Friday September 11 Ag News - Successful State Fair - Radicle Corn Challenge Winners - Block & Bridle Steak Fry - ISU Harvest Prep webinar - Ethanol Production Slips 1% - FY'27 Beef Checkoff Plan of Work - and more!

Contrasting two beef-producing regions
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

I had the opportunity to guide a group of Argentinians on a tour of beef producers. I spent a bit of time with two of them whom I had the opportunity to interview. A few items we discussed, from which I discovered interesting contrasts that deserve attention.

Farming and ranching are cultural and born from a family business in the US while they are business only in Argentina. This was one of the main differences they pointed out between our two countries. In the US, farmers and ranchers participate

as a family. In Argentina, a young person participates in farming and ranching only if mom or dad own a farm or ranch, which they frequent only sometimes during the month as they live in the city. In Argentina, access to services in rural areas including education, health care, communications, and other infrastructure prevents rural development and forces even families wishing to live on their ranch or farm to remain in the city. This has created a greater divide between agriculture and the consumer than what we see in the US.

Another significant difference we discussed is how business safeguards in the US protect the buying-selling transaction. We had the opportunity to spend time at West Point Livestock. There, they learned that the seller receives payment immediately for cattle they sold. Business in Argentina, on the other hand, takes a bit longer. The same transaction would result in a longer term to cover the check, about 90 days.

We are fortunate to live in this country where the appropriate protections exist so that businesses may thrive. Also, as I have said before, the connection between family and agriculture is key to the future of agriculture in the US. While safeguards keep business moving forward with as few glitches as possible keeps trust in the transactions and protects intentions for agriculture to grow forward.



Fair celebrates another successful year
 
More than 300,000 guests came together during the 11 days of the 2026 Nebraska State Fair, marking another successful year of celebrating Nebraska agriculture, youth, entertainment and tradition.

The Fair experienced one of the warmest 11-day stretches on record, and overall attendance was the 4th highest in the seven fairs since Covid in 2020. Despite the challenging temperatures, nearly every other key measure of the Fair showed strength or growth, including increased guest satisfaction, higher concert attendance, record numbers of livestock and competitive exhibitor entries, strong vendor sales and record-setting participation in signature events.

“The success of the Nebraska State Fair has never been measured by a single number,” said Jaime Parr, Nebraska State Fair Executive Director. “We had 306,351 guests join us for a safe and unforgettable experience and what happened once Fairgoers arrived tells an important story. Guest satisfaction increased, more than 10,000 head of livestock filled the barns (up nearly 800 head year over year), Open Class Livestock alone paid out $108k in premiums, our outdoor concerts were larger than the previous 3 years, and events like demolition derby welcomed record participation as well. We are very proud of the 2026 Nebraska State Fair.”

The Fair saw increases of 437 livestock in Open Class, 298 head in 4-H and 37 head in FFA. In addition to increases in the barns, there were also 169 additional quilts over 2025, and Photography, Textile Arts and Visual Arts were all up by more than 100 entries each.

Fair officials say the results are particularly encouraging as the organization continues to use guest feedback to shape programming, entertainment, and the overall Fair experience.

“We spend a great deal of time listening to what our guests tell us,” said Courtney Glock, Nebraksa State Fair Marketing Director. “That feedback helps us determine what is working, where we can improve and where we should invest additional resources. Seeing satisfaction continue to grow tells us those efforts are making a difference and we hope that seeing these improvements reinforces to guests that their input matters and we are absolutely listening.”

Glock said improvements weren’t limited to ARPA paving improvements but also included added seating outside, changes to concert models, new strolling performers and additional emphasis placed on Nebraska-based businesses.

All of the success determined by vendors, concessionaires, exhibitors, staff and guests occurred despite the event taking place during an unusually persistent stretch of hot weather.

Weather data from the National Weather Service shows that Aug. 28 through Sept. 7 was the third warmest occurrence of that specific 11-day period on record, based on average daily temperature. Only 1922 and 1913 were warmer.

The average high during the Fair was 92 degrees, 8.5 degrees above normal, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees or higher on eight of the Fair's 11 days.

The hottest day came on Labor Day, Sept. 7, when the temperature reached 99 degrees and the heat index climbed to 104 degrees, which was 25 degrees warmer than the same day one year prior.

Parr said that attendance is one part of a much larger picture.

“When we look at guest satisfaction and participation as well as partnerships and experiences across the Fair, we see a very successful event and a strong platform established in 2026," she said. "That was seen at each stage show and in the barns as folks from nearly every zip code gathered to experience the Fair.”

More than 300,000 guests chose to make the 11-days of Nebraska State Fair an important part of their summer.

Fair staff are already reviewing guest feedback and building on the successes of 2026 as planning begins for the 2027 Nebraska State Fair.

Guests interested in sharing their feedback can fill out the Nebraska State Fair survey at www.statefair.org. 




Nebraska Block and Bridle Club To Host Annual Steak Fry on September 18

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Block and Bridle Club will host its annual Steak Fry event on Friday, September 18.

The event will be held at the Animal Science Complex on Nebraska's East Campus from 5-7 p.m. Presale meal tickets can be purchased for $12 on UNL Marketplace or can be purchased at the door for $15. The meal consists of steak, cheesy potatoes, beans, chips, and cookies. To-go containers will also be available. The steaks for the meal are provided by Cargill, Incorporated.

The proceeds from the event helps the club pay for educational opportunities such as industry tours, meeting expenses and club awards and also provides the club an opportunity to engage with friends, family, faculty and staff outside of a classroom setting. The club has been hosting the steak fry for over 60 years and it serves as the largest fundraising event put on by the club's beef interest group.

The Block and Bridle Club at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is comprised of students that are interested in animal agriculture. The Nebraska chapter is a charter member of the National Block and Bridle Club, which was established in 1919.



Radicle Growth and U.S. Corn Growers Announce Winners of The Radicle Corn Challenge

Radicle Growth announced Citroniq and Future Origins as the winners of The Radicle Corn Challenge Sponsored by U.S. Corn Farmers during the Bio Innovations North America conference in Omaha, Nebraska on September 9. The global competition, launched in January 2026, was created to identify and support companies developing breakthrough technologies that create significant new demand for corn beyond traditional food, feed and fuel markets. The Challenge attracted applicants from around the world working to transform corn and corn-derived feedstocks into higher-value products across industrial, chemical, materials and emerging bioeconomy applications.

As winners of the Challenge, Citroniq and Future Origins will receive investment from Radicle Growth and the coalition of corn organizations supporting the initiative. Together, the two companies represent compelling opportunities to expand the role of corn as a sustainable feedstock for high-value global industries.

"The quality of innovation we saw throughout this Challenge was exceptional," said Kirk Haney, Managing Partner at Radicle Growth. "Citroniq and Future Origins stood out for their ability to create entirely new demand pathways for corn at a commercial scale. Both companies are addressing highly valuable existing markets with technologies that offer sustainability, supply chain resilience and economic value, which is exactly the type of innovation this Challenge was designed to accelerate."

Citroniq
Citroniq is transforming the plastics industry with the world's largest next-generation, commercial-scale platform for producing 100% bio-based polypropylene using fuel-grade ethanol derived from corn. By combining proven technologies through its proprietary E2O production platform, Citroniq produces carbon-negative resins and olefin intermediates that eliminate dependence on fossil-based hydrocarbons while helping companies reduce their carbon footprint and advance Net Zero objectives.

The company's approach utilizes domestically produced corn ethanol to create sustainable alternatives for one of the world's most widely used plastics, opening a substantial new avenue for corn utilization across packaging, consumer goods, automotive, and industrial applications.

"We're honored to receive the 2026 Radicle Corn Challenge Award," said Kelly Knopp, CEO & Co-Founder of Citroniq. "This recognition is especially meaningful to our team and validates our goal of creating an economic path to sustainable plastics. We're proud to be part of writing the next chapter for U.S. corn demand, to drive a broader shift toward a more sustainable and resilient plastics industry."

Future Origins
Future Origins is commercializing fermentation-based technology to produce sustainable alternatives to ingredients widely used in home and personal care products. The company utilizes renewable feedstocks, including corn-derived dextrose, to create more resilient and traceable supply chains for ingredients traditionally produced from palm oil and fossil-based feedstocks.

Formed in 2022 as a joint venture between Genomatica, Unilever, Kao and L'Oréal, Future Origins has successfully scaled its technology through a large-scale demonstration campaign producing more than ten tons of drop-in product validated by strategic partners. The company is now advancing toward commercial-scale production in the United States using corn-based feedstocks.

"We are thrilled to win the Radicle Corn Challenge," said Priti Pharkya, Chief Business Officer and Founder of Future Origins. "By transforming corn into existing widely used home and personal care ingredients, Future Origins is opening an entirely new high-value use for Midwest corn. It's great to have the growers join us in the journey and build awareness, as the market opportunity here is massive."

The winners were selected following a rigorous evaluation process that included scientific, technical, commercial and market diligence conducted by Radicle Growth and representatives from participating corn organizations, assessing market potential, technology readiness, commercialization pathways and expected impact on future corn demand. The companies were formally recognized during the Bio Innovations North America conference, which brings together leaders across agriculture, biotechnology, energy and advanced materials to explore innovations shaping the future of the bioeconomy.

The Radicle Corn Challenge was established to identify innovations capable of developing durable new markets for corn and corn-derived feedstocks. Sponsored by twelve leading U.S. corn grower organizations, Colorado Corn Promotion Council, Corn Marketing Program of Michigan, Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Iowa Corn Promotion Board, Kansas Corn Commission, Kentucky Corn Promotion Council, Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, National Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Corn Board, Ohio Corn Marketing Program, South Dakota Corn Utilization Council and Tennessee Corn Promotion Board, the initiative was created in response to the need for expanded demand opportunities beyond traditional food, feed and fuel applications.

"Research is only as valuable as the markets it leads to," said Rachael Whitehair, Nebraska Corn Board director of innovation & stewardship. "Citroniq and Future Origins show what's possible when new technology meets a reliable, high-quality supply of corn. We congratulate both companies and look forward to seeing these partnerships develop."

The selection of Citroniq and Future Origins reflects the growing opportunity to position U.S. corn as a foundational feedstock for the next generation of sustainable materials and consumer products. By supporting technologies that unlock new, high-value markets for corn, the Radicle Corn Challenge and its sponsoring grower organizations are helping create opportunities for increased demand, new value chains and long-term growth across rural America and the broader bioeconomy.



NU DEAL cohort announced for 2026-28

Sixteen University of Nebraska System colleagues have been selected to participate in a system-wide program that aims to develop the next generation of higher education leaders.

The NU System’s Developing Excellence in Academic Leaders (NU DEAL) program, sponsored by all four campuses with support from the Office of the President, offers an intensive two-year curriculum that helps participants develop their leadership skills, expand their networks and explore key issues and challenges facing the University of Nebraska and higher education.

“I’m delighted to welcome another cohort to the NU DEAL,” said NU System President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “This program ensures promising leaders have opportunities to hone the skills that will position the NU System to meet the ever-changing needs of the students we educate and the state we serve. This program, the experiences it provides and the network it fosters, is critical to the long-term sustained success of our institution.” 

