Thursday September 04 Ag News

 NeFU Brings Ten Participants to the National Farmers Union Fly-In

Ten Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU) members are headed to Washington, D.C. September 7-10 to participate in the 2025 National Farmers Union (NFU) Fall Fly-In.  The NeFU group has meetings scheduled with the Nebraska Congressional Delegation as well as Representatives from other states and various regulatory agencies. The annual Fly-In usually brings 275-300 family farmers and ranchers to the halls of Congress.  

NeFU President John Hansen of Lincoln will head up the Nebraska delegation. “Hansen said “We are going on this Fly-In with a sense of urgency as we ask Congress to pass an updated and improved Farm Bill ahead of the September 30th deadline. The financial squeeze is on in ag country. Our producers need the rest of the income safety net tools that did not get funded as part of the budget reconciliation process, especially our younger and beginning farmers that the 2022 Census of Agriculture says makes up a fourth of our producers. Nebraska is depending on those younger next generation producers to be the future of agriculture. Congress needs to step up and finish the Farm Bill rather than kick the can down the road a fourth time.”

Attending this year are Farmers Union Midwest Agency (FUMA) General Manager Jeff Downing of Ashland, FUMA agent Tye Johnson of Holdrege and his wife Becky, NeFU District 6 Director Andrew Tonnies of North Bend; Bill Armbrust of Elkhorn, NeFU District 7 President Keith Dittrich of Tilden, Stephanie Finklea of Omaha, Scott Thomsen of Kennard, and NeFU District 2 President Tom Knopik of Fullerton.  For five of the ten participants, this will be their first trip to our Washington, D.C. 

The Fly-In participants will hear from NFU and USDA officials Monday morning at USDA’s Jefferson auditorium. Monday afternoon, they will move to the Kennedy Caucus Room in the Russell Senate Office Building and hear from House and Senate majority and minority staff and leaders. Tuesday and Wednesday are when the participants meet with Congressional Representatives, and some key regulatory agency leaders.

President John Hansen, said, “Our NeFU delegation this year is a good reflection of the diversity of our state’s agricultural production approaches. We have corn, soybean and wheat producers, urban agriculture, conventional and organic producers, specialty crop producers, direct marketers, and livestock producers. Regardless of what they grow and how they do it, they all know how badly our state needs Congress to pass an improved and updated Farm Bill. They will be sharing their stories with our elected officials.” 



CVA Launches Limited-Time Online Apparel Store Celebrating 2025 International Year of the Co-op

Central Valley Ag (CVA) is excited to announce a limited-time online apparel store in celebration of 
the 2025 International Year of the Co-op, offering exclusive apparel that honors the strength and spirit of the cooperative system.

The online store will be open from September 2 through September 19, featuring exclusive designs available in adult and youth sizes, with both warm and cool season clothing options - all created to recognize this milestone year for cooperatives across the globe.

“This special collection is a way for members, customers, and community supporters to proudly represent what it means to be part of something bigger,” said Owen Baker, SVP of Marketing. “We hope everyone wears their co-op gear proudly — especially in October during National Co-op Month.”

All items are made to order, with production and shipping beginning after the store closes to ensure availability in a wide range of styles and sizes. Shipping is available to any address, with additional details provided at checkout.

Key Details:
• Store Open: September 2 – September 19, 2025
• Ordering: Online only, link available at www.cvacoop.com and on CVA social media
• Sizes: Adult and youth
• Apparel: Warm and cool season options
• Shipping: Begins after store closes; rates and delivery details available online

Celebrate your connection to the cooperative system with this exclusive apparel drop from CVA. Supplies are limited and only available during this short window — don’t miss it!



Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund receives $10,000 gift from Cargill

A $10,000 contribution from the Cargill Blair Cares Council is boosting the efforts of the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund (DHSHF) to promote soil health and regenerative agriculture in Nebraska and the surrounding states.

The Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund, an affiliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation, received one of three $10,000 gifts made during the Blair corn milling plant’s 30th anniversary celebration in mid-July. The other two recipients were the Washington County Fair and the Washington County Food Pantry. The Blair Cares Council is among the more than 350 local Cargill employee groups that are contributing millions of dollars and lending more than 100,000 hours of their time and talent to volunteer activities that have a local impact.

  “This donation honors the legacy of a true advocate for no-till farming and regenerative agriculture,” said Ann O’Riley, Director of Merchandising at Cargill’s Blair location. “This fund’s commitment to advancing education on soil health, water conservation and sustainable farming practices aligns perfectly with Cargill’s purpose to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. By supporting this fund, we are making an investment in the future of farming across Nebraska and surrounding states, fostering innovation, and promoting practices that protect our natural resources today and for generations to come.”

DGSHF honors Dan Gillespie, a lifelong farmer and a long-time no-till farming practitioner and advocate. Following a courageous battle with ALS, the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund was established to allow Gillespie’s family, friends and fellow soil health enthusiasts across the nation to carry on his work indefinitely.

  The benefits of no-till farming are plentiful. In addition to the 10% to 12% increased soil productivity, no-till practices result in healthier food and water. Combined with the use of cover crops, no-till farming has demonstrated a 500% increased capacity to intake heavy rainfall events which have been occurring more often. These farming methods capture an average of 4-6 more inches of water in the soil instead of flooding streams and rivers and are proven to reduce the loss of precious topsoil which prevents fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides from getting into the water and food ecosystem.

  The volunteer fund advisory committee is focused on building an endowment to award grants twice a year that support education and programming for youth, current and future farmers, ranchers and others directly involved in agriculture in Nebraska and surrounding states. Generosity from organizations like Cargill has allowed DGSHF to make an even greater impact – the fund advisory committee recently decided to increase their grants to $2,000 per cycle.

Applications for the current grant cycle will be accepted until October 1. For more information and to support the work of the fund, visit www.nebcommfound.org/give/dan-gillespie-soil-health-fund. Grantmaking efforts prioritize projects supporting current and future growers (adults or youth) in adopting practices that address water quality and soil health, such as cover crops, reduced tillage, complex crop rotations and nutrient management to reduce soil erosion, nutrient run-off and greenhouse gas emissions. Past DGSHF grants have supported organizations like No Till on the Plains, UNL Extension, Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District and high school and college youth-centered sustainable agriculture projects and programs. 



Farm Sector Income & Finances - Farm Sector Income Forecast
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service

Net farm income, a broad measure of profits, is forecast to increase in 2025. Forecast at $179.8 billion for 2025, net farm income would be $52.0 billion (40.7 percent) higher than in 2024. Net cash farm income is forecast at $180.7 billion for 2025, an increase of $40.1 billion (28.5 percent) relative to 2024 (not adjusted for inflation).

In inflation-adjusted 2025 dollars, net farm income is forecast to increase by $48.8 billion (37.2 percent) from 2024 to 2025, and net cash farm income is forecast to increase by $36.5 billion (25.3 percent) compared with the previous year. If realized, both measures in 2025 would be above their 2005–24 averages (in inflation-adjusted dollars).

Summary Findings
    Overall, farm cash receipts are forecast to increase by $24.0 billion (4.7 percent) from 2024 to $535.2 billion in 2025 in nominal dollars. Total crop receipts are forecast to decrease by $6.1 billion (2.5 percent) from 2024 levels to $236.6 billion in 2025 following lower receipts for soybeans, corn, and wheat. Conversely, total animal/animal product receipts are projected to increase by $30.0 billion (11.2 percent) to $298.6 billion in 2025. Receipts for cattle, eggs, hogs, broilers, and turkeys are forecast to rise relative to 2024.
    Direct Government farm payments are forecast at $40.5 billion for 2025, a $30.4-billion increase from 2024. The forecast increase is largely because of supplemental and ad hoc disaster assistance to farmers and ranchers from the American Relief Act of 2025. Direct Government farm payments include Federal farm program payments paid to farmers and ranchers but exclude U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) loans and insurance indemnity payments made by the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC).
    Total production expenses, including those associated with operator dwellings, are forecast to increase $12.0 billion (2.6 percent) from 2024 to $467.4 billion in 2025. Spending on livestock/poultry purchases are expected to see the largest increase relative to 2024 at $10.6 billion (21.5 percent) while spending on feed is expected to decline in $4.6 billion (6.2 percent) in 2025. 

Total Cash Receipts Forecast To Increase in 2025
Total inflation-adjusted cash receipts are forecast to grow $10.9 billion (2.1 percent) from 2024 to $535.2 billion in 2025. Crop cash receipts are projected to decline $12.3 billion (4.9 percent) during the year, while animal/animal product cash receipts are expected to grow by $23.2 billion (8.4 percent).

Crop Receipts Projected To Fall in 2025
Crop cash receipts are forecast at $236.6 billion in 2025, a decrease of $6.1 billion (2.5 percent) from 2024 in nominal terms. The cash receipts were largely lower due to price declines across most crops (fruits and nuts were exceptions) relative to 2024 which were offset only partially by greater quantities for some commodities. Combined receipts for corn, soybeans and wheat are forecast to fall $6.8 billion in total, while receipts for fruits and nuts are expected to increase.

