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RFA blames divided oil industry for no year-round E15 deal
The Renewable Fuels Association says that a deal on year-round E15 access could have crossed the finish line if not for infighting between a divided oil industry. Renewable Fuels Association Senior Vice-President Troy Bredenkamp says most of the oil industry was on board with a proposal agreed to with the American Petroleum Institute. This was the latest setback for year-round E15 legislation which has garnered a lot of support from ag groups and legislators but has yet to be passed by...
Retailers plans for feature protein deals for grilling season
As we are now in the heart of the summer grilling season, consumers are busy studying their weekly store fliers and ads for some featured deals in the meat section. USDA livestock analyst Michael McConnell explains an advertising method used by groceries and retailers...
Pushing to update conservation processes in Iowa
With the current restrictions on water usage in the Des Moines metro, water conservation practices are at the forefront of discussion. While we have many new practices that offer plenty of benefits for farmers and the nearby waterways, it can be difficult to make...
Iowa specialty crop growers can take advantage of new USDA funds
America’s specialty crop growers often face challenges that are unique to their segment of agriculture. As a result, the USDA recently started doling out funds earmarked for specialty crop growers. John Walt Boatright, director of government affairs for the American...
Grills and gatherings spotlight Iowa agriculture
Summer in Iowa means more than just sunshine and warm weather — it’s a season packed with hometown festivals, bustling county fairs, and backyard barbecues. From Main Street parades to pork chops on the grill, these events celebrate the best of Iowa communities and...
Big Beautiful Bill receives final approval from U.S. House
President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill is done and headed the Independence Day signing that he was looking for. After a lengthy process, farmers will now get updated reference prices; improved crop insurance, livestock, and trade programs; and key tax breaks. House...
Grassley says reconciliation bill contains “key wins for farmers”
On Thursday the United States House of Representatives passed the reconciliation bill by a vote of 218-214. The bill was unchanged from the Senate’s version which passed earlier in the week. United States Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) opened his weekly conference call...
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Cooperative Iowa weather has led to rapid crop growth
This year’s weather has been mostly outstanding for the crops, and that is easy to see when you look at your nearest corn and soybean fields. Too much rapid growth can cause problems, however, and Iowa farmers are seeing that this year. David Hoy, northeast Iowa...
Grassley sees Section 301 as back-up if courts block Trump tariffs
Brazil has been a hot topic in United States ag policy in recent months, and United States Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) says that is justified. Senator Grassley says that the Section 301 probe just launched against Brazil is needed in case President Trump’s tariffs,...
South American Weather and Crop Update (8-20-25)
It’s been dry for so long in South America that it’s almost time already for the next planting season. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather conditions in Brazil and Argentina. McBride said harvest in Brazil is getting close to...
Oil group challenges Trump plan to cut biofuel import credits
A top U.S. oil trade group is opposing a government proposal to cut incentives for biofuel imports. The group joined multiple organizations in pushing back against the administration’s resolve to keep the policy in the months ahead. The criticism will force the Trump...
Wehrbein: Market highs bring relief and uncertainty
Last week, we visited with NCBA President Buck Wehrbein about his outlook for the future of agriculture. Today, we continue that discussion, focusing on some of the issues cattle producers are closely watching — from strong but complicated markets to animal health...
