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Feeding the Economy report shows agriculture’s impact

Feeding the Economy report shows agriculture’s impact

Each year, the Feeding the Economy Report measures the downstream, off-the-farm economic impact of U.S. agriculture. Danny Munch, an economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation, said the report tracks three layers of impact. Munch said when you combine those layers, ag supports about $10.4 trillion in economic output, or about one-fifth of the entire U.S. economy. With the overall farm economy struggling, Munch said it’s vital to highlight the broad economic importance of agriculture in...

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Previewing USDA’s Prospective Plantings Report

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...

Rising fuel prices renew push for E15 access

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...

Feenstra working to make Iowa the most ag and business-friendly state

Feenstra working to make Iowa the most ag and business-friendly state

Today is National Ag Day, and Iowa farmers are a huge part of the nation’s ag industry. Iowa Congressman Randy Feenstra announced the Farmers for Feenstra coalition, a group of over 100 Iowa farmers who are committed to joining his efforts to make Iowa the most...

Spring bird migration enhances HPAI threat

Spring bird migration enhances HPAI threat

The spring migratory season brings with it the renewed threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI. Dudley Hoskins, Under Secretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, is reminding farmers and others to take all necessary precautions. The...

Examining ways to lower fertilizer and fuel costs

Examining ways to lower fertilizer and fuel costs

The United States war in Iran is contributing to higher input costs for farmers. Fertilizer and fuel costs are rising due to the slowdown of shipping and inability to transport goods safely through Middle East shipping lanes. This is adding to the costs of nitrogen...

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Naig: Trade relationships must stay strong

Naig: Trade relationships must stay strong

Iowa farmers rely on strong export markets, and two of the most important remain Canada and Mexico. But a planned trade mission to Mexico has been postponed. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says safety concerns tied to cartel activity and travel disruptions...