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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...
South American Weather and Crop Update (2-18-25)
While the dry weather in Brazil is still helping out with harvest progress, it will create problems for the second crop corn that is being planted right behind the combines if it persists for too long. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the...
Future of Food for Peace program uncertain without USAID
Food for Peace, a 70-year-old program that was signed into law by President Eisenhower and championed by Kansas Senator Bob Dole, is now in question as President Trump moves to dismantle USAID over concerns of alleged corruption and mismanagement. Looking to save Food...
Less corn production expected from South American nations
South American corn production forecasts were adjusted lower in the February USDA WASDE report. World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski says the weather is to blame in Argentina. Brazil’s corn production forecast was also reduced by 1 million tons says...
U.S. Soy announces national NEXTILE design challenge winners
What’s the next wave of sustainable fashion? The answer...soy-based textiles which are on the rise. To spur innovation in this space, U.S. Soy announces Clara Padgham from the University of Wisconsin-Madison as the national winner of the NEXTILE: The Soy in Textile...
Conservation ag funding is stuck in Farm Bill fiasco
The failure to pass a new farm bill has left critical agricultural programs in limbo, creating uncertainty for farmers and rural communities nationwide. Among the many casualties of this legislative gridlock is funding for climate-smart agriculture, which helps...
Feenstra supporting legislation to exempt farm assets from FAFSA
For years, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has not been kind to college students in farming families. Due to some flaws in the program, farmers must label their machinery, land, and small businesses as liquid assets, even though they are not...
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More Ag News
Iowa is still slightly dry, but rains have been helpful
The beginning of May was quite dry compared to years past, but the last third of the month brought enough rain to make it wetter than average overall. The timing couldn’t have been much better either, as many farmers were able to get their crops in the ground before...
U.S. Export Sales Report (5-30-25)
The USDA released its weekly U.S. Export Sales Report on Thursday. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the corn sales were decent this week, but that’s still high for what we expect at this time of year. On the other hand, soybean exports were slightly lower...
Quantifying genetics can lead to premium profits
Beef demand remains strong, but it’s important to always be thinking about the future and ways to improve production practices and maximize return on investment. Kara Lee, director of producer engagement for Certified Angus Beef, says that a focus on quality genetics...
MAHA report could hurt farmers and consumers
The National Corn Growers Association responded to the Making America Healthy Again Committee report which raised unfounded questions about the safety of pesticides. The NCGA released a report speaking to the economic impact of widely-used technologies like atrazine...
GROWMARK invests in future ag professionals
Fifty-five students across the U.S. and Ontario, Canada, have been awarded $2,000 scholarships through the GROWMARK Foundation, supporting their pursuit of degrees in agriculture or business-related fields. Nearly 805 students applied for the competitive program, with...
