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AFBF urges Congress to act on farm economy struggles
The farm economy continues to struggle in 2026, and farm groups are calling on Congress to act. Brian Glenn, director of government affairs for the American Farm Bureau Federation, said many farmers are underwater financially. Glenn said farmers and ranchers are grateful for the economic assistance in the Farmer Bridge Assistance program, but it’s only a first step. The Farm Bureau led a coalition in sending a letter to Congressional leaders outlining the need. Farm Bureau members have sent...
U.S. Export Sales Report (12-25-25)
The USDA is continuing to get us caught up to the latest export sales figures as a result of the government shutdown earlier this year. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the numbers as of December 11th still look great for corn. While the soybean sales have...
Cattle industry reflects on policy wins from 2025
The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association is wrapping up another busy year in the cattle industry. While there were plenty of struggles to overcome in the past twelve months, there are many victories to celebrate as well. ICA Director of Government Affairs Kelli Wicks said...
Now is the time to finally get E15 year-round
E15 is a part of President Donald Trump’s America First energy plan, and it’s time for Congress to pass legislation to allow for its year-round sale. It’s a common-sense solution that lowers costs and the pump and strengthens America’s energy independence. Growth...
Innovations advancing real Christmas tree popularity
Artificial Christmas trees have risen in popularity over the years but innovations in the real Christmas tree industry in the last decade have provided a surge in popularity for the real deal. Christmas tree grower John Tillman of Washington state says recent...
Naig says farmers use crop protection tools responsibly
As Iowa agriculture looks back on 2025 and ahead to 2026, another major topic that shaped conversation this year was the Make America Healthy Again report, often referred to as MAHA. While the report addressed many issues farmers care about, just like consumers do, it...
Lawmakers divided on whether Farm Bill can be passed in 2026
Congressional Republicans plan to revive stalled farm bill negotiations in January after failing to pass a new measure by year’s end, extending uncertainty for farmers facing high costs, inflation and trade disruptions. House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T....
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South American Weather and Crop Update (12-30-25)
As the crops in Brazil enter the critical yield-determining phase, timely rains are finally reentering the forecast. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather forecasts for South America. While the crops are virtually all planted in...
Pork is more than just the flavor of the holidays
Family, food, and flavor are coming together as a winning recipe this holiday season with quality U.S. pork products. By showcasing pork’s versatility, flavor, and cultural relevance, the National Pork Board’s campaign is opening the door to new traditions and fresh...
How to maximize crop nutrition
A consistent theme for row crop farmers in 2025 was dealing with tight margins. As farmers are earning lower dollar amounts for their commodities but fertilizer prices remain high, maximizing crop nutrition is important for all growers. Ross Bender of The Mosaic...
Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above growth neutral
For only the second time in 2025, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above a growth-neutral reading of 50.0. That’s according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in a rural ten-state region dependent on agriculture and energy. The December reading hit 50.1, its...
Rural families struggle with slower postal deliveries
Reliable mail service is not a luxury in rural America. It is a necessity for receiving checks, handling daily business, and getting critical medicine and supplies that many families cannot easily pick up in town. But delays are becoming more common, and the...