The 2026-2028 NU DEAL fellows, selected by their campus leadership, are:

University of Nebraska–Lincoln
    Yusong Li, Ph.D. - associate dean, college of engineering
    Santosh Pitla, Ph.D. - co-director, University of Nebraska Artificial Intelligence Institute
    Jamie Reimer Seaman, D.M.A. – faculty senate president elect
    Joe Luck, Ph.D. - interim department head, biological systems engineering

University of Nebraska Medical Center
    Ann Anderson-Berry, M.D., Ph.D - executive director, Child Health Research Institute; professor, UNMC Division of Neonatology; vice chair of research, department of pediatrics
    Rusty McCulloh, M.D. - associate vice chancellor for clinical research, UNMC; vice president for research, Nebraska Medicine; professor, UNMC Division of Biomedical Informatics and Health Systems
    Sheri Rowland, Ph.D. - assistant dean for evaluation and continuous quality improvement; associate professor, college of nursing
    Meghan Wolever - assistant dean, business and finance

University of Nebraska at Omaha
    Jodi Kreiling, Ph.D. - associate dean, college of arts and sciences; professor, chemistry
    Adam Rosen, Ph.D. - director and professor, school of health and kinesiology
    Erin Pleggenkuhle-Miles – associate dean, college of business administration, professor of management
    Susan Reay, Ed.D. - director and associate professor, Grace Abbott School of Social Work

University of Nebraska at Kearney
    Kristy Kounovsky-Shafer, Ph.D. - associate dean, college of arts and sciences; professor, chemistry
    Joel Berrier, Ph.D. – chair and associate professor, physics and astronomy
    Daniel Chaffin, Ph.D. - associate professor, management
    Bryce Abbey, Ph.D. - co-chair, kinesiology and sport sciences; professor

Over the course of the program, the fellows will hear presentations from University of Nebraska System representatives and members of the NU Board of Regents, visit each NU System campus to engage with senior leaders and discuss timely higher education topics including:
    Strategic planning
    Philanthropy
    Higher education finances
    Facilities and infrastructure
    Opportunities and challenges related to teaching, learning and research
    Academic leadership skills and styles

“NU DEAL is designed to build a cadre of senior leadership with faculty who already have leadership skills to understand how the NU System works at the highest level,” said UNMC Chancellor H. Dele Davies, M.D., who developed the program. “NU DEAL cultivates advanced thinking skills and empowers participants to lead with vision, purpose and lasting impact in today’s changing world, positioning them to step confidently into the next level of leadership.”

Applications for the 2028-30 cohort of the NU Deal fellows will open next spring. 



Farmers Business Network® Announces 2027 Farmer2Farmer VIII Event

Farmers Business Network® (FBN), the leading agriculture marketplace and farmer-to-farmer network, today announced the next edition of its renowned Farmer2Farmer (F2F) Event, taking place from February 9-11, 2027.

This year's conference, Farmer2Farmer VIII, will convene nearly 1,000 farmers from across the U.S. and Canada for several days of programming at the CHI Health Center, in Omaha, Nebraska.

Farmer2Farmer VIII will include more than 30 expert presentations, keynote speakers and producer educational sessions, as well as dozens of trade-show vendors.  Speakers will include farmers, prominent ag & technology innovators, and business, AI, ag policy and leadership experts.  

"Farmer2Farmer brings together hundreds of  farms of all types for honest, direct conversations on the future of ag and how to improve their operations," said Charles Baron, Co-Founder, FBN. "We want FBN members to create deep connections, uncover new ideas from other farmers and partners, and leave F2F with strategies and operating programs in hand for a successful 2027 season."

For more information and to sign up to attend Farmer2Farmer, please visit www.farmer2farmer.ag



2026 Iowa Grain Harvest Webinar 

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering team will hold the 2026 Iowa Grain Harvest webinar Monday, Sept. 21 at noon.  

Planned for grain producers and anyone with an interest in this fall’s grain harvest in Iowa, the webinar will feature segments discussing grain quality concerns and potential issues, harvest losses and equipment set up and planning for successful grain storage. 

“Harvest comes with challenges related to grain quality, harvest equipment and short-and-long-term storage,” said Tony Mensing, field agricultural engineer with ISU Extension and Outreach. “This webinar will feature experts from the Iowa Grain Quality Initiative and the Iowa State University Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex providing commentary and sharing insight on grain harvest 2026.” 

Gretchen Mosher, professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering at Iowa State who leads the Grain Testing Laboratory, will explore grain quality issues and potential concerns as we go into harvest. Dirk Maier, director of the Iowa State University Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex, will share valuable information on the science of grain storage and managing it successfully. Mensing will discuss grain loss during harvest and equipment setup and adjustment. 

The timely topics have a direct impact on the bottom line for growers and the entire grain value chain and aim to help participants understand potential challenges and make the most of what has been produced. 

The webinar is available at no cost to participants, but online registration is required https://go.iastate.edu/FEN88N.

For more information, contact Tony Mensing at tmensing@iastate.edu or 515-290-0952. For registration inquiries, please contact Melissa McEnany at mmcenany@iastate.edu or 515-294-9075. 




Weekly Ethanol Production for 9/4/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending September 4, ethanol production dipped 1.0% to 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to 46.16 million gallons daily. Output was 0.5% lower than the same week last year but 7.2% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.5% to 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.94 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks edged up 0.6% to 25.2 million barrels. Stocks were 10.3% more than the same week last year and 13.9% above the five-year average. Inventories built in the East Coast (PADD 1) and Midwest (PADD 2) but thinned across the other regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, dropped 4.2% to 8.55 million b/d (131.45 bg annualized)—the lowest weekly volume since the end of February. Still, demand was 0.5% more than a year ago and 0.2% above the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol slid 3.4% to an 8-week low of 908,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.96 bg annualized. Yet, net inputs were 3.2% more than year-ago levels and 1.7% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports scaled up 41.3% to 147,000 b/d (6.2 million gallons/day). It has been more than two years since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Beef Promotion Operating Committee Approves Fiscal Year 2027 Checkoff Plan of Work

The Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) will invest approximately $39.5 million into programs of beef promotion, research, consumer information, industry information, foreign marketing, and producer communications during fiscal 2027, subject to USDA approval. 

In action at the end of its September 2-3 meeting in Denver, Colorado, the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC) approved Checkoff funding for a total of 12 “Authorization Requests” – or grant proposals – for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2026. The committee, which includes 10 producers and importers from the Cattlemen’s Beef Board and 10 producers from the Federation of State Beef Councils, also recommended full Cattlemen’s Beef Board approval of a budget amendment to reflect the split of funding between budget categories affected by their decisions.

Nine contractors and four subcontractors brought 13 Authorization Requests worth approximately $49.6 million to the BPOC this week, approximately $10.1 million more than the funds available from the CBB budget.

“Each year, our contractors bring forward strong ideas for reaching consumers, strengthening demand for beef and addressing the issues that matter to our industry,” said Cheryl DeVuyst, chair of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board and the Beef Promotion Operating Committee. “With limited Checkoff dollars available, our responsibility is to carefully evaluate those opportunities and invest in the programs we believe can deliver the greatest value for beef producers.

“I’m proud of the thoughtful work this committee put into reviewing the Authorization Requests and making some difficult funding decisions. We had productive discussions about where Checkoff dollars can make the greatest impact, and ultimately, we came together around a budget that supports important work in research, promotion, foreign marketing, industry and consumer information and producer communications. I appreciate the time and commitment of our committee members and contractors, and I’m looking forward to seeing this work come to life in FY27.”

In the end, the BPOC approved proposals from eight national beef organizations for funding through the FY27 Cattlemen’s Beef Board budget, as follows:
    American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture - $750,000
    Cattlemen’s Beef Board - $2,000,000
    Meat Foundation - $750,000
    Meat Import Council of America / Northeast Beef Promotion Initiative - $1,000,000
    Meat Institute/New York Beef Council - $270,000
    National Cattlemen’s Beef Association - $26,050,000
    United States Cattlemen’s Association/Duke University/University of Florida - $598,000
    United States Meat Export Federation - $8,100,000
     
Broken out by budget component – as outlined by the Beef Promotion and Research Act of 1985 – the FY27 Plan of Work for the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board budget includes:
    $9,270,000 for promotion programs, including beef and veal campaigns focusing on beef’s nutritional value, eating experience, convenience, and production.
    $9,598,000 for research programs focusing on pre- and post-harvest beef safety, scientific affairs, nutrition, sustainability, product quality, culinary technical expertise, and consumer perceptions. 
    $7,850,000 for consumer information programs, including Northeast influencer outreach and public relations initiatives; national consumer public relations, including nutrition-influencer relations and work with primary- and secondary-school curriculum directors nationwide to get accurate information about the beef industry into classrooms of today’s youth. Additional initiatives include outreach and engagement with food, culinary, nutrition and health thought leaders; media and public relations efforts; and supply chain engagement.
    $2,700,000 for industry information programs, including dissemination of accurate information about the beef industry to counter misinformation from other groups, as well as funding for Checkoff participation in the annual national industrywide symposium about antibiotic use. Additional efforts in this program area include beef advocacy training and issues/crisis management and response. 
    $8,100,000 for foreign marketing and education, focusing on 13 regions, representing more than 90 countries around the world. 
    $2,000,000 for producer communications, which includes investor outreach using national communications and direct communications to producers and importers about Checkoff results. Elements of this program include ongoing producer listening and analysis; industry collaboration and outreach; and continued development of a publishing strategy and platform and a state beef council content hub.  
     
The full fiscal 2027 Cattlemen’s Beef Board budget is approximately $43.9 million. Separate from the Authorization Requests, other expenses funded include $332,000 for program evaluation; $833,000 program development; $214,000 for Checkoff education resources; $540,000 for USDA oversight; $230,000 for state services; $200,000 supporting services and litigation; and approximately $2.0 million for CBB administration. The fiscal 2027 program budget represents an increase of  3.4% percent, or $1.5 million, from the $42.4 million FY26 budget.

For more information about the Beef Checkoff and its programs, including promotion, research, foreign marketing, industry information, consumer information and safety, contact the Cattlemen’s Beef Board at 303-220-9890 or visit DrivingDemandForBeef.com. 



Swine Health Information Center to Integrate into National Pork Board by Year’s End

The producer-led boards of the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) and National Pork Board (NPB) have approved an agreement to integrate SHIC into NPB by the end of 2026. For pork producers, the integration is designed to preserve SHIC’s emerging-disease capabilities while connecting them more directly to the industry’s broader swine health priorities. 

SHIC’s established system for identifying and responding to emerging disease threats, from surveillance and monitoring to reporting and research, will continue throughout the transition. Continuity in these services and support to producers, researchers, veterinarians and industry partners is a top priority for both boards.  

“When producers created SHIC, they asked it to watch for emerging disease threats around the world and move quickly when risks appeared,” said Joe Dykhuis, Michigan pork producer and SHIC board president. “SHIC built that capability through disease monitoring, focused research and practical information. This integration sustains that work and positions it to serve producers into the future.” 

