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/.