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Hogs also at risk in screwworm battle
The USDA has announced plans to reopen the southern border to cattle and bison imports in a phased approach, signaling progress in the effort to control the New World Screwworm threat. This move comes as positive news for the livestock industry, particularly cattle producers who have faced restrictions due to concerns over the parasitic pest. The decision also reflects encouraging signs that Mexico is making headway in managing the situation. While most of the attention has been on protecting...
Central Iowa farmer experimenting with cover crops
As we learn more about the benefits of cover crops, we’ve seen increased adoption of them across the state. One farm in Boone is even applying those cover crops to a different product: pumpkins. Jeremy Gustafson, a member of Practical Farmers of Iowa, gave a tour of...
Iowa 4th of July cookouts still at record-high costs
As Americans all across the country are gearing up to celebrate Independence Day, families planning a cookout celebration should plan to spend about the same as they did last year. Samantha Ayoub, an associate economist for the American Farm Bureau Federation, said...
Storms, wind, and hail testing the resilience of northwest Iowa crops
Early in the growing season, as spring transitions to summer, the weather can be unpredictable and difficult to deal with for growers. Eric Bartels is a northwest Iowa Beck’s Hybrids agronomist, and he says that June has delivered no shortage of weather challenges to...
Applications now open for the 2026 ASA – Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program
If you are passionate about farming, ready to connect with agricultural industry leaders and grow your leadership skills, the Young Leader Program is for you! Program sponsors American Soybean Association and Corteva are seeking farmers to apply for the 2026 ASA...
Expanding corn markets a top NCGA goal
U.S. corn growers face mounting challenges in marketing their crop abroad, from persistent ag trade deficits to being undercut by Brazilian corn during their peak harvest season. Shifting global demand has made it harder for American producers to stay competitive....
Harsh tariffs can negatively impact farmer mental health
It’s no secret that the ag economy is volatile right now. With tariffs and other global issues, farmers are feeling the economic squeeze, and that can take a huge toll on their mental health. Matt Willamack, Iowa Soybean Association District 6 board member, said...
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Iowa Ag concerns tied to outdated policies
The clock is ticking on the long-overdue Farm Bill, with just three months left before Congress may be forced to extend it for yet another year. That would push the current bill—already outdated—more than halfway through a second life it was never intended to have....
Extreme heat creating concerns for Iowa’s livestock and crops
The extreme heat in recent days has felt more like late July or August and is causing stress for livestock and crops in Iowa. USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey says the more immediate concern is for livestock. High humidity and overnight temperatures in the upper 70s and...
U.S. Export Sales Report (6-26-25)
Export sales are looking good ahead of the Quarterly Grain Stocks report that will be released next Monday. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the corn sales were especially great in the latest data. Soybeans also looked good this week, which is a far cry...
Tar spot has already been observed in East Central Iowa
Pollination is quickly approaching for corn and soybeans, and it’s important to make sure that crops are performing at a high level in order to maximize yields down the road. Diseases can enter and impact a field very quickly, so prevention is key to disease...
Landus, Iowa’s largest farmer-owned cooperative, launches nationwide CEO search
Landus is launching a nationwide search for its next Chief Executive Officer. Since April, the Board of Directors and interim CEO Sam Caton have met with farmer-owners and employees to gather feedback. Their input has been crucial in identifying the qualities needed...