Corn receipts are expected to fall by $2.3 billion (3.7 percent) in 2025 primarily due to lower prices. Likewise, soybean receipts are forecast to decrease by $3.4 billion (7.2 percent). Falling prices and quantities sold are expected to result in a decline of $0.5 billion (14.8 percent) in rice receipts during the year. Wheat receipts are forecast to fall $1.1 billion (9.8 percent), due to lower prices and quantities sold. Receipts for hay are projected to fall by $0.2 billion (2.5 percent) in 2025, while cotton receipts are expected to remain near 2024 levels.

Rising Animal/Animal Product Receipts Forecast in 2025
Total animal/animal product cash receipts are forecast at $298.6 billion in 2025, an increase of $30.0 billion (11.2 percent) in nominal terms from 2024. Receipts for all major animal/animal products are expected to grow largely due to higher prices with some offsetting effects of lower quantities, most notably for cattle and calves. Milk was an exception, with lower cash receipts.

Cash receipts from cattle and calves are expected to increase $17.7 billion (15.7 percent), due to sustained growth in prices only partially offset by lower quantities. Hog receipts are also forecast to rise by $2.6 billion (9.5 percent) due to higher prices in 2025. Milk receipts are expected to fall $0.5 billion (1.0 percent) nominally in 2025.

Direct Government Farm Payments Forecast To Increase in 2025
Direct Government farm program payments are those made by the Federal Government to farmers and ranchers with no intermediaries. Most direct payments to farmers and ranchers are administered by the USDA using the Farm Bill but can also come from supplemental programs authorized by the U.S. Congress. Government payments discussed here do not include Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) indemnity payments (listed as a separate component of farm income) and USDA loans (listed as a liability in the farm sector’s balance sheet). Direct Government farm program payments are forecast at $40.5 billion for 2025, a $30.4 billion increase from the $10.1 billion total for 2024. This overall increase reflects higher anticipated payments from supplemental and ad hoc disaster assistance, mainly from the funding authorized in the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2025 contained in the American Relief Act, 2025.
    Supplemental and ad hoc disaster assistance payments in 2025 are forecast at $35.2 billion and consist primarily of payments from the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2025. The act included the Economic Assistance for Producers and other payments related to losses due to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.
    Conservation payments from the financial assistance programs of USDA's Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) are expected to be $4.8 billion in 2025, an increase of $446.3 million (10.3 percent) from the 2024 level. The increase in conservation payments is due to an increase in payments from NRCS programs.
    Farm bill payments that are a function of commodity prices are forecast at $550.4 million for 2025, largely unchanged from 2024. Payments under the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Dairy Margin Coverage programs are forecast to decrease, while payments from the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program are forecast to increase relative to 2024.

Production Expenses Forecast To Increase in 2025
Farm sector production expenses are forecast at $467.4 billion in 2025, increasing by $12.0 billion (2.6 percent), compared with 2024. When adjusted for inflation, the expenses are projected to be comparable to their 2024 levels (increasing slightly by $0.3 billion or 0.1 percent compared with 2024). 

Spending on feed, livestock/poultry purchases, and labor are expected to represent the three largest categories of spending in 2025. Feed expenses, the largest single expense category, are forecast at $68.6 billion in 2025, falling by $4.6 billion or 6.2 percent compared with 2024. In turn, livestock and poultry purchases are projected at $59.9 billion, rising by $10.6 billion or 21.5 percent compared with 2024. Finally, labor expenses are forecast at $54.3 billion, rising by $2.2 billion (4.2 percent) compared with the 2024 level. Labor expenses here include both cash and noncash employee compensation.

Among other categories of spending, pesticide expenses (spending on agricultural chemicals and application costs) and fuel and oil expenses are forecast to fall in 2025 relative to 2024, while interest expenses and net rent are forecast to rise. All values and calculations are in nominal dollars.



More Mixed Prices With Fertilizers

Retail fertilizer prices continue to be mixed, about half lower and half higher than last month, according to sellers tracked by DTN for the fourth week of August 2025. For the fourth week in a row, prices of four fertilizers were slightly higher compared to last month while the other four were a bit lower. No fertilizer was higher or lower a notable amount. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

The fertilizers with slightly higher prices were DAP, which had an average price of $853/ton; MAP $910/ton; potash $485/ton; and anhydrous $765/ton.

Four fertilizers were slightly lower looking back to the prior month. Urea had an average price of $632/ton; 10-34-0 $667/ton; UAN28 $417/ton; and UAN32 $482/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.69/lb.N; anhydrous $0.47/lb.N; UAN28 $0.75/lb.N; and UAN32 $0.75/lb.N.

Seven fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier. 10-34-0 is 4% higher, MAP is 12% more expensive, anhydrous is 13% higher, DAP is 15% more expensive, UAN28 is 27% higher, urea is 29% more expensive and UAN32 is 32% more expensive looking back to last year. The remaining fertilizer continues to be lower. Potash is 1% lower compared to last year.



Growth Energy Welcomes Passage of California E15 Bill

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded the California State Senate today after the legislature unanimously approved AB 30, a bill that would finally allow California fuel retailers to sell E15, a fuel option made with 15% American ethanol that’s approved for use in 96% of all light-duty vehicles on the road today. 

Specifically, AB 30 provisionally approves E15 for sale in California while the California Air Resources Board (CARB) completes its environmental review of this fuel option, which burns cleaner and can save California drivers from 10 to 30 cents per gallon on average. The bill’s passage is the result of a years-long effort led by Growth Energy to demonstrate to California lawmakers and regulators that E15 is not only better for the environment—it’s also more affordable than ordinary fuel and could potentially save Californians millions of dollars while simultaneously reducing their environmental impact. 

“After nearly 15 years since E15 was first approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and has been legal to sell in every other state, California has finally approved E15 for use in the nation’s second-largest fuel market,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor after the Senate approved the bill. “We thank Assembly Member David Alvarez and the Problem Solvers Caucus for continuing to push to make this cost-saving fuel available to Californians and we urge Governor Newsom to sign AB 30 into law right away.” 

“Growth Energy has already begun to provide technical expertise in support of CARB’s still-forthcoming E15 approval rulemaking, and we encourage the state to identify other ways to maximize the impact AB 30 can have in the short-term,” Skor added. “With AB 30, the legislature heard and responded to California drivers that demanded more affordable fuel options. We thank lawmakers for listening, and look forward to working with fuel retailers and state regulators to get this fuel into the tanks of California motorists as quickly as possible.” 

The California General Assembly unanimously approved AB 30 on August 29. With the Senate’s passage, the bill now heads to California Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for final signature.



RFA Applauds Passage of Bill Legalizing E15 in California

Lower-cost E15 is now just one step away from becoming a legal fuel in California, as the state Senate voted 39-0 today to pass Assembly Bill 30. The bill, which would legalize E15 immediately upon the governor’s signature, now heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for final approval. California is the only state in the nation that does not currently allow the sale of E15.

“With today’s passage of AB30, California is taking a big step toward lower gas prices and a cleaner, more sustainable future for families across the state,” said Geoff Cooper, president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. “Many other states have already seen the benefits of E15—healthier air, better engine performance, and cost savings at the pump. Now, California drivers are on the cusp of experiencing those same advantages, and we urge Gov. Newsom to sign the bill into law as quickly as possible. E15 will provide relief at the pump for Californians who continue to face the highest gas prices in the country.”

Cooper continued, “We applaud the California legislature for swiftly passing this critical bill, and we especially thank the bipartisan California Problem Solvers Caucus for bringing awareness and attention to this issue. AB30’s sponsors, Assemblymembers David Alvarez and Heath Flora, also deserve special recognition for their leadership in opening the California marketplace to more affordable, cleaner fuel options.”

“California’s regulatory agencies have reviewed the E15 gasoline blend for nearly eight years and have yet to issue any rulings,” said Assemblymember Alvarez. “This unnecessary holdup has prevented California’s drivers from accessing a cleaner, more affordable fuel option that’s already approved across the country. AB 30 sends a clear message: Californians cannot afford to wait while bureaucracy stalls progress. This bill delivers economic benefits to Californians struggling with high fuel prices, and I am especially grateful to the Problem Solvers Caucus for their partnership on this commonsense solution.”

Recent studies show E15 could save California drivers $2.7 billion annually, or $200 per household, and significantly cut the emissions of tailpipe pollutants that create smog and contribute to illness and disease.

Gov. Newsom has expressed his support for legalizing E15, saying last year that “there is massive potential for this [E15] to be a win-win for Californians: lowering gas prices by up to twenty cents per gallon while keeping our air clean.”

RFA has been leading the effort to secure E15 approval in California for the past seven years, Cooper noted, beginning with the 2018 initiation of a “multimedia evaluation” of E15 in collaboration with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and other ethanol industry stakeholders. While California’s recently finalized 2025-2026 state budget includes funding for CARB to complete the E15 approval process, AB30 allows the fuel to be sold while CARB’s work progresses.

This week, RFA began hosting a series of E15 educational workshops this fall for California fuel marketers, equipment suppliers, and others in the supply chain who are interested in making lower-cost, cleaner-burning E15 available to drivers. 



ACE Unveils E15 Cost Calculator at CFCA Summit

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) introduced a powerful new tool this week at the California Fuels + Convenience Alliance (CFCA) Summit to help fuel marketers seize the opportunity of E15: the E15 Cost Calculator, now live at flexfuelforward.com.

