Top Stories
Meat demand is rising even as prices climb higher
As the summer grilling season kicks off, consumers may find higher prices at the meat counter. However, those prices might not reduce demand. Bernt Nelson, an economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation, said consumers are eating more meat than ever before as pitmasters fire up their grills. Nelson said beef continues to be the centerpiece for many cookouts, but pork and poultry are catching up. Nelson said shoppers heading to the grocery store can still stretch their food dollars when...
New labor law piles even more regulations on farmers
A new rule from the Department of Labor is once again adding to the regulatory burden of farmers and ranchers. John Walt Boatright, director of government affairs with the American Farm Bureau Federation, says that while farmers obviously care about their employees,...
The science behind healthy plant ecosystems
Healthy soil is just as much a part of farming as the health of the plant. Soil health allows for the best ecosystem to assist plant growth throughout the crop season, giving that plant the best opportunity to grow to its maximum potential. Therefore, better soil...
Iowa crop progress and condition report
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig commented on the Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report released by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The report is released weekly April through November. Additionally, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and...
Chief Ag Negotiator McKalip speaks with NAFB members in Washington
We talk a lot about trade and the effects it has on the agricultural economy. We have heard concerns from Ag groups about the trade situation and their worries that the administration isn’t being as aggressive on trade as possible. During the NAFB Washington Watch...
U.S. red meat capitalizing on desire for convenience
Consumers across the globe are seeking convenient ways to enjoy high-quality meals without extensive preparation or visiting a restaurant. Home meal replacement (HMR) kits are one way to satisfy this need, and the Korean market is a worldwide leader in the development...
Sustainability highlighted by Pork Cares Farm Impact Report
The latest Pork Cares Farm Impact Report snapshot shares on-farm sustainability measurements from 2022 farm data. Jamie Burr, National Pork Board Chief Sustainability Officer, said the reach of those conservation measures has improved considerably. Burr said the...
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More Ag News
U.S. Export Sales Report (9-26-24)
The weekly export sales were highlighted by some very strong bean exports, which were some of the highest we’ve ever seen for this week. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an analysis of the report. McBride said there were some smaller flash sales this week...
Commodity naming rights agreement keeps trade going in Chile
The U.S. recently signed an agreement with Chile to continue uninterrupted trade after a dispute arose over naming rights for products like cheese. Doug McKalip, chief agricultural negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative, said this agreement is good news for U.S....
Early fall weather has been cooperative for harvest
So far during the dry-down and early harvest season, the weather has been cooperative for farmers. That is USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey. He says that the weather has been mild across large stretches of the country where row crops are grown. Corn and soybeans are...
Choose Iowa surpasses 100 member milestone
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that Choose Iowa, the state’s official brand and marketing initiative for Iowa grown, Iowa raised, and Iowa made food and ag products, has surpassed 100 members statewide and is continuing to build momentum....
Rootworm battle starts with the seed purchase
Corn rootworm is the billion-dollar pest for a reason. That is about the value of bushels lost each year because of them. The populations are on the rise, and the battle grows even tougher. We have many tools available for our use in the fight, but the key is to start...
