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USDA cattle numbers show ongoing herd decline
The USDA released its latest Cattle Inventory Report last Friday, just ahead of this week’s National Cattlemen’s Beef Association convention in Nashville. While the overall change in cattle numbers was modest, the data continues to reinforce a long running trend of tightening supplies across the U.S. beef industry. As of January 1, 2026, the total U.S. cattle and calf inventory stood at 86.2 million head, down slightly from a year ago. The report keeps the industry on a familiar trajectory, as...
Looking back on 2025 and preparing for 2026 in the swine industry
It’s important for pig farmers to take a close look at the balance sheet because it helps set the fundamental outlook moving forward into the coming year. Lee Schulz, chief economist with Ever.Ag, says one of the key highlights has been production, which was projected...
USTR taking measured approach on Nicaragua
The USTR recently announced that the U.S. will impose tariffs on all imported Nicaraguan goods that are not originating under the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). The tariff will initially be set at zero but is set to...
Buying soybeans from a trusted source, designed for local conditions
When choosing which soybeans to plant, growers want to make sure that they are buying seed from a trusted source that is just as committed to soybeans as growers are. Monty Malone, a soybean variety development lead with Xitavo says that the Xitavo soybean...
Lawmakers propose additional aid for farmers
Leaders of the House Agriculture Committee say Congress may need to step in with at least $10 billion in additional aid for U.S. farmers, beyond the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance Program recently announced by the Trump administration. House Agriculture...
Naig encourages Iowans to celebrate agriculture during America 250
As planning begins for America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the United States reaching 250 years, Iowa leaders are emphasizing that the milestone is not only about looking back. It is also about recognizing what has made the country successful, and what will...
ICA heading into 2026 with plenty of optimism
Cattle producers from across the state recently gathered in Altoona for the annual Iowa Cattle Industry Convention. This year’s gathering had one of the highest attendance numbers from both producers and industry-leading companies. Iowa Cattlemen’s Association CEO...
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More Ag News
South American Weather and Crop Update (12-30-25)
As the crops in Brazil enter the critical yield-determining phase, timely rains are finally reentering the forecast. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather forecasts for South America. While the crops are virtually all planted in...
Pork is more than just the flavor of the holidays
Family, food, and flavor are coming together as a winning recipe this holiday season with quality U.S. pork products. By showcasing pork’s versatility, flavor, and cultural relevance, the National Pork Board’s campaign is opening the door to new traditions and fresh...
How to maximize crop nutrition
A consistent theme for row crop farmers in 2025 was dealing with tight margins. As farmers are earning lower dollar amounts for their commodities but fertilizer prices remain high, maximizing crop nutrition is important for all growers. Ross Bender of The Mosaic...
Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above growth neutral
For only the second time in 2025, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above a growth-neutral reading of 50.0. That’s according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in a rural ten-state region dependent on agriculture and energy. The December reading hit 50.1, its...
Rural families struggle with slower postal deliveries
Reliable mail service is not a luxury in rural America. It is a necessity for receiving checks, handling daily business, and getting critical medicine and supplies that many families cannot easily pick up in town. But delays are becoming more common, and the...
