Monday August 17 Ag News - Safely Hauling Drinking Water for Cattle - NE Wind and Solar Conf Preview - Papio MoRiver NRD Officers - Colfax Dodge Corn Growers Meeting - House Ag Comm Chair at IA State Fair - and more!

Don't Use Fertilizer Tanks to Haul Drinking Water for Cattle
Mary Drewnoski, Nebraska Extension Beef Systems Specialist

Veterinary toxicologists in the region are again seeing cases of cattle deaths associated with water hauled in tanks or equipment previously used for fertilizer.

Recent cases submitted to the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory have included substantial death losses.

This is not a new problem, but it is one worth repeating because the consequences can be severe.

Tanks and equipment that have been used to haul urea- or nitrate-based fertilizers should not be used to transport drinking water for cattle even if they have been thoroughly washed.

It is very difficult to ensure that all fertilizer residue has been removed. Plastic tanks are not the only concern; steel tanks and other equipment, including hoses, that have been used with fertilizer can also pose a risk.

Why is the risk so high?
Any nitrogen fertilizer remaining in a tank can potentially cause nitrate or urea toxicosis in cattle, depending on the fertilizer source.

Ruminants are particularly susceptible because of the way nitrate and urea are metabolized in the rumen. Poisoning can occur rapidly and may result in death.
Nitrate-contaminated water is particularly concerning. Cattle can be poisoned by a lower amount of nitrate when it is consumed in water than when the same nitrate is consumed in forage.

The bottom line
Do not use a tank, trailer, hose, or other equipment that has previously contained urea- or nitrate-based fertilizer to provide drinking water for cattle.

Use equipment that is new or has been dedicated to hauling water. Washing a fertilizer tank even multiple times does not make it worth the risk. A separate water tank costs far less than losing cattle.

When it comes to hauling drinking water for cattle, if the equipment has been used for fertilizer, don't use it.



Industry Leaders Gather to Discuss the Future of Power & Renewable Energy

As Nebraska experiences unprecedented growth in electricity demand and investment in energy infrastructure, industry leaders from across the Midwest will gather October 20-21 for the 19th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.

For nearly two decades, the Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference has served as Nebraska's premier educational forum for discussions on renewable energy, electric infrastructure and the evolving power industry. The conference brings together utilities, developers, agricultural leaders, county officials, attorneys, engineers, economic developers, policymakers, landowners, business leaders and others interested in the future of energy in Nebraska.

This year's conference comes at a pivotal time. Rapid growth in base loads for residential, industry, and manufacturing plus new loads for artificial intelligence and data centers is creating significant increases in electricity demand in Nebraska and across the country. Meeting those needs will require expanded transmission infrastructure, new generation resources, energy storage technologies, thoughtful public policy and continued collaboration among utilities, developers, local governments, businesses and communities.

Nebraska is uniquely positioned in these conversations. The state ranks third in the nation for wind-generated electricity potential and thirteenth in solar energy potential, and continues to attract substantial investment in renewable energy projects. Nebraska is also the only state in the nation served entirely by a 100 percent publicly owned electric utility system, making discussions about planning, reliability, affordability and long-term infrastructure important topics to consider for the citizen owners of our state public power system.

“Nebraska's energy landscape is changing rapidly, and the decisions being made today will shape our state's economy and electric system for decades to come," said John Hansen, Chair of the Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference. "This conference brings together people from across the energy industry to exchange ideas with other renewable energy stakeholders, gather new information, and better understand our challenges while we prepare ourselves and Nebraska to take full advantage of the enormous opportunities we have.”
National Keynote and Nebraska Public Power CEOs Headline Conference

Among this year's featured keynote presentations is a representative from the American Clean Power Association (ACP), who will provide attendees with a national perspective on renewable energy development, federal policy, investment trends and how Nebraska fits into the rapidly evolving energy landscape.

