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DOJ confirms probe into beef processors
The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an antitrust investigation into the nation’s beef processing industry, raising concerns about market concentration and its impact on cattle producers. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said officials are examining whether consolidation among major meatpackers has contributed to higher beef prices. According to federal officials, the four largest processors—Tyson Foods, Cargill, JBS USA, and National Beef Packing—control about 85 percent of the fed...
South American Weather and Crop Update (1-2-24)
South America is still thirsty for some rain, especially in Brazil, and it looks like those prayers might get answered over the next couple of weeks. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather conditions in Brazil and Argentina....
Battle between electric vehicles and ethanol will heat up in 2024
This year will likely be full of competition between electric vehicles (EVs) and ethanol-powered hybrids as the ethanol industry makes a play for a share of the carbon-reducing vehicle market and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) moves to finalize tough new...
State pesticide labeling reform a debate for next farm bill
As lawmakers once again prepare to begin work on a new farm bill in 2024, farm bill priorities are being voiced by all parties. One area of the ag sector which could be a candidate for reform in the new farm bill could be the pesticide labeling process. The EPA is...
December rural mainstreet index sank
Creighton University’s Rural Mainstreet Index sank below growth neutral for a fourth-straight month in December. Based on a survey of bank CEOs in a ten-state region, the index rose to 41.7 from November’s 40.4. That’s still lower than October’s 44.4. The index ranges...
Just when you think the government couldn’t get more absurd
When you're facing crippling federal debt with a government that has no problem spending your money, your kids’ money, and the money of the next three generations, it is no surprise that they are finding new and inventive ways to keep sticking their hands further into...
Sustainability and profitability go hand in hand
Farmers are always looking to be sustainable, which itself is usually a way to increase profitability. But now there are other ways, like carbon market programs, that can provide extra revenue to those sustainable practices. Travis Kraft, national sales director of...
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More Ag News
Upgraded tiling systems have been saviors this spring
Nobody would have believed after the past few years in the Western Corn Belt that we would want a break in the rain. Iowa certainly has had its share, even though some spots are drying out again. My family in Minnesota has been screaming at Mother Nature to turn the...
“Ring of fire” weather will keep Iowa hot and humid
Seems like this week’s hot temperatures were just a taste of what’s in store for next week. Iowa State Climatologist Dr. Justin Glisan said next week is supposed to have high temperatures and plenty of rainfall due to a “ring of fire” weather configuration. Glisan...
The importance of agronomy at the U.S. Open
Professional Golf's U.S. Open took place last week at North Carolina's famed Pinehurst Resort and Country Club. But it's not just a matter of the world's best golfers showing up and taking a few swings. Years of course preparation take place in the lead up to the...
Grassley questions increased used cooking oil imports
There is a lot on the line for the future of biofuels as United States farmers are hopeful that demand for biofuels continues to climb with U.S. crops helping to provide the feedstock to help power U.S. trucks and cars. However, one of the issues standing in the way...
First USDA trade mission dedicated to indigenous products
Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, is in Vancouver, Canada, for a first-of-its-kind trade mission. The mission is intended to develop export markets for Tribal and Native Hawaiian businesses and products. “This historic...