Aligning SHIC’s monitoring, research investments and resources with the producer-led National Swine Health Strategy will strengthen coordination, focus producer dollars and help turn science into practical tools and action on farms. 

“Producers benefit when researchers, veterinarians and industry organizations are aligned around shared priorities and focused on outcomes at the farm,” said Chad Groves, National Pork Board president. “Bringing SHIC’s information, expertise, research and producer support into the National Swine Health Strategy strengthens that connection.” 

The National Swine Health Strategy provides a long-term framework for protecting the U.S. swine herd and improving overall herd health. Its priorities include stronger industry coordination and improved prevention, preparedness and response for endemic, emerging and foreign animal diseases. 



Applications Accepted for CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship

Students pursuing careers in the beef industry are encouraged to apply for the 2027 CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship through the National Cattlemen’s Foundation. Ten scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded.
 
Introduced in 1989 and sponsored by CME Group, the scholarship identifies and encourages talented students who play a vital role in the future of food production. Students studying education, communication, production, research or other areas related to the beef industry are eligible to apply for the annual scholarship program.
 
“We are honored to partner with the National Cattlemen’s Foundation and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association to champion the next generation of leaders in the cattle industry,” said John Ricci, CME Group managing director and global head of agricultural products. “By investing in these emerging leaders today, we're helping ensure that tomorrow's cattlemen and cattlewomen have the knowledge, innovation and resilience needed to feed a growing world for generations to come." 
 
Eligible applicants must be a graduating high school senior or full-time undergraduate student enrolled at a two- or four-year institution. The application process includes submitting a one-page letter expressing career goals related to the beef industry, a 750-word essay describing an issue in the beef industry and offering solutions to this problem, and two letters of recommendation. The applicant or a family member must be a member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. 
 
The application deadline is Oct. 9, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org. Scholarship recipients will be recognized during CattleCon 2027, Feb. 2-4, in Nashville, Tennessee. 
 
Organized in 1972, NCF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing charitable, scientific and educational activities to benefit the cattle industry. 

Thursday September 10 Ag News - NE Corn Growers Host 200 5th Graders On Farm - CAP's ABC for Cattle Production - Cover Crops and Field Work Timing - UNL Celebrates Mesonet Expansion - IA Corn Sets Policy - Most Fertilizer Prices Lower - and more!

Northeast Nebraska Fifth Graders Explore Agriculture at Growing Potential Festival

More than 200 fifth graders from five northeast Nebraska schools experienced agriculture beyond the classroom during the annual Growing Potential Agriculture Festival held Sept. 3 at McQuistian Farms near Pender.

The event brought 202 students together with farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals to learn more about the industry that provides their food, fiber, and energy. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation and Northeast Nebraska Corn Growers host the festival each year to promote agricultural literacy and give students an opportunity to experience agriculture firsthand.

Throughout the day, students rotated through nine stations highlighting different aspects of agriculture and the many career opportunities available within the industry. Taylor Nelson, vice president of the Northeast Nebraska Corn Growers Association, said the festival is especially important for students who may not have a direct connection to agriculture.

“There are so many kids today who don’t have the opportunity to be around farms or see all the different opportunities agriculture has to offer,” Nelson said. “We want to expose them to those opportunities at an early age and make a positive impression as they begin thinking about their futures and the careers available to them. I hope students understand that they don’t have to come from a farm to have a future in agriculture. There are many ways to build a career in the industry, return to a small town, and contribute to agriculture.”

Students attending the festival represented Wayne, Wisner-Pilger, West Point-Beemer, Laurel, and Pender schools.

Support from local businesses and agricultural organizations helped ensure the festival remained free for participating students. Sponsors included NEN Aerial Services, Grossenburg Implement, Keiser Irrigation, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Siouxland Ethanol, Michael Foods, Tim and Ashley Mcquistian, and the Hansen family along with gracious support from numerous seed companies.



Free Training Helps Cattle Producers Figure Costs, Returns Amid Market Volatility

Cattle producers can learn to calculate their cost of production and evaluate potential returns during two free virtual trainings this month hosted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Center for Agricultural Profitability.

The training will show participants how to use the Agricultural Budget Calculator program, or ABC, a free online tool for building and evaluating livestock and crop budgets specific to a producer's own operation. Cattle markets can shift quickly, and knowing the true cost behind those numbers helps producers make more informed management decisions as prices, input costs and market conditions change.

During the session, participants will learn how to:
    Create or update a livestock enterprise budget for their own farm or ranch using ABC.
    Estimate projected cost of production and potential returns, including both cash costs and economic costs.
    Review and interpret ABC reports to understand where costs occur within a cattle enterprise.
    Use budget information to evaluate management decisions as cattle costs, prices and market conditions change.

Two identical sessions are offered so producers can choose the time that works best. They will be held via Zoom on Monday, Sept. 21, at 12:30 p.m. CDT, and Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 6:30 p.m. CDT. A Zoom link and passcode will be emailed to registered participants.

The training is free. Registration is available at https://go.unl.edu/abccattle26.

Producers can find more information on the ABC program at https://cap.unl.edu/abc and view sample Nebraska cattle budgets at https://cap.unl.edu/cattlebudgets.

For more information, contact Glennis McClure, extension educator and farm and ranch management analyst, at gmcclure3@unl.edu or 402-472-0661.



PFI Farmers Test Whether Cover Crops Help Them Get in the Field Sooner

Wet weather can keep farmers out of their fields, putting pressure on already-tight planting and fieldwork windows. Those windows are getting smaller. Since 1964, Iowa has lost about one suitable spring fieldwork day every six years.

“For years, we’ve heard farmers tell us that cover crops are helping them get into their fields earlier in the spring and get through harvest without leaving ruts,” says Stefan Gailans, PFI’s research director. “We wanted to take a closer look and see if the data backs that up.”

In 2025, 38 farmers across Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and Wisconsin tracked whether they could work fields with a history of cover crop use each week from spring through fall. Farmers recorded whether field and weather conditions allowed them to work their fields for most of the day.

PFI compared those observations with USDA estimates, using the same definition of a suitable fieldwork day.

The findings
Overall, PFI farmers reported about the same number of days suitable for fieldwork as the USDA average in 2025.

PFI farmers reported 51 suitable spring fieldwork days, one more than the USDA average. They reported 51 days in summer, matching the USDA average, and 27 days in fall, one fewer than the USDA average. Altogether, farmers reported, on average, 129 suitable fieldwork days, matching the USDA average.

While PFI farmers reported results similar to the USDA average, some fields with long-term cover crop use showed different results.

Margaret Hogan of Earlville, Iowa, reported 157 days when she could work her fields from April through November, compared with 127 days for her USDA district over the same period. In the spring, she reported 67 days suitable for fieldwork, compared with 46 days for the USDA district average. She has used cover crops for more than 10 years.

“The most valuable aspect of conducting this trial for me is being able to show others another reason to use cover crops,” Margaret says.

PFI started the study with 15 farmers in 2024 and grew to 38 farmers in 2025. The study will continue with farmers across the Midwest as PFI gathers more information to see whether the results stay the same from year to year and in different weather conditions.

To explore the full findings, visit practicalfarmers.org/do-cover-crops-increase-the-number-of-days-suitable-for-field-work-2025.

Farmers interested in participating in future trials can contact Stefan Gailans at stefan.gailans@practicalfarmers.org or visit practicalfarmers.org/cooperators-program.



NeFU Will Bring 10 Participants to the NFU Fly-In September 14-16, 2026

Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU) President John Hansen and 9 other NeFU Members will join other Farmers Union state organizations participating in the annual National Farmers Union’s Fly-In to focus on the need to pass an updated and improved Farm Bill, and other ag-related issues.

Participating in this year’s Fly-In is Becky Potmesil of Alliance, Bill Armbrust of Elkhorn, Dan and Amber Conway of Red Cloud, Keith Dittrich of Tilden, Don Schuller of Wymore, Willie Cade of Chicago, and Matt Gregory, Kevin Herrold and John Hansen of Lincoln. In addition, Farmers Union Midwest Agency (FUMA) General Manager Rob Fisher of Ozawkie, Kansas will split his time between Nebraska and Kansas appointments. Besides Fisher, Dan and Amber Conway and Kevin Herrold are with FUMA. Willie Cade is a member who also serves as a Right to Repair and Ag Data consultant for Nebraska and several other Farmers Union state organizations.

NeFU President Hansen says “The Senate Ag Committee will reconsider their version of the Farm Bill during our Hill visits, so our Fly-In is very timely. Our message to Congress is they need to pass an updated and improved five-year Farm Bill before the September 30th expiration deadline. Three years in a row, Congress has passed one-year Farm Bill extensions because they failed to do their job and meet the deadline. Financially strapped farmers struggling with the worst farm crisis since the 1980s need more than another extension of an outdated and ineffective Farm Bill that makes the farm crisis worse. Farmers and their bankers need Congress to do their job and pass an improved five-year Farm Bill with a strong income safety net to help them survive today's and tomorrow’s financial crisis.”  

Hansen pointed out that Congress needs to counter Trump Administration actions that undermine both foreign and domestic agricultural markets, create more trade and export volatility from the misuse of tariffs, and increase farm input costs from both tariffs and the ill-considered war with Iran. The unilateral decision to import 300,000 metric tons of hamburger, the radical dismantling of USDA through destructive DOGE cuts that forced a 28% senseless reduction in staffing, and the recent unilateral decision to decentralize and dismantle the remaining Washington, DC-based USDA staff by two thirds are also issues to discuss with Congress.

“Farmers and ranchers need Congress to appreciate the critical economic and social importance of our nation’s traditional system of independently owned and operated family farm and ranch agriculture. Farmers need Congress to step up and help them through this time of great financial stress. When farm and ranch businesses struggle, so do the families that own and operate them. Our nation’s current farm and trade policies need an overhaul, not a tune-up,” said Hansen.



Nebraska Beef Council to Conduct September Board Meeting

The Nebraska Beef Council Board of Directors will conduct their regular board meeting virtually on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. CDT. During the meeting, the board will review & discuss a draft of the FY 2026–2027 marketing plan and receive an update on the 2026 board of director elections.

For more information, please contact the Nebraska Beef Council office at 308-236-7551.



RIBBON CUTTING TO MARK MESONET PROGRESS, SALUTE STAKEHOLDERS

A Sept. 23 ribbon cutting at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln will celebrate the completion of 35 new, state-of-the-art Nebraska Mesonet weather stations funded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Supporters of the mesonet will be recognized, and attendees will have the opportunity to see a station up close.

The free public event, 3 to 4 p.m., will be at the East Campus mesonet station — the network’s flagship site, which tests improvements to the network before deployment and is used for educational purposes.

Nebraska’s 104 mesonet stations provide data vital to agriculture, natural resources management, emergency management and fire containment. The stations provide air temperature, rainfall, humidity and other common variables, as well as soil moisture, heat and cold stress, crop water use and wildfire risk data.

