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Putting safety first when managing manure systems
Manure from hog operations is a renewable, sustainable resource that adds significant value to agricultural systems. However, as with all aspects of agriculture, safety is the first priority when managing manure systems says Marguerite Tan, director of environmental programs at the National Pork Board. Tan emphasizes manure safety by advising producers to avoid entering hog buildings during pumping and agitation, ensuring maximum ventilation, and turning off potential ignition sources. Tan...
Nitrogen response clear, profitability still the question
Few inputs carry more weight in corn production than nitrogen. It fuels yield potential, but it also drains farm budgets at a time when fertilizer prices remain elevated. Ongoing research is helping to refine our understanding, confirming long-held practices while...
Food Bank of Iowa receives bee-utiful donation of honey
Today, the Sioux Honey Cooperative and Fareway Stores partnered up to donate 6,480 bottles of honey to the Food Bank of Iowa. A natural source of antioxidants and energy, honey is a healthy and easy-to-use addition to the meals that are provided for food-insecure...
Central Iowa farm demonstrates potential of water conservation practices
Earlier this week, the Central Iowa Clean Water Partnership hosted a field day to celebrate a new on-farm wetland at the Helland Family Farm near Madrid, Iowa. This wetland is particularly notable due to its proximity to the Des Moines metro and its ability to serve...
A return to above normal temperatures in mid-September
USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey says near to above normal temperatures and precipitation are expected for most of the nation for the week of September 16th-22nd. Rippey says the National Weather Service’s 8-14 day outlook calls for a return of warmer temperatures in...
Ag trade deficit hit another record high in July
The U.S. agricultural trade deficit widened further in July, highlighting the challenge facing President Donald Trump as he vows to reverse the trend. Agricultural exports lagged imports by $4.97 billion in July, a gap 9% wider than a year earlier and the largest on...
Grassley warns trade stalemate hurts U.S. farmers
The Trump Administration’s approach to trade has led to prolonged uncertainty in agricultural markets, leaving farmers to contend with tighter margins and unsettled outlooks. While the intent has been to secure better terms for the United States, many of the disputes...
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More Ag News
Tassel wrap issues originate from seed genetics
One of the biggest crop issues this year was tassel wrap, which severely limited the ability of affected corn plants from pollinating. This issue is also unique in that it isn’t caused by a pest or disease- tassel wrap is actually a genetic issue. As a result, some...
South American Weather and Crop Update (9-23-25)
While the weather is not too different from the usual in South America, the economy in Argentina is seeing some rough times. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather conditions in Brazil and Argentina. McBride said planting progress...
Strong demand and value for U.S. Pork
Many global purchasers recognize the value U.S. Pork brings to their customers as they make purchases of trusted U.S. Pork products. Andy Tauer, vice president of international market development with the National Pork Board, says that strong demand from international...
Secretary Naig welcomes grant applications for urban water quality projects
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is accepting pre-applications for cost-share grants to support urban conservation and water quality projects as part of the state’s Nutrient Reduction...
Upcoming Dietary Guidelines could blur lines on processed foods
Last week, we looked at the MAHA report and what it covered, and just as importantly, what it left out. While the document laid out key priorities for the pork industry, it did not take on the looming debate over federal dietary guidelines. That discussion is coming...
