Top Stories
Grassley warns trade stalemate hurts U.S. farmers
The Trump Administration’s approach to trade has led to prolonged uncertainty in agricultural markets, leaving farmers to contend with tighter margins and unsettled outlooks. While the intent has been to secure better terms for the United States, many of the disputes remain unresolved, with little sign of quick progress. That ongoing uncertainty has added financial and emotional strain across the farm economy. At the same time, concerns are also being voiced within the President’s own party as...
Cooperative Iowa weather has led to rapid crop growth
This year’s weather has been mostly outstanding for the crops, and that is easy to see when you look at your nearest corn and soybean fields. Too much rapid growth can cause problems, however, and Iowa farmers are seeing that this year. David Hoy, northeast Iowa...
Grassley sees Section 301 as back-up if courts block Trump tariffs
Brazil has been a hot topic in United States ag policy in recent months, and United States Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) says that is justified. Senator Grassley says that the Section 301 probe just launched against Brazil is needed in case President Trump’s tariffs,...
South American Weather and Crop Update (8-20-25)
It’s been dry for so long in South America that it’s almost time already for the next planting season. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather conditions in Brazil and Argentina. McBride said harvest in Brazil is getting close to...
Oil group challenges Trump plan to cut biofuel import credits
A top U.S. oil trade group is opposing a government proposal to cut incentives for biofuel imports. The group joined multiple organizations in pushing back against the administration’s resolve to keep the policy in the months ahead. The criticism will force the Trump...
Wehrbein: Market highs bring relief and uncertainty
Last week, we visited with NCBA President Buck Wehrbein about his outlook for the future of agriculture. Today, we continue that discussion, focusing on some of the issues cattle producers are closely watching — from strong but complicated markets to animal health...
Keeping pigs cool during hot summer months
During the hot Iowa summer months, it is highly important for swine producers to protect their pigs from heat stress in order to maintain their health and productivity. Mark Oberreuter, ag engineer at Automated Production, said pigs are just as susceptible to heat...
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More Ag News
2025 Iowa Teacher of the Year has roots in agriculture
One of Iowa’s top leaders in ag education was recognized as the 2025 Iowa Teacher of the Year. Melanie Bloom, who has been teaching agriculture at Sioux Central Community School District in Sioux Rapids for 16 years, was announced as the recipient of the award last...
NPB strengthening connection between consumers and pork
The National Pork Board’s strategic brand campaign is all about taste and flavor. Patrick Fleming, vice president of demand development, says the new tagline, “Taste What Pork Can Do™,” aims to strengthen consumers' connection with pork by highlighting its flavor and...
Thune pushes Farm Bill, farmers push harder
Farmers are running out of patience as depressed commodity prices and razor-thin profit margins continue to squeeze their operations. The much-celebrated “Big Beautiful Bill” passed earlier this summer, offering some relief, but it did little to calm the frustration...
Crop insurance enhancements and improvements announced
A big piece of the farm safety net, crop insurance, is getting an overhaul courtesy of the Big Beautiful Bill. Risk Management Agency Administrator Pat Swanson explains the adjustments to enterprise and whole farm units. Swanson says there are also recently enacted...
Farmers feeling the fertilizer price squeeze
Farm groups are warning the White House that the tariff war is making already high fertilizer prices worse. That’s making it harder for farmers to afford to plant their typical amounts of corn, soybeans, and wheat. Politico said ag industry representatives have...