During the Sept. 23 event, attendees can view the East Campus mesonet station and learn how the Nebraska Mesonet operates. Mesonet staff will be on hand to answer questions.

“The addition of 35 modern weather and soil observation stations funded by the Army Corps of Engineers filled a significant gap in the Nebraska Mesonet, especially in the Sandhills,” said Ruben Behnke, mesonet director.

That progress “has fueled a renewed interest in modernizing and growing the Nebraska Mesonet into a premier network, as the value of environmental observation data is rapidly increasing in all fields,” he said. “Everyone in the state depends on this data in some form, even if they don’t directly interact with or use the raw observations.”

The mesonet is an invaluable resource for Nebraska’s producers, said Tiffany Heng-Moss, Harlan Vice Chancellor for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and vice president for the University of Nebraska system.

“The data this network provides is used in the development of precision ag tools, weather monitoring services, disaster relief programs, preparedness in the event of natural disasters, and a host of other programs,” she said. “We are proud that the Nebraska Mesonet is part of IANR, and we’re incredibly grateful to Ruben Behnke for his dedication to this critical tool, as well as to the partners who have contributed to its success.”

Attendees for the ribbon cutting should enter the university’s East Campus at the second entrance west of 48th and Holdrege streets. Turn right on the East Campus Loop, then right on Fair Street just north of the College of Law complex. Curve right onto a gravel road and find parking near the UNL Pollinator Garden.

Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP here https://news.unl.edu/article/ribbon-cutting-to-mark-mesonet-progress-salute-stakeholders.

The gathering will include remarks by stakeholders, including Lt. Col. Natalie Mallue, deputy commander of the Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, and representatives from the National Weather Service, Nebraska Forest Service and Nebraska Emergency Management Agency. Refreshments will be provided.

“This event gives us a chance to acknowledge and thank all our supporters as we make progress toward providing mesonet coverage within 12 miles of every Nebraskan,” Behnke said.



Iowa Corn Growers Set Policy Priorities at 2026 Grassroots Policy Summit

Wednesday, the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) held its Annual Grassroots Policy Summit at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, Iowa. The event gathered more than 130 farmer-member delegates from across the state to discuss and set forth legislative priorities for the upcoming year. 

ICGA delegates tackled critical issues impacting corn growers, including state issues such as conservation and water quality funding, extending Iowa retailer tax credits for E15 and E85, supporting a middle-ground approach to carbon capture projects, protecting landowner rights related to data centers, property tax reform, and more. Federal issues included expanding trade opportunities, securing infrastructure funding for transportation such as locks and dams, advancing biobased product incentives, advocating for a bipartisan Farm Bill, a nationwide E15 fix with key provisions for Iowa farmers and more.  

“The Annual Grassroots Summit is a very important event for Iowa's corn growers and I think that is evident given that farmers from across the state put their harvest prep on pause to come and participate in the discussions that will set ICGA's policy priorities for the following year," said ICGA President Steve Kuiper, a farmer from Knoxville, Iowa. “Our grassroots policy development process starts with a survey of our more than 7,000 farmer members, followed by roundtable discussions in each of Iowa’s nine crop reporting districts before being brought forward and debated at the Summit. National policy priorities are then carried to the Commodity Classic, ensuring Iowa farmers’ voices are heard at the federal level. This process is vital to fulfilling ICGA’s mission and championing the issues that matter most to Iowa’s corn farmers.” 

Throughout the day, many local leaders were also recognized for their engagement in Iowa agriculture and beyond. Larry Buss, farmer from Harrison County, was once again recognized with the Top Recruiter Award for recruiting 186 Iowa Corn members over the past year. Roger Wuthrich, farmer from Davis County, was recognized with the Outstanding Individual Leadership Award for his dedication to Iowa Corn, at both the grassroots level and beyond, and within his local community. The 2026 Iowa Corn Walter Goeppinger Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Julius Schaff, an exemplary leader who has dedicated his career to building relationships and creating new opportunities for Iowa’s corn farmers. 

ICGA will announce its finalized state and federal policy priorities in December, based on ICGA Board discussions and grassroots input gathered during the Summit. The complete 2026-27 policy resolution book will be available online and by request once finalized. To request a copy, please contact corninfo@iowacorn.org or 515-225-9242.



Most Fertilizer Prices Lower

Retail fertilizer prices for the last day of August and first four days of September 2026 show more less expensive fertilizer prices compared to last month. Six fertilizers were lower looking back to last month while the remaining two were slightly higher, marking the second week in row we saw this. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Just one nutrient led the way lower. UAN28 was 5% less expensive compared to last month. The average price of the nitrogen fertilizer was $423/ton. Five other fertilizers' prices were just slightly lower. Potash had an average price of $493/ton, urea $655/ton, 10-34-0 $717/ton, anhydrous $938/ton and UAN32 $455/ton.

The remaining two nutrients were just slightly more expensive looking back a month. DAP had an average price of $919/ton and MAP $959/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.71/lb.N, anhydrous $0.57/lb.N, UAN28 $0.75/lb.N and UAN32 $0.71/lb.N.

Seven of the eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. Potash is 1% higher, UAN28 is 2% more expensive, urea is 4% higher, MAP is 5% more expensive, DAP is 7% higher, 10-34-0 is 8% more expensive and anhydrous is 22% higher looking back to last year.

One fertilizer is lower than a year ago. UAN32 is 5% lower than a year earlier.



ASA Welcomes 45Z Updates Supporting U.S. Soybean Farmers, Biofuels

The American Soybean Association welcomed actions this week from the U.S. Department of Energy and Internal Revenue Service that provide greater clarity and usability for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, an important tool for supporting domestic biofuel production and demand for U.S. soybeans.

DOE updated the 45ZCF-GREET model to incorporate carbon intensity adjustments for certain regenerative agricultural practices, including practices used in soybean production. At the same time, IRS issued a notice that provides updated emissions rate information and allows qualifying agricultural practices to be reflected in calculating the credit.

"ASA appreciates DOE, IRS, USDA and the administration for taking this important step to make the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit usable for biofuel producers," said Dave Walton, ASA vice president and Iowa soybean farmer. "These actions provide greater economic certainty for the biofuels industry, which is a critical source of domestic demand for U.S. soybeans."

As implementation moves forward, ASA will continue advocating for a flexible book-and-claim system that allows all farmers to participate in and receive value from the low-carbon attributes of their soybeans without requiring physical segregation throughout the supply chain. We look forward to continuing to work with the administration as policies are developed to strengthen the U.S. biofuels market and the soybean farmers who help supply it.  



Corn Growers Thank Trump Administration for Crucial Next Steps in 45Z Implementation

The Internal Revenue Service this week released its guidance for farmers looking for clarity on the future of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, which was designed to incentivize the production of aviation fuel and other clean fuels.

The guidance, in conjunction with Tuesday’s updated Department of Energy GREET Model, will give safe harbor to previously recognized “on farm” practices in reducing the carbon intensity of qualifying fuels. In response to this development, Ohio corn grower and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Jed Bower released the following statement: 
 
"We are very pleased to see these agencies reaffirm the positive actions from the administration earlier this year, which recognized the importance of existing regenerative practices. We have been encouraged by the strong cooperation and emphasis on how this tax credit will benefit the individual farmer throughout the implementation process."  
 
"This guidance also codifies positive changes to the credit regarding indirect land use change. We look forward to working with the Treasury Department this fall as it looks to issue a final rule by November. NCGA would also like to see 'book and claim' acknowledged as a viable chain of custody methodology in the final rule."  
 
Book and claim allows farmers to sell the environmental value of their low-carbon corn directly to biofuel producers digitally, eliminating the need to physically segregate and transport those crops to a specific facility. 



Pioneer Launches ‘Hats Off to Farmers’ Collaboration With Multiplatinum Country Music Star Chris Janson 

Pioneer is putting its support for farmers into action through a new collaboration with multiplatinum country music star Chris Janson to champion mental health in rural communities. Together, Pioneer and Janson aim to raise awareness of the mental health challenges facing farmers while raising funds through special-edition, co-branded hats benefiting the Deep Roots Mental Wellness Program from Rural Minds, a national nonprofit focused on improving mental health outcomes in rural America. 

This partnership underscores Pioneer’s long-standing dedication to the agriculture community, supporting farmers both in their work and in overcoming the challenges they face beyond the field. By collaborating with Janson and Rural Minds, Pioneer aims to foster more open conversations about mental health in farming communities and take meaningful steps to offer vital resources to those who feed and fuel America. As it wraps up its 100th anniversary celebrations, Pioneer also has committed $100,000 to Rural Minds to provide farmers with a program to help build mental resiliency so they can thrive as they manage new challenges in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.

“Farmers understand better than anyone that success requires resilience, adaptability and a long-term perspective,” said Liz Knutson, Pioneer Agency Marketing Leader. “The Pioneer brand has stood alongside farmers for a century, and we are committed to helping the next generation develop strong roots so they can continue to grow and flourish through whatever seasons lie ahead.

Pioneer has partnered with Janson because of his deep affinity for farmers and America’s rural communities and his connection to the Pioneer® brand. Janson grew up in a rural farming community and has a personal connection to agriculture and the Pioneer brand. A gold and multiplatinum-awarded artist whose songs have amassed billions of streams on listening platforms, Janson has leveraged his success to support philanthropic causes that benefit rural America — especially as an advocate for mental health.

“Pioneer is a brand that I have recognized since I was a child. This is a great way to reach into a community that both Pioneer and I are passionate about,” Janson said. “I’ve been thanking farmers my whole life because I grew up around them and respect them. They are the heartbeat of America. I’m so proud to be part of this collaboration to support our rural communities.”

In addition to the hat collaboration, Pioneer and Janson will raise money for Rural Minds by auctioning a branded guitar autographed and played by Janson during his fall and winter tour. The auction will take place next spring.

All funds raised from the Hats Off to Farmers collaboration will benefit the Deep Roots Mental Wellness Program from Rural Minds, which will provide tools to help farmers develop mental resilience and recognize the signs of mental distress, with guidance on where to access resources for help when it is needed.

Rural Minds is the only national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on improving mental health outcomes of the 46 million people who live and work in rural America. Founded in 2021 by Jeff Winton, a dairy farmer from western New York, the organization’s vision is to remove the suffering, silence and stigma around mental illness in rural America.

“For the last 100 years, Pioneer has provided seed products that helped farmers prosper and evolve into the central source of the global food supply,” Winton said. “We are honored to partner with Pioneer, as it enters its second century of operation, to help young farmers and their families develop the mental resilience skills they will need to weather the volatility inherent in the business of farming and to maintain the quality of life that is such a special part of farm family life.

Support the Hats Off to Farmers collaboration by purchasing a special-edition hat at https://pioneerchrisjansonhats2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/. To learn more about how Rural Minds is helping farmers build mental resilience, visit ruralminds.org/DeepRoots. To find upcoming Janson tour dates near you, visit chrisjanson.com. Follow Pioneer, Chris Janson and Rural Minds on social channels for real-time updates and to learn more about the program.