With California expected to approve E15, ACE’s new online calculator equips retailers with a resource to plug in real-time data to compare the costs and potential profits of selling E15 versus E10. It provides station-specific insights, including applicable state and federal tax credits, to show whether offering E15 can boost the bottom line.

“We've taken part in every trade show this organization has held since 2000, when California was gearing up to switch to E10, and this reminds me a lot of that,” said Ron Lamberty, Chief Marketing Officer of ACE. “What retailers wanted to know then is, ‘Can I make more money selling this new fuel?’ and ‘Can I sell it using my existing equipment?’ The questions are the same today. Fortunately, the answer to both is almost always ‘Yes,’ and these tools let retailers find that out using their own real-world numbers.”

The E15 Cost Calculator is the latest addition to FlexFuelForward.com—ACE’s digital hub tailored to fuel marketers. It joins the Flex Check tool, which helps station owners quickly determine if their existing equipment is compatible with E15.

Built with the needs of independent retailers and small chains in mind, these tools are available 24/7, empowering decision-makers to assess their options on their own schedule—without sales pressure.

“Single-store and small chain owners are in their stores all day and might not have time to do this kind of research during what others consider normal business hours,” Lamberty added. “That’s why we built this site and these tools—so they can get solid, specific answers when it’s convenient for them.”

The calculator can be used by marketers and retailers in all 50 states, and includes state-specific taxes and E15/E85 incentives in states that have them, making it a relevant and reliable resource for fuel retailers across the U.S.



Corn Grower Leader Applauds Investigation of Brazil’s Trade Practices

One of the nation’s top farmers, testifying today before members of a trade panel established by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, praised the Trump administrations for investigating Brazil’s trade practices and encouraged quick action to address any wrongdoing.

“Unfortunately, Brazil does not value a level playing field and unfairly penalizes U.S. corn growers,” Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. told the panel. “Over the past decade, Brazil has taken targeted trade actions aimed at evaporating current and future demand for U.S. farmers.”

The testimony comes after USTR initiated a probe, under Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act, to determine whether Brazil engaged in unfair trade practices.

U.S. corn growers and ethanol producers once enjoyed a level playing field with Brazil. But in 2017, without provocation, Brazil imposed a 20% tariff on U.S. ethanol. The tariff was suspended but was later reinstated at 16%. Then, in early 2024, Brazil increased the tariff to 18%.

“Brazil was the top market for U.S. ethanol exports by far,” Hartman told the panel. “But as soon as the tariff was reimposed, the market was in freefall decline. And while Brazil was imposing tariffs that resulted in a decline of American exports, Brazilian sugarcane ethanol was being imported into the United States at an increasing rate.”

NCGA has been on the forefront of this issue, and Hartman said that the United States should take reciprocal measures if negotiations do not result in Brazil’s elimination of the tariff. Hartman further said that advocacy will continue as USTR takes its next steps.

“We have thoroughly documented our views supported by evidence and stand ready to work with the Trump administration to fix years of economic harm and fight for what we deserve,” Hartman said.



NCBA Testifies at Trade Hearing Investigation on Brazil

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus Wednesday testified at a Section 301 investigation hearing regarding Brazil’s trade practices. The hearing, convened by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and held at the U.S. International Trade Commission, examined the Brazilian government’s trade policies and actions for unreasonable, discriminatory harm to U.S. commerce. NCBA focused attention on Brazil’s restrictions on U.S. beef and our long-standing concerns with the Brazilian government’s track record of food safety and animal health.

“NCBA is extremely supportive of President Trump holding Brazil accountable by levying upwards of 76% tariffs on Brazilian goods headed to the U.S. market. This is a good first step, but the administration must continue to hold Brazil accountable for its trade barriers on U.S. beef and its lack of transparency and accountability,” said Bacus. “NCBA urges the Trump administration to suspend beef imports from Brazil until a thorough audit and inspection process proves that Brazil can meet an equivalent level of food safety and animal health.”
 
In the past five years, Brazil has sold $4.45 billion of beef to American consumers but has failed to reciprocate meaningful access for U.S. beef by implementing burdensome technical barriers. Meanwhile, Brazil’s failure to report serious animal health cases in a timely manner has raised questions about their food safety and animal health standards. Brazil has repeatedly waited weeks, months, or even years to report cases of atypical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) while using the delay to sell more product.

“NCBA was the first to raise alarms over the Brazilian government’s food safety issues in 2017 and its delays in reporting atypical BSE cases in 2021 and 2023. The United States holds all trading partners to the highest science-based standards, and Brazil should not be the exception,” Bacus added.

A Section 301 investigation refers to an investigation launched by the U.S. Trade Representative under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. The Trade Act is intended to address unfair foreign trade policies that harm U.S. commerce. A Section 301 investigation explores whether a foreign country’s actions or policies pose an unfair barrier to U.S. trade. NCBA has spent years raising concerns with Brazil’s trade practices and appreciates the opportunity to testify at today’s Section 301 investigation hearing.  



Land O’Lakes, Inc. and Local Ag Retailers Announce Participation in AgRogue Growth Partners to Find, Fund and Scale New Ag Technologies

Land O’Lakes, Inc. Wednesday unveiled its participation in AgRogue Growth Partners, a bold initiative aimed at harnessing the strength of the cooperative model to fast-track the discovery, investment and adoption of breakthrough technologies to support farmers, their businesses, and their communities.

In recent years, agriculture has seen cutting edge innovation and technology meet resistance at the farmgate, then fail to reach its potential. As the Land O’Lakes cooperative system has a long history of driving adoption of the latest ag technologies, Land O’Lakes and a coalition of its retailer-owners will invest up to $7 million in each of 10 to 15 companies focused on improving crop inputs, ag data, supply chain processes, business models and more.

“We believe the key to jumpstarting the adoption of modern ag technologies lives in the partnership and trust between retailers and growers. This platform represents a focused strategy that builds on the strength of Land O’Lakes’ co-op model and our retail owners to assist Radicle Growth in finding, funding and scaling new innovation to help ensure our system remains at the leading edge of ag tech, and U.S. agriculture remains competitive on a global stage,” said Jason Trusley, senior vice president and chief strategy officer at Land O’Lakes, Inc.

Through AgRogue Growth Partners, the coalition will:
    Invest in and scale innovative technologies, business models and systems that drive on-farm impact.
    Pool resources — including capital, talent and market insights — to access proprietary ag innovations beyond traditional channels.
    Accelerate early adoption by leveraging the trusted, local relationships between participating retailers and farmers. 

This launch comes at a pivotal moment for U.S. agriculture. Net farm income for U.S. row crop producers remains persistently low, while public funding for agricultural research has declined to 1970s levels. At the same time, global competitors like China have dramatically increased their investments.

“Right now, we’re seeing a wave of necessary innovation stall before it reaches the farm gate — often lacking the local trust and infrastructure needed to succeed,” said Brett Bruggeman, chief operating officer and executive vice president of ag business at Land O’Lakes, Inc. “As one of the largest farmer-and retailer-owned cooperatives in the U.S., we know our retail-owners are uniquely positioned to bridge that gap and get proven innovation into farmers’ hands faster.”

Retail partners include Keystone Cooperative (Indiana), Central Valley Ag (Nebraska), Farmers Cooperative – Dorchester (Nebraska), Farmward Cooperative (Minnesota), Alabama Farmers Cooperative (Alabama), and GreenPoint Ag (Alabama). The AgRogue Growth Partners will be managed by Radicle Growth, a leading ag tech investment firm, which will help identify and vet cutting-edge startups from around the world.

“AgRogue Growth Partners represents an exciting new chapter in agricultural innovation, driven by a commitment to farmer success,” said Kevin Still, President & CEO of Keystone Cooperative. “By uniting our strengths, we'll focus on creating new opportunities for farmers to thrive - providing them with new tools and resources they need to overcome industry challenges and grow a more reliable, abundant food supply.”

Wednesday September 03 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - HHD activities - Corn/Soy Crush Stats - Ethanol use on the farm - and more!

Nebraska Crop Progress & Condition Report

Topsoil Moisture 11% surplus, 69% adequate, 16% short, 4% very short 
Subsoil Moisture 8% surplus, 64% adequate, 23% short, 5% very short 

Corn Dough 88% - 81% LW - 94% 5YA
Corn Dent 59% - 49% LW - 70% 5YA 
Corn Mature 13% - 6% LW - 15% 5YA
Corn Condition 27% excellent, 49% good, 19% fair, 4% poor, 1% very poor 

Soybean Setting pods 92% - 89% LW - 98% 5YA 
Soybeans Dropping Leaves - 5% - 17% 5YA
Soybean Condition 21% excellent, 53% good, 22% fair, 2% poor, 1% very poor 

Pasture Condition 08% excellent, 37% good, 36% fair, 15% poor, 4% very poor 



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

With only spotty precipitation, Iowa farmers had 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending August 31, 2025, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities included cutting and baling hay.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 9 percent short, 78 percent adequate and 12 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 79 percent adequate and 13 percent surplus.

