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Using soil tests to adjust nutrient applications in 2026
When it comes to having a successful crop season, soil nutrition is key. But it’s not just about having the proper nutrients in the soil- farmers need to focus on making sure those nutrients are available to the crops at the right time. Derek Emerine, national agronomist for Helena Agri-Enterprises, said soil and plant tissue tests can help farmers make proper adjustments to their crop nutrition programs. Emerine said most farmers are already diligent about maintaining the proper levels for...
USDA launches final phase of 2025 ag resource management study
Beginning later this month, the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will spend several months gathering information about farm economics from farmers and ranchers throughout the U.S. The agency will be conducting its third and final phase of the 2025...
Impacts of Argentina’s export tax cut
It was recently announced that Argentina cut its export tax by 2%, which creates even more of a price gap with U.S. soybean prices. However, the global demand situation is too complex to trade just on prices alone. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the...
Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act nearing finish line
A key piece of legislation aimed at growing healthier kids in American classrooms took a big step toward becoming law. Both legislative chambers have now passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, meaning the bill is nearly across the finish line. Danny Munch, an...
Fertility management takes priority as margins tighten
Farmers heading into the next growing season are facing a familiar challenge. Input costs remain elevated, margins are tight, and uncertainty in the broader economy continues to weigh on nearly every decision made on the farm. In an environment like this, agronomists...
Syngenta’s PLINAZOLIN technology receives EPA registration
Syngenta recently announced that PLINAZOLIN technology- the latest insect control tool- received official registration from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The technology is now available for use, subject to state approvals. PLINAZOLIN technology powers...
South American Weather and Crop Update (12-16-25)
As the markets start to focus more on the weather in South America, farmers are just finishing planting the next crops. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said there is a good amount of dryness in the forecast for Brazil. McBride said the conditions are similar...
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ICA heading into 2026 with plenty of optimism
Cattle producers from across the state recently gathered in Altoona for the annual Iowa Cattle Industry Convention. This year’s gathering had one of the highest attendance numbers from both producers and industry-leading companies. Iowa Cattlemen’s Association CEO...
USDA finalizes stage two of Supplemental Disaster Relief Program
Eligible farmers and ranchers are now invited to apply for specific disaster relief. The American Relief Act, passed in late 2024, authorized the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, and applications for farmers and ranchers are now open. Danny Munch, an economist...
Soybean marketplace remains quiet despite positive export news
Despite good news for the soybean complex in terms of export demand this week, the markets have not responded with bullish price movement. China has secured at least seven million tons of U.S. soybeans after multiple purchases during the past two weeks. That puts...
Ethanol production hits another record high
The Energy Information Administration said ethanol output jumped to a new record high in the seven days ending on December 12. U.S. production rose to an average of 1.131 million barrels a day, which the agency said is up from 1.105 million the previous week and...
ASA’s Ragland says farmers facing a thousand cuts
Soybean farmers have been battling more than slow demand and market uncertainty this year. The cost of doing business has climbed steadily, pushed higher by tariffs, input inflation, and the ripple effects of a prolonged trade war. American Soybean Association...
