Friday September 25 Ag News - Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report - Pillen Exec Orders on Diesel, Ag - Japanese Influencers Visit Nebraska - Johanns on NE Ag's Future - Red Meat Prod Falls 1% - and more!

United States Hog Inventory Down 2 Percent 

United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on September 1, 2026 was 74.3 million head. This was down 2 percent fromSeptember 1, 2025, but up 2 percent from June 1, 2026.   

Breeding inventory, at 5.87 million head, was down 1 percent from last year, and down slightly from the previous quarter.

Market hog inventory, at 68.4 million head, was down 2 percent from last year, but up 2 percent from last quarter. 

The June-August 2026 pig crop, at 34.5 million head, was down 2 percent from 2025. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 2.89 million head, down 3 percent from 2025. The sows farrowed during this quarter represented 49 percent of the breeding herd. The average pigs saved per litter was 11.96 for the June-August period, compared to 11.82 last year. 

By State        (1,000 hd  -  % Sept 1 '25)
Nebraska ............:    3,650     100  
Iowa ...................:   24,700      97  
Minnesota ..........:    9,300     104  
North Carolina ..:    7,600      95  
Illinois ...............:    5,250      95  
Indiana ...............:    4,300     100  

United States hog producers intend to have 2.85 million sows farrow during the September-November 2026 quarter, down 2 percent from the actual farrowings during the same period one year earlier, and down 2 percent from the same period two years earlier. Intended farrowings for December 2026-February 2027, at 2.80 million sows, are up 2 percent from the same period one year earlier, but down 1 percent from the same period two years earlier. 

Sept Oct Nov 2026 -    Sows Farrowing  - % 2025)
Nebraska ..............:      190,000        103     
Iowa .....................:      450,000         99     
Minnesota ............:      255,000         94      
North Carolina .....:      370,000         96     
Illinois ..................:      275,000         96     
Indiana .................:      125,000        100       

Dec 26 Jan Feb 27 -    Sows Farrowing  - % 25-26)
Nebraska ..............:       185,000        106         
Iowa .....................:       420,000        108      
Minnesota ............:       230,000         96      
North Carolina .....:       375,000        104       
Illinois ..................:       275,000        100      
Indiana .................:       120,000         95     

The total number of hogs under contract owned by operations with over 5,000 head, but raised by contractees, accounted for 56 percent of the total United States hog inventory, up 4 percent from the previous year. 



Pillen Issues Executive Orders to help the Agriculture Community

To combat rising diesel fuel shortages and high operating costs during harvest season, Governor Jim Pillen has issued two executive orders providing immediate, temporary relief to Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and agricultural transporters across the state.

Under the first executive order, highway-registered vehicles are permitted to hold, sell, or use untaxed, dyed diesel fuel without facing state fines or penalties. Additionally, diesel taxes paid while transporting Nebraska seasonally produced products and livestock on state roads are eligible for a refund by filing Form 84AG with the Nebraska Department of Revenue. This order takes effect immediately and will remain active for 90 days.

To address transportation pressures facing producers, Gov. Pillen signed a second executive order providing weight limit relief for seasonal crop transport. Vehicles transporting seasonally produced products and livestock now operate up to 25% over legal gross and axle group weight limits without purchasing additional permits or paying associated fees.

In addition to state-level action, Gov. Pillen sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump requesting federal intervention through a temporary 90-day pause on U.S. diesel exports to foreign countries. Halting exports would allow domestic diesel reserves to rebuild, lowering costs for consumers and helping producers navigate harvest season without severe financial strain.

“Our farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our state,” said Gov. Pillen. “It’s critical that I do everything in my power to make sure they are supported, especially during this season where they are working day in and day out to get the crops out of the ground.”



Japanese Influencers Experience Nebraska and its Beef to Draw New Audience

Two Japanese social media influencers recently traveled to Nebraska to experience the state’s beef industry firsthand and introduce their audiences to Nebraska beef, ranching and agriculture. 

The visit was organized by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development in partnership with the Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Beef Council, with additional support from Nebraska pork producers, the North Platte Chamber of Commerce and the Nebraska Diplomats. 

