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Honoring family farm dogs across the country
If you think your farm dog has what it takes to be named Farm Dog of the Year, the American Farm Bureau Federation has the contest for you. For Terri Moore, vice president of communications for AFBF, the event sheds light on the importance of dogs on many family farms. Moore shared key characteristics of the ideal Farm Dog of the Year. She identified versatility as both a farm helper and a companion animal for the family as the main deciding factors. Beyond the contest’s obvious goal of...
U.S. Senators call for more action against NWS
A bipartisan group of U.S. senators is urging the USDA to take additional steps to contain the growing New World Screwworm outbreak in the U.S. The lawmakers, led by Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, sent a letter to USDA expressing concern about the threat the...
USDA reports mixed red meat exports for April
USDA data release compiled by the U.S Meat Export Federation (USMEF) seemed encouraging for U.S. pork exports as a strong momentum was maintained throughout April. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom reports an 8% increase in pork exports consequent to the growth in...
George Washington’s cherries reveal agricultural legacy
The story of George Washington and a cherry tree has long been part of American folklore. While historians have dismissed that tale as fiction, a recent discovery at Mount Vernon has revealed a very real connection between the nation's first president and the fruit he...
Swine producers taking advantage of strong economic factors
The swine industry has seen some rough times in recent years, but now things are finally feeling much better. When hog prices are good, it’s smart to look at ways to improve your operation while also keeping those profits intact. Chris Ford, vice president of swine...
June soybean outlook from USDA features small changes
The June WASDE report is typically moved on from quickly because of the importance of the reports at the end of the month. On June 30th the USDA will release the Planted Acreage and Quarterly Grain Stocks reports which will have the potential to move the markets...
EPA biofuel proposal boosts soybean oil demand outlook
A proposal by the Environmental Protection Agency to increase renewable fuel blending requirements through 2027 is drawing strong reactions across the agricultural sector and boosting expectations for soybean oil demand. The proposal would raise Renewable Fuel...
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PFI hosts 2nd Annual Midwest Meat Summit
Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI) hosted the 2nd Annual Midwest Meat Summit at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, Iowa, earlier this week. The two-day event brought together all members of the meat industry, including producers, processors, and distributors. Amos...
South American crops produced a quality growing season
Brazil’s second corn crop of the year is being harvested now. Dr. Michael Cordonnier of Soybean & Corn Advisor, Inc. says some areas of the country are experiencing more moisture than normal but widespread damage to corn crops has not been reported. Cordonnier...
China soybean demand offers support for U.S. exports
Fresh soybean purchases by China are providing some encouragement for U.S. growers. The Wall Street Journal reports Chinese buyers have begun placing new orders for U.S. soybeans currently being planted. USDA officials say they remain optimistic China will meet...
Claw health key to improving sow longevity
Claw health may not be the first thing producers think about when evaluating sow performance, but researchers say it can have a significant impact on longevity, productivity, and overall herd performance. Many of the factors that ultimately lead to a sow leaving the...
Changes to Clean Fuel Production Credit can help U.S. farmers
Long-awaited updates to the Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, known as 45Z, have been announced by the Department of Energy. These changes could benefit farmers and ranchers in the future. Brian Glenn, director of government affairs for the American Farm Bureau...
