Top Stories
Farm bill draft reignites debate over pesticide regulation
The newly introduced farm bill proposal is drawing sharp reactions from environmental advocates over provisions that could reshape pesticide regulation nationwide. The legislation, backed by leaders in Congress and informed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency framework, aims to create more uniform standards across states. Supporters argue the changes would reduce regulatory fragmentation and provide farmers with clearer guidance when using crop protection tools. They say consistent...
Iowa Ag Week focuses on value and communication
Today marks National Ag Day, falling during Iowa Agriculture Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the farmers and agricultural professionals who help feed, fuel, and clothe the world. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says the week is not only about...
Iowa FFA will be well represented at National Ag Day
Iowa FFA President Chloe Zittergruen will be one of four National FFA members who will be representing agricultural youth across the country in Washington, D.C., for National Ag Day on Tuesday, March 24th. This year’s event theme, “Together We Grow,” honors 250 years...
USMEF bolstering Mexico’s in-home consumption of U.S. pork
Mexico’s demand for U.S. pork has soared in recent years, and 2025 was no exception. Pork exports to Mexico were record-large for the fifth consecutive year at 1.24 million metric tons, valued at $2.85 billion. But the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) continues to...
Details from the USDA March Cattle on Feed Report
USDA published the March Cattle on Feed Report on Friday March 20th and with the cattle industry in a pattern of low supply and continued high demand, the report can offer clues on the industry’s direction. USDA livestock analyst Michael McConnell provides the numbers...
Bipartisan Senators introduce bill targeting fertilizer costs and transparency
A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has introduced legislation aimed at increasing transparency in fertilizer markets and potentially lowering costs for farmers facing high input expenses. Senators Tammy Baldwin, Chuck Grassley, and Joni Ernst said the proposal would...
KXEL hosting farmer appreciation luncheon in Waterloo
A farmer appreciation luncheon taking place on Wednesday in Waterloo is designed to recognize the men and women who keep agriculture moving forward every day. The event, hosted by KXEL Radio at the National Cattle Congress Pavilion, is free and open to the public and...
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More Ag News
South American Weather and Crop Update (3-25-26)
The concerns over dry conditions in South America can be put to rest for the time being, as they have been getting plenty of rain as of late. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the forecasts for both Brazil and Argentina. The rain in Brazil has...
Senate Farm Bill could still contain year-round E15
The Environmental Protection Agency today announced that it is lifting the summertime restrictions on E15 sales again for 2026. As we experience rising gas prices, year-round E15 sales will provide economic relief for consumers and strengthen the ag industry. However,...
Previewing USDA’s Prospective Plantings Report
The 2026 USDA Prospective Plantings Report is scheduled for release on Tuesday March 31st. The report surveys farmer planting intentions for major crops, including corn, soybeans, wheat, and more. This report gives us the first real snapshot of what planted acreage...
Secretary Naig welcomes the nationwide emergency waiver for 2026 summertime E15 sales
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement today after the Trump Administration issued an emergency waiver authorizing nationwide sales of E15 during the summer of 2026. “I appreciate the Trump Administration allowing the nationwide sale of...
Rising fuel prices renew push for E15 access
Rising fuel prices and global tensions are once again putting a spotlight on domestic energy options, including higher ethanol blends like E15. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says situations impacting global oil markets serve as a reminder of why expanding...