Wednesday September 09 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Reports - NARD at HHD - NU System Update - USDA Seeks Comments on Beef Grades - 45Z Updates Favor Biofuels - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress: Corn, Soybean Maturity Trails Average

Nebraska corn continued moving toward maturity during the week ending Sept. 6, but development remained behind the normal pace. Winter wheat planting had yet to begin, also trailing both last year and the five-year average.

Topsoil moisture supplies rated 22% very short, 32% short, 43% adequate and 3% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 29% very short, 32% short, 38% adequate and 1% surplus. Producers had 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork.

Field Crops Report:

Corn
    Dough: 95% — ahead of 91% last year and equal to the five-year average.
    Dented: 74% — ahead of 68% last year but behind 78% for the five-year average.
    Mature: 14% — behind 22% last year and 25% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 5% very poor, 12% poor, 30% fair, 36% good, 17% excellent.

Soybean
    Dropping leaves: 19% — ahead of 13% last year but behind 26% for the five-year average.
    Condition: 2% very poor, 9% poor, 25% fair, 48% good, 16% excellent.

Winter Wheat
    Planted: 0% — behind 7% last year and 4% for the five-year average.

Sorghum
    Headed: 92% — equal to last year but behind 97% for the five-year average.
    Coloring: 50% — behind 58% last year and 72% for the five-year average.
    Mature: 10% — ahead of 2% last year and the five-year average.
    Condition: 2% very poor, 19% poor, 43% fair, 30% good, 6% excellent.

Oats
    Harvested: 98% — behind 100% last year and the five-year average.

Pasture and Range
    Condition: 37% very poor, 25% poor, 26% fair, 11% good, 1% excellent.

Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency, Nebraska Extension, and other reporters across the state. 



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Sept. 6, 2026. This is 0.4 days less than last year, when there were 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture condition rated 3 percent very short, 23 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 24 percent short, 68 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. 

Ninety-six percent of Iowa’s corn crop has reached the dough stage, which is unchanged from last year. Seventy-nine percent of corn reached the dent stage, which is 1 percentage point ahead of last year. Seventeen percent of corn has reached maturity, which is 7 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 77 percent good to excellent. 

Six percent of soybeans are dropping leaves, which is 4 percentage points behind last year. Soybean condition rated 75 percent good to excellent. 

Oat harvest has largely concluded, which is slightly ahead of last year. 

Pasture condition rated 64 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

The U.S. corn harvest kicked off slightly ahead of last year's pace and ahead of the five-year average, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released on Tuesday. The report, which is normally released on Mondays, was delayed this week due to the Labor Day holiday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 96%, 2 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 94%. Corn dented was estimated at 76%, 4 percentage points ahead of both last year and the five-year average of 72%. Corn mature was pegged at 25%, 1 percentage point ahead of last year's 24% and 2 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 23%.
-- Harvest progress: In its first corn harvest report of the season, NASS estimated that 5% of corn has been harvested nationally, 1 percentage point ahead of last year's 4% and 2 points ahead of the five-year average of 3%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 56% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition, 1 percentage point below the previous week and 12 percentage points below last year's 68%. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 26%, 6 percentage points ahead of last year's 20% and 6 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 20%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 58% of soybeans were in good-to-excellent condition, equal to the previous week and 6 percentage points below the previous year's 64%. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest reached 86% complete as of Sunday. That was 3 percentage points ahead of both last year's pace and the five-year average of 83%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: NASS reported early progress on winter planting at 2% nationally, 2 percentage points behind last year's 4% and 3 percentage points behind the five-year average of 5%.



Husker Harvest Days includes Free Trees and Water Testing

Questions about trees, soil health, water quality or cost-share programs? Stop in to visit Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts during Husker Harvest Days Sept. 15-17, 2026.

“This is a great opportunity for producers to meet with conservation agencies all in one place and learn more about cost-share programs that can benefit their operation and Nebraska’s natural resources,” said Ryan Reuter, president of the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD).

Located in the Natural Resources Hub (39E), Nebraska’s NRDs are stationed with various organizations that offer conservation assistance, cost-share opportunities and producer programs. Attendees can visit with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS); USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA); Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment; ONE RED; Rainwater Basin Joint Venture; Platte River Recovery Implementation Program; The Nature Conservancy; and Central Platte NRD’s Native Prairie and Pollination Awareness Program.

The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment staff will be on site to provide free water testing and screen for nitrates in minutes. Private well owners should bring a cup-size sample of water in a clean container.

In addition, the Natural Resources Districts will announce three individuals to be inducted into the NRD Hall of Fame during a press conference at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, on the Hospitality Tent Stage (SE Quadrant, #33). These Hall of Fame inductees have made significant contributions to protect our state’s natural resources through the NRDs. Hall of Fame categories include:
    Natural Resources District Board Member 
    Natural Resources District Employee 
    Natural Resources District Supporter

During the three-day event, Husker Harvest attendees also will receive a free blue spruce tree seedling from the NRD Conservation Tree Program. All 23 Nebraska NRDs administer tree planting programs to provide trees and shrubs for local landowners. Each district varies, but possible services include: planting, weed barrier installation or weed control, and drip irrigation. Free prairie grass seed will also be available as part of the Native Prairie and Pollinator Awareness Project.

For more information on the Conservation Tree Program and other conservation resources, visit www.nrdnet.org.



NU System sees growth in first-time freshmen

Enrollment among first-time freshmen is up across the University of Nebraska System for the 2026-27 academic year, according to data collected on the sixth day of classes across the NU System.  

According to the data, collected annually as part of the university's six-day census, enrollment of first-time freshman across the NU System was 7,987 as the fall 2026 semester began, from 7,824 in 2025 – an increase of 163 students. 

Across the system, enrollment was down from 49,638 in 2025 to 48,948 in 2026. Strong recent graduation rates, pathways for early graduation and a nationwide decrease in international students contributed to lower enrollment overall, as have decreasing birth rates, both in Nebraska and throughout much of the United States.    

Across the NU System, international student enrollment was at 2,569, down 11% since last year. Graduate enrollment was also down, to 8,979 from 9,509 in 2025, mirroring national trends of reductions in federal research funding. At the same time, total student credit hours were strong, with students across the NU System enrolled in 602,106 credit hours, indicating that students are taking more courses and accelerating their pathway to degree completion and graduation.

“Our overall enrollment reflects national trends and an important inflection point for Nebraska,” said NU President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “Students are taking advantage of programs that allow them to move through college faster, and more quickly entering the workforce. Across the NU System, more new students are choosing to pursue an undergraduate degree. These are positive developments that we should celebrate and encourage.”

The graduating class size continues to grow as well. Since 2018, the university has graduated approximately 11,000 students each year, peaking at 11,654 in 2021. 

The University of Nebraska Medical Center and the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis also saw an increase in enrollment, the latter by 11.3% to 237 students this fall, in part because of a popular online veterinary technology program launched in 2025.  

In recent years, the NU System has launched several programs intended to expand access to higher education and keep top Nebraska students in-state for college. Across the system, more than 7,500 Nebraska students are attending college through the Nebraska Promise, which waives tuition for students whose families make less than $65,000 annually. In addition, more than 80 students currently enrolled across the NU system are taking part in the Presidential Scholars Program, which provides a full-ride scholarship plus a $5,000 annual stipend to any student who graduates from a Nebraska high school and receives a perfect 36 on the ACT.

Finally, more than 250 first-year students are attending college as part of the NexGen Scholars program, which provides a full-ride scholarship to any resident student who graduates from a Nebraska high school and receives a 33-35 composite score on the ACT.

Details on the University of Nebraska System's fall 2026 enrollment are below. 
System-wide enrollment totals 
    University of Nebraska System total headcount: 48,948 (1.4% decrease)
    First-time freshmen: 7,987
    Undergraduate students: 36,265 (0.1% decrease)
    Graduate students: 8,979 (0.06% decrease)
    Professional students: 3,704 (1.1% increase)
    Resident students: 37,670 (0.8% decrease)
    Nonresident students: 11,278 (3.5% decrease)
    Full-time student enrollment: 40,013 (0.6% decrease)
    Student credit hours: 602,106 (0.7% decrease)

Campus enrollment totals
    University of Nebraska (UNL and UNMC as jointly accredited campuses): 28,424 (1.2% decrease)
        University of Nebraska-Lincoln: 23,577 (1.6% decrease)
        University of Nebraska Medical Center: 4,847 (0.6% increase)
    University of Nebraska at Kearney: 5,477 (3.9% decrease)
    University of Nebraska at Omaha: 14,810 (1% decrease)
    Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture: 237 (11.3% increase)

“As Nebraska’s only public university system, serving the people and communities of our state is central to our mission,” said Dr. Gold. “While I’m encouraged by our graduation rates and increasing numbers of first-time freshman, we must continue our work to grow new programs that will support Nebraska’s workforce needs.” 



IFBF names Naig, Hinson as a 'Friend of Agriculture'

The Iowa Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (PAC) has designated Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and U.S. Senate candidate Ashley Hinson as a "Friend of Agriculture" for the 2026 general election on Nov. 3.

Guided by grassroots input from all 100 county Farm Bureaus in the state, Naig and Hinson were selected based on support of Farm Bureau policies and commitment to Iowa’s farm families and agricultural economy. Candidates earn the Friend of Agriculture designation by supporting issues that directly impact Iowa’s agricultural economy, farm families and their communities. 

Naig and Hinson have a proven track record of leading the way on issues that matter to Farm Bureau members. They each understand and have demonstrated that agriculture, including livestock, crops and niche markets, are key to growing a more prosperous Iowa.
“Our PAC takes great care evaluating candidates based on voting records, past support and grassroots input from every county Farm Bureau in the state,” said Tim Diamond, Iowa Farm Bureau PAC chair and Grundy County farmer.  “Our process is grounded in support for Farm Bureau policies, and we are proud to stand behind candidates who have earned our endorsement and will continue to be champions for agriculture and Iowa’s hard-working farm families.”

For information on how to cast your ballot in this year’s general election, go online to IowaFarmBureau.com/FarmersVote.



USDA Requests Comments on Beef Grade Standards 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is seeking input from the public and industry stakeholders on how the U.S. beef grade standards could be updated to better serve the needs of beef producers, packers, wholesalers, volume food buyers, retailers, and consumers. AMS was asked by the American Wagyu Association to review the grade standards and explore potential revisions.

On July 8, 2026, AMS published a Request for Information (RFI) in the Federal Register seeking comments on the beef grade standards with a 60-day comment period that ends on September 8, 2026.  AMS received an industry request to extend the comment period by an additional 90 days. AMS is honoring this request, so comments can now be submitted through December 7, 2026. The Beef Standards Notice Comment Extension is available here: Federal Register - United States Standards for Grades of Carcass Beef (Extension of Comment Period)

AMS develops and maintains official USDA beef grade standards for beef carcasses, which measure factors such as meat yield, fat covering, ribeye area, degrees of marbling and carcass defects such as dark cutting beef. The standards are applied to determine the quality of the product, and are not a reflection of wholesomeness, which is determined by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) prior to the grading process.