The influencers, Takeda Barbecue, a meat-cooking and outdoor content creator, and Daichi Sugawara, a professional golfer and golf influencer, were selected as part of an effort to connect Nebraska directly with Japanese consumers. The opportunity grew from increased interaction between Japanese and American social media users following the introduction of an automatic translation feature on X. 

With Japan being the platform’s largest user base, American barbecue and meat-related content gained popularity among Japanese audiences. Nebraska worked with a Japanese marketing firm to identify influencers who could help build on that interest and narrowed the list to Takeda and Sugawara. 

During their visit, the influencers began in Omaha, where they learned about different cuts of beef, visited restaurants and had opportunities to prepare and cook steaks. They also met with National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Past President Buck Wehrbein to learn more about what makes Nebraska beef unique. The group then traveled west to experience Nebraska agriculture firsthand, visiting Diamond Bar Ranch near Stapleton, golfing at Dismal River Club, where they had prime tenderloins served to them from TD Angus out of the Sustainable Beef packing plant. They also golfed at CapRock Ranch, and visited North Creek Ranch to see its bison herd and participate in a barbecue challenge. 

“We really wanted to identify people who have a large enough audience that they could speak directly to consumers and create a positive image of Nebraska,” said Cobus Block, director of international and business recruitment with the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. 

The effort also aims to increase recognition of Nebraska among Japanese consumers who may recognize American beef but not distinguish between individual states. 

“There's a recognition that, oh yeah, this is Nebraska,” Block said.



South Korean Corn Buyers Visit Key Export Cogs In Nebraska, Kansas And Washington

Earlier this month, the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) sponsored a group of South Korean feed and food corn importers on a tour of the U.S. corn value chain.

Last week, U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) Director in South Korea Haksoo Kim escorted a 19-member feed and food corn buyer team that visited the U.S. to build closer business relationships with U.S. corn and corn co-product suppliers by showing participants the superior quality of U.S. corn and its transparent export system. 

“U.S. corn accounted for more than two-thirds of South Korea’s corn imports in 2025 and has captured more than 80% of the market so far this year. Despite the strong market share, Korean buyers remain highly sensitive not only to price competitiveness but also to quality, particularly broken corn and foreign material (BCFM) and moisture content,” Kim said.

“Exposing customers to the excellent quality and supply of the 2026/27 U.S. corn crop reinforced their trust in the U.S.’ transparent and efficient grain export network and encouraged continued purchases year over year.”

The team landed in Nebraska and met with Nebraska Corn Board Director of Market Development Payton Schaneman for a welcome to the state and an overview of its agricultural output.

Later that day, the group toured Chief Ethanol and CPI Hastings Elevator to observe distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) production and how U.S. corn is transported through the value chain. A visit to a local farm then gave participants a firsthand look at the current corn crop and the day culminated in a dinner meeting with USGBC Chairman Jay Reiners.

The following day, the participants visited Reinke Irrigation and Sullivans Farm to discuss Nebraska's irrigation systems, technological advancements and precision agriculture.

Nebraska Corn Vice President of Market Development & Grower Services Connie Fischer joined the team as they attended a short course in Kansas, led by Darrell Holaday of Country Futures, about changing corn market trends, grain hedging strategies and general market outlook. The group then visited Nunemaker Farm to assess local corn crop conditions and learn how corn is used in livestock production.

A tour of DeLong’s container transloading facility in Edgerton offered an examination of grain quality control, handling and transportation systems for containerized exports.

The team also visited Blue Water Shipping and the EGT export terminal in Longview, Wash., to discuss recent grain shipment trends at Pacific Northwest ports, quality control for export corn and the status of corn exports.

“In addition to these meetings and tours about the quality and attributes of U.S. corn, continued port-of-arrival quality monitoring and supply chain quality assurance remain essential to defending and growing U.S. corn's position in the Korean market,” Kim said.

“The Council will continue working as a resource for Korean buyers via trade teams and interfacing with logistics stakeholders in South Korea to facilitate further mutually beneficial feed grain trade.”



Johanns recognizes challenges but remains optimistic about Nebraska’s future

Continued investment, strong local leadership and the development of the next generation of Nebraskans will ensure that the state remains an agricultural powerhouse, Mike Johanns told the crowd during the Sept. 22 Heuermann Lecture at the Nebraska Innovation Campus Conference Center. The event was hosted by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Johanns said it was no accident that President George W. Bush tapped him to become secretary of agriculture in 2005.

