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Farmers already expect higher breakeven prices in 2027
The Purdue University/CME Group's Ag Economy Barometer declined in April as economic uncertainty caused a dip in farmer optimism for the future of their operations. Michael Langemeier, director of Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture, says that corn growers are doing the math and expect even higher breakeven prices during the 2027 growing season. Despite the dip in the ag economy barometer and tightening margins for producers, many respondents to the survey indicated that they...
South American Weather and Crop Update (4-22-25)
There hasn't been too much change in the weather and crop conditions for South America. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the nearby forecast still contains some decent rain. Those weather patterns are projected to keep going even in the longer-term...
Proper vaccine handling protects your livestock
Vaccines play a vital role in safeguarding the health of livestock, serving as a key tool in the fight against infectious diseases. By preventing illness in animals, vaccines not only reduce the need for antibiotics but also help ensure consistent growth and...
Midwest governors pen letter to EPA Administrator Zeldin
Earlier this month, several Midwest governors- including Govs. Kim Reynolds (R-IA), Larry Rhoden (R-SD), Jim Pillen (R-NE), and Mike Kehoe (R-MO)- sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin urging the EPA to “establish a 2026 RVO...
National Pork Board uses pork to sell more pork
The pork industry uses pork to sell more pork by connecting with consumers who already purchase pork products but are not aware of all the types of pork and cuts available. Patrick Fleming, vice president of demand development with the National Pork Board, explains....
Secretary Naig invites horticulture producers to join Choose Iowa
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Choose Iowa program is expanding to promote a vibrant array of Iowa grown horticultural products, such as Christmas trees, cut flowers, bedding plants, and ornamental trees and shrubs. Secretary Naig...
Japanese importers get inside look at U.S. beef production
A team of buyers from major Japanese beef importers recently visited U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) headquarters in Denver to learn about U.S. beef production practices. After that visit, the team also got an in-depth view of the full beef supply chain at work in...
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More Ag News
The battle against New World Screwworm continues
Recently, U.S. Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that the U.S.-Mexico border would reopen for cattle shipments in phases after ports of entry were closed to limit the spread of New World Screwworm. This will help level out the balance between biosecurity and...
Drought coverage for crops and commodities mostly in decline
The month of June provided favorable weather conditions for crop growth for much of the Midwest including Iowa. Consistent, timely rainfall for most of Iowa with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures has set Iowa up well for the heart of the growing season. USDA...
American Butter Institute urges FDA to take action against a new “dairy-free butter” product
A new product from Country Crock labeled as “dairy-free butter” has sparked growing concern within the dairy industry. Under the current Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), butter is defined as a product made “exclusively from milk or cream, or both.” This means that...
Alongside President Trump in Iowa, Secretary Rollins calls for celebration of America 250
President Donald J. Trump held a massive celebration on the eve of Independence Day at the Iowa State Fairgrounds where he launched the year-long Great American State Fair in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The Great American State Fair will travel across the...
China trade impasse drags down May U.S. red meat exports
Global trade is continuing to impact cattle and hog prices in Iowa and across the entire country. Exports of U.S. pork and beef trended lower in May, due primarily to steep declines in shipments to China, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S....
