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Extreme heat impacts the Midwest
Extreme heat has been impacting the western two-thirds of the United States in recent days as crops are in critical stages of growth. One example of the intense heat occurred recently in the badlands of South Dakota says USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey. Although temperatures are not expected to be as extreme this week, the threat to crops and grasslands in the Midwest still remains says Rippey. Some relief is on the way with more cloudy skies and expected rainfall, but Rippey says some of the...
Hogs also at risk in screwworm battle
The USDA has announced plans to reopen the southern border to cattle and bison imports in a phased approach, signaling progress in the effort to control the New World Screwworm threat. This move comes as positive news for the livestock industry, particularly cattle...
Water hemp is one of the top weeds impacting Iowa crops
So far, most of Iowa’s crops are looking healthy, which is especially important as we enter the critical timeframe for pollination. Weed control is incredibly important in making sure that crops are healthy, and one of the top problem weeds is water hemp. Travis...
Nursery stage nutrition helps set the stage for maximum potential
Healthy and strong nursery pigs are essential to ensuring that each animal reaches its maximum potential. If a piglet does not receive the essential minerals and nutrients, it can limit their potential in the long run. Jeremiah Nemechek is a tech services nutritionist...
Iowa farmers can cultivate their farm’s brand
In tough economic times, farmers are looking for alternative income streams and ways to increase their profit margins. One way is through direct-to-consumer sales, whether through farmers' markets, roadside stands, or online. In Iowa, the Choose Iowa program has...
U.S. Senate delivers wins for pork producers in ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’
The Senate passed by a slim margin—with Vice President J.D. Vance casting the tiebreak—its version of the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” It includes many provisions important to pork, among them tax and animal health language. National Pork Producers Council President...
Rare bug near Iowa prompts field warnings
Profit margins are already razor-thin for many Midwest farmers this year, prompting increased diligence in scouting and early detection of crop threats. With careful planning and proactive crop protection strategies in place, most producers felt prepared for the...
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More Ag News
GROWMARK experts preparing Iowa producers for harvest energy needs
As farmers prepare for harvest, propane supply looks solid while diesel availability could pose challenges. Jay Christie, energy development specialist for New Century FS, says the fall energy outlook offers both stability and concern depending on the fuel in...
Impending government shutdown needs to be avoided
Every year, Congress needs to pass 12 appropriations bills to keep the government fully funded. With the September 30th deadline quickly approaching, Congress still needs to pass 9 more bills. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Director of Government Affairs Tanner...
NCGA announces winners of Consider Corn Challenge
The Bio Innovations Midwest Conference just concluded in Omaha, Nebraska, where bio-based products and new ideas took center stage. It was the perfect place for the National Corn Growers Association to announce the winners of its 5th Consider Corn Challenge, finding...
Most of the U.S. experiencing unusually warm temperatures for mid-September
Much of the nation has been experiencing above normal temperatures for mid-September. USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey says that despite temperatures remaining warm in the Midwest, the core area of high temperatures will shift soon. Higher than normal temperatures will...
Trump tariffs could fund bailout for US farmers
The Trump Administration is drawing up plans to use tariff revenue to fund a program to support U.S. farmers, the Financial Times reported on Thursday, citing Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. "There may be circumstances under which we will be very seriously...
