Top Stories
USDA forecasts farm income rise amid cost pressures
Despite falling crop prices and stubbornly high input costs, USDA’s latest farm income forecast points to stronger bottom lines in 2025. The report, released on Wednesday, projects net farm income to climb well above earlier expectations, marking a reversal after back-to-back years of decline. Much of the expected gain is tied to higher livestock receipts and additional government payments, which appear set to offset the pressure from rising production expenses and weaker returns for crop...
Water hemp is one of the top weeds impacting Iowa crops
So far, most of Iowa’s crops are looking healthy, which is especially important as we enter the critical timeframe for pollination. Weed control is incredibly important in making sure that crops are healthy, and one of the top problem weeds is water hemp. Travis...
Nursery stage nutrition helps set the stage for maximum potential
Healthy and strong nursery pigs are essential to ensuring that each animal reaches its maximum potential. If a piglet does not receive the essential minerals and nutrients, it can limit their potential in the long run. Jeremiah Nemechek is a tech services nutritionist...
Iowa farmers can cultivate their farm’s brand
In tough economic times, farmers are looking for alternative income streams and ways to increase their profit margins. One way is through direct-to-consumer sales, whether through farmers' markets, roadside stands, or online. In Iowa, the Choose Iowa program has...
U.S. Senate delivers wins for pork producers in ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’
The Senate passed by a slim margin—with Vice President J.D. Vance casting the tiebreak—its version of the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” It includes many provisions important to pork, among them tax and animal health language. National Pork Producers Council President...
Rare bug near Iowa prompts field warnings
Profit margins are already razor-thin for many Midwest farmers this year, prompting increased diligence in scouting and early detection of crop threats. With careful planning and proactive crop protection strategies in place, most producers felt prepared for the...
Adjuvant technology can assist Iowa’s growers throughout the season
Adjuvants are discussed a lot in the spring during planting season and the immediate timeframe following emergence, but adjuvant technology can be a helpful tool for growers throughout the season. Mark Christianson is a product manager with Helena and says that simply...
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Iowa producers urged to stay engaged
The pork industry is facing a complex web of challenges — from animal disease and global trade pressures to regulatory scrutiny and shifting consumer expectations. At times, it can feel like there are too many irons in the fire and not enough hands to manage them....
Iowa farmers can take a close look at strip till practices
Even though it’s been around for over 50 years, strip tillage is still a fairly new conservation practice that farmers can use. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is hosting a field day at the end of this month to show off how strip tillage works and what...
Grassley says Prop 12 should be addressed in the farm bill
United States Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) says that the 2025 farm bill should include provisions that override state-level animal welfare laws like California’s Prop 12. The law requires that pork products sold in the state meet specific housing conditions for...
South American Weather and Crop Update (7-15-25)
Rain is returning to the forecasts in South America, which is great for the drier parts of Brazil and Argentina. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the forecast still has plenty of clear skies for harvest progress to continue, though. Even though safrinha...
Fourteen candidates pursue title of 72nd Iowa Dairy Princess
Fourteen young women involved within Iowa’s dairy community will compete for the title of 72nd Iowa Dairy Princess and Alternate. The coronation ceremony will be held Wednesday, August 6, at 7:30p.m. at the Multi-Media Center of the Cattle Barn at the Iowa State...