Corn in the dough stage or beyond reached 92 percent this week. Sixty-three percent of the corn crop reached the dent stage or beyond, 2 days ahead of last year, but 2 days behind the five-year average. Nine percent of corn has matured. Corn condition rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 58 percent good and 26 percent excellent. 

Soybeans setting pods reached 95 percent. Soybeans coloring or beyond reached 19 percent, 1 day ahead of last year, but 1 day behind average. There were scattered reports of soybeans dropping leaves. Soybean condition rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 58 percent good and 19 percent excellent. 

Oat harvest was virtually complete.

The third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 87 percent complete. 

Pasture condition rated 72 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

Corn and soybean good-to-excellent condition ratings fell at the national level last week, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released on Tuesday. The report is normally released on Mondays but was delayed this week due to Labor Day.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn in the dough stage was estimated at 90%, 1 percentage point ahead of last year's 89% but 1 percentage point behind the five-year average of 91%. Corn dented was estimated at 58%, equal to last year's pace but 2 percentage points behind the five-year average of 60%. Corn mature was pegged at 15%, 3 percentage points behind last year's 18% but 1 percentage point ahead of the five-year average of 14%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 69% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition nationwide, down 2 points from the previous week. Nine percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, up 1 point from the previous week but 3 points below 12% from last year. 

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans setting pods were estimated at 94%, 1 point ahead of last year's 93% and equal to the five-year average. Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 11%, 1 point behind last year's 12% and 1 point ahead of the five-year average of 10%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 65% of soybeans were in good-to-excellent condition, down 4 points from 69% the previous week and equal to the previous year. Ten percent of soybeans were rated very poor to poor, up 2 percentage points from the previous week and equal to the previous year. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest picked up speed last week, jumping ahead 19 percentage points to reach 72% complete as of Sunday. That was 5 percentage points ahead of last year's pace of 67% and 1 percentage point ahead the five-year average of 71%. 



Join the Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Corn Growers Association at Husker Harvest Days 2025

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) and the Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) are set to welcome visitors to Grand Island, Nebraska for Husker Harvest Days, the world's largest totally irrigated working farm show September 9-11.

Building partnerships and adding value to products remains crucial in all segments of agriculture. Nebraska's corn, grain sorghum, soybean and wheat producers are partnering at one location with their exhibits during this year's Husker Harvest Days show.

Attendees can gather new information on the latest agricultural developments at the Ag Commodities Building on Main Street. The eight participating groups will discuss programmatic opportunities and the importance of agricultural trade within their commodities, highlighting how Nebraska commodities are locally grown, globally known.

The entities participating in the joint effort include the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB), Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA), Nebraska Grain Sorghum Board (NGSB), Nebraska Sorghum Producers Association (NeSPA), Nebraska Soybean Association (NSA), Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB), Nebraska Wheat Board (NWB) and the Nebraska Wheat Growers Association (NWGA).

Representatives from NCB and NeCGA will be available throughout Husker Harvest Days to discuss key initiatives enhancing demand, adding value and ensuring sustainability for Nebraska's corn industry. Visitors can grab a cold can of Coca-Cola or Doritos, learn about Nebraska Corn's producer campaign and sign up or renew NeCGA membership to advocate for the state's corn industry.

"Events like Husker Harvest Days allow us to foster new relationships and strengthen existing ones," said Michael Dibbern, NeCGA president. "This is a prime opportunity to connect with members, leadership and staff on programs and projects benefiting farmers. We invite attendees to visit the commodities building and learn more about our initiatives."

NCB and NeCGA will be located in the Ag Commodities Building (lot 10) towards the east end of Main Street on the show grounds.



Husker Harvest Days includes Free Trees and Water Testing

Questions about trees, flood control, water quality or cost-share programs? Stop in to visit Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts during Husker Harvest Days Sept. 9-11, 2025.

“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 Martin Graff, 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 Nebraska Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), Nebraska Department of Water, Environment and Energy, Strategic Ag Coalition, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Platte River Recovery Implementation Program, The Nature Conservancy, Producer Connect, and Central Platte NRD’s Native Prairie and Pollination Awareness Program.

The Nebraska Department of Water, Environment and Energy Water Well Standards Program 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 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, 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. 



PSC TO PROVIDE INFORMATION AT HUSKER HARVEST DAYS

The Nebraska Public Service (PSC) welcomes visitors to learn about the regulatory process in Nebraska and the services provided by the PSC during the 2025 Husker Harvest Days (HHDays) in Grand Island (Sept. 9-11).

Home to the world’s largest totally irrigated working farm show, HHDays affords the PSC the opportunity to reach the people it serves. At its booth, located in the West Diversified Industry Building (West D1), visitors will find Commissioners and staff providing information and engaging in conversation about the Commissions regulatory responsibilities.

“From ag and transportation to telecommunications and natural gas, the Commission plays a role in the lives of many Nebraskans on a daily basis,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram.

With harvest season getting underway, a focus at the PSC booth will be providing participants with needed information on Nebraska law when it comes to the selling, or storage of grain.

“Our rules and regulations are in place to protect both the seller and producer,” said Terri Fritz, Director PSC Grain Department. “So, for anyone working with a grain dealer, it is important to know if that the dealer is licensed by the PSC to do business in Nebraska.”

The 2025 HHDays runs Tuesday-through-Thursday, September 9-11, with booths opening at 8:00 a.m., each day. 

Commissioner Schram said, “We look forward to spending time with folks and sharing information about the Commission and its service to the public.”



Women Managing Farmland Forums Are Coming to Iowa

Women involved in agriculture are invited to attend one of four Women Managing Farmland Forums happening across Iowa this fall. These in-person events are open to all women landowners, farmers and agricultural decision-makers who want to build knowledge, share experiences and connect with others who care about the land.

Each forum features a full day of expert-led sessions on farmland leasing, conservation practices and farm transition planning, along with time for meaningful conversations and networking.

“These forums provide a welcoming and informative space for women to learn more about managing farmland and shaping its future,” said Madeline Schultz, program manager for Women in Ag with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “It’s also a great opportunity to connect with others who share your goals and challenges.”

Forum schedule and locations
    Sept. 15: Atlantic, Cass County Community Center
    Sept. 16: Madrid, Iowa Arboretum
    Sept. 17: Nashua, Borlaug Learning Center
    Sept. 18: Moravia, Lighthouse Church of the Nazarene

Event details
    Time: 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Optional local tours from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.)
    Format: In-person forums featuring educational sessions, peer conversations and networking
    Who should attend: Women landowners, farmers and ag decision-makers
    Cost: $25 per registrant

Event organizers encourage those interested to bring a friend and take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn, connect and be inspired.

Visit the Women in Ag website and locate “Upcoming Events” to find a forum near you and register https://www.extension.iastate.edu/womeninag/.

This program is financially supported by a USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Critical Agriculture Research and Education grant (2021-68008-34180) and a Farm Credit Services of America gift through the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Ag program.



Iowa Corn I-LEAD Class 12 Selected for Participation  

Iowa Corn is proud to announce the members selected to participate in Class 12 of the Iowa Corn Leadership Enhancement and Development (I-LEAD) program, which focuses on increasing industry professionals’ knowledge and understanding of the corn industry. This reputable ag leadership program is a two-year intensive learning experience available through the Iowa Corn Promotion Board and the Iowa Corn Growers Association. 

I-LEAD Class 12 Members: 
    Adam Sibbel, Indigo  
    Amanda Fortman, Iowa Corn 
    Andrew Falco, Growth Energy 
    Blake Bayliss, Feed Energy Company 
    Brandon Kuhn, Midwest Growth Partners 
    Elizabeth McOllough, Gold-Eagle Cooperative 
    Heidi Mandt, Waukee Community School District 
    Jacob Burt, Bayer Crop Science 
    Jamin Manus, Innovative Ag Services 
    Jonathan Bladt, Office of U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley 
    Kate Long, Farm Credit Services of America 
    Kent Hartwig, Gevo, Inc. 
    Kiersten Stover, Bayer Crop Science 
    Luke Nieuwendorp, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship 
    Marshall Dolch, Syngenta Crop Protection 
    Matthew Kilworth, Corteva Agriscience 
    Paula Ellis, Farmer, Donnellson, IA 
    Rebecca Frantz, Hertz Farm Management 
    Rob Ratchford, BankIowa 
    Ross Cady, Incite.ag 
    Ryan Schwyn, Homeview Agronomy 
    Sophie Bell, Farm Credit Services of America 
    Zackery Leist, Syngenta Crop Protection 
 
The I-LEAD class will meet ten times over the course of two years providing experience and training by Iowa Corn in areas such as leadership, effective communication, policy, advocacy and global agriculture. The program includes an experience in Washington D.C., a domestic agricultural learning mission and an international learning mission.   

 For more information on the program, visit www.iowacorn.org/ilead. 



Naig Issues Statement on Sen. Joni Ernst’s Decision Not to Seek Re-Election

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement after Sen. Joni Ernst announced that she will not seek re-election to the United States Senate:

“Sen. Ernst has been a tireless advocate for Iowa, and a strong voice for our farmers, rural communities, and all who call this state home. From expanding markets for biofuels to championing rural small businesses and fighting burdensome federal regulations, she has never stopped working to make sure Iowa’s values and priorities are heard in Washington.

