Monday August 10 Ag News - New Herbicides in Corn/Soy Weed Control - Stewart Joins A-FAN/NSDA - NC Disaster Relief Fund to Close Sept 1 - AGP Celebrates PoGH Terminal 4 - Corn Silage Season - and more!

New Herbicides for Weed Control in Corn and Soybean Production
Amit Jhala - Professor and Associate Department Head, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture

Several new herbicide active ingredients are moving one step closer to growers' fields, offering additional tools for managing herbicide-resistant weeds in corn and soybean production. 

In its June 2026 registration actions, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed registration decisions for several new herbicide active ingredients, and three are particularly relevant for corn and soybean production: diflufenican, epyrifenacil and trifludimoxazin. None are on the shelf yet, but all three are progressing toward the market, and each adds a useful option for managing herbicide-resistant weeds — especially waterhemp and Palmer amaranth.

On the regulatory side, two of the three herbicides — diflufenican (Convintro) and epyrifenacil (Rapidicil) — received EPA registration on June 30, 2026, and trifludimoxazin (Tirexor) advanced through review over the same period. 

Together, these herbicides introduce two modes of action — Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) Group 12 and 14 — that could expand options for managing herbicide-resistant weeds.
 
Diflufenican (Convintro)
A New Site of Action Herbicide
Diflufenican is a WSSA Group 12 herbicide that controls susceptible weeds by disrupting carotenoid production, causing the characteristic bleaching symptoms associated with this herbicide group. It is a soil-applied residual herbicide for preplant and preemergence control of waterhemp, Palmer amaranth and other pigweed species in corn and soybean.

Why this matters: According to EPA, diflufenican is the first effective PDS-inhibiting herbicide for control of pigweeds in corn and soybean — a new site of action for the two crops. Group 12 chemistry has seen little use in Nebraska row-crop systems, so it offers a distinct rotation and tank-mix partner rather than another version of chemistries growers already rely on. Because many Nebraska waterhemp and Palmer amaranth populations are already resistant to multiple herbicide groups (commonly Groups 2, 4, 5, 9 and 27, with Group 14 resistance also documented), this new residual site of action for pigweeds is a valuable addition to preemergence weed management programs.

Epyrifenacil (Rapidicil)
Fast Burndown and Cover Crop Termination
Epyrifenacil is a WSSA Group 14 PPO inhibitor. It is a fast-acting, contact herbicide intended for preplant burndown and cover crop termination, with a broad label spanning field corn, soybean, wheat, canola, fallow ground and non-crop areas. It can provide broad-spectrum control of both broadleaf and grass weeds, including weed populations resistant to older PPO-inhibiting herbicides. 

For Nebraska, this is especially relevant as more growers adopt no-till and cover crops, making reliable, fast burndown and cover crop termination increasingly important. The first commercial product containing epyrifenacil (marketed under the Empera brand) is expected in late 2026 or early 2027.

Trifludimoxazin (Tirexor/Voraxor)
A PPO-Inhibiting Herbicide for Burndown and Residual Weed Control
Trifludimoxazin is a WSSA Group 14 PPO inhibitor. Depending on application rate, trifludimoxazin provides residual preemergence control of germinating broadleaf and grass weeds, as well as foliar burndown of emerged weeds. It’s labeled for corn, soybean, cereals and other crops — often as a tank-mix partner (for example, with saflufenacil, marketed as Voraxor).

Trifludimoxazin will come to the market in two forms. Tirexor contains only trifludimoxazin — a liquid soluble-concentrate formulation (4.17 pounds active ingredient per gallon). Voraxor pairs trifludimoxazin with saflufenacil (the active ingredient in Sharpen) and is aimed at preplant burndown ahead of corn, soybean and small grains.

What Growers Should Know
    None are available yet. All three herbicides are moving toward market, so none will be on the shelf for use this season. Watch for finalization of EPA registration, Nebraska Department of Agriculture registration, and for the product label before planning any use.
    Expect more complex labels. These new registrations are likely to carry runoff, erosion, endangered species and spray drift requirements. Read the label carefully once products are available.
    The label is the law. Follow the most current EPA- and state-approved label directions.



Trey Stewart Joins A-FAN as Livestock Development Coordinator 

The Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (AFAN) is pleased to announce that Trey Stewart has joined the team as Livestock Development Coordinator while also serving as Executive Director of the Nebraska State Dairy Association. In this dual role, Trey will bring his passion for agriculture and industry experience to support AFAN's mission of fostering growth and innovation within Nebraska's livestock sector. 