For more information, contact Chad Nelson at chad.nelson2@usda.gov or at 402-281-4704.



Ambassador Greer Issues Statement on President Trump’s Response to Canada’s Continued Retaliation Against the United States

Tuesday, Ambassador Jamieson Greer issued a statement after President Trump exercised his authority under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to ban certain Canadian products from entering the U.S. market and modify the scope of the July 20 actions to effectively offset the burden or disadvantage to U.S. commerce by Canada’s discriminatory measures.

“After weeks of good faith and intensive efforts between U.S. and Canadian negotiators, Canada walked away from a near-final trade deal that offered better treatment than any other trading partner, and instead Canada chose to embark on senseless retaliation against the United States,” said Ambassador Greer. “Today’s action, combining targeted import bans as authorized by Section 338 and a calibration of the underlying Section 338 tariffs, is a natural consequence of Canada’s continued discriminatory treatment of crucial American exports, ranging from alcoholic beverages to dairy products to motor vehicles. President Trump will continue to leverage the tools at his disposal to defend the interests of American workers and exporters, and restore reciprocity in our bilateral trade relationships.”

Additionally, the President has directed USTR (Office of the United States Trade Representative) and GSA (General Services Administration) to remove $50 billion dollars’ worth of Canadian-origin products from GSA’s Multiple Award Schedules.



Growth Energy Applauds IRS Guidance and DOE GREET Model Update to Maximize Value of 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit

Growth Energy, the nation's largest biofuel trade association, commended the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for the guidance it released today in conjunction with the related 45Z CF GREET Model update that clears a path for farmers and biofuel producers to further enhance the value of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit. 

Specifically, the guidance stipulates that qualifying low-carbon agricultural practices consistent with the technical guidelines released earlier this year by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can be used in the calculation of the 45Z credit. The guidance also provides transition rules for applying changes made to 45Z by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), including a requirement that emissions rates exclude emissions attributable to flawed, outdated, and inaccurate indirect land use change (ILUC) calculations. 

"Farmers and biofuel producers asked and the Trump administration has delivered," said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. "The 45Z tax credit is already driving significant investments in rural communities across the U.S., but this guidance is the key to ensuring farmers reap the benefits of the credit. 

“We thank USDA, DOE, and the Treasury Department for decisively tying qualifying farm practices to 45Z and providing important clarification on ILUC. We can’t wait to see how this new guidance accelerates the credit’s impact across rural America,” she added. 



New Study: Ethanol Holding Down Gasoline Prices During Iran Conflict

Blending ethanol into the nation’s fuel supply has helped to substantially lower gasoline prices during the ongoing Iran conflict, a new study for the Renewable Fuels Association shows. Prepared by George Hoekstra, a 35-year veteran of the petroleum refining industry, the study concludes that the average E10 cost-savings advantage has been 38 cents per gallon since the Iran conflict began.

“It’s common knowledge that blending ethanol saves drivers money—consumers see evidence of that every time they pull up to the pump. But this new study carefully quantifies the economic benefits of using ethanol during a period of high crude prices and geopolitical instability,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “As global petroleum stocks continue to tighten, American-made ethanol is extending domestic fuel supplies by more than 1 million barrels per day and significantly lowering prices at the pump for consumers. This report should serve as a compelling reminder to policymakers that the fastest way to lower fuel prices is to blend more—not less—ethanol into our gasoline. The findings underscore the urgent need for Congress to pass legislation allowing nationwide, year-round E15 as quickly as possible.”

The Hoekstra report shows that E15’s economic benefit during the Iran conflict has been even greater, offering a lower cost of 57 cents per gallon. The study looks at three economically distinct sources of ethanol value: The value of replacing gasoline volume with lower-cost ethanol, the octane value of ethanol, and the value of Renewable Fuel Standard compliance credits called RINs. However, even when one leaves out the impact of RFS blending obligations and RINs, E10 still offered a 17.5 cents per gallon cost advantage compared to regular gasoline, showing that ethanol has substantial economic value even before counting the RIN credit value. Hoekstra also estimates that for the full year through early August, the non-RIN portion equated to overall savings of $18.7 billion.

Tuesday September 08 Ag News - Feeding High Oleic Soybean to Beef, Dairy - Nebraska Extension at HHD - CVA Lauches 'Land We Love' - ISU Announces Topel Meat Science Chair - Remembering Ray Gaesser - Mixed Meat Export for July - and more!

Feeding Fats, Soy Products, and High Oleic Soybeans to Beef and Dairy Cattle
 
Nielsen Community Center
200 Anna Stalp Ave
West Point, NE 68788

Contact us at: 
Kortney Harpestad at 507-525-3584 or kharpestad2@unl.edu
Paul Kononoff at 402-304-9287 or pkononoff2@unl.edu

9:30 AM - Registration  -  Program runs from 10am to 3pm

Topics
General Introduction to High Oleic Soybeans
   - Paul Kononoff, PhD. Professor of Dairy Nutrition and Extension Dairy Specialist University of Nebraska - Lincoln
   - Kortney Harpestad Animal Science Extension Program Associate University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Agronomic Considerations
   - Chris Zwiener, Pioneer
Identity Preservation, Handling, and Commercial Processing
   -  Michael Knobbe, Operations Manager Grain States Soya Inc - Soy Best
On Farm Roasting and Processing
   - Walter Aschoff, 4 Aces Dairy
Feeding High Oleic Soybeans to Dairy Cows
   - Paul Kononoff, PhD. Professor of Dairy Nutrition and Extension Dairy Specialist University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Oil Supplementation for Beef Cattle
   - Jim MacDonald, PhD. Professor of Animal Science University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Feeding Whole Beans to Beef Cattle
   - Warren Rusche, PhD. Assistant Professor and Extension Feedlot Management Specialist South Dakota State University
Impact of Roasting Soybeans When Fed to Beef Cattle
   - Galen Erickson, Ph.D. Nebraska Cattle Industry Professor of Animal Science & UNL Beef Feedlot Extension Specialist   

Register and get more information at go.unl.edu/soyforcattle.  



Explore Nebraska Research, Resources and New Demonstrations at Husker Harvest Days

Stop by the “Big Red Building” to explore how the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR), and Nebraska Extension can help you be Rooted. Ready. Resilient. at the 2026 Husker Harvest Days farm show, located at Lot 827.

From Tuesday, Sept. 15 to Thursday, Sept. 17, Nebraska Extension educators, specialists and other faculty across the state will be ready to answer your questions and share their field-proven, data-driven expertise.

Discover more about:
    Rural Prosperity: Support for community leaders and entrepreneurs to promote economic development and vibrant local food systems. ruralprosperityne.unl.edu
    Water Management: Innovative techniques for conserving water resources, including irrigation management and drinking water protection. water.unl.edu
    Agricultural Profitability: Resources from the Center for Agricultural Profitability for building confidence in management decisions. cap.unl.edu
    Horticulture and Landscapes: Creating landscapes that thrive through resource-efficient plants. hles.unl.edu
    Farmer-Led Research: Insights from the Nebraska On-Farm Research Network into new digital tools that improve production and profitability. on-farm-research.unl.edu
    Disaster Preparedness and Recovery: Resources to help you prepare for the unexpected. disaster.unl.edu
    Pest Management: Early detection reduces losses. cropwatch.unl.edu
    Health and Wellness: Practical strategies for maintaining physical and mental well-being amid the demands of farm life. ruralwellness.unl.edu
    Livestock Forage: Sustainable grasslands and forages for livestock. beef.unl.edu
    Soil Health: Regenerative practices for healthy soils, crops and communities. cropwatch.unl.edu/soil-health-program
    Leadership Development: Developing strong agricultural leaders through the Nebraska LEAD Program. lead.unl.edu
    Youth Education and Career Preparation: Join Nebraska 4-H, Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) and UNL’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CASNR) to help youth explore career paths and develop employability skills. 4h.unl.edu, ncta.unl.edu, casnr.unl.edu

New this year! Stop at the UNL demonstration area located along Flag Road as you enter the grounds from the east. Here you will see some of the latest precision agriculture tools for nitrogen management in action, including UNL’s Nitrogen Tool and Sentinel Ag, along with yield results. Also check out live insect traps, irrigation scheduling, drones for crop monitoring and ScoutNebraska livestreaming. Meet some of the agriculture startup companies being supported by SPUR Ventures, UNL’s agtech innovation lab.

Crop Skills Challenge 
Located at Lot #928 just south of the Big Red Building, the Crops Skill Challenge is an interactive event that challenges participants on both physical farm skills and their crop production knowledge. This year, participants can compete in a virtual Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) competition and test their insect feeding and herbicide injury identification skills. Participants will also have the chance to try their hand at a spray table demo and a 3D goggle sprayer experience. 

This event is hosted by UNL TAPS and extension’s water and cropping systems team.

Also make sure to stop across from the Big Red Building to get your UNL Dairy Store Ice Cream and see the UNL Quarter-Scale Pulling Tractor.



Central Valley Ag launches ‘Land We Love’ campaign

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is proud to announce the launch of “The Land We Love,” a new campaign celebrating the people, families, communities and land at the heart of agriculture. The campaign officially launches Sept. 7 and reflects the hope, resilience and commitment that continue to move agriculture forward.

Every year, farmers invest in what comes next. Seeds are planted with the belief there will be a crop to harvest. Livestock are raised to help sustain communities around the world. Decisions made today help shape the next growing season and, for many operations, the next generation. That belief in the future is at the heart of agriculture and the message behind “The Land We Love”.

The campaign recognizes that agriculture continues to face challenges, while keeping the focus on the strength, purpose and hope that have carried producers through generations. As a farmer-owned cooperative, CVA remains committed to standing alongside producers with trusted guidance, dependable service and opportunities to keep moving forward.

“The Land We Love campaign reflects why agriculture continues to move forward,” said Owen Baker, Senior Vice President of Marketing at CVA. “There is a tremendous amount of faith behind planting another crop and continuing to invest in the future. This campaign is about recognizing the families and producers behind that work while reinforcing that Central Valley Ag is here to support them.”

Through “The Land We Love,” CVA will share the campaign message across its service territory through video, digital, print and radio communications. The campaign will also be featured through CVA’s athletic partnerships. As the official cooperative of Husker Nation and K-State Athletics, as well as a proud sponsor of Iowa State Athletics, CVA will use these partnerships to celebrate the strong bond between agriculture, families and communities across the region.

For our families. For our future. For The Land We Love.

Experience the story behind the “Land We Love” and the people, purpose, and hope that continues to move agriculture forward. Watch the campaign video and learn more at www.cvacoop.com/we-are-cva.



Save-the-date for organic farming conference on November 4

Are you interested in learning more about organic farming, are in the transition process or are already a certified organic producer? We invite you to join us for our fourth annual “Transition to Organic Farming” conference on November 4, 2026, at the Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center.

This event brings together producers, industry, and researchers from Nebraska and across the region. Registration is now open and is free due to funding from our sponsors, the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) and Nebraska Extension.