While I’m sad to see her step away, I’m grateful for her service, her leadership, and her friendship, and I wish her the very best in her next chapter.”



NPPC Calls Proposed Farm Air Emissions Methodologies ‘Flawed’
 
In comments submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Pork Producers Council said the agency’s proposed methodologies – and the data on which they were developed – for estimating air emissions from livestock farms are “technically flawed.” NPPC urged EPA to reconsider its model and approach for determining emissions.
 
The pork industry in 2006 negotiated with EPA “air consent agreements” that absolved livestock producers from Clean Air Act emissions violations – because there were no standards for farms – in exchange for participating in a National Air Emissions Monitoring Study. Data on farm emissions, including ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, gathered during the study was transmitted to EPA in 2010 for developing estimating methodologies.
 
NPPC pointed out in its comments that the proposed methodologies and predictive models are inaccurate and mathematically unreliable. Further, they show that, despite 15 years of work on the data, EPA still does not understand livestock production. Farms, unlike emission source categories in other industries, are unique and do not fit “cookie cutter” modeling. No two farms or farmers are alike.
 
“The current draft models simply are not reliable for predicting emissions,” said NPPC, noting that the pork industry has changed significantly since the NAEMS data was gathered. “The current draft models are so technically flawed that their use by EPA would render any consequent regulatory decision or action legally fraught.” 
 
If adopted in their current form, EPA’s estimating methodologies and an accompanying webtool that calculates farm emissions – based on 20-year-old data – could cost the livestock industry billions of dollars in capital and annual expenditures, due to egregious mathematical flaws in the modeling. What’s worse, the model ignores the pork industry’s advances over the last two decades, including improved livestock genetics, targeted nutrition, and the design and management of farms – all of which have greatly reduced the industry’s footprint. 
 
There are significant costs associated with determining farm emissions, applying for a CAA permit, and implementing mitigation and compliance strategies to address emissions that, for the most part, quickly dissipate, said NPPC. 



Corn Growers Fuel Ethanol Innovation in Ag Equipment

Corn growers’ checkoff dollars are driving new research that could open major markets for ethanol in the equipment farmers use every day. Support from National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and its state corn grower associations has allowed Clemson University and John Deere to move forward on a cutting-edge Department of Energy (DOE) project, despite federal funding delays.

Project Overview
The three-year effort, titled Development and Demonstration of a Low GHG Emissions Hybrid Power Module for Off-Road Vehicles, will develop and test hybrid ag vehicles powered by ethanol and ethanol-gasoline blends like E85 and E98. The work will culminate in the demonstration of a hybrid sprayer designed to reduce total cost of ownership by more than 10% while increasing functionality and lowering greenhouse gas emissions compared to today’s diesel machines.

Progress on the Ground
Even as DOE funding remains on hold under administrative review, Deere and Clemson are already advancing. Deere has shipped a 6.8L engine—identical to those used in tractors and sprayers—to Clemson, where it has been installed on a dynamometer. Researchers have baselined the engine on diesel combustion and are preparing for first fired operation on ethanol in the next few months. Additionally, modeling ethanol combustion through advanced computer simulations is ongoing in parallel.

Thanks to corn grower contributions, Clemson was able to build out the vital subsystems—oil, coolant, fuel, intake, and exhaust—that make this Deere engine a dedicated ethanol research platform.

What It Means for Farmers
This project signals a future where ethanol isn’t just blended into fuel but powers the very machines that plant, spray and harvest crops. By proving ethanol’s value in off-road applications, corn growers are helping create:
    New demand for corn through expanded ethanol markets.
    Lower operating costs for farmers via hybrid technology.
    Cleaner, U.S.-grown fuel powering equipment in the field

Research is slated to begin this Fall. NCGA will continue to provide updates as it progresses.



Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks

Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 6.14 million tons (205 million bushels) in July 2025, compared with 5.91 million tons (197 million bushels) in June 2025 and 5.80 million tons (193 million bushels) in July 2024. Crude oil produced was 2.43 billion pounds, up 4 percent from June 2025 and up 6 percent from July 2024. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.83 billion pounds during July 2025 increased 2 percent from June 2025 but decreased 3 percent from July 2024.

Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 506 million bushels in July 2025. Total corn consumption was up 2 percent from June 2025 but down 6 percent from July 2024. July 2025 usage included 92.2 percent for alcohol and 7.8 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 2.78 million bushels, down 9 percent from June 2025 and down 40 percent from July 2024. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 456 million bushels, was up 2 percent from June 2025 but down 6 percent from July 2024. Corn consumed in July 2025 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 91.9 percent and 8.1 percent, respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.86 million tons during July 2025, down 1 percent from June 2025 and down 7 percent from July 2024. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.19 million tons in July 2025, down 2 percent from June 2025 and down 3 percent from July 2024.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 255,752 tons during July 2025, up 2 percent from June 2025 but down 13 percent from July 2024. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 191,347 tons in July 2025, up 2 percent from June 2025 but down 9 percent from July 2024.

2024 Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
As part of the Current Agricultural Industrial Reports (CAIR) program, the 2024 Annual Summary of the Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production contains data and annual totals for January through December 2024.

Total corn consumed for alcohol for 2024 was 5.65 billion bushels, up 4 percent from 2023. Corn for beverage alcohol in 2024 totaled 47.4 million bushels, down 25 percent from 2023. Corn for fuel alcohol was 5.52 billion bushels in 2024, up 4 percent from 2023.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 22.5 million tons during 2024, up 7 percent from 2023. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 14.7 million tons in 2024, down 6 percent from 2023. Distillers dried grain (DDG) was 4.54 million tons in 2024, down 2 percent from 2023.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 3.16 million tons during 2024, up less than 1 percent from 2023. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 2.43 million tons, up 1 percent from 2023.

Dry and wet mill carbon dioxide captured was 2.75 million tons in 2024, up 8 percent from 2023.



Farmer sentiment weakens as producer confidence in future wanes

Farmer sentiment dipped for the third straight month in August, with the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index falling 10 points to 125. Producers expressed markedly less optimism about the future, as reflected in the Index of Future Expectations, which fell 16 points to 123. This marks the lowest reading for the future index since last September. Producers’ perspective on current conditions changed little this month, as the Current Conditions Index rose 2 points from July to 129. Sentiment differed widely among producers according to whether their operations focused mainly on crops or livestock. Crop producers responded with much less optimism than their livestock counterparts, reflecting the profitability disparity between the two enterprises.

Beef cattle operations in particular are experiencing record profitability as the smallest cattle inventory since 1951 has pushed cattle prices to record levels. This stands in sharp contrast to returns for crop production, which have weakened in 2025. The August barometer survey took place from Aug. 11-15, 2025.

Farmers again reported weak financial expectations for their farms in the coming year. As in July, the Farm Financial Performance Index remained below 100. The reading of 91 barely changed from July’s index value. Crop prices that stand below the cost of production for many farms help explain why more farmers expect weaker incomes for the coming year. The U.S. Department of Agriculture released its August Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates reports during the week the August survey was conducted. The USDA forecasted a 2025-26 season average corn price of $3.90 per bushel and a soybean price of $10.10 per bushel. Both estimates fall well below estimated break-even levels for U.S. farmers. Despite the weak income outlook, the Farm Capital Investment Index improved 8 points from July to 61. Livestock producers had a notably more optimistic outlook in August than crop producers, which helped push the index higher.

The Short-Term Farmland Value Expectations Index reading of 112 dropped 3 points from July, continuing a three-month trend. Even so, the index remains above 100. This indicates that more farmers still expect rising values in the coming year than those who consider declining values as more likely. This perspective is similarly held by three-fourths of crop producers, who said in the August survey that they expect farmland cash rental rates in 2026 to remain unchanged from 2025. Only 12% of respondents said they expect lower rates next year. 

Every January, the Ag Economy Barometer survey includes two questions about farmers’ expectations about the size of their farm’s operating loan for the coming year and the reasons for a change in operating loan size. Given the concerns about weak farm income in 2025, the two questions about operating loans were added to the August barometer survey. Twenty-two percent of August’s respondents said they expect their 2026 operating loan to be larger than in 2025. This was up from January, when 18% of respondents said they expected their 2025 loan size to increase compared to 2024.

A follow-up question to farmers who said they expected their operating loan size to increase asked for the reason behind the larger loan. Twenty-three percent of those farmers in the August survey said it was because they expected to carry over the unpaid operating debt from 2025 to 2026. The responses to these questions suggest that farmers’ financial stress increased from January to August. Financial stress appears to be noticeably higher than it was in January 2023, when only 5% of farmers with larger operating loans attributed that to the need to carry over unpaid operating debt. That number rose to 17% in January 2024 — still lower than this year.

“In sum, the August Ag Economy Barometer survey results show that U.S. farmers generally expect their financial performance for the coming year to drop from the previous year,” said Michael Langemeier, the barometer’s principal investigator and director of Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. “Despite a weakening Short-Term Farmland Value Expectations Index in August, more farmers still expect farmland values to rise rather than to weaken. Lastly, the percentage of farmers citing expectations for rising operating debt because of unpaid operating debt carrying over from the previous year could signal increasing farm financial stress in production agriculture.”