The conference will also feature one of Nebraska's most anticipated discussions during the Luncheon Keynote, bringing together the chief executive officers of Nebraska's three largest public power utilities:
·         Tom Kent, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD)
·         Javier Fernandez, Omaha Public Power District (OPPD)
·         Emeka Anyanwu, Lincoln Electric System (LES)

Together, these leaders will discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Nebraska’s electric system as utilities prepare to meet our state’s rapidly increasing electricity demand, modernize infrastructure, integrate new technologies, and maintain the reliable, affordable service for which Nebraska’s unique 100 percent public power system is nationally recognized.
Timely Topics Addressing Nebraska's Energy Future

The draft agenda features presentations and panel discussions covering many of the issues currently shaping Nebraska and the regional electric grid, including:
·         Nebraska legislative and policy developments affecting renewable energy
·         Transmission expansion and grid modernization
·         Current Southwest Power Pool (SPP) interconnection queue and backlog challenges
·         Utility-scale energy storage and emerging technologies
·         Permitting and regulatory developments across Nebraska and neighboring states
·         The long-term outlook for rural Nebraska, including economic development, agriculture, healthcare, education, entrepreneurship and how energy projects influence community sustainability
·         Workforce development and the skilled labor needed to support Nebraska's growing energy economy
·         The evolving relationship between renewable generation, traditional generation and electric reliability
Registration and Hotel Information

Registration is now open at https://www.nebraskawsc.com/. General registration is $175 through September 30. Late registration is $250 beginning October 1. Because the conference has sold out in recent years, early registration is encouraged.

A discounted room block is available at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel through September 28, or until the block is filled. Once the reserved block is full, the conference rate will no longer be available.

About the Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference
The Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference is Nebraska's premier annual educational conference focused on renewable energy, electric infrastructure and the state's evolving energy industry. Now in its nineteenth year, the conference provides a forum for education, networking and discussion among industry professionals, utilities, policymakers, local governments, landowners, developers, businesses and members of the public interested in Nebraska's energy future.



Papio NRD Board of Directors Elects Officers

At its August 13, 2026, meeting, the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District (Papio NRD) Board of Directors elected officers to serve the District for the coming year (July 2026 – July 2027).

Tim McCormick in Subdistrict 4 was re-elected Papio NRD Board Chairperson. Rod Storm in Subdistrict 1 was elected Vice Chairperson. Richard Tesar in Subdistrict 5 was re-elected as both Papio NRD Board Secretary and Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) Director.

Tim Fowler in Subdistrict 8 was re-elected to serve as Papio NRD Board Treasurer and NARD Alternate Director. Phil Davidson in Subdistrict 11 was re-elected Assistant Treasurer.

The Papio NRD Board of Directors is an 11-member board that sets policy for Papio NRD programs and projects and oversees the District’s annual budget. 



Colfax Dodge Corn Growers Summer Meeting
August 25 @ 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Join the Colfax Dodge Corn Growers Association for an evening of networking, great food, and industry insight. Attendees will hear a featured presentation from the Peterson Brothers and have the opportunity to connect with fellow growers, members, and guests.

LOCATION:
Will & Stephanie Johnson Shop
1625 County Road N
Hooper, NE 68031

SCHEDULE:
• 5:30 p.m. Social Hour
• 6:30 p.m. Meal
• Featured Presentation: The Peterson Farm Brothers from Kansas

All members and guests are welcome. Current members of the association are encouraged to bring a potential member.

For questions, contact Jordan Emanuel at (402) 719-0184.



I-29 Moo University Beef On Dairy Dialogue Webinar August 26
Effects Of Growth Enhancing Technology On Mineral Requirements In DXB Cattle

The I-29 Moo University Beef On Dairy Dialogue Webinar Series continues at 12 noon CDT on Wednesday, August 26 featuring Dr. Dathan Smerchek discussing the effect of growth enhancing technology on mineral requirement in beef cattle.

