Top Stories
U.S. Export Sales Report (3-12-26)
Once again, the export sales for corn and soybeans tell two different stories. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the corn sales had yet another strong week. Soybeans, on the other hand, have seen disappointing sales in four of the last five weeks. However, there may be an opportunity for some additional soybean sales. Cargill in Brazil has halted its exports of soybeans to China due to phytosanitary restrictions. McBride said China has made requests for stricter rules before. While...
Reaching the limits of feeding cattle to heavier finishing weights
The total number of beef cattle in the United States is at the lowest level since the 1950s. To make up for the lack of beef cattle while still producing the necessary amount of beef for consumer demand, the cattle industry is feeding cattle to heavier weights. Eric...
The proof of pork demand is in consumer data
The National Pork Board has a comprehensive business intelligence team analyzing data throughout the supply chain, including consumer preference, volume, value, and purchase trends. Kiersten Hafer, NPB vice president of business intelligence and innovation, said they...
Beef, most fertilizers exempt from new tariffs
A new ten percent U.S. tariff on goods from around the world took effect on Tuesday. Meatingplace said a list of tariff exemptions included beef, some fertilizers, and metals like steel and aluminum that are already under Section 232 national security tariffs. The ten...
Mental health pressure builds for Iowa farmers but help exists
As agriculture heads toward another challenging season, rural health professionals say the mental strain on farmers continues to grow. Market uncertainty, weather concerns, and long hours can weigh heavily on producers. While conversations around mental health have...
Feenstra discusses plans to make Iowa “the most ag and business-friendly state”
It’s no secret that we are navigating an exceptionally difficult farm economy. Many farmers, particularly at the smaller level, are facing tough decisions on whether or not they can even operate for another year. Iowa Congressman Randy Feenstra is running for...
Planted acres projections reflect cautious farm economy
USDA economists predict some shifting crop acres as farmers continue to face a difficult economy. As crop farmers prepare to plant their corn, soybeans, or wheat in 2026, many are making decisions with the current farm economy in mind. Faith Parum, an economist for...
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More Ag News
House Ag Committee beginning farm bill markup this week
After another delay- this time due to the weather- the House Ag Committee will begin the markup process for the next farm bill. With so much outdated legislation, Congress has their work cut out for them to modernize the top ag policy. Iowa Congressman Randy Feenstra...
USMEF thanks corn and soybean farmers at Commodity Classic
Commodity Classic saw record attendance in San Antonio last week with more than 12,000 attendees representing the agriculture industry. The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) has been a longtime participant in the event’s trade show and had an expanded presence in...
Offering growers added flexibility and weather protection
Short stature corn hybrids have gained traction in recent years as an alternative to the traditional corn crop. The Preceon™ smart corn system from Bayer touts some unique benefits that improve on traditional corn. Lindsay Battle of Bayer tells the Iowa Agribusiness...
National Ethanol Conference celebrates a record 2025
Speaking at the National Ethanol Conference in Orlando, Florida, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper celebrated a record year in 2025 for the industry. He also strongly urged Congress and the White House to fully unleash American ethanol to...
Iowa Corn details Corn Congress outcomes
The Iowa Corn Growers Association joined in this year’s National Corn Growers Association Corn Congress and wrapped up with several policy decisions finalized, and others sent back for additional review. ICGA President Mark Mueller says one late development involved a...