USDA Announces September 2025 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for September 2025, which are effective Sept. 1, 2025. USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.       
       
Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans       
FSA offers farm operating, ownership and emergency loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation.      

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for September 2025 are as follows:       
     Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 4.875%  
     Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 5.875%  
     Farm Ownership Loans (Direct, Joint Financing): 3.875%  
     Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 1.875% 
     Emergency Loan (Amount of Actual Loss): 3.750%    

FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders. To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.        

Commodity and Storage Facility Loans      
Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.   

Commodity Loans(less than one year disbursed): 5.000%       
     Farm Storage Facility Loans:  
    Three-year loan terms: 3.750%  
    Five-year loan terms: 3.875%  
    Seven-year loan terms: 4.000%  
    Ten-year loan terms: 4.375% 
    Twelve-year loan terms: 4.500%  
    Sugar Storage Facility Loans (15 years): 4.750%         

More Information
To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact theirlocal USDA Service Center. 



Loveland Products Launches Extract® XC to Advance Residue and Nutrient Management Efficiency

Loveland Products, Inc., today announced the launch of Extract® XC, a next-generation product of its trusted Extract Powered by Accomplish® (Extract PBA). In a new concentrated formulation, Extract XC helps farmers release more nitrogen and sulfur from crop residue, using half the product per acre compared to previous versions. Easier handling and proven results make it simple to integrate residue management into fall and spring fertility programs.

“Farmers are always looking for ways to get more out of every dollar they invest,” said Ron Calhoun, Senior Manager, Plant Nutrition, for Loveland Products. “With Extract XC, they can get more nutrients working for their next crop while handling fewer jugs and making fewer passes.  It’s about making fall fertility simpler, more efficient, and more profitable.”

Turning Residue into Available Nutrients
When crop residue ties up nitrogen and sulfur, it can limit fertilizer efficiency, early crop growth and yield potential. Extract XC addresses this challenge by combining microbial-derived biochemistry with ammonium thiosulfate (ATS) to accelerate residue breakdown, balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, and release nutrients in a plant-available form, even under cool conditions.

Extract XC Agronomic Benefits
    Maximizes nutrient release from crop residues and soil
    Extends nutrient availability later into the season
    Supports easier spring planting and even crop emergence
    Optimizes yield potential for the following crop

Easy Integration into Fall Fertilizer Programs
Designed for flexibility, Extract XC can be applied with fall burndown or liquid fertilizer and is compatible with herbicides such as glyphosate. This enables farmers to enhance nutrient availability without requiring additional field passes, thereby saving time and labor.

Stronger ROI for Growers
By increasing nutrient use efficiency, Extract XC enhances uptake of both residue-released nutrients and applied fertilizer. This supports higher yield potential while lowering input cost. In addition, the product promotes nutrient cycling and soil health which can contribute to long-term productivity and deliver better results for growers.

As growers prepare fall fertility plans. Extract XC offers a practical way to get more from every acre by putting residue nutrients back to work for the next crop.

Tuesday September 02 Ag News - LENRD Meeting Recap - NE NE Corn Growers Meeting - Saunder Co Lvst meeting - NE LEAD Group 44 Announced - NE Extension at HHD - National Pork Board new CEO - and more!

Recap from the August 2025 Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors Meeting
 
At their August 28, 2025, Board Meeting, Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Directors accepted the Scope of Work and Flow Meter Maintenance Agreement from Derek and Austin Becker. This agreement outlines the requirements for the completion of flow meter preventative maintenance services within the District.
 
The LENRD established a program to assist flow meter owners with maintenance of their flow meters after flow meters became a requirement for all irrigation wells as of January 1, 2018. The Beckers rotate through different counties within the District, with each area receiving maintenance services once every five years. The five-year rotation began in the fall of 2018.
 
The inspection and preventative maintenance services include a physical examination and evaluation of proper flow meter installation and operation; removal of the flow meter to evaluate the condition of the propeller and bearings; reinstallation of the meter after greasing its bearings and replacing the saddle gasket; as well as the documentation of all inspection and maintenance findings.
 
On average, about 778 meters are inspected each year. In this newest agreement, maintenance will be conducted in Cedar, Dixon, Knox, Wayne and Thurston counties on approximately 752 meters by April 15, 2026. The contracted amount is $59 per meter.
 
Directors also discussed the 2025 standard variance application process for new groundwater irrigated acres in the District. An Ad-Hoc Variance Committee has been meeting twice a month since April to evaluate and strategize the Standard Variance process in the District.
 
Water Resources Manager, Doug Hallum, explained the process and information used by the Ad-Hoc Variance Committee to make sound decisions on new irrigated acres in the District. The Committee has been evaluating and analyzing data collected from spring water level trends at the 240 locations through the District including Quantity Management Subareas. Committee members have evaluated the trends over the past year, five years, and ten years to help better understand our groundwater. The Committee is still discussing how many acres to approve and plans for the Quantity Management Subareas. 
 
Also at the meeting, Directors authorized an additional 1% increase in restricted funds authority for Fiscal Year 2026 and set the public hearing date to vote on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget and Long Range Plan. The public hearing has been set for Thursday, September 11, 2025, prior to the Committee meeting.
 
To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.



Northeast NE Corn Growers host appreciation night

The Northeast NE Corn Growers Association will hold its 2025 grower appreciation night on Thursday Sept. 4th.  All corn growers, members and friends, are invited to join them for the plot tour at the Schweers Farm, 220 O Road, Wisner NE.  The social starts at 5pm, followed by the plot tour and a supper.  There's also a guest speaker, Jeff Peterson with Heartland Farm Partners, who will talk about navigating the markets.  Questions and RSVP with Mitch at 402-380-4931.  



Nebraska Soybean Board to meet

The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) will hold its next meeting September 3, 2025, at its office located at 4625 Innovation Drive in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Among conducting regular board business, the Board will finalize funding for FY26 proposals and learn about other new opportunities. The meeting is open to the public.

The complete agenda for the meeting is available for inspection on the Nebraska Soybean Board website at www.nebraskasoybeans.org.

The nine-member Nebraska Soybean Board collects and disburses the Nebraska share of funds generated by the one-half of one percent times the net sales price per bushel of soybeans sold. Nebraska soybean checkoff funds are invested in research, education, domestic and foreign markets, including new uses for soybeans and soybean products.



Saunder Co Livestock & Ag Assoc. Outlook Meeting
Dan Kellner, President

Annual Outlook Meeting
Monday, September 8, 2025
4-H Building
Saunders County Fairgrounds
6:30 PM Social Hour
7:00 PM Dinner
Business Meeting to follow

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

Our guest speakers are Casey Potter, with ADM Company Lincoln, NE and Mike Briggs of Briggs Feedyard Seward, NE. Casey will visit with us about the Grain Markets, and Mike will give us his insights into the Cattle Markets. Also, we will have a representative from the Nebraska Soybean Board visit with us regarding check-off information.

A special THANK YOU to those who helped with the summer activities this year. We could not have done it without your help!

You can still pay your 2025 membership dues for this year. Contact one of your directors. If there are any paid members that would like to run for the Board of Directors for the Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association, you have until November 15, 2025, to put your name in. Contact one of the officers, Dan Kellner, Pudge Donahue, Jordan Nelson, or Dave Vrana.



Nebraska LEAD Program Announces Class 44 Fellows

The Nebraska Leadership Education/Action Development (LEAD) Program is pleased to announce the selection of 27 exceptional individuals as Fellows of Nebraska LEAD Class 44. Chosen for their leadership potential, commitment to agriculture and dedication to their communities, these Fellows represent a wide range of backgrounds within Nebraska’s agricultural industry.

Starting this September and over the next two years, Class 44 Fellows will engage in a comprehensive curriculum designed to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their knowledge of state, national and global agricultural issues, all while preparing them to serve as leaders in their communities and industries.

“I am thrilled to welcome this outstanding group of individuals to Nebraska LEAD Class 44,” said Kurtis Harms, Director of the Nebraska LEAD Program. “Nebraska LEAD Class 44 represents the next generation of leaders who will help guide our state forward. These individuals bring unique experiences, perspectives and energy to the program. I’m eager to see how they will grow through this journey and the positive impact they’ll make in their communities and across Nebraska agriculture.”

The Nebraska LEAD Program, now in its 44th year, has a long-standing mission of developing agricultural leaders who are equipped to address the challenges and opportunities facing Nebraska and beyond. Through in-state seminars, a national study experience and an international study/travel seminar, the program provides Fellows with the skills and experiences necessary to lead effectively in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.

Nebraska LEAD 44 Fellows by city/town are:
AINSWORTH: Katie Steffen
ALBION: Jaclyn Frey
AURORA: Amanda Schultz
BASSETT: Erika Coulter
BRIDGEPORT: Alexis Corman
BUTTE: Britanie Brewster
BYRON: Jake Beam
CALLAWAY: Stacey Guthard
CHAMPION: Daniel Hogsett
CLARKS: Tana Pankoke
COLUMBUS: Valerie Bohuslavsky
FUNK: Shane Wohlgemuth
GLENVIL: Kelsey Scheer
HEMINGFORD: Colt Foster
HOWELLS: Justin Morton
KEARNEY: Garrett Elfeldt, Chase Hoffschneider, Camille Koehn
LEIGH: Matthew Cross
LINCOLN: Jacob Schlick, Dillon Kuehn, Katelyn Leibhart
MASON CITY: Sarah Zimmer
MERNA: Brandon Miller
NORTH PLATTE: Trey Bahler
OMAHA: Peter Martin
RED CLOUD: Erin Slieter

The mission of the Nebraska LEAD Program is “to prepare and motivate men and women in agriculture for more effective leadership.” For more information on the program or its mission, visit lead.unl.edu.