As AFAN's Livestock Development Coordinator, Trey will assist livestock producers who are looking to locate, modernize, or expand their operations. His responsibilities include building and maintaining strong relationships with livestock producers, industry leaders, and state and local stakeholders. He will also represent AFAN at industry meetings, conferences, speaking engagements, and trade shows to promote the organization's mission and resources. 

In his role as Executive Director of the Nebraska State Dairy Association, Trey will serve as an advocate for Nebraska's dairy industry, representing dairy producers at the local, state, and national levels. He will also work to strengthen partnerships across the dairy industry and advance initiatives that support the long-term success of dairy producers throughout the state. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Trey to the AFAN team," said Steve Martin, Executive Director of AFAN. "His enthusiasm for agriculture, leadership experience, and dedication to Nebraska's livestock industry make him an outstanding addition to our organization. We are confident he will play an important role in supporting producers and advancing AFAN's mission." 

Trey brings a strong background in agricultural leadership and advocacy. He previously served as a Nebraska State FFA Officer, where he developed extensive leadership and public speaking experience. He is an active Farm Bureau member, serving on the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee, and regularly judges livestock shows throughout Nebraska and across the region, reflecting his longstanding commitment to the livestock industry. Prior to joining AFAN, Trey worked for Central Valley Ag. 

Trey’s passion for agriculture, combined with his commitment to serving Nebraska producers, will help strengthen AFAN's efforts to support livestock development and ensure the continued growth of the state's agricultural industry. 



Center for Rural Affairs to host conservation field day, cleaning academy, and rural grocery store events

The Center for Rural Affairs will soon hold:
Online - Cleaning Academy, Tuesdays, Aug. 25, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, and Oct. 6, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Offered in Spanish. During this training, attendees will learn how to start their own cleaning business. They will explore industry best practices, including chemical cleaning, cleaning and maintenance of different types of floors (wood, marble, tile, etc.), carpet cleaning and maintenance, bathroom cleaning and maintenance, estimates/quotes, and much more. To become certified in basic housekeeping management, participants must attend all classes and pass the exam. For more information, contact Jessica Campos at jessicac@cfra.org, or 402.870.1521.

Blue Hill, Nebraska - Blue Hill Grocery Gathering, Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Hometown Market, 554 W. Gage St. Residents of Blue Hill and the surrounding areas are invited to stop by Hometown Market for a bite to eat, to meet the new owner, and chat with neighbors about the importance of small town grocery stores. Registration required by Aug. 24. For more information, contact Carlie Jonas at carliej@cfra.org or 402.603.0087.

Online - Rural Grocery Webinar Series: Beyond the Aisles, Thursday, Aug. 27, from 2 to 3 p.m. Participants will discover different methods businesses can implement to increase sales from engaging with the community, marketing through social media, customer engagement, and product placement. Featured speaker is Cammie Kroll, Director of Services, at GROW Nebraska. For more information, contact Carlie Jonas at carliej@cfra.org or 402.603.0087.

Winside, Nebraska - Conservation Mentorship Network Field Day Hosted by Scott Heinemann, Wednesday, Sept. 2, from 10 a.m. to noon. During this event, attendees will hear how Heinemann utilizes no-till, cover crops, and rotational grazing to control erosion and build soil health while reducing input costs. For more information, contact Andrew Tonnies at andrewt@cfra.org or 402.590.7096.

Registration at cfra.org/events is required in advance.



Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund Calls for Applications

Leadership of the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund (NCDRF) announced they will close the fund and stop accepting monetary donations and relief applications on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

Membership in Nebraska Cattlemen is not required for applicants to receive relief. Applications should be postmarked by Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

100% of the donations will be distributed to producers who experienced property loss or damage in areas where a fire was reported through the Nebraska Emergency Management Association (NEMA) Watch Center. As of July 28, 2026, the following counties have been reported through the NEMA Watch Center:
    Arthur Co. (Morrill, Vasa fires)
    Blaine Co. (Road 203 Fire)
    Buffalo Co. (Elm Creek & Odessa fires)
    Cherry Co. (Ashby, Anderson Bridge fires)
    Custer Co. (Pressey Fire)
    Dawes Co. (Ash Pole, Clay Creek fires)
    Dawson Co. (Cottonwood Fire)
    Fillmore Co.
    Frontier Co. (Cottonwood Fire)
    Gage Co.
    Garden Co. (Morrill, Minor fires)
    Grant Co. (Ashby, Minor fires)
    Holt Co. (Peterson Fire)
    Jefferson Co
    Keith Co. (Morrill Fire)
    Lincoln Co.
    McPherson Co. (Daly Fire)
    Morrill Co. (Morrill Fire)
    Nemaha Co. (Peru Fire)
    Richardson Co.
    Saline Co.
    Seward Co.
    Sheridan Co. (Ashby Fire)
    Sioux Co. (South Fork, Log Road fires)
    Thomas Co. (Road 203 Fire)

