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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...
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...
AI and precision technology gain momentum on U.S. dairy farms
Artificial intelligence and precision technology are playing a growing role on U.S. dairy farms as producers seek greater efficiency and ways to manage ongoing labor shortages. Dairy cooperatives and technology firms say AI-driven tools can track milk production,...
Fertilizer outlook for the 2026 growing season
In what could be a very early season for anhydrous rigs in the Midwest good news is scarce on the fertilizer front. That is according to Josh Linville, vice president of fertilizer for StoneX, who has been keeping a close eye on the price of nitrogen during the winter...
Iowa livestock producers urged to plan ahead for fly season
As warmer weather approaches, livestock producers may be looking ahead to fly season and considering management strategies that go beyond simply treating adult flies. Many experts say early planning and integrated approaches can help reduce pressure before populations...
Congress will have increased oversight over the president’s latest tariffs
The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled 6–3 that IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act) does not authorize the president to impose tariffs. This invalidates all tariffs based solely on IEEPA. Following the ruling the administration pivoted to Section 122...
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....
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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...
BASF introduces new low carbon intensity crops
With current proposed 45Z tax credit framework, common agricultural practices like cover crops, reduced tillage, and nutrient management may impact the carbon intensity (CI) of the crops that are raised as feedstock. However, inconsistent data collection methods,...
USDA Secretary Rollins provides update on U.S.-Mexico border closure
On Thursday at the Commodity Classic farm show in San Antonio Texas, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins provided an update on the U.S.-Mexico border which remains closed for the importation of cattle from Mexico. Feeder cattle from Mexico remain unable to cross the border...
U.S. Export Sales Report (2-27-26)
For as good as the export sales have been recently- especially for this time of year- they were bound to have a down week eventually. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the corn export sales were weaker this time around. Soybeans saw lower sales as well, but...
Farm incomes drop despite abundant harvests
Farm incomes generally decreased across the Federal Reserve Bank’s Ninth District. That’s according to lenders responding to the fourth quarter Ag Credit Survey by the Minneapolis Fed. Lenders also reported that purchases of capital inputs fell, though farm household...
