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Costs going higher in 2027
USDA's latest Commodity Cost and Returns report shows production expenses are expected to climb for every major crop in 2026 as global energy and fertilizer market disruptions continue to ripple through agriculture. The report follows months of volatility tied to conflict involving Iran and concerns about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Higher fertilizer costs are adding pressure to already tight farm margins. The findings mirror a recent American Farm Bureau Federation survey in which...
Plenty of uncertainty in ag economy heading into 2025
2024 has been challenging for farmers and the agricultural sector. Dave Widmar, economist and managing partner with Agricultural Economic Insights, said 2024 has been full of twists and turns. Widmar said there have also been changes in the overall U.S. economy. While...
What is the outlook for meat exports in 2025?
We have had a solid year, once again, for red meat exports in 2024. Many folks are working hard behind the scenes to sustain and strengthen our existing markets and putting the same efforts into cultivating new trade opportunities around the globe. The U.S. Meat...
Biologicals provide most benefit for producers with a supplemental approach
The biological market has expanded very quickly in recent years and biological companies are striving to demonstrate their value to producers as part of a supplemental crop plan. Brent Lackey is the head of biologicals product marketing with Syngenta and he says that...
Recent rains soaking deep into the soil profile
After one of the driest starts in recorded history for October, the end of the month brought plenty of rain. At this point, the weather is now continuing with a wetter pattern. Justin Glisan, state climatologist for Iowa, gave an update on the latest conditions. Since...
Adding value to the U.S. pork industry through innovation
Research-backed innovation uses technology, consumer trends and cuts to add value to the product. Kevin Sheehan, director of processor engagement at the National Pork Board, said innovation has been very beneficial to the packer side of the industry. Sheehan said...
Tractor manufacturers slow production as demand declines
As farmers struggle with low crop prices, relatively high interest rates and increased input costs, fewer are making big-ticket purchases like tractors, combines and farm implements, resulting in a backlog of inventory across the globe. Machinery manufacturer AGCO has...
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Sources of optimism and concern heading into growing season ’25
The winter of 2024-2025 has not provided much moisture to the state of Iowa to help replenish the soil moisture profile. Last week’s rainfall provided a much-needed shot to the arm but overall, the winter has been mostly mild with little in the way of rain and snow....
Secretary Naig invites applications for Century and Heritage Farm recognition
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig invites eligible Iowa farm owners to apply for Century or Heritage Farm recognition as part of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s (IDALS) Century and Heritage Farm Program. The program was created by the...
Tepid response to March WASDE report
Expectations were low for the March WASDE report, and those expectations were met almost squarely on the nose. This is typical for the March WASDE report, as the markets are already looking ahead to the reports at the end of the month. Allendale commodity broker Greg...
Corn growers pushing to get year-round access to E15
The National Corn Growers Association recently put out a call to action to help push year-round E15 across the finish line. Neil Caskey, CEO of the NCGA, said securing permanent access to E15 would be a significant boost for a tough ag economy. Year-round E15 wouldn’t...
Talking soy export wins and trade dynamics with USSEC
Despite the challenges facing the agricultural economy, there are still reasons to be optimistic—especially regarding the soybean trade. Recent numbers reveal promising gains, highlighting the resilience and competitiveness of U.S. soybeans on the global market. These...