Hands-On Learning and Farm Solutions with Nebraska Extension at 2025 Husker Harvest Days

Stop by the “Big Red Building” to explore how the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, along with Nebraska Extension are providing Solutions for On-Farm Risk at the 2025 Husker Harvest Days farm show, located at Lot 827.

From Tuesday, Sept. 9 to Thursday, Sept. 11, Nebraska Extension educators, specialists and other faculty across the state will be ready for your questions and sharing their field-proven experiences with new data-driven research. Discover more about:
    Landscapes and Weather Resilience: Techniques for managing landscapes to withstand extreme weather, including plant selection, irrigation, pruning, and pest management. https://hles.unl.edu/
    Soil Health: Methods for enhancing soil productivity through cover crops, interseeding, and sustainable practices. https://cropwatch.unl.edu/
    Digital Agriculture and Technology: Insights from Nebraska On-Farm Research Network into new digital tools and technologies that improve production and profitability. https://on-farm-research.unl.edu/
    Pest Management — Plant Health: Learn about advanced strategies for pest control that reduce risk. https://pat.unl.edu/
    Health and Wellness: Strategies for maintaining physical and mental well-being amid the demands of farm life. https://ruralwellness.unl.edu/
    Manure Management: Best practices for integrating manure into farming for better soil health and reduced use of synthetic fertilizers. https://manure.unl.edu/
    Water Management: Innovative techniques for conserving water resources, including irrigation management and drinking water protection. https://water.unl.edu/
    Livestock Health: Approaches to improving cattle herd productivity through disease prevention, early detection, and proper nutrition. http://beef.unl.edu/
    Rural Prosperity: Support for community leaders and entrepreneurs to promote economic development and vibrant local food systems. https://ruralprosperityne.unl.edu/
    Agricultural Profitability: Resources from the Center for Agricultural Profitability to aid in financial decision-making for securing the future of farming operations. http://cap.unl.edu/
    Leadership Development: Information on the Nebraska LEAD Program, which prepares agricultural leaders for industry challenges. http://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. http://4h.unl.edu, https://ncta.unl.edu/, https://casnr.unl.edu/
    AgrAbility: Learn how they can help individuals with disabilities overcome barriers to continue in their chosen agricultural profession. Located in the Health and Wellness Tent. https://agrability.unl.edu/

Crop Skills Challenge at Lot #928
Located just south of the Big Red Building, this interactive event will pit participants against each other, not just in physical farm skills, but more in skills between the ears in crop production. This year, participants will be challenged on a virtual Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) competition, insect feeding and herbicide injury identification. Participants will also have the chance to try their hand at setting siphon tubes, a spray table demo, and a 3D google sprayer experience. 

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

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

We all look forward to seeing and visiting with all HHD participants!



I-29 Moo University webinar On September 16 To Manure Scoring To See How Cows Are Working With Their Diets

The I-29 Moo University Dairy Webinar Series continues Tuesday, September 16 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. CDT, focusing on manure scoring with Dr. Mary Beth Hall.

Dr. Hall, owner of The Cows Are Always Right dairy consulting business, she counsels with producers to improve feeding and profitability. She was formerly with the USDA-ARS U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center in Wisconsin.

Her program on Tuesday, September 16, “Manure Evaluation for Reading Your Cows: It Doesn’t Just Happen” will focus on what we see when we walk herds, we see manure. Did you ever consider that the way manure looks and what is in it could tell you about how the cows are working with their diets? In this presentation She’ll discuss how rumen and gut function can change manure characteristics, what those changes look like, and how evaluation of manure, feeds, diets, cow performance, and management can be brought together to look for ways to improve herd performance.

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

 For more information, contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; or in South Dakota, Maristela Rovai, 605-688-5488.



Forage Webinar Series Continues September 17

The I-29 Moo University and the Northern Plains Forage Association Forage Webinar Series continues Wednesday, September 17 from 7 to 8:30 pm CDT with a variety of forage topics including an overview of controlling weeds in hay, alfalfa quality trends and the monthly hay market outlook.

Presenters include.

Dr. Wess Everman, Assistant Professor and Extension Weed Scientist Specialist came to Iowa State University by way of North Carolina State University where he spent the last 13 years as professor and extension weed specialist. There he conducted research and extension activities, finding economical solutions to the growing problem of herbicide resistance in weeds. He will discuss getting a handle on weeds in hay, both identification and controlling.

Jeff Jackson, Alfalfa & Forage Specialist at CROPLAN by WinField- Land O Lakes, will discuss new advancements in alfalfa, plant health and winer hardiness to help cattle producers improve their operations.

Luke Schubert, Owner and auctioneer with Schubert Auction Service in Pierz, Minnesota. He will share his insights on the hay market he sees along the I-29 Corridor.

There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, registration is required at least one hour prior to the webinar. Register online at: https://go.iastate.edu/FORAGESEPTEMBER2025

 For more information contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; or in South Dakota, Sara Bauder, 605-995-7378; or in Nebraska Ben Beckman, 402-254-6821.



National Pork Board taps David Newman to lead the organization as CEO

The National Pork Board (NPB), the producer-led and consumer-focused national Pork Checkoff organization, has named David Newman the organization’s new CEO effective September 1, 2025. Newman most recently served as NPB’s senior vice president of market growth. He joined the organization full-time in June 2023. 

“After a thorough and thoughtful nationwide executive search process, we have found an exceptional and dedicated leader in agriculture to take the organization representing America’s nearly 60,000 pork producers into the future,” said Gordon Spronk, a Minnesota pig farmer, swine veterinarian and NPB’s board president. “David is no stranger to the pork industry. He has proven himself to be leadership-oriented, producer-focused and outcomes-driven when it comes to ensuring the pork industry is addressing the challenges and opportunities ahead of us. On behalf of the board, we have confidence in his character and capability to lead the organization, staff and industry into a productive and powerful next season for pork.” 

Newman was previously a member of the NPB board of directors, serving as the board’s president for two terms in 2020 and 2021. He has also served as a member of the U.S. Meat Export Federation executive committee. Before joining NPB as staff, Newman received a doctorate in meat and animal science from North Dakota State University. He was also a faculty member at NDSU and later at Arkansas State University, serving as a leader in meat science programs and swine research, where he focused his academic work on meat quality. Along with his family, Newman owns and operates Newman Family Farms based in Myrtle, Missouri.

“It’s a privilege to work for and on behalf of pork producers,” said Newman. “We make a flavorful, nutritious product that is beloved by millions of people across the globe. Producers can be proud of that, and of the work their checkoff is doing to drive demand with new generations of consumers, ensure we have a healthy swine herd and help the industry anticipate and adapt to change. I am honored to be named CEO of the National Pork Board and to continue serving pork producers and the industry in an even greater capacity going forward.”

The NPB board appointed a committee in April to conduct the CEO search and represent a cross-section of pork industry expertise and perspectives. The committee was led by past NPB board president Al Wulfekuhle, a pig farmer from Iowa. The robust national search process included support from Kincannon & Reed, one of the nation’s leading global executive search firms focused on the food and agribusiness industry.

“I’m grateful to the selection committee for their time and commitment to serve pig farmers and help us determine the next leader of the National Pork Board,” said Spronk. “As a board, we have confidence in NPB staff continuing the great work that is already underway to deliver the goals in our strategic plan. In the fortieth year since the founding of the National Pork Board, the board and its officers, the new CEO and the NPB staff are well positioned to meet the needs of the next generation of our nation’s pork producers.”



USMEF Statement on National Pork Board CEO Announcement

The National Pork Board announced the appointment of David Newman, Ph.D., as its new chief executive officer. U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued the following statement:

The National Pork Board has made an outstanding choice, and USMEF congratulates Dr. Newman on his appointment. USMEF has had numerous opportunities to work with Dr. Newman in his many pork industry leadership roles, so we know firsthand the expertise and experience he brings to this role. Dr. Newman knows the importance of both international and domestic demand for U.S. pork, and that it is critical to maximize both. We look forward to working closely with him and the entire Pork Board team to deliver value for U.S. producers. 



NPPC & Other Stakeholders Work With EPA to Stifle Burdensome Wastewater Decision
 
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s longstanding Meat and Poultry (MPP) Effluent Guidelines and Standards will stand, as EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that proposed changes to the regulation are unnecessary. In reaching its decision, EPA determined existing federal wastewater regulations under the Clean Water Act are effective and the burdens that proposed changes would inflict on meat and poultry processors are unwarranted.

