing Brandon Hunnicutt, from Giltner, who has served on the board since 2014 and chose not to seek reappointment.

Austin Kniss, a farmer from Minatare was elected as the at-large director for the Nebraska Corn Board. Kniss will represent the entire state as he serves in the at-large position. Kniss is replacing Jay Reiners, from Juniata, who has served as the at-large director since 2017 and chose not to seek re-election.

Bergen is a first-generation farmer who farms in Hamilton County. He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, earning a degree in diversified agricultural studies. He purchased his farm in 2007, and now, he raises corn and soybeans on irrigated acres. Bergen is married to Kelsey, and they have twin sons, Jax and Jase.

Bergen has served as president of Hamilton County Corn Growers and on the Nebraska Corn Growers Association Board of Directors and the National Corn Growers Association Biofuels Action Team. He also serves on the Henderson Rural Fire Board and previously spent seven years on the Central Valley Ag Cooperative board. Bergen has a passion for agriculture and the corn industry, with the desire to ensure corn farmers’ investment is wisely spent on research, new uses and market development, keeping Nebraska corn farmers competitive in both domestic and international markets.

Kniss, representing the at-large seat from Minatare, has a deep agricultural heritage. His family’s farming roots date back four generations, beginning with their farming activities in Russia and Germany before they immigrated to the United States. Kniss has farmed for 10 years, raising corn, sugar beets, dry edible beans and irrigated wheat. He studied diesel mechanics and business management at WyoTech.

Kniss currently serves as treasurer of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association Panhandle local chapter. His additional leadership experience includes serving as a board member of the Nebraska Sugarbeet Growers Association. Locally, he serves as a deacon on his church council. Kniss is married to Sara, and they have three children: Easton, Eli and Emmitt. He is involved in NCB because he sees the many challenges facing farming today, from economic pressures to regulations and public misconceptions, and he wants to help solve those challenges and advocate for Nebraska farmers.

“On behalf of the Nebraska Corn Board, I'm excited to welcome Michael Bergen and Austin Kniss to our board," said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of NCB. "Both bring strong farming backgrounds and a genuine commitment to Nebraska agriculture, and I know their perspectives will strengthen the work we do on behalf of the state's corn growers. I'd also like to recognize Jay Reiners and Brandon Hunnicutt for their dedicated leadership on the board. Their contributions have helped shape NCB's direction, and we're grateful for the time and expertise they've invested in advancing Nebraska's corn industry.”

Bergen’s position is effective immediately following his appointment by Gov. Pillen. Kniss’s election was effective July 1. Additionally, Matt Sullivan of Superior was reappointed to serve as District 2 director.

The full board comprises nine corn farmers from across the state. Eight members represent specific Nebraska districts and are appointed by the Governor of Nebraska. The Board elects a ninth at-large member. Board members serve three-year terms with the possibility of being reappointed or reelected. 



ISU: New Resource to Navigate the Economics of Biorenewable Feedstocks

As global demand for bio-based products continues to rise, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Ag Decision Maker has released a new resource to help Iowa producers evaluate their role in this emerging market. The publication, “The Cost of Producing Herbaceous Feedstocks for Biomass and Biorenewable Products,” along with its accompanying digital decision tool, provides a detailed economic framework for the production and delivery of biomass.

While materials such as corn stover have traditional uses in livestock bedding, new markets are focusing on advanced applications, including anaerobic digestion for renewable natural gas, pyrolysis for bio-oil and biochar and fermentation for sustainable aviation fuel. To help farmers navigate these opportunities, the new resource focuses on three primary feedstocks: corn stover, winter cereal rye (ryelage) and prairie plantings.

“Experts from agronomic, engineering and natural resources fields across the university collaborated to develop this tool. It provides a way for farmers, project developers and researchers to consider and compare the various elements of cost associated with herbaceous feedstocks,” said Jim Jordahl, regenerative agriculture project analyst with the Bioeconomy Institute at Iowa State. “We assessed corn stover for which cost information is well established, and the more novel herbaceous biomass sources of cereal rye and prairie plantings.”  
 
Decision support tool 
Also available is a customizable spreadsheet that allows users to estimate costs specific to their own operations. The tool divides expenses into two critical categories:
    Farm-Level Production Costs: including seed, fertilizer and the cost of nutrient removal from the soil.
    Harvest and Aggregation Costs: covering mowing, baling and the transport of material to a bioprocessing facility.

