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Rare bug near Iowa prompts field warnings
Profit margins are already razor-thin for many Midwest farmers this year, prompting increased diligence in scouting and early detection of crop threats. With careful planning and proactive crop protection strategies in place, most producers felt prepared for the growing season. But now, an unexpected and rare pest has surfaced — one so uncommon that it falls outside the scope of most treatment plans. Its reappearance is frustrating and raises fresh concerns about how to respond effectively....
Don’t get too comfortable with the current cattle prices
Both the live and feeder cattle markets are experiencing unprecedented price levels. Those levels won’t last forever, though, so it’s important to maintain a level of caution when navigating the marketplace. Ross Baldwin, hedging strategist at AgMarket.Net, said he...
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...
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More Ag News
Warm and dry weather allowed for wide-open planting window
Iowa farmers have been treated to a mostly wide-open window for planting season this year, with warm and dry weather allowing for great working conditions. With most of the crops in the ground, we’re now hoping for some rain- and it looks like those prayers will be...
Trends in first meat export forecast for 2026
USDA has published its initial projections for the 2026 calendar year meat export forecast. World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski says the beef export forecast is down, due to tightening beef supplies. On the other hand, pork and broiler export...
Demand for U.S. pork continues to grow in Mexico
Following a record year of $2.6 billion of pork exports to Mexico in 2024, demand for U.S. pork has continued to expand in Mexico in 2025, growing 11% in the first quarter. According to U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Mexico Director Gerardo Rodriguez, pork...
Produce industry calls for fair farm policy
When Iowans think about trade and ag policy, especially in the context of the Farm Bill, the focus often falls on corn, soybeans, beef, and pork. But there’s a broader picture to consider. Specialty crops—including fruits, vegetables, and other unique products—also...
EPA administrator tells Senate he supports year-round E-15
The administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency says the most effective way to allow year-round E-15 sales is through Congressional action. Testifying before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, Lee Zeldin told lawmakers, “That is the most...
