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U.S. farmers turn to specialty crops as profit margins tighten
Some U.S. farmers are turning to specialty crops and alternative enterprises as low commodity prices and high input costs squeeze traditional farm profits. Extension specialists say interest is rising in wine grapes, specialty grains, produce and agritourism ventures. On-farm processing and direct-to-consumer sales are also drawing attention as farmers look to diversify income streams. USDA data show fertilizer, fuel and equipment costs remain elevated, while corn and soybean prices have...
Solving issues for livestock producers with Farmers Business Network
The Farmers Business Network tent at the 2022 Farm Progress Show in Boone has been a hub of activity this week with presentations, exhibits, and one on one conversations designed to help farmers gather information and be more efficient with their operations.Eric...
USDA updates crop insurance plans to broaden access
The Department of Agriculture is improving two of its most comprehensive risk management safety net programs. USDA announced the improvements Wednesday for the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, and Micro Farm, making them more accessible to farmers. The improvements...
SCN Coalition encourages you to scout for 2023
If you had a major soybean cyst nematode problem in 2022, you cannot say we didn?t warn you. All the way back at Commodity Classic, we talked with the SCN Coalition?s Greg Tylka of Iowa State University about what you needed to do to prevent a heavy infestation of...
Bison are a great story of American agriculture
The bison industry is a unique part of the world of agriculture. The American Bison, whose population once exceeded 30 million animals, was decimated to near extension in the late 19th century. However, the bison now numbers over 400,000 head across North America....
Hinson talks ag innovation at Farm Progress Show
The Farm Progress Show can honestly be considered to be the ?Super Bowl? for the ag industry. Exhibitors from across the nation and the globe travel far to catch this three-day event, which is chock full of new technology and innovative efforts. Iowa 1st District...
BASF and Corteva Agriscience collaborating to improve weed control for soybeans
Monday, August 30th - (Farm Progress Show, Boone IA)BASF and Corteva Agriscience made a joint announcement on Monday that the two companies will combine in a joint effort to develop future herbicide-tolerant soybeans and complementing herbicides.The cross licensing...
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Senate Ag Chair Stabenow talks Farm Bill
Last week, we heard from House Ag Committee Chair G.T. Thompson about where he saw the progress of the Farm Bill that is being renewed this year. He seemed to be in a positive frame of mind that they can get it done. Today, we will continue to get that outlook from...
May WASDE report more bearish than expected
Today?s WASDE report gave us our first look at the new crop balance sheet. While analysts were expecting a bearish report, it somehow managed to still undercut them. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride provided a breakdown of this month?s report.McBride said there...
Better weed control while using less herbicide
A sprayer that provides full weed control but also requires less herbicide is the dream of every grower. Greeneye Technology hopes to provide that combination of full weed control and lower input costs with the 2023 rollout of its spot sprayer system says David Greer...
Advocating for U.S. pork sustainability
Dale Stevermer, Minnesota farmer and National Pork Board member, advocated for U.S. pork sustainability at the G7 Agriculture Ministers? meeting in Japan.?All farmers really want to do what's right for the environment, but we don't want to be mandated what to do or...
House Ag Chair Thompson talks Farm Bill
We are all aware the this is a Farm Bill year. Every five years the biggest piece of agriculture and food security legislation is up for renewal. It also gives Congress a chance to hear from the industry about what is working, what is not, and what needs updating. The...