Producers can use “Suggested Values” or enter their own data to calculate a total cost per dry ton. The tool also provides estimated energy content for each feedstock if processed in an anaerobic digester, allowing for a direct comparison of their potential value in energy markets.

Strategic land use and sustainability 
The publication also highlights the environmental benefits of these crops. For example, strategically placing prairie plantings on consistently low-yielding areas of a field can significantly reduce erosion and nutrient transport while providing wildlife habitat. The tool helps farmers see the financial side of converting marginal land into a productive source of biomass.

The full resource and decision tool are available through Iowa State’s Ag Decision Maker website.  Here's the direct link to the publication... https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/crops/html/a1-88.html.   



IDALS Iowa State Fair Ceremonies

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship will host three award ceremonies this week celebrating Iowa agriculture as part of the 2026 Iowa State Fair and Iowa’s America250 commemoration. The ceremonies will recognize Iowa students, conservation leaders and multi-generational farm families while highlighting agriculture’s enduring role in our state and nation’s history, strength and prosperity.

Each of the three ceremonies is open to the public.

Choose Iowa Coloring Calendar Recognition Ceremony
When: Tuesday, Aug. 18 at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Agriculture Building, Iowa State Fair
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig will recognize 17 K-12 students from around the state whose artwork was selected for the special-edition 2026-2027 Choose Iowa Coloring Calendar. Choose Iowa is the state’s signature brand for Iowa grown, Iowa made and Iowa raised food, beverages and agricultural products. As part of Iowa’s America250 celebration, this year’s contest invited students to combine Iowa agriculture with patriotic themes and symbols reflecting American pride. A full press release listing the featured artists will be sent. Free special-edition Choose Iowa Coloring Calendars will be available for fairgoers at the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s booth in the Agriculture Building while supplies last. Photos of the students in attendance with Secretary Naig will be available within one month of the conclusion of the fair on the Department’s Flickr page.

Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Awards Ceremony
When: Wednesday, Aug. 19 at 10:30 a.m.
Where: Oman Family Youth Inn, Iowa State Fair
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Iowa Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Kayla Lyon will recognize 33 Iowa farm families with the Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award (IFELA). The award recognizes the efforts of Iowa farmers committed to healthy soil and improved water quality while also serving as leaders within their agricultural communities. As part of Iowa’s America250 celebration, honorees will receive a special America250 seal on their certificates and will be recognized in front of an America250 backdrop. A full press release listing the families will be sent. Photos of the families in attendance with the dignitaries will be available within one month of the conclusion of the fair on the Department’s Flickr page.

Iowa Century and Heritage Farm Recognition Ceremony
When: Thursday, Aug. 20 at 9:00 a.m.
Where: Historic Livestock Pavilion, Iowa State Fair
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Brent Johnson will recognize 514 Century Farm and Heritage Farm owners whose families have owned their farms for at least 100 or 150 years, respectively. This year carries special significance as America celebrates its 250th birthday and the Century Farm Program marks its 50th anniversary. The program was established in 1976 as part of the nation’s Bicentennial Celebration, while the Heritage Farm Program was created in 2006. This year’s honorees will receive a special America250 seal on their certificates and metal signs and will be recognized in front of a special America250 backdrop. The Century Farm recognition will begin at 9:00 a.m. and proceed in alphabetical order by county. The Heritage Farm recognition will begin after the Century Farm recognition ceremony concludes and proceed in alphabetical order by county. A press release will be sent. Families receiving Century and Heritage Farm recognition will be added to the searchable database on the Department’s website. Photos of the families in attendance with Secretary Naig and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Johnson will be available within one month of the conclusion of the fair on the Department’s Flickr page.



USDA Announces $7.5 Million in Grant Funding to Expand Cold Chain Capacity and Increase Access to Real Food

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced $7.5 million in grant funding available through the Cold Chain Grants for Emergency Food Assistance Program (CCG). The Program will fund projects to support cold chain equipment investments that help food assistance entities temporarily store, effectively package, and distribute fresh, frozen, and minimally processed foods.

“The Trump Administration continues to prioritize providing Real Food for Americans. Over the past year and a half, we have worked hard to incentivize healthier options for Americans and today’s announcement is another step in the right direction,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “With this funding opportunity we will see more cold storage and infrastructure to store homegrown proteins for all Americans to enjoy as we continue to Make America Healthy Again.”