When: November 4, 2026, from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Where: Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center, 1071 County Road G, Ithaca
Click here to register: https://enreec.unl.edu/2026OrganicConference/

Interested in being an exhibitor? Please contact Katja Koehler-Cole at kkoehlercole2@unl.edu.

More details on the agenda to follow soon!



Iowa State names Lonergan inaugural Topel Endowed Chair in Meat Science

The Iowa State University Foundation has established the David G. Topel and Jay-lin Jane-Topel Endowed Chair in Meat Science through a gift from Dr. Jay-lin Jane-Topel and the late Dr. David G. Topel. The endowed chair will strengthen research and education in meat science within the Department of Animal Science in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Steven Lonergan, a Morrill Professor of animal science, was named the inaugural holder of the endowed chair during the Topel Medallion Ceremony on Monday, Aug. 31, on the Iowa State campus.

For more than two decades, Lonergan has studied the biological processes that influence fresh-meat quality, conducting research at the molecular level to better understand what happens to muscle as it becomes meat. His work contributes to Iowa State’s longstanding leadership in meat science research while preparing the next generation of students to advance the field.

Lonergan earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science from Iowa State in 1988 and his master’s degree in meat science in 1991. He joined the Department of Animal Science faculty in 1998, where he has built a career around research, teaching and mentoring students.

“It is a tremendous honor to be named the first David G. Topel and Jay-lin Jane-Topel Endowed Chair in Meat Science,” said Lonergan. “Dr. Topel was an important mentor in my career, and I have long admired how he brought physiology and biochemistry together to solve practical problems in meat science. I look forward to carrying that spirit forward by strengthening teaching, outreach and research in meat science. I am grateful to Dave and Jay-lin for their support of our program.”

As a named faculty position, the Topel Endowed Chair provides additional support for Lonergan’s research and recognizes the importance of faculty scholarship to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

“Dr. Lonergan’s pioneering research, outstanding teaching and commitment to mentoring students have strengthened Iowa State’s reputation as a global leader in meat science. It is especially fitting that he be named the inaugural holder of the Topel Endowed Chair, given the interactions he had with Dr. Topel as an Iowa State student,” said Ruth MacDonald, interim dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “We are so grateful to the Topels for their generosity in establishing this endowment that will continue to benefit our faculty, students and industry partners for years to come.”

The chair is also a reflection of the Topels’ deep ties to Iowa State and their own contributions to agriculture and life sciences.

Jay-lin Jane-Topel earned her doctorate in biochemistry from Iowa State, where she focused her studies on carbohydrates. In 1987, she joined the university as an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition. She was named a Charles F. Curtiss Distinguished Professor in Agriculture and Life Sciences before retiring from Iowa State.

David Topel also joined the Iowa State faculty, where he gained international recognition for his research on the etiology of porcine stress syndrome. In 1988, he was appointed dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and director of the Iowa Agriculture Experiment Station.

Together, the Topels have continued to invest in Iowa State, including through gifts to University Museums. The new endowed chair extends that legacy to the Department of Animal Science, creating lasting support for faculty research, student learning and the future of meat science.

“I’m very pleased that the world-leading meat scientist Steven Lonergan is now leading meat science research at Iowa State University,” said Jane-Topel. “Under his leadership, I’m confident the program will become even stronger and further solidify its position among the best in the world, which we and future generations will be proud of.”




SfL Mourns the Passing of Ray Gaesser

Solutions from the Land (SfL) mourns the passing of longtime board member Ray Gaesser, who passed away Friday following an accident on his farm in Corning, Iowa. Ray helped co-found SfL in 2010 and for over two decades, he provided invaluable leadership in improving the sustainability of Iowa, the U.S., and global agriculture. 

A lifelong conservationist, Ray was a pioneer and advocate for no-till and cover crop practices that he used on the land he farmed. Ray was an active member of SfL’s clean energy and climate change teams where he was a tireless champion for scaling all forms of renewable energy- bio, wind, solar, and hydro energy delivered by well managed agricultural farms, ranches, and forests. He also was an advocate for scaling on-farm circular bioeconomy systems and practices to improve food and nutrition security and concurrently deliver ecosystem services such as filtering and storing water, sequestering carbon and improving the environment and biodiversity. 

Never one to shy away from difficult subjects like climate change and water quality, Ray urged stakeholders to come together and co-create solutions to challenges of the day. One of Ray’s best-known statements was “When we work together, we all benefit,” which he so effectively communicated in his last podcast Adapting to climate change and caring for the land podcast. Like always, he spoke from his heart and eloquently communicated his personal vision for agriculture and the need for farmers to take responsibility to care for the land. 

We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our beloved board member Ray and extend our condolences to his wife Elaine and their family on his passing.



Beef Export Value Remained Strong in July; Pork Exports Below Year-Ago

July exports of U.S. beef climbed 6% year-over-year in value while volume was steady, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Although restrictions related to a finding of pseudorabies virus (PRV) were removed in mid-to-late July, pork exports – especially pork variety meats – were still significantly impacted, which contributed to July results trending lower than a year ago.

Taiwan, Mexico and Japan fuel increase in July beef export value
Beef exports totaled 89,139 metric tons (mt), steady with last July, while value was 6% higher at $796.7 million. The value increase was driven primarily by another outstanding month for Taiwan, as well as strong results in Mexico, Japan, the Middle East, Colombia, the Caribbean and the ASEAN region. July shipments to China rebounded slightly from last year’s minimal volumes, but remained far below the levels seen in previous years. Beef export value equated to just over $421 per head of fed slaughter in July, up 14% from a year ago. The January-July average was up 7% to $430.25 per head.

For January through July, beef exports were 8% below last year’s pace at 634,788 mt, while value was down 2% to $5.53 billion. When excluding China from these results, exports increased 6% in value and were down just 1% in volume from a year ago.

“Despite significant headwinds, global demand for U.S. beef remains impressively resilient,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Technical barriers and uncertainty continue to weigh heavily on exports to China, but we are hopeful that market access will be restored soon. In the meantime, U.S. beef is capitalizing on growth opportunities in Asian and Western Hemisphere markets, as well as in the Middle East.”

Pork exports trended lower in July, but remain higher year-to-date
July pork exports totaled 224,305 mt, down 6% from a year ago, while value also fell 6% to $641.8 million. Shipments increased to Japan, Central America, Colombia and Canada in July, but these results were offset by lower exports to Mexico, China, South Korea, Oceania and the ASEAN region. Pork export value equated to $62.53 per head slaughtered in July, down from a year ago but $3 higher than in June. For January through July, export value equated to just over $66 per head, up slightly from a year ago.

Through the first seven months of the year, pork exports remained 2% above last year’s pace at 1.73 million mt, valued at $4.86 billion (up 1%).

“Putting the PRV-related restrictions on pork variety meats behind us was absolutely critical for the U.S. industry, and we appreciate USDA’s efforts in getting that situation fully resolved,” Halstrom said. “Exports to Mexico rebounded in July, but were still below year-ago as it took time to resume production and shipments after the restrictions were lifted mid-month. China also heightened inspections of U.S. pork variety meats and this led to delays clearing shipments, but this obstacle was also recently lifted.”

July lamb exports below last year; year-to-date value still higher
Exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 206 mt in July, down 14% from a year ago, while value fell 6% to $1.26 million. For January through July, lamb export value increased 4% to just over $10 million, despite a 7% decline in volume (1,698 mt). The value increase was primarily driven by the Bahamas ($2.14 million, up 48%), Netherlands Antilles ($1.45 million, up 40%) and Leeward-Windward Islands ($1.04 million, up 42%). 



EPA and Army Seek Additional Input on Proposed Waters of the U.S. Definition While Advancing Toward Durable Final Rule

Friday, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of the Army announced a Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to gather public input on additional regulatory language for defining “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) to be considered alongside the 2025 proposed rule. This action reflects the agencies’ commitment to radical transparency and to developing a durable, final WOTUS definition that adheres to the Supreme Court’s direction in Sackett v. EPA, cuts bureaucratic red tape, and protects water quality while recognizing that states and Tribes are best positioned to manage their own water resources.

The supplemental proposed rule will help EPA and Army evaluate a wider range of options as they work toward a final rule that fully implements the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision in Sackett. Once finalized, the rule will provide greater predictability for landowners, farmers, ranchers, energy producers, the technology sector, developers, and small businesses while protecting water quality in coordination with states and Tribes. While WOTUS determines where federal permits are required for certain activities, waters that fall outside federal jurisdiction remain subject to regulation under state, Tribal, and local law, consistent with the framework of cooperative federalism that underlies the Clean Water Act.

"The EPA's goal is a durable WOTUS definition that follows the law and ends burdensome regulatory uncertainty," said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. "Today's action reflects our continued commitment to transparency and public input, ensuring we have fully considered a wide range of potential policy options. We look forward to public feedback on this supplemental notice, which will help strengthen the real-world expertise behind the final rule."

"Under President Trump’s leadership and the Army’s 'Building Infrastructure, Not Paperwork’ initiative, we are overhauling sclerotic government overreach to remove friction from our economy," said Adam Telle, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. "The Supreme Court’s Sackett decision delivered the certainty our nation has been seeking for decades, and today we are taking one more step to ensure our regulations adhere to that decision. We have worked alongside EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to ensure we develop a rule that faithfully adheres to Sackett and provides an even more straightforward articulation of federal jurisdiction under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. All Americans, including landowners, farmers, sportsmen, conservationists, and businesses, deserve the opportunity to further shape this rule, which will enable them to carry out their version of the American Dream free from improper bureaucratic interference. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stands ready to implement this rule once final, using technology like never before, to give Americans answers from their government at Trump Speed."

Public engagement has been central to this rulemaking process. Prior to issuing the 2025 proposed rule, the agencies opened a public recommendations docket, hosted listening sessions, and conducted pre-proposal consultations with Tribes, states, and local governments and their member associations. EPA and Army also gathered input on the proposed rule through three public meetings and a 45-day public comment period that closed on January 5 and generated over 220,000 comments from a wide range of stakeholders. 

This supplemental proposal offers an additional opportunity for public engagement on a limited number of new regulatory alternatives, to be considered alongside those in the 2025 proposed rule. The agencies will closely consider stakeholder perspectives without  foreclosing any options from the initial proposal or predetermining the outcome of the final rule.  

Once the supplemental proposal is published in the Federal Register, the agencies will accept public comments for 30 days.



New WOTUS Rule Provides Certainty for Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (Army Corps) proposed Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.

“Farmers share the goal of protecting the nation’s natural resources and we’re pleased the EPA and Army Corps put forward a new Waters of the U.S. rule. It respects farmers’ ability to responsibly use their land while ensuring regulations align with the framework established by the Supreme Court’s Sackett ruling.

“The new WOTUS rule provides a clear understanding of federal jurisdiction, which is critical for farmers who may face severe penalties or even jail time for unknowingly violating the law. While we’re still reviewing the details of the final rule, we’re hopeful that it will prove durable and bring an end to the regulatory back and forth farmers have endured during the past decade. America’s families deserve clean water and clear rules, as do the farmers who work to grow the food those families rely on.”



