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Farmers already expect higher breakeven prices in 2027
The Purdue University/CME Group's Ag Economy Barometer declined in April as economic uncertainty caused a dip in farmer optimism for the future of their operations. Michael Langemeier, director of Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture, says that corn growers are doing the math and expect even higher breakeven prices during the 2027 growing season. Despite the dip in the ag economy barometer and tightening margins for producers, many respondents to the survey indicated that they...
Secretary Naig presents 2026 Ag Leader Awards for outstanding contributions to Iowa agriculture
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig recognized one individual and two organizations that have made exceptional contributions to the continued success, resilience, and growth of Iowa agriculture during the 14th Annual Iowa Ag Leaders Dinner held on March 30 in...
Nitrogen ROI matters more in 2026
With tighter crop margins forcing farmers to scrutinize every input dollar this season, nitrogen management remains one of the biggest opportunities to protect return on investment. Ron Calhoun with Nutrien says the focus is not simply cutting nitrogen, but improving...
Taking the guesswork out of fungicide applications
Figuring out when to apply fungicide can be a difficult task. There are certain things farmers can look for, but, overall, it remains mostly as an educated guess. Pioneer has a new tool that will help eliminate that guesswork and maximize yield potential. Trent Brisby...
Ecuador agrees to reciprocal trade agreement with U.S.
On March 13, Ecuador became the ninth country to sign an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the United States. The agreement will take some time to implement, but once in place it will remove both tariff and non-tariff barriers for U.S. beef and pork exports. U.S....
IDALS awards 30 value-added Choose Iowa grants
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has awarded 30 Choose Iowa Value-Added Grants to Iowa farmers, small businesses, and organizations located across the state. Grant recipients were...
Farm bill uncertainty persists as lawmakers debate key ag policies
Uncertainty surrounding the next farm bill continues as lawmakers remain divided on several key agricultural and nutrition policy issues. Members of Congress from both parties agree on the need to update farm programs, but disagreements over funding levels, nutrition...
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Farmers have a positive impact on urban health
The crops grown in rural America are having a positive impact on the largest urban areas of the United States. Heather Buechter, director of communications for Clean Fuels Alliance America, said the fuels made from crops like soybeans are significantly improving the...
South American Weather and Crop Update (4-7-26)
There’s plenty of rain in the forecasts for Brazil and Argentina. Even though that rain can get in the way of planting and harvest progress, the crops that are pollinating will enjoy the moisture. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest...
Examining the efforts to combat New World Screwworm
Beef supplies remain extremely low in the United States and beef prices at the grocery store and meat counter are sky high. One of the contributing factors to high prices for beef is the closed Mexico-United States border, which has stopped the importation of Mexican...
Secretary Naig invites students to enter the 2026 Choose Iowa Calendar Contest
As part of Iowa’s America250 celebration, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is inviting school-aged Iowa students to participate in the 2026 Choose Iowa Calendar Contest. Choose Iowa is the state’s signature brand for Iowa grown, made, and raised food, beverages...
Nutrient efficiency key in tight margin year
As growers continue making crop input decisions for the 2026 season, fertilizer return on investment remains one of the biggest priorities, especially on rented acres. Keith Byerly with Mosaic says growers want confidence that every dollar spent on crop nutrition...
