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High diesel prices bite into Food Bank of Iowa’s budget
Gas prices have hit the highest level in four years, and with no end to the Iran war in sight, the impacts of these elevated prices will be felt for the foreseeable future. Diesel prices in particular have increased even more quickly, surging up 45% since the beginning of the war at the end of February. While the pain is hurting consumers nationwide, rising fuel costs are hitting the Food Bank of Iowa especially hard. With a truck fleet that drives 270,000 miles a year, there is little they...
Planted acres projections reflect cautious farm economy
USDA economists predict some shifting crop acres as farmers continue to face a difficult economy. As crop farmers prepare to plant their corn, soybeans, or wheat in 2026, many are making decisions with the current farm economy in mind. Faith Parum, an economist for...
AI and precision technology gain momentum on U.S. dairy farms
Artificial intelligence and precision technology are playing a growing role on U.S. dairy farms as producers seek greater efficiency and ways to manage ongoing labor shortages. Dairy cooperatives and technology firms say AI-driven tools can track milk production,...
Fertilizer outlook for the 2026 growing season
In what could be a very early season for anhydrous rigs in the Midwest good news is scarce on the fertilizer front. That is according to Josh Linville, vice president of fertilizer for StoneX, who has been keeping a close eye on the price of nitrogen during the winter...
Iowa livestock producers urged to plan ahead for fly season
As warmer weather approaches, livestock producers may be looking ahead to fly season and considering management strategies that go beyond simply treating adult flies. Many experts say early planning and integrated approaches can help reduce pressure before populations...
Congress will have increased oversight over the president’s latest tariffs
The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled 6–3 that IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act) does not authorize the president to impose tariffs. This invalidates all tariffs based solely on IEEPA. Following the ruling the administration pivoted to Section 122...
U.S. farmers turn to specialty crops as profit margins tighten
Some U.S. farmers are turning to specialty crops and alternative enterprises as low commodity prices and high input costs squeeze traditional farm profits. Extension specialists say interest is rising in wine grapes, specialty grains, produce and agritourism ventures....
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More Ag News
Very few changes made in March WASDE report
As expected, the USDA made very minor changes to the numbers in the March WASDE report. The U.S. ending stocks were left alone, and the crop production estimates for Brazil and Argentina were slightly adjusted. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said it was a...
Grassley gives update on Farm Bill 2.0
The latest farm bill proposal, known as Farm Bill 2.0, recently passed through the House Ag Committee and now will move to the floor of the House for consideration. United States Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) was asked on Tuesday for his thoughts on the bill and what...
Now is the time to finalize crop insurance coverage
Farmers across the country are being reminded to finalize their crop insurance coverage for the 2026 crop season before the March 16 deadline for most spring-seeded crops. New data released by National Crop Insurance Services (NCIS) shows participation in the program...
NPPC welcomes new leadership
The National Pork Producers Council elected new officers and board members to lead the organization through the 2026-2027 term. These experienced leaders will guide NPPC’s advocacy efforts, advancing policies that support growth, sustainability, and long-term...
USDA Bridge Assistance Payments already reaching farmers
Farmers across the country are already signing up for the new Farmer Bridge Assistance payments through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The program was designed to provide short term financial relief to producers ahead of the 2026 growing season, and USDA...