Applicants may submit documentation for agriculture-related expenses not paid for by insurance or other governmental sources related to fencing, pens, agricultural structure repair, feed, livestock removal, or other necessary agricultural-related costs directly related to rebuilding from the natural disaster. Applicants must demonstrate expenses and losses incurred were related to agriculture production and directly caused by recent wildfires in the state of Nebraska. Applications must be completed and have all required documentation to be considered. Documentation can include copies of receipts for purchases of supplies, invoices for repairs, photos of the damage, and more. Please include losses of livestock, fence - miles or feet, land damage – specify grazing, crop, or haying loss, veterinary costs, feed costs/feed loss, and more in the description of impacts and loss to operation. If you need additional space to list damages, please include your additional list with the application.

Individuals who would like to donate either online or by mailing a check, please visit www.nebraskacattlemen.org/disaster-relief-fund.

For any questions, please contact the Nebraska Cattlemen office at (402) 475-2333 or email disasterrelief@necattlemen.org.

Background
The NCDRF will close for donations and relief applications on Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026. Once the fund is closed, applications will be reviewed by a committee convened by the NCDRF and eligibility of expenses will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The committee and the committee process is confidential. Funds are not distributed until the applications period closes and all applications are reviewed. Decisions will be made in a timely manner and financial awards will be sent to selected applicants no later than 90 days after September 1, 2026. 

The NCDRF has received more than $2.2 million from more than 2,570 donors across Nebraska, 48 states, and five countries since opening on March 16, 2026.



AGP and Port of Grays Harbor Celebrate Grand Opening of Terminal 4 Export Facility

Ag Processing Inc a cooperative (AGP) and the Port of Grays Harbor celebrated the grand opening of AGP’s new Terminal 4 export facility on July 31, 2026, marking the completion of a transformative project that significantly expands agricultural export capacity at one of the West Coast’s most strategic deep-water ports.

The new facility represents the culmination of years of planning, investment, and collaboration between AGP and the Port of Grays Harbor. The project includes a state-of-the-art ship loader at Terminal 4, expanded unloading and storage capabilities, along with supporting port infrastructure designed to increase efficiency, improve vessel loading speeds, and strengthen export opportunities for U.S. agriculture.

Hundreds of industry partners, customers, community members, and elected officials gathered to commemorate the milestone and recognize the partnership that made the project possible.

The Terminal 4 facility positions AGP to significantly increase throughput at Grays Harbor, with the capability to more than double annual agricultural commodity exports through the port. The investment also provides additional flexibility and redundancy while enhancing AGP’s ability to serve growing international demand for high-quality U.S. agricultural products, particularly throughout Southeast Asia and other Asia-Pacific markets.

“Terminal 4 represents a long-term investment in the future of our cooperative and the farmers we serve,” said Dean Thernes, Chairman of the AGP Board of Directors. “Our member-owners continue to invest in assets that allow us to compete globally while returning value back to rural America. This facility strengthens our ability to connect Midwest agriculture with growing international demand for decades to come. We are proud of the partnership we have built with the Port of Grays Harbor and excited about the opportunities this facility creates for our customers and membership.”

The project arrives at a pivotal time for U.S. agriculture as soybean processing capacity continues to expand across the Midwest. Increased production of soybean meal and soybean oil is creating new opportunities to serve both domestic and international markets. AGP’s enhanced export capabilities at Grays Harbor will help ensure those products reach customers efficiently and competitively.

The Port’s $60 million public portion of the project added more than 47,000 feet of rail within its Marine Terminal Complex, a new fendering system and a stormwater collection and treatment facility at T4 and created more than 30 acres of additional cargo laydown area to support future operations at Terminal 4A.

“This facility showcases the power of strategic infrastructure investment and cooperation,” said Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Leonard Barnes. “AGP has been an outstanding partner for more than two decades, and today’s grand opening demonstrates what can be accomplished when industry and public entities work together toward a shared vision. This public-private partnership ship will benefit our community, our region, and the nation for years to come.”

“This is a historic day for the Port of Grays Harbor,” said Port of Grays Harbor Commission President Stan Pinnick. “We are so grateful for all our elected officials, community and business leaders and partners that were able to join us today to celebrate.  This project will have lasting, positive economic impacts  and we couldn’t be more proud to celebrate this achievement alongside AGP.”