Trump Signs Executive Orders, Cementing Status As Most Pro-Rancher Administration in History

Friday, President Donald J. Trump signed two Executive Orders supporting America’s ranchers and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins made additional announcements protecting our nation’s cattle herd and providing transparency for consumers. American ranchers embody the ethos of our nation’s founding 250 years ago and should be provided with the tools to rebuild our Great American Cattle Herd.

In addition to the two Executive Orders, USDA also announced four additional actions it is taking to follow-up on the USDA Plan to Fortify the American Beef Industry (2025 USDA Beef Plan) released last year, and the Ranchers First Initiative released earlier this week.

USDA also launched a new webpage, highlighting the Trump Administration's undisputed status as the most pro-rancher administration in history. This is in stark contrast to the war on ranchers waged by the previous administration.

Today’s actions are timely, as the U.S. maintains the smallest herd since the 1950s, and will continue to build on the turnaround we are seeing in the number of heifers being retained. These announcements add to a historic number of actions the Trump Administration has taken to support our nation’s ranchers.

“While the Biden administration chose to villainize ranching and the rural way of life under the guise of radical environmental mandates, the Trump Administration continues to focus on rebuilding the Great American Cattle Herd,” said Secretary Rollins. “For the past 19 months, USDA has worked tirelessly to defend and promote our nation’s ranchers. Through our Beef Plan and the Ranchers First Initiative we are working to continue increasing our nation’s heifer retention rate. Today, the President laid out tools to better equip farmers and ranchers to deal with dangerous predators threatening their livestock, provide more transparency for consumers on where their meat originates, and expand market opportunities while maintaining our world class food safety standards. President Trump is focused on delivering an America First agenda and will do that by continuing to put our Ranchers First.”

Today’s Executive Orders:

SUPPORTING AMERICA’S RANCHERS
Combat Predation: American ranchers should be able to protect the cattle they raise.
    The Executive Order directs the Secretary of the Interior to determine whether gray wolves or Mexican wolves meet the criteria for delisting or downlisting under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and begin the process of delisting or downlisting them.
    The Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture are also directed to update their standards for compensating ranchers for losses due to predators, and to ease authorization for lethal removal when necessary.

Country of Origin Labeling: American consumers deserve clear, honest labels — and country of origin labeling delivers that transparency.
    Building on the voluntary Product of USA label, the Executive Order directs the Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the United States Trade Representative, to review its authorities related to mandatory country of origin labeling for beef products through new regulations and legislative recommendations.

PROMOTING FAIR COMPETITION IN LIVESTOCK MARKETS AND EXPANDING MARKET ACCESS FOR AMERICAN MEAT PRODUCERS
Strengthening Packer Competition: American ranchers deserve fair, competitive markets that reward their hard work, not a marketplace dominated by a handful of concentrated packers.
    The Executive Order directs USDA to prioritize investigations into potential violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act and increase enforcement resources and staffing.
    The Executive Order also directs USDA to continue close coordination with the Department of Justice and report to the President on current enforcement actions, resource needs, and a plan to strengthen enforcement over the next year.

Expanding Processing and Market Access: Small and regional processors are critical to expanding competition and giving ranchers more options to get their cattle to market without compromising food safety.
    The Executive Order directs USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service to expand the Cooperative Interstate Shipment and Talmadge-Aiken programs so more state-inspected meat can cross state lines.
    The Executive Order further directs USDA to build a "one-stop shop" and dedicated technical assistance program for small and very small processors and modernize meat inspection regulations to cut unnecessary red tape.

Additional Ranchers First Initiative Announcements:
    Increasing Grazing Lands Enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP): USDA will enroll nearly 1 million new acres in Grasslands CRP, providing ranchers with rental payments and cost share assistance to maintain rangeland and pastureland as grazing areas.
    Growing AMS Remote Grading Program: USDA will work to nearly double the number of producers and plants in the AMS Remote Grading Program. This program matches simple technology (e.g., smartphones and a customized, easy to use app), with a data management and oversight program to enable USDA to assign grades to beef carcasses from an offsite location. Through this program, AMS is adopting emerging technology to modernize USDA beef grading services and improve efficiency, consistency, and accuracy for a more competitive and transparent marketplace.
    Expanding AMS Instrument-Enhanced Grading Program: USDA will increase adoption of the Instrument-Enhanced Grading (IEG) Program, now used on approximately 20% of fed cattle (20,000 head/day) slaughtered in the U.S. Under IEG, facilities can reduce grader staffing, sometimes by as much as half, resulting in significant cost savings.
    Leveraging USDA Lawfare Apparatus: USDA will refocus its robust strike force team dedicated to combatting instances of agricultural lawfare on the federal, state, and local levels, to address and counter abusive legal actions that threaten ranching operations, particularly cases involving unfair or excessive eminent domain claims.

Previous Ranchers First Initiative Announcements:
    Rebuild the Great American Beef Herd: Developing new tools to support heifer retention, including the creation of the Beef Retention and National Development (BRAND) endorsement for Livestock Risk Protection.
    Risk Management Tools: Speeding up recovery after wildfires and other natural disasters by allowing producers to use the Emergency Conservation Program on acres enrolled in the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program.
    SPUR 2.0 Guaranteed Loan Program: Creating a Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers (SPUR) Guaranteed Loan Program to support regional processing, including establishing processor co-ops, expanding small business footprints, and increasing the variety of animal proteins being processed.
    Buying American Beef: Prioritizing local American beef in federal spending in state and federal facilities by working with other departments including the U.S. Department of War, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
    Focusing on the Future of American Ranching: Establishing a new initiative focused on supporting beginning and veteran farmers and ranchers.

2025 USDA Beef Plan:
    Grazing Access: Signed a USDA/DOI grazing MOU to improve coordination, expand producer access, streamline management, and prevent loss of Animal Unit Months (AUM).
    Vacant Allotments: Announced that the Forest Service is working to clarify and streamline regulatory authorities to get more animals on the landscape.
    Eliminating Delays - Streamlining Permitting and Authorizations: Announced changes to streamline permitting and better align U.S. Forest Service processes with BLM, making it easier to get more animals on the landscape.
    Elevating Rural Americans - Giving Ranchers a Voice: Prioritized gathering feedback directly from ranchers through numerous listening sessions, roundtables and meetings.
    Maximizing Flexibilities/Keeping Working Lands Working: Provided $700 million for a Regenerative Pilot Program, which seeks to enhance long-term agricultural sustainability, including rotational grazing and integrating livestock.
    Predator Management and ESA Reform: Implemented improvements to APHIS Wildlife Services predator management operations.
    Quicker Drought Grazing Loss Assistance: Lowered the threshold for producers to qualify for Livestock Forage Program payments, providing quicker access to disaster relief.
    Enhanced Payment Rate for Predation Losses: Increased payment rate for livestock losses due to predation from animals listed as endangered or protected increased to 100% of market value 
    Unborn Livestock Protection: Increased payment rates for unborn livestock death losses to 85% of the lowest non-adult weight class, as applicable, of the same livestock breed.
    Broader Risk Management Access: Extended the “Beginning Farmer” definition from 5 to 10 years and increased premium subsidies—supporting more affordable insurance for ranchers.
    Product of USA Label: Launched a public awareness campaign to inform producers and consumers about what this new label means for the food supply.
    Promote Fair and Transparent Markets: Launched the National Feeder and Stocker Cattle Dashboard and publishes over 300 weekly reports through Livestock Mandatory Reporting.
    Expanding Remote Grading: Expanded AMS Remote Grading Pilot Program to include for improved access to official grading.
    Reducing Fees for Small Processors: Provided $20 million in funding for overtime and holiday inspection fee reduction for small and very small processors. 
    Enhancing Local Processing: Provided $60 million in funding for a fourth round of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP).
    Enhancing Access to Data: Launched the AI Feeder Cattle project using new technologies to automate the live animal evaluation process and improve market consistency.
    Beef for Students: Issued a memo directly encouraging Child Nutrition Program operators to source and incorporate local beef. 
    Updated Science-Based Dietary Guidelines: Released the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans that include protein as a foundation for every meal.
    Increasing Veteran Owned and Operated Ranches: Published a Notice of Funding Opportunity for AgVets that prioritizes projects expanding outreach and training to help veterans enter ranching.
    WOTUS: Issued an EPA proposed rule to establish a clear, durable, common-sense definition of “Waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act.

Additional Actions By the Trump Administration To Help Ranchers:
    Robust New World Screwworm Response: Coordinated strong, whole-of-government approach to combat New World Screwworm and protect the U.S. cattle supply.
    20 New Trade Deals and Frameworks: Expanded global market options for American farmers and ranchers through new trade deals and frameworks with Jordan, China, Ecuador, United Kingdom, Indonesia, North Macedonia, Taiwan, El Salvador, Guatemala, Switzerland, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, South Korea, European Union, Nigeria, and Australia.
    Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers Program (SPUR): Provided $500 million to help small and mid‑sized beef processors, protecting regional processing capacity.
    Lower the Cost of Fertilizer: Provided $500 million to onshore fertilizer production and lower costs with the Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long Term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program.
    Increasing Transparency in Packers and Stockyards Enforcement Actions: Launched GovDelivery sign‑ups for Packers & Stockyards enforcement actions to boost public awareness and accountability.
    Beef Grading Standards Updates: Asked for public input on updating the U.S. beef carcass grading standards to better meet the needs of producers and consumers.
    Expanding Access to Locally Raised Beef for American Students: Launched the Harvest to Hallways initiative August 2026.
    Equipment for Schools: Invested $7.5 million in cold‑chain equipment for food banks to deliver more meat and whole foods to families in need.
    Veterinarian Loan Repayment: Supported loan repayment for rural veterinarians by increasing funding for the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program by $7.5 million and streamlining the application process via an online portal.
    Supporting Rural Veterinary Clinics: Increased funding for the Veterinary Services Grant Program by $7.5M and streamlined the application and reporting processes to support rural veterinary practices.
    Expanding USDA Veterinary Scholarships: Increased support for veterinary students by doubling the number of scholarships available and increasing the scholarship amount to $40,000 per year for the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Scholarship Program. Similarly, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service increased the maximum scholarship amount to $50,000 per year for the Chester A. Gipson Internship Program and to $20,000 per year for undergraduates and to $40,000 per year for graduate students for the Saul T. Wilson, Jr. Internship Program.



NFU Statement on Executive Orders on Beef, Livestock Markets

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew released the following statement Friday after President Trump signed two executive orders to support American ranchers:

"The president is right: corporate consolidation in meat processing is a crisis for family farmers and ranchers. The U.S. Department of Agriculture must fully enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act. Many administrations have prioritized antitrust efforts, but farmers and ranchers are looking for results. We urge USDA and the Department of Justice to direct the personnel and resources needed to hold meatpackers accountable.

"A competitive livestock market also needs diversified processing options. Efforts to provide greater processing flexibility could help family farmers and ranchers, but not at the expense of food safety.

"With broad support from family ranchers, American consumers, the Senate Agriculture Committee and now the president of the United States, now is the time for Congress to finish the job and reinstate mandatory country-of-origin labeling.”