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Central Iowa farmer experimenting with cover crops
As we learn more about the benefits of cover crops, we’ve seen increased adoption of them across the state. One farm in Boone is even applying those cover crops to a different product: pumpkins. Jeremy Gustafson, a member of Practical Farmers of Iowa, gave a tour of his farm and how he uses cover crops at a recent PFI Field Day. Gustafson said PFI has been very helpful with information about adopting cover crops, and they even helped him get a start on his cover crop seed business with the...
Examining the operating expense ratio
The operating expense ratio is a tool that farmers can utilize to determine the financial efficiency of their grain farms. Gerald Mashange, an agricultural economist at the University of Illinois, explains how the operating expense ratio is calculated. Mashange says...
Vaccinating birds against HPAI poses trade and logistical challenges
The war on avian influenza may soon include vaccines for birds. However, there are challenges to a nationwide vaccination strategy. USDA is investing significant resources to fight Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, including $100 million into research and development...
Bessent signals optimism as U.S./China trade talks stall in public
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in an interview with CNBC, expressed optimism that “substantial progress” in U.S./China trade negotiations could be achieved in the coming weeks. However, the overall status of talks remains uncertain, with public statements from both...
2025 World Pork Expo right around the corner
The 2025 World Pork Expo is right around the corner, set for early June in Des Moines, Iowa, and it promises to once again bring together pork producers, industry leaders, and ag enthusiasts from across the country. National Pork Producers Council President Duane...
Caitlin Clark Foundation and Hy-Vee donate over $300k to Feeding America
Today, Hy-Vee and the Caitlin Clark Foundation presented a donation of $300,802.85 to Feeding America at the Food Bank of Iowa. The donation, which is the result of a round-up campaign held across all Hy-Vee stores this past March, will provide three million meals to...
South American Weather and Crop Update (5-6-25)
While the weather is nice and clear in South America, it’s still notably dry. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the weather is supportive for harvest progress in the short term, but the dryness could become concerning if it continues for too long. As it has...
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More Ag News
NCBA applauds introduction of STOP Screwworms Act
Legislative action is being taken as the threat posed by New World screwworm continues to increase. Earlier this week, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association joined affiliate state associations to urge Congress to pass the STOP Screwworms Act. NCBA Senior Vice...
A bipartisan farm bill helps all Iowans
The farm bill carries a legacy of bipartisanship with both sides of aisle routinely working together to pass the bill that affects all Americans. However, in recent years partisan lines have been drawn in the sand with each side of the aisle unwilling to budge from...
Iowa State University researchers discover new SCN vulnerability
A study co-authored by an Iowa State University (ISU) professor has identified a new vulnerability in the signals that cyst nematodes- in particular, soybean cyst nematodes (SCN)- use to infect plant roots. This could prove to be a potent method for reducing damage...
Iowa State northern research farm to celebrate new facility and 95 years
AMES, Iowa – An open house will recognize a new research and extension facility as well as the 95th anniversary of Iowa State University’s Northern Research and Demonstration Farm. ISU research and demonstration farms are dedicated to finding solutions for Iowans’...
Pork supports affordable & balanced diets
Nutrition and dietary guidelines are back on the front burner in Washington, as policymakers revisit how federal recommendations shape school meals, food programs, and consumer habits. The renewed focus is drawing attention from both producers and consumers, who are...