Since AGP loaded its first vessel at the Port’s Terminal 2 facility in 2003, the company has developed strong relationships with customers throughout Asia and established Grays Harbor as a key component of its export network. The new facility builds on that foundation and provides the speed, capacity, and reliability needed to support future growth.

“Today is about much more than opening another export terminal,” said Chris Schaffer, Chief Executive Officer of AGP. “This facility represents the intersection of American agriculture, renewable energy, and global trade. A soybean harvested by one of our cooperative members in the Midwest can now be processed into meal and oil, transported by rail to Grays Harbor, loaded onto a vessel, and delivered to customers across the Pacific through one of the most efficient agricultural supply chains in the world. Every step in that journey creates value for our member-owners and strengthens the competitiveness of U.S. agriculture.”



Corn Silage Season Demands Precision: Key Harvest Practices to Protect Feed Quality and Farm Safety
Fred Hall, ISU Dairy Field Specialist 

As producers prepare for silage harvest, remember that corn silage harvest is one of the most fast‑paced, high‑stakes periods on a dairy farm, and the decisions made in the next few weeks will shape feed quality for the entire year. Four factors—cut length, moisture, packing density, and pile safety—stand out as the most influential in determining whether silage ferments properly, stores well, and feeds consistently.

Moisture: The Foundation of Good Fermentation
Hitting the correct moisture target remains the single most important harvest decision. Silage should enter storage at 35–38 percent dry matter (62–65 percent moisture) to ensure rapid, stable fermentation. Dry silage traps oxygen, leading to heating, mold, and poor fermentation. Wet silage packs easily but risks effluent losses—nutrient‑rich liquid draining from the pile—and increased spoilage. Because today’s hybrids vary widely, relying on milk line alone is no longer dependable. Regular moisture testing—whether with a Koster tester, microwave method, or feed‑store analysis—remains the most accurate approach.

Cut Length: Balancing Fermentation and Cow Health
Chop length directly affects both packing and rumen function. For processed corn silage, the recommended theoretical length of cut (TLC) is ¾ inch, while unprocessed silage should be 3/8 to ½ inch. If chop length is too coarse it becomes difficult to pack and there could be problems due to spoilage and poor fermentation. Sharp knives and properly adjusted kernel processors ensure uniform particle size and maximize starch availability. Producers should routinely check kernel breakage for no more than 2–3 whole or half kernels in a 32‑oz cup sample.

Packing Density: Air Is the Enemy
Every load entering the bunker is an opportunity to protect feed value. Dense packing reduces oxygen infiltration, speeds fermentation, and lowers dry matter loss. Research‑based targets include:
    Minimum 15 lbs dry matter per cubic foot
    6‑inch layers for optimal compaction
    The “Rule of 800”: multiply tons delivered per hour by 800 to determine required packing weight

Poor packing can lead to significant feed losses; trapped air can lead to heating, mold and spoilage. Matching tractor weight to delivery rate and slowing harvest, if necessary, helps ensure the pile stays ahead of incoming loads.

Pile Safety: Protect People First
Silage piles and bunkers are among the most dangerous areas on a dairy. Taller piles increase rollover risk, face‑collapse hazards, and visibility challenges. Key safety practices include:
    Maintaining safe 3:1 slopes
    Keeping all workers three times the pile height away from the face
    Ensuring tractors have ROPS and seatbelts
    Never undercutting the face during feed‑out

Producers are minded that “your life is more valuable than any load,” and that clear traffic patterns, communication, and high‑visibility clothing are essential during long harvest days.

The Bottom Line
High‑quality corn silage doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of disciplined moisture testing, correct chop length, aggressive packing, and unwavering commitment to safety. With attention to these fundamentals, dairies can preserve more nutrients, reduce losses, and protect both cows and people throughout the year.



USDA Applauds Confirmation of Glen Smith

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins applauds the Senate confirmation of Glen R. Smith of Atlantic, Iowa, as U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development. This reaffirms the Trump Administration’s commitment to rural America and the farmers, small towns, and rural communities.

“Rural America is the backbone of this nation, and under President Trump, USDA is committed to ensuring our rural communities have the infrastructure, resources, and opportunity they need to thrive,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “Glen Smith has spent his life in rural Iowa as a producer and a business owner supporting agricultural lending and credit and knows firsthand what rural communities across America need to succeed. I’m confident he will be a strong advocate for our farmers and ranchers, and the rural communities where they live and work and raise their families.”

