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Two wars add uncertainty to grain markets
Geopolitical tensions continue to influence grain markets as conflicts in both the Middle East and Eastern Europe create uncertainty for global energy and agricultural trade. Ag economist Frayne Olson says the latest developments in the Middle East could have indirect impacts on farmers through higher energy costs, including fertilizer, diesel fuel, natural gas, and propane. While energy costs are one concern, Olson said geopolitical events can also influence grain prices through financial...
Sources of optimism and concern heading into growing season ’25
The winter of 2024-2025 has not provided much moisture to the state of Iowa to help replenish the soil moisture profile. Last week’s rainfall provided a much-needed shot to the arm but overall, the winter has been mostly mild with little in the way of rain and snow....
Secretary Naig invites applications for Century and Heritage Farm recognition
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig invites eligible Iowa farm owners to apply for Century or Heritage Farm recognition as part of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s (IDALS) Century and Heritage Farm Program. The program was created by the...
Tepid response to March WASDE report
Expectations were low for the March WASDE report, and those expectations were met almost squarely on the nose. This is typical for the March WASDE report, as the markets are already looking ahead to the reports at the end of the month. Allendale commodity broker Greg...
Corn growers pushing to get year-round access to E15
The National Corn Growers Association recently put out a call to action to help push year-round E15 across the finish line. Neil Caskey, CEO of the NCGA, said securing permanent access to E15 would be a significant boost for a tough ag economy. Year-round E15 wouldn’t...
Talking soy export wins and trade dynamics with USSEC
Despite the challenges facing the agricultural economy, there are still reasons to be optimistic—especially regarding the soybean trade. Recent numbers reveal promising gains, highlighting the resilience and competitiveness of U.S. soybeans on the global market. These...
Strong U.S. red meat export totals for January
Exports of U.S. beef trended higher than a year ago in January, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork exports were slightly below last January’s large totals, despite another outstanding performance in Mexico...
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More Ag News
Highlighting the impacts of tariffs on small family farms
A local distillery in small-town Swisher, Iowa, was the host site for an important discussion between farmers and Iowa ag industry leaders about the impact of President Trump’s tariffs on small family farms. And Cedar Ridge Distillery wasn’t just the venue- CEO Jeff...
New study details positive interactions between cattle and sage grouse
A new study from the University of Idaho highlighted the interactions between cattle and sage grouse populations. The 10-year study confirmed that cattle grazing does not negatively impact greater sage grouse- in fact, it actually benefits the species through building...
Grassley says proposed RVOs from EPA “Very good news for Iowa farmers”
Last Friday the Environmental Protection Agency released the proposed Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2026 and 2027. The increased RVOs for biomass-based diesel compared to recent years delivered immediate support into the ag markets for soybeans and soybean oil....
250+ food & ag groups call for greater transparency and public input in MAHA Commission
258 food and agriculture groups representing millions of American farmers, ranchers, producers, and manufacturers sent a letter calling on the Make America Healthy Again Commission to create greater transparency and public input in the commission’s activities. The...
Global markets hold the key to the pork industry’s future
Around the world, pork is more than just chops and bacon, it's a matter of taste and tradition. While many Americans might shy away from pig stomach or intestines, in South America and parts of Asia, those same cuts are culinary staples. As global demand shifts, every...