“Every American deserves access to real, nutritious food,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “This funding will give food banks the infrastructure to deliver more meat, eggs, dairy, produce, and other whole foods from American farmers and ranchers to families in need. Under President Trump’s leadership, we are rebuilding a food system that nourishes American families and strengthens American agriculture.”

Funded non-profit organizations will administer a subaward program to support cold storage within the middle of the supply chain. The selected grant recipient(s) will be responsible for managing and overseeing a competitive subaward program, including providing consultation and subject matter expertise to sub-awardees in support of cold storage in consumer-facing food assistance operations.

CCG recipients will issue subawards to fund cold chain equipment purchases, with the amount awarded being equal to the cost of the equipment and documented delivery, installation and necessary ancillary equipment/supplies, up to $200,000. Sub-awardees will be required to provide a 10% cash cost share contribution.

Projects funded through CCG will result in more Real Foods produced by America’s farmers and ranchers being made available to support healthier families and healthier communities in alignment with the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This program is funded through the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021.

CCG applications must be submitted electronically through www.grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on October 1st, 2026.



Beef Processing Structural Adjustments Continue
Stephen R. Koontz, Department of Agricultural & Resource Economics, Colorado State University

The structural adjustments continue in the beef packing sector. Tyson Foods announced the closure of a slaughter and fabrication plant in Joslin, IL, a case-ready processing plant in Eagle Mountain, UT, and the willingness to sell the slaughter and fabrication plant in Pasco, WA. These are the latest adjustments following the closure of the Lexington, NE, plant and the transition of the Amarillo, TX, plant to single shift. Earlier in the summer, JBS announced the closure of a slaughter and fabrication plant in Souderton, PA, and a small, further-processing facility in Memphis, TN. There is too much packing capacity in the cattle and beef sector for the number of animals that have been available in the past few years – and will likely be available in the next few years. Beef packers have been routinely losing $200-$400 per head on every head slaughtered and fabricated since 2023 – and likely earlier. That’s a lot of money allocated to facilities that are not making any money. This cannot persist, and some facilities will close.

What’s the economics at play here? Why is so much money being lost for so long? Beef packing is a high-fixed-cost business without much flexibility. Labor, supplies, and energy for operations are a minor portion of a plant’s weekly total cost. Most of the cost is for the facility and inputs that cannot be much changed. Even labor is relatively inflexible. Contracts usually guarantee 36 hours per shift per week. If a shift operates, then it does so – and generates costs – through Thursday. Low-cost slaughter and fabrication plants have costs of about $300 per head when operating at 5 days per week capacity. High-cost plants are short of the $500 per head neighborhood. Running the plant at a reduced number of days per week – less than 4 – does not reduce the total costs. These costs are spread over fewer animals.

Why do plants operate at a loss at all? It is economically rational to operate any business – in the short-run – if variable costs are covered. Given that variable costs are such a thin slice of total costs, then plants will operate for long periods at losses. It is only in the long run that fixed costs matter. So how long is the short-run versus the long-run? Good question. Once a plant is built and in operation, then it should be run as long as the perceived total potential discounted future long-run returns are positive. Once a plant is closed, then the lost profits are permanent. So, it depends on what management thinks the outlook is – or investors' and lenders' willingness to fund losses. The money must come from somewhere.

Can flexibility be built into the industry? Yes, through operating smaller plants. But these plants operate nowhere near the efficiencies of large plants. Even plants modestly smaller than the typical large commercial plant have total costs in the $600-$800 per head range. And the small plants that are present in many rural towns with a cattle charge of $1.20 to $1.60 per pound to process animals. The math on a 1000-pound carcass is easy. These economies of size efficiencies are why we have the industry we have – the few very large plants – that is currently in overcapacity with respect to the number of animals.

Are these structural adjustments bearish? Some but not much. Cattle and beef supplies remain tight, and demand remains strong. The beef packing industry remains over – but less so – capacity. As does the cattle feeding industry. Future packer margins have the potential to be less terrible.

Two final comments. First, selling a plant to another firm that operates it as a beef packing plant isn’t a structural adjustment. Neither is closing a further processing plant. If the slaughter plant continues to operate with tight fed cattle supplies just different ownership, then nothing changes from a market economic perspective. Structural adjustment only comes if the plant stops slaughtering fed cattle. Second, running a plant as a single shift requires the total plant costs to be spread over effectively half the number of cattle. Arguably, not a long-term solution.