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High input costs remain a top concern for U.S. producers
The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped from May to June. Michael Langemeier, the director of the Center for Commercial Agriculture at Purdue University, discussed the significance of these low numbers. Langemeier expanded on the primary reason for farmers’ current unfavorable financial position. For him, there is one overwhelming answer: high input costs. According to him, there isn’t much optimism among farmers about the future of their financial situation. They do not...
Looking for options against herbicide resistance
Herbicide-resistant weeds are becoming more common, catching the attention of farmers and weed specialists across the agricultural industry. While this presents a challenge, experts are exploring new strategies to stay ahead, knowing that developing effective...
Egg and chicken production down in 2024
A new report from USDA sheds light on chicken and egg production in the U.S. last year. The USDA released its annual Chicken and Eggs Summary this week, which presents data on the number of egg layers, egg production, and the total U.S. chicken inventory as of...
A strong knowledge base is key to navigating a difficult economy
As the threat of potential tariffs looms, the economic outlook is uncertain. Many people are attempting to make financial plans that will hopefully help navigate market volatility. However, Matt Roberts, chief planning officer at Syverson Strege, said a disciplined...
Mild Iowa winter could lead to insect pressure
Despite the recent snowfall and extreme cold, the state of Iowa is in the midst of a relatively mild winter by Iowa’s standards. While day-to-day life is helped by mild winter weather, it can also have negative knock-on effects for the 2025 growing season. Adrienne...
Legislation would allow year-round E15 sale
Senators Chuck Grassley and Deb Fischer of Iowa, both Senate Ag Committee members, reintroduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025. The legislation is currently the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleash the power of E15, which would...
Farmers must understand macroeconomy to secure their future
For generations, farmers have focused on weather patterns, soil health, and market prices, but today, they realize that the broader macroeconomy plays a crucial role in their success. Interest rates, inflation, and global trade policies now shape everything from input...
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Record ethanol production slows ahead of summer driving demand
The U.S. has churned out record levels of ethanol since late 2024, largely due to a rise in exports and steady domestic demand. But Reuters said output has dropped from record levels during the last two weeks, which coincides with the buildup of the summer driving...
Vietnamese delegation signs MOUs for grain trade in Des Moines
A trade delegation led by the Vietnamese Minister of Agriculture signed several memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to purchase approximately 7.5 million metric tons of U.S. ag products on Monday. The signings took place at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines between...
Rain has been falling across Iowa in some large bursts
The weather has brought plenty of rain for most parts of the state recently, and it has done so in large bursts. In fact, some parts of central Iowa saw over 4.5 inches of rain in a single day. This is great for the soil moisture profiles, but it was almost too much...
U.S.-China trade a top focus at USMEF Spring Conference
The U.S.-China trade relationship was a major focus of the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Spring Conference, which wrapped up Friday, May 23rd, in Fort Worth, Texas. Guest speaker John Newton, the executive head of Terrain, said he expects the current tariff...
Cattle industry prepares for USMCA review
Since returning to office in January, President Trump has once again brought trade policy to the forefront of national discussion. His previous use of tariffs is now facing scrutiny from the U.S. Court of International Trade, reigniting debate over their impact. But...
