Top Stories
It’s still too risky to ship fertilizer globally
The Strait of Hormuz has become a major focus in global markets as disruptions have created bottlenecks that are driving input costs even higher. Josh Linville, vice president of fertilizer for StoneX, said it doesn’t matter if the strait is declared open or closed- what does matter is whether or not ships are going through it. Linville said these aren’t the highest fertilizer prices we’ve ever seen, but the main problem stems from the fact that the grain prices don’t reflect the inflated...
Examining the operating expense ratio
The operating expense ratio is a tool that farmers can utilize to determine the financial efficiency of their grain farms. Gerald Mashange, an agricultural economist at the University of Illinois, explains how the operating expense ratio is calculated. Mashange says...
Vaccinating birds against HPAI poses trade and logistical challenges
The war on avian influenza may soon include vaccines for birds. However, there are challenges to a nationwide vaccination strategy. USDA is investing significant resources to fight Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, including $100 million into research and development...
Bessent signals optimism as U.S./China trade talks stall in public
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in an interview with CNBC, expressed optimism that “substantial progress” in U.S./China trade negotiations could be achieved in the coming weeks. However, the overall status of talks remains uncertain, with public statements from both...
2025 World Pork Expo right around the corner
The 2025 World Pork Expo is right around the corner, set for early June in Des Moines, Iowa, and it promises to once again bring together pork producers, industry leaders, and ag enthusiasts from across the country. National Pork Producers Council President Duane...
Caitlin Clark Foundation and Hy-Vee donate over $300k to Feeding America
Today, Hy-Vee and the Caitlin Clark Foundation presented a donation of $300,802.85 to Feeding America at the Food Bank of Iowa. The donation, which is the result of a round-up campaign held across all Hy-Vee stores this past March, will provide three million meals to...
South American Weather and Crop Update (5-6-25)
While the weather is nice and clear in South America, it’s still notably dry. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the weather is supportive for harvest progress in the short term, but the dryness could become concerning if it continues for too long. As it has...
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More Ag News
Heat dome to cover Iowa and much of the Midwest
July has been a cool and wet month so far, which has been great for the corn crops going through pollination. Warm weather is set to return, though, with a heat dome preparing to form over the lower Midwest. Dr. Justin Glisan, state climatologist for Iowa, said it...
20th annual Farm Progress Show is quickly approaching
This year marks the 20th year of the Farm Progress Show, which will take place in Decatur, Illinois, next month. The show will run from August 26-28. Matt Jungmann, national events manager for Farm Progress, said that time will fly by as we approach the show date....
New biological seed treatment to provide more uniform corn emergence
Lumidapt™ is the latest addition to the Corteva Agriscience LumiGEN® corn seed treatment package. Lumidapt Valta LS is a biological seed treatment that aims to encourage germination and strong root development leading to more uniform corn emergence. Brad Van Kooten is...
Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) grants boost biodiesel access at Iowa fuel retailers
At its first meeting of the new fiscal year, the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) awarded $1,124,750 in grants to support biofuel expansion across Iowa. The funding will assist 20 retail sites in adding B11 biodiesel and 4 sites in adding E15. “We are...
USDA cuts could strain Iowa farm services
Farmers across the country rely on their local USDA offices for a range of services, including conservation programs and crop insurance support, but concerns are growing that these services could be at risk. With staffing shortages already placing strain on field...
