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Ernst talks fertilizer costs, trade, and supply chains
Fertilizer supplies and pricing continue to be a major concern for farmers as global tensions and trade uncertainty influence the ag economy heading towards the second half of the growing season. While many producers were able to secure products ahead of spring planting, questions are already beginning to build about fertilizer availability and pricing for fall application and the 2027 crop year. I spoke with Iowa Senator Joni Ernst about those concerns, including domestic fertilizer...
U.S. Export Sales Report (5-7-26)
Once again the corn sales were strong this week, and the soybean sales were disappointing. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest U.S. Export Sales Report. Even with the strong corn exports, McBride said the USDA will likely have to make...
Students need career development skills on top of classroom education
Employers today aren’t just looking for diplomas- they want people who can think creatively, lead teams, and solve problems in new and innovative ways. On top of earning an agriculture degree, students at Iowa State University can use the Pathways Program to gain...
Farmers already expect higher breakeven prices in 2027
The Purdue University/CME Group's Ag Economy Barometer declined in April as economic uncertainty caused a dip in farmer optimism for the future of their operations. Michael Langemeier, director of Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture, says that corn...
Iowa Farm Bureau Federation names Katherine Mackenzie young farmer program coordinator
The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) has named Katherine MacKenzie as its young farmer program coordinator. MacKenzie began her Farm Bureau career on April 20, serving as the primary point of contact for young farmer members and working closely with IFBF’s Young...
USDA says Iowa near major weather boundary
Weather conditions across the United States continue to show a sharp contrast between wet and dry regions, and USDA Chief Meteorologist Brad Rippey says Iowa is sitting near the center of that dividing line. Speaking during a discussion in Washington, D.C., Rippey...
It’s still too risky to ship fertilizer globally
The Strait of Hormuz has become a major focus in global markets as disruptions have created bottlenecks that are driving input costs even higher. Josh Linville, vice president of fertilizer for StoneX, said it doesn’t matter if the strait is declared open or closed-...
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Farm Bureau’s “Farm State of Mind” unveils new mental health resource
The challenges facing farmers and ranchers can take a toll on mental health and well-being. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s “Farm State of Mind” initiative helps provides access to information and resources that promote farmer and rancher mental health and...
Grassley urges Speaker to get year-round E15 through the House without changes
United States Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) is calling on House Speaker Mike Johnson to act quickly on year-round E15 in the House Rules Committee. This follows a delay for the legislation in a move to appease Republicans from oil rich states. Grassley says that...
Tracking fertilizer costs since the beginning of the conflict in Iran
Fertilizer prices have climbed sharply following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, raising concerns about higher production costs for U.S. farmers in the