Trace minerals (TM) are an essential component of the ruminant diet. Although required in small amounts, this component of the diet is vital in supporting and enhancing cattle growth and ensuring the profitability of beef production. Historically, TM requirements were set to prevent deficiencies. These requirements significantly improved growth and reproductive performance. In the United States, the beef cattle industry continues to increase total beef production with a shrinking mature cow herd. From 1977 to 2007, a 44% increase in beef cattle growth rates occurred, and this trend has continued, as evidenced by the consistent, year-on-year increase in hot carcass weight. These improvements in growth and production are achieved through improved cattle genetics, precision nutritional strategies, increased days on feed, and improved use of growth-enhancing technologies. Growth-enhancing technologies such as steroidal implants and beta-adrenergic agonists are valuable tools that significantly improve growth performance, feed efficiency, and lean tissue accretion. Thus, cattle grow faster and more efficiently than ever and to heavier finished weights. Given that many TM requirements were established over 40 years ago, it is important to reevaluate whether these standards still meet the needs of the modern beef animal.

Dr. Dathan Smerchek is an Assistant Professor in Animal Science at Iowa State University, my appointment is primarily research focused. My research program is currently in the early stages of development, but the overall goal of my research program is to foster innovation within the beef industry through science-based approaches to improve precision livestock nutritional and technological management to influence sustainability, productivity, and profitability of the industry.

There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, registration is required at least one hour prior to the webinar. Register online at: https://go.iastate.edu/P4ZUFZ.

For more information; in Iowa contact, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota contact, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; in Nebraska contact Kortney Harpestad at 402-472-3571; or in South Dakota contact, Warren Rusche, 605-688-5452.



Saunders County Livestock and Ag Association Annual Outlook Meeting
4-H Building - Saunders County Fairgrounds - Wahoo
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
6:30 PM Social Hour
7:00 PM Dinner
Business Meeting to follow

The Annual Outlook meeting is being partially sponsored by the Nebraska Soybean Board, and your Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association.

Andy Chvatal, Executive Director of the Nebraska Soybean Board, will visit with us regarding check-off information.

Jeff Peterson, President of Heartland Farm Partners, will update us on grain and livestock markets. 

Hope to see you then!



ICA Welcomes House Ag Committee Chair Thompson to Iowa State Fair

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) welcomed Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson, Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, to the Iowa State Fair Saturday, where he joined the annual Governor’s Charity Steer Show as a celebrity showman and met directly with Iowa cattle producers and future industry leaders. 

Before participating in the Governor’s Charity Steer Show, Thompson joined Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig for a roundtable discussion with a select group of Iowa cattle producers. The conversation provided an opportunity for producers to share firsthand perspectives on the opportunities within Iowa’s cattle industry. 

“Iowa can and will play a significant role in the future of the U.S. cattle industry,” said Bryan Whaley, ICA CEO. “As we look toward expanding the nation’s cattle herd, there is no better place to grow than right here in Iowa. We have productive pastureland, abundant forage and feed resources, strong crop and livestock integration, and the infrastructure needed to support that growth. 

“We appreciate Congressman Thompson taking the time to sit down with Iowa producers, listen to their experiences, and learn more about the opportunities in front of us. These conversations are important because they put a face and a story to the issues being discussed in Washington. We look forward to building on this dialogue and working together to move Iowa’s cattle industry and the U.S. cattle industry forward.” 

The discussion centered on three key areas: 
    Growing the cattle herd: Expanding grazing opportunities, specifically addressing ICA’s recent policy efforts to make more Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres available for grazing and livestock production. 
    Supporting the next generation: Improving access to capital and creating opportunities for young and beginning farmers while supporting successful farm transitions. 
    Reduction and shifts in large processing facilities: With the recent announcement of the Tyson plant in Joslin, Illinois, and the impact on Iowa’s cattle producers, overall U.S. herd expansion, and the economic implications across the supply chain. 

“Some of the best conversations with policymakers happen when they hear directly from farmers,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “I appreciate Chairman Thompson coming to Iowa to listen to our cattle producers and take their ideas back to Washington. Iowa is well positioned to help grow the nation’s cattle herd through expanded grazing opportunities, working lands conservation, and support for the next generation. As Congress works on the Farm Bill, we need policies that provide certainty, improve affordability, and keep farmers competitive.” 

Bringing federal policymakers directly to Iowa provides an important opportunity to showcase the state’s cattle industry and ensure producers’ perspectives are part of the conversation. This is especially important as continued work on the Farm Bill progresses. 

