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AFBF analyzes policy solutions for fertilizer challenges
The cost and availability of fertilizer are still relevant issues for many farmers this year. American Farm Bureau Economist Faith Parum discussed AFBF's new white paper aimed at addressing current volatility in the fertilizer market. The paper examined various initiatives undertaken so far to help stabilize the volatile fertilizer market, as well as possible preventive measures. Parum said that because fertilizers are part of a global market, any disruption in a specific region or country can...
Food spending increases from 2023-2024
USDA says per capita total U.S. food spending increased 3.2 percent from 2023 to 2024, slightly outpacing the 2.3 percent increase in food prices during the same period. That showed a stronger demand for food despite higher prices. However, national trends in sales...
GROWMARK launches the “FS Start to Finish” Brand Campaign
Growmark FS has introduced a new brand campaign, “Start to Finish,” aimed at highlighting the company’s commitment to being a reliable partner throughout every stage of the growing season. Whether it’s selecting the right seed, applying fertility and crop protection...
U.S. Export Sales Report (7-10-25)
This week brought yet another great report for U.S. export sales. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the corn numbers are continuing to impress. Soybeans also had an impressive week and nearly set another weekly record. Rounding out the positive feeling from...
Iowa producers can now receive disaster aid
Iowa producers will soon be able to receive funds that were earmarked for 2023 and 2024 natural disasters. The USDA is opening the signup period for the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program for farmers and ranchers across the country. Danny Much, an economist for the...
Rollins shuts down southern ports again
A new case of New World screwworm appeared this week, only 160 miles from the Mexico-U.S. border. USDA had previously announced a risk-based phased-in port reopening strategy for cattle, bison, and equine from Mexico that began on July 7. The new case raises...
Grassley lays out updated farm bill priorities
With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill over the 4th of July weekend, attention now turns back once again to the farm bill. United States Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) says the farm bill improvements in the reconciliation bill contains “major victories for...
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Naig sees big potential in Iowa–Maharashtra partnership
Iowa’s trade mission to India is paying early dividends, as the state continues to build on connections forged during Governor Kim Reynolds’ recent visit. Last week, we looked at the broad opportunities between the U.S. and India. Today, we turn to the state-to-state...
USDA cancels Household Food Security Report as food insecurity increases
Even as food insecurity continues to rise, the USDA has moved to terminate all future Household Food Security Reports. The announcement, which was ironically made during Hunger Action Month, is another blow to the food banks and pantries across the country that are...
Northwest Iowa crops nearing the finish line and the start of harvest
Harvest for corn and soybeans is not in full swing yet in northwest Iowa but combines will be out in force very soon. Northwest Iowa Beck’s Hybrids agronomist Eric Bartels says that harvest for silage corn is underway. Bartels mentions the target moisture level for...
Updated FMMOs show significant farmer losses in first few months
The years-long process of updating Federal Milk Marketing Orders finally concluded earlier this year, when final changes went into effect. The Federal Milk Marketing Orders govern how processors purchase milk from dairy farmers in defined marketing areas across the...
Secretary Naig urges Iowans to prioritize safety, mental health this harvest season
With the busy harvest season commencing across the state, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is urging Iowans to keep safety top of mind in the field, around the farm and on the road. Farming can be physically exhausting and mentally demanding, and agriculture...