“I was the governor of a state that has everything in its favor when it comes to agriculture, from the grasslands of western Nebraska that we affectionately call the Sandhills, to the corn and soybean fields across the east and central part of our state — we are a powerhouse,” he said.

Johanns, who also served as Nebraska governor and as a U.S. senator, emphasized the importance of Nebraska’s innovations in commodities, including beef, corn, soybeans, pork and popcorn. Continued investment in agricultural education and innovation will not only benefit Nebraska’s economy, he said, but will help the state maintain its position as an agricultural leader in the United States.

Johanns highlighted the extent of Nebraska’s agricultural industry, including millions of acres of crops, ranches and dairy production. In addition to focusing on the state’s food sector — such as $8.3 million in corn production — he noted that Nebraska is second in ethanol production and that ag-related jobs have an estimated  $97 billion economic impact on the state.

Johanns also discussed some of the challenges rural Nebraska communities are facing, including declines in population, the available workforce and the number of farm and ranch families.

“We see in Nebraska … the impact of fewer families in our rural communities,” he said. “That means fewer people shopping. That means fewer people needing the local hospital. And the hard part for all of us is to see fewer kids going to our schools.”

Johanns next focused on four key questions:
    How do we keep young people on the farm and on the ranch?
    How do we position Nebraska to continue to be a leader in agriculture, innovation and technology?
    How do we prioritize investment in agricultural education opportunities for Nebraska youth?
    How do we create other opportunities in rural communities so they continue to be economically strong and vibrant?

“I believe that these questions and how we answer them will define the future of this great state,” he said.

Johanns said effective local leadership and mentorship for younger generations are vital to helping Nebraska continue to prosper. He said when he visited community leaders as governor and saw they were on the same page, he felt hopeful for those communities. That collaborative spirit is integral to the state’s growth, he said.

Johanns said that no matter community leaders’ strengths, a key catalyst for change is investment in local resources on both the local and state levels, through direct economic support as well as educational support.

“I can’t overemphasize how important the university system, the state colleges, the community colleges are to our future,” he said. “I was a 14-year-old kid raising pigs with big dreams. I would become a first-generation college student who went on to get a law degree. That was my pathway. Those in education are really in the youth development business, and that always needs to be front and center.”

Johann’s address was followed by a panel discussion led by Tiffany Heng-Moss, Harlan Vice Chancellor for IANR and NU vice president, featuring the keynote speaker; Mary Emery, director of Rural Prosperity Nebraska; Brad Lubben, associate professor of agricultural economics; L.J. McElravy, associate professor of agricultural leadership, education and communication; and Jordan Rasmussen, program leader for Rural Prosperity Nebraska.

Each expanded on the challenges facing rural Nebraska communities — from drought to housing to the economy — and shared how residents are overcoming those challenges.

 “One of the key findings of the Rural Poll is that for the last 30 years that we have been asking rural Nebraskans about life in rural Nebraska, they have been optimistic about their future,” Emery said. “That optimism has fueled the energy to seek new opportunities, to renew the entrepreneurial spirit and to tackle some really big challenges like housing, childcare and the workforce.”

During the panel discussion, Johanns said it is important for the United States to “re-engage” constructively in international trade, especially with Canada and Mexico. If the U.S. fails to pursue major export opportunities, the key alternative should be an increased focus on bioeconomy options such as biofuels, he said.

Johanns stressed that what makes Nebraska such a powerhouse is that residents work together to tackle challenges.

“We have so much to offer our nation and world, but here in Nebraska, we can't leave any part behind,” he said. “As we continue to build agriculture in Nebraska, as a world-changing powerhouse, let us build it in all 93 counties. Let’s leave no part of our state behind.”

The Heuermann Lecture series focuses on providing sustainability in the areas of food, natural resources and renewable energy for people, as well as securing the sustainability of rural communities where the vital work of producing food and renewable energy occurs.

The series is made possible through a gift from B. Keith and Norma Heuermann of Phillips, Nebraska, as an enduring commitment to Nebraska's production agriculture, natural resources, rural areas and people.




Commercial Red Meat Production Down 1 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.10 billion pounds in August, down 1 percent from the 4.15 billion pounds produced in August 2025.