“It is critical to hear directly from the producers we serve and to be able to take Iowa producers’ perspectives back to Washington,” said Chairman Thompson. “Iowa can be a leader in helping rebuild our cattle herd, in my opinion. A number of great ideas were shared today that could provide opportunities and solutions. When we bring people together to work through these challenges, we always come away with great ideas.” 

ICA will continue working to ensure Iowa cattle producers have a seat at the table as policy decisions are made. By connecting producers directly with policymakers and bringing Iowa’s priorities to the forefront, ICA is building momentum for policies that support herd expansion, the next generation of producers, and the long-term strength of Iowa’s cattle industry.



Fertilizer prices to remain elevated through 2028, prolonging pressure on U.S. farm economy

Fertilizer prices are expected to remain above pre-Iran war levels through 2028, creating sustained pressure on farmers and agricultural retailers as global conflicts and supply chain disruptions continue to reshape the nutrient market. Although prices have retreated from the historic highs seen at the start of the war, elevated fertilizer expenses remain a major headwind for the U.S. agricultural sector.

According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, geopolitical instability in the Middle East, constrained feedstock supplies and tightening phosphate availability will keep fertilizer costs elevated for ag retailers, farm supply cooperatives and farmers for at least another year and likely into 2028.

“The ripple effect of the Middle East conflict, compounded with tight supplies, will create higher fertilizer prices and complicate sourcing well into 2027 and beyond,” said Jacqui Fatka, farm supply and biofuels economist with CoBank. “Availability and affordability concerns have already triggered demand destruction and deferral, making the price outlook increasingly difficult to predict. Ultimately, market recovery will depend on stabilization in the Middle East, lower sulfur prices and shifts in global demand patterns.” 

The Middle East plays an outsized role in the international fertilizer market, supplying over 60 million tons of fertilizers and raw materials annually, with 45 million tons shipped via the Strait of Hormuz. Notably, 50% of globally traded sulfur and over 30% of global urea exports originate from the region, making these commodities particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions. For U.S. agricultural retailers, the Iran war has created the greatest price exposure for urea and phosphate due to growing demand for these products imported through the Persian Gulf. 

Conflict in the region has resulted in fertilizer plant shutdowns and damaged facilities that will require significant time and resources to repair. An estimated 31 ammonia plants in the Middle East have been directly impacted by the war or shut down completely. Across India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, operations at 49 plants have been curtailed or halted due to limited feedstock availability. Meanwhile, at least 20 plants in Russia have been damaged by Ukrainian drone attacks, further exacerbating global supply challenges.

The disruptions have reshaped global trade flows and increased fertilizer prices for U.S. agricultural retailers, particularly for Diammonium Phosphate and Monoammonium Phosphate. While most domestic use is supplied by U.S. production, 17% of DAP/MAP imports originate from the Persian Gulf — now one of the most unstable supply regions.

Phosphate markets are expected to remain especially tight. Even before the war, global phosphate supplies were constrained, and rising sulfur and ammonia costs have further limited production. Ammonia and sulfur are the two biggest variable cost inputs for phosphate production, and three of the world’s 10 largest ammonia exporters are located behind the Strait of Hormuz. China, the largest producer and exporter of phosphate fertilizer, has banned phosphate exports through August and high sulfur prices may lead to an extension of the ban.

U.S. farmers have already adjusted their nutrient management strategies in response to several years of elevated prices. Rather than sharply cutting fertilizer use, many have relied more heavily on soil testing, variable‑rate application technology and precision nutrient management to maintain yields. Under-fertilization can be more costly than higher fertilizer prices, which is why many farmers have not reduced nitrogen applications but have lowered phosphate and potassium levels by as much as 10–15% in recent years.

“Lower or no fertilizer use creates a two‑ to three‑year gap before yield begins to suffer,” said Fatka. “The question now becomes how much longer the mining of the soils can occur without sacrificing yield.”

If fertilizer prices remain high through fall as expected, more farmers may push applications into spring, creating logistical challenges for retailers who must manage tight planting windows and uncertain demand. Lower global application rates could modestly reduce yields and support commodity prices, easing some inventory concerns for retailers.