“It’s a privilege to take this role, and I’m grateful to President Trump and Secretary Rollins for giving me this responsibility,” said Under Secretary Smith. “Rural Development’s programs and people are critical partners in the growth of the rural economy, and I’m looking forward to working with communities across the nation to find ways to bolster the economic engine of rural America.”

Other Statements of Support:
“Glen Smith is a product of rural Iowa who’s spent his career serving fellow farmers. Having grown up in southwest Iowa, he understands our way of life and what it takes for family farmers to feed and fuel the world,” said Senator Chuck Grassley. “I congratulate Under Secretary Smith on his confirmation, and I look forward to working with him to deliver for the hardworking men and women who keep food on our tables.”

“I’m thrilled that my friend and fellow Iowan Glen Smith is officially confirmed as Under Secretary for Rural Development at USDA,” said Senator Joni Ernst. “Glen is a proven leader with a lifelong commitment to agriculture who I have no doubt will represent Iowans and all of rural America well. I look forward to seeing the revitalization of our communities under his leadership.”

“Iowans are in good hands with this confirmation. For over 40 years, Glen Smith has equipped farmers, landowners, and small businesses with the tools they need to succeed, in addition to operating his own family farm,” said Governor Kim Reynolds. “I can’t think of anyone with better firsthand experience to support the development of rural communities across the nation.”

“Congratulations to my fellow Iowan, Glen Smith, on his confirmation as USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development. Glen has spent his career fighting for farmers and rural communities, and I know he'll bring that same commitment to this important role,” said Representative Ashley Hinson (IA-02). “I look forward to working with Glen and the Trump Administration to strengthen rural infrastructure, expand economic opportunity, and ensure rural communities across Iowa and our nation have the tools they need to thrive.”

Smith was born and raised in Iowa and has been farming and ranching for over 50 years growing soy, corn, hay, and running a small cattle operation. He also founded Smith Land Service Co., an ag service company specializing in farm management, land appraisal, and farm brokerage. He most recently has served on the Farm Credit Administration Board of Directors and was appointed Chairman by President Trump where he served in that role from 2019 – 2022. Smith is a graduate of Iowa State University. He and his wife, Fauzan, have four grown children and six grandchildren.



38 E15 and Biodiesel Infrastructure Projects Announced in Iowa 

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) Board has approved more than $2 million in cost-share grants for 38 E15 and biodiesel infrastructure projects across Iowa. The grants, approved during the Board's July 29 meeting, include 24 ethanol projects totaling more than $1.43 million and 14 biodiesel projects totaling more than $604,000, for a combined investment of more than $2.03 million.

The grants will help Iowa fuel retailers install and upgrade infrastructure that expands consumer access to lower-cost, cleaner-burning renewable fuels while strengthening markets for Iowa's corn and soybean farmers.

“E15 consistently offers drivers a lower-cost option at the pump, and we've proven that when drivers are given a choice, they choose E15 because it saves them money. Each new fueling system upgraded or installed creates another location where Iowa drivers can save money when they fill up,” said Secretary Naig. “Ethanol and biodiesel also support Iowa farmers, strengthen rural jobs and communities, create additional demand for Iowa-grown corn and soybeans, and provide cleaner-burning fuel options. We'd love to see all Americans enjoy these savings and benefits year-round, which is why it's imperative that the U.S. Senate and U.S. House come together to send nationwide, year-round E15 legislation to the President's desk.”

The complete list of the approved projects may be found here https://iowaagriculture.gov/sites/default/files/July 2026 RFIP E15 and Biodiesel Approved.pdf.   Projects include:
Crawford - Brew Oil LLC, Denison  - $55,064.55 - Retail E15 Site
Pottawattamie - Eagles Landing Avoca LLC, Avoca - $39,399.50 - Retail E15 Site

Today, Iowa leads the nation in E15 (Unleaded 88) availability, with more than 1,100 fuel stations offering the lower-cost fuel blend. In 2025 alone, Iowa drivers saved more than $60 million by choosing E15 instead of E10, bringing total savings over the past three years to more than $126.5 million. Increased access to biodiesel has also strengthened demand for Iowa-grown soybeans, along with other oil and fat feedstocks, while providing consumers with a cleaner-burning renewable fuel option.

The Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program was established in 2006 to assist fuel retailers with the cost of installing and upgrading infrastructure needed to store and dispense higher blends of renewable fuels. Since the program's inception, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has invested more than $74 million through RFIP, leveraging more than $280 million in additional private investment to expand renewable fuels infrastructure across the state.