Beef production, at 1.98 billion pounds, was 2 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.24 million head, down 4 percent from August 2025. The average live weight was up 28 pounds from the previous year, at 1,441 pounds.

Veal production totaled 1.6 million pounds, 19 percent below August a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 7,300 head, down 23 percent from August 2025. The average live weight was up 20 pounds from last year, at 373 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.10 billion pounds, down 1 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 9.92 million head, down 2 percent from August 2025. The average live weight was up 4 pounds from the previous year, at 284 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 9.7 million pounds, was down 4 percent from August 2025. Sheep slaughter totaled 174,300 head, 1 percent below last year. The average live weight was 109 pounds, down 3 pounds from August a year ago.

By State    (Million pounds  -  % Aug '25) 
Nebraska .......:     597.3         100       
Iowa ..............:     691.1         102       
Kansas ..........:     485.2         113       

January to August 2026 commercial red meat production was 34.6 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 9 percent. 



National Farmers Union Opposes Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern Rail Merger

National Farmers Union (NFU) Thursday announced its opposition to the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern (UP/NS) merger, calling on the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to reject the application that would give a single railroad company control of nearly half of all U.S. rail traffic and further shrink an already over-consolidated industry.

“History has shown us that when railroads consolidate, family farmers pay the price,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “Decades of mergers have left farmers with fewer options, higher rates, and less reliable service. The STB's review of this application is an opportunity to instead put rail competition first and protect American farmers, shippers, and consumers from the harm further consolidation would bring to our transportation network and food supply chain.”

Family farmers are already facing immense financial pressure including high input costs, unpredictable trade policies, and elevated transportation costs. Rail mergers that reduce competition leave shippers paying high rates for unreliable service, adding strain that family farmers cannot afford.

NFU’s grassroots policy priorities call for further reforms:
    Giving the STB the authority to address captive shipping and devise actionable mechanisms that hold railroads accountable for incorporating unreasonable rates increases without appropriate rate change notices.
    Enforcing U.S. antitrust laws to break up monopolistic railroads and prevent any new mergers.
    Establishing reciprocal switching within, and for an appropriate distance outside of terminals to encourage rail-to-rail competition.
    Authorizing a maximum rate for a movement to a captive shipper and authorizing, when petitioned, the removal of agreement provisions that prevent short-line railroads from delivering traffic to any railroad.
    Rail policy that holds railroads responsible for the losses caused by delayed rail car deliveries.



Growth Energy Applauds CARB for E15 Approval

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded the California Air Resources Board (CARB) today after it voted to approve regulations that will allow the state to give its residents access to E15, a 15% ethanol-blended fuel that sells for $0.30 per gallon less on average compared to regular fuel.

“California drivers need relief at the pump and E15 is the easiest way to deliver. With this vote, CARB has cleared the way for consumers to get access to this more affordable fuel option,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “E15 saves consumers money and can be used in the vast majority of vehicles on the road, all while simultaneously lowering emissions.  We commend Chair Lauren Sanchez and the entire board for taking action on behalf of drivers looking for lower prices at the pump. As we’ve said before, our industry is eager to help get E15 into the market and we look forward to continuing our partnership with state regulators and retailers to make this happen as soon as possible.”

The vote comes on the heels of California Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature of SB 795, a bill that directs the state fire marshal to finalize the rules necessary to increase retail access to E15 in the state. CARB’s approval of these regulations is the culmination of years of collaboration between the agency and the ethanol industry, working through the multimedia evaluation process, which included rigorous testing to demonstrate E15’s environmental benefits. The final steps of this rulemaking were mandated and funded by the 2025-26 state budget.  



ASA Statement on U.S.-China Trade Truce Extension

The American Soybean Association welcomes the two-month extension of the U.S.-China trade truce and looks forward to continued dialogue between the two countries. As this week's summit continues, ASA hopes the discussions will build on that progress and deliver additional positive developments for U.S. soybean farmers and agricultural trade.

“Soybean farmers want to see this momentum continue with strong purchases of U.S. soy and a lasting trade partnership with China,” said ASA President and Ohio soybean farmer Scott Metzger.

ASA looks forward to continued progress that provides greater certainty and long-term market opportunities for U.S. soybean farmers.