Duane Stateler, National Pork Producers Council President and pork producer from McComb, Ohio, said “The National Pork Producers Council applauds the Trump administration and EPA Administrator Zeldin for taking a commonsense approach on the Meat & Poultry Processing Rule. As proposed by the previous administration, this rule—which provides no environmental benefits—would have been devastating to small- and medium-sized meat processors across the country and the livestock farmers who rely on them as markets for their animals. EPA’s action will save not only the nearly 100 local meat processors that EPA itself identified would have to close down but also the thousands of family farmers who rely on them to stay in livestock production, and it will help ensure affordable, nutritious American-grown pork can continue to be served on dinner tables across the country.”

The decision closes the book on a nearly two-year comment and consideration process in which the National Pork Producers Council and other stakeholders have worked with EPA to better inform the agency’s decision and preempt unnecessary harm. The more-stringent permitting guidelines under CWA would have packed a significant punch for meat processors, requiring them to upgrade facilities and install costly new wastewater treatment technologies, impacting meat and poultry packing and processing plants nationwide. EPA’s own internal analysis showed that dozens of facilities, likely small and medium-sized, would be unable to afford these changes and shut down. Overall, the industry would have realized additional costs estimated at greater than $1 billion a year.

EPA first enacted the Meat and Poultry Products Effluent Guidelines and Standards in 1974 and amended the regulation, which covers wastewater directly discharged by processing facilities, in 2004. The proposed amendment would have established more stringent technological requirements for controlling discharges from processors and significantly increased the scope of plants that were covered by the rules. 

While the agricultural industry and the meat and poultry processing sectors support clean water efforts, EPA found these expansions were unnecessary. NPPC appreciates EPA taking no action on the proposal, which would have disrupted packing capacity and livestock markets, in turn inflicting additional financial harm on producers and leading to further industry concentration and the loss of independent farmers.



Meat Institute: EPA Provides Regulatory Relief to Meat & Poultry Companies;
Protects Consumers, Famers & Ranchers

The Meat Institute today applauded President Donald Trump’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for stopping costly changes to wastewater regulations that would have closed meat and poultry processing facilities, driving up the cost of food, killing jobs and hurting rural economies.

“This important decision by Administrator Zeldin ends a regulatory disaster that would have forced meat processing facilities to close, causing food prices to go up and hardship for livestock and poultry producers,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “We are grateful for the swift action of the Trump Administration to put the consumer first and eliminate burdensome regulations that destroy jobs.”

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin signed a final action withdrawing proposed revisions to the EPA’s Meat and Poultry Products Effluent Limitations Guidelines (ELG) for wastewater discharged by meat and poultry processing (MPP) and rendering facilities.  Last amended in 2004, the meat and poultry ELGs currently apply to about 180 of the estimated 5,300 meat and poultry facilities nationwide. EPA estimated between 845 and 1,620 facilities would be subject to and incur costs should the proposed ELGs become final. 

To protect small and medium sized meat and poultry processors most likely affected by these changes, the Meat Institute joined the Meat and Poultry Products Industry Coalition which is made up of the Meat Institute, National Chicken Council, National Pork Producers Council, National Turkey Federation, North American Renderers Association and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association.

The Meat and Poultry Products Industry Coalition commissioned an economic impact analysis that found the Agency grossly underestimated the number of facility closures should the proposed guidelines be enacted from the 16 sites in the EPA estimate to 74 sites.

The projected number of near-term job losses associated with these facility closures would increase from nearly 17,000 that EPA estimates in the proposal to over thirty thousand to nearly 80,000 direct job losses from plant closures.

The proposed rule would have also harmed the relationship between MPPs and publicly-owned treatment works (POTWs). Indirect discharging MPP facilities often make significant financial investments in maintaining and upgrading the POTW or shouldering major surcharges for the POTW’s continued operation and maintenance, which reduce public treatment costs for residential ratepayers and improve the quality of local and downstream waters.

“In January, the Meat Institute called on the Trump Administration to roll back onerous regulations that would reduce the upward pressure on the cost of food, said Potts. “Three of those top priorities to protect consumers have been addressed with today’s news demonstrating President Trump’s commitment to ending the damaging and inflationary policies of the Biden Administration.”



Purina Animal Nutrition Unveils Second Edition of the Beef-on-Dairy Industry Report

Purina Animal Nutrition has unveiled the second edition of its Beef-on-Dairy Industry Report, offering producers an in-depth look at the evolving role of beef-on-dairy cattle in the U.S. beef supply chain.

The updated report features the latest data, market analysis and research-backed practices for improving beef-on-dairy outcomes from genetics and nutrition to on-farm management and marketing strategies.

Contributors include leading experts Patrick Linnell, CattleFax; Dr. Ruth Woiwode, University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Dr. Michael Steele, University of Guelph; Dr. Ty Lawrence, West Texas A&M University; Dr. Daniel Thomson, Production Animal Consultation, LLC; Bruce Cobb, Certified Angus Beef; and industry consultant Nevil Speer, alongside Purina Animal Nutrition and Land O’Lakes experts Dr. Tom Earleywine and Laurence Williams.

“Beef-on-dairy cattle now account for 12-15% of fed cattle slaughter, creating a steady source of quality beef at a time when native beef numbers are tight,” says Laurence Williams, beef-on-dairy development for Purina Animal Nutrition. “With intentional genetics, nutrition and management, this group of cattle can deliver consistent quality to consumers while adding lasting value throughout the supply chain.”

The Beef-on-Dairy Industry Report can be downloaded at purinamills.com/dairy-beef. 



Checkoff Launches Dairy Health Innovation Contest for Students

Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) is now accepting entries for its 2026 New Product Competition, inviting undergraduate and graduate students across the U.S. to develop innovative dairy-based products that meet today’s consumer demands for bone and muscle health and weight management.

This annual contest challenges students to create forward-thinking products that showcase the power and versatility of dairy in promoting health and wellness. The deadline for entries is Jan. 12.

As consumers increasingly seek functional foods to support active and healthy lifestyles, dairy’s nutrient-rich profile presents a major opportunity. The competition encourages students to tap into current industry and consumer insights, aiming to bring fresh dairy-based concepts to market.

Products should target one or more of the following benefits:
· Bone Health
· Muscle Health
· Weight Management

"This competition is about more than innovation – it's about preparing the next generation of food and dairy leaders to respond to evolving consumer needs with dairy at the center," said Dr. Rohit Kapoor, vice president of product research at DMI.

Finalists will have their entries evaluated by a panel of industry experts and will be recognized at the 2026 American Dairy Science Association Annual Meeting, June 21-24 in Milwaukee, Wisc.

Cash prizes will be awarded, including:
· Platinum Dairy Innovator Award – $10,000 (1st place)
· Gold Dairy Innovator Award – $7,000 (2nd place)
· Silver Dairy Innovator Award – $4,000 (3rd place)
· Dairy Innovator Awards – $2,000 each (for three additional teams completing Phase 2)

To learn more about product criteria and marketplace insights, view the “2026 Challenge: Consumer and Marketplace Insights” at USDairy.com.

For contest rules and entry details, visit www.usdairy.com/research-resources/new-product-competition and for questions, contact Kapoor at rohit.kapoor@dairy.org 



John Deere Acquires GUSS Automation to Strengthen High-Value Crop Autonomy Portfolio

John Deere (NYSE: DE) announced today the full acquisition of GUSS Automation, LLC, a globally recognized leader in supervised high-value crop autonomy, headquartered in Kingsburg, California. The acquisition builds on an existing joint venture established in 2022 and advances John Deere’s commitment to helping high-value crop growers address their biggest challenges around labor availability, input costs and crop protection.

“Fully integrating GUSS into the John Deere portfolio is a continuation of our dedication to serving high-value crop customers with advanced, scalable technologies to help them do more with less,” said Julien Le Vely, director, Production Systems, High Value & Small Acre Crops, at John Deere. “GUSS brings a proven solution to a fast-growing segment of agriculture, and its team has a deep understanding of customer needs in orchards and vineyards. We’re excited to have them fully part of the John Deere team.”

Founded by Dave Crinklaw in 2018, GUSS manufactures autonomous sprayers that can be remotely supervised by a single operator who can manage up to eight machines at once. Using GPS, LiDAR and proprietary software, GUSS machines navigate vineyards and orchards with precision to help reduce operator error, labor costs and material waste. To date, more than 250 GUSS machines have been deployed globally, accounting for 2.6 million acres sprayed over 500,000 autonomous hours.

GUSS sprayers will continue to be sold and serviced exclusively through John Deere dealers, as they are today. The business will retain its name, brand, employees and manufacturing facility in Kingsburg, California.

John Deere will support GUSS in expanding its global reach and accelerating innovation, including continued integration with other John Deere precision agriculture technologies, such as Smart Apply®, which enables targeted spraying that offers the opportunity for up to 50% savings on chemical and water use.

“Joining John Deere enables us to tap into their unmatched innovative capabilities in precision agriculture technologies to bring our solutions to more growers around the world,” said Gary Thompson, chief operations officer at GUSS. “Our team is passionate about helping high-value crop growers increase their efficiency and productivity in their operations, and together with John Deere, we will have the ability to have an even greater impact.” 

GUSS’ manufacturing operations expand John Deere’s U.S. manufacturing footprint to the heart of the country’s high-value crop production market. GUSS sprayers will continue to use John Deere Power Systems engines, first integrated in 2024.