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250 years of agriculture transformed America
250 years of agriculture has transformed America through innovation and marketing to industrial development and mass production. American agriculture was not just transformed by America, but it helped to transform America says retired Smithsonian Institution curator Peter Liebhold. Liebhold says it all began with marketing. Liebhold says the next step for agriculture was standardized weights, measures, and quality. The late 1800s and early 1900s saw innovation play a big role in the industry....
A strong knowledge base is key to navigating a difficult economy
As the threat of potential tariffs looms, the economic outlook is uncertain. Many people are attempting to make financial plans that will hopefully help navigate market volatility. However, Matt Roberts, chief planning officer at Syverson Strege, said a disciplined...
Mild Iowa winter could lead to insect pressure
Despite the recent snowfall and extreme cold, the state of Iowa is in the midst of a relatively mild winter by Iowa’s standards. While day-to-day life is helped by mild winter weather, it can also have negative knock-on effects for the 2025 growing season. Adrienne...
Legislation would allow year-round E15 sale
Senators Chuck Grassley and Deb Fischer of Iowa, both Senate Ag Committee members, reintroduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025. The legislation is currently the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleash the power of E15, which would...
Farmers must understand macroeconomy to secure their future
For generations, farmers have focused on weather patterns, soil health, and market prices, but today, they realize that the broader macroeconomy plays a crucial role in their success. Interest rates, inflation, and global trade policies now shape everything from input...
South American Weather and Crop Update (2-18-25)
While the dry weather in Brazil is still helping out with harvest progress, it will create problems for the second crop corn that is being planted right behind the combines if it persists for too long. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the...
Future of Food for Peace program uncertain without USAID
Food for Peace, a 70-year-old program that was signed into law by President Eisenhower and championed by Kansas Senator Bob Dole, is now in question as President Trump moves to dismantle USAID over concerns of alleged corruption and mismanagement. Looking to save Food...
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GROWMARK invests in future ag professionals
Fifty-five students across the U.S. and Ontario, Canada, have been awarded $2,000 scholarships through the GROWMARK Foundation, supporting their pursuit of degrees in agriculture or business-related fields. Nearly 805 students applied for the competitive program, with...
Second B99 biodiesel terminal in the nation unveiled in Des Moines
Through a collaborative effort and innovation involving ag groups and agribusiness, the first B99 biodiesel terminal in Iowa was unveiled today in Des Moines. The B99 terminal is located at the Pilot's Des Moines travel center and is one of only two B99 retail pumps...
New campaign against Prop 12 begins
The Center for Environment and Welfare launched a new educational campaign urging Congress to stop the far-reaching consequences of California’s Proposition 12. The Center calls it an “overreaching law” that’s driving up U.S. grocery prices. The “Food Price Fix”...
Food Bank of Iowa appoints familiar face as new CEO
After a nearly six-month national search, the Food Bank of Iowa has appointed a familiar face to be its next president and CEO. Since joining the Food Bank of Iowa in 2016, Tami Nielsen has held several important roles and helped to build many valuable relationships...
NRCS celebrating 90 years and looking ahead to future
The Natural Resources Conservation Service recently celebrated 90 years of protecting soil health and serving farmers to do so. However, they aren’t resting on their laurels. Aubrey Bettencourt, NRCS Chief, said connecting with farmers is something they talk about a...
