Top Stories
Farm credit conditions weaken across Upper Midwest
Financial pressure is building in farm country. The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago reports that agricultural credit conditions across the Upper Midwest weakened in the second quarter compared with a year ago. Bankers highlight commodity price volatility, high production costs, and tighter cash flow as key challenges. Chicago Fed Policy Advisor David Oppedahl says cash flow issues are causing severe loan repayment problems, hitting an all-time high since 2020. Rather than borrowing to expand...
‘Product of USA’ meat labeling rule takes effect Jan. 1
A new USDA labeling rule takes effect Jan. 1, tightening standards for when meat, poultry and egg products may be identified as a product of the United States. Under the regulation, finalized in March 2024, companies may use labels such as “Product of USA” or “Made in...
Demand remains strong despite President Trump’s tariffs
Economists continue to study the impact that President Donald Trump’s tariffs are having on international trade. But one ag economist says they have not put a dent in consumers' buying patterns. Dr. Darren Hudson, Director of the International Center for Agricultural...
The magic of Christmas comes from the moments
Christmas has a way of pulling us backward and forward at the same time. One moment we’re standing in the soft glow of a tree covered in ornaments we’ve carried with us for decades, and the next we’re watching our kids create memories they will one day share with...
U.S. Export Sales Report (12-25-25)
The USDA is continuing to get us caught up to the latest export sales figures as a result of the government shutdown earlier this year. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the numbers as of December 11th still look great for corn. While the soybean sales have...
Cattle industry reflects on policy wins from 2025
The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association is wrapping up another busy year in the cattle industry. While there were plenty of struggles to overcome in the past twelve months, there are many victories to celebrate as well. ICA Director of Government Affairs Kelli Wicks said...
Now is the time to finally get E15 year-round
E15 is a part of President Donald Trump’s America First energy plan, and it’s time for Congress to pass legislation to allow for its year-round sale. It’s a common-sense solution that lowers costs and the pump and strengthens America’s energy independence. Growth...
Video
More Ag News
Naig says Iowa agriculture needs stability in uncertain cycle
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says farmers and agribusinesses across the state are facing growing pressure from multiple directions, including higher operating costs, workforce challenges, and continued uncertainty in the broader farm economy. Speaking this...
Giving crops a strong start is more important than ever
Every year brings its own unique set of challenges for farmers, and last year was no different. As farmers are making their final decisions for the 2026 crop season, their plans should be changing to adapt to the latest issues. Logan Dinkla, agronomic service...
Trump’s tariffs are being challenged in the U.S. House
President Trump’s tariffs are being challenged in the U.S. House after it failed to continue delaying measures to end the tariffs, which opened the door to potential action. The House narrowly rejected any further moratorium on votes to end the president’s national...
New NCBA president outlines priorities for 2026
Gene Copenhaver, a producer from southwest Virginia, is the new president of the National Cattlmen’s Beef Association. Copenhaver tells the Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network about his cattle operation and a business relationship with the state of Iowa. He says that...
Secretary Naig recognizes conservation leaders at 2026 Iowa Agribusiness Showcase
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today presented Tyson Miller and Adam Millikin with Eldon C. Stutsman Inc. and the entire team at Premier Crop Systems with the Secretary’s Ag Leader Award for Conservation. The awards recognize leaders who are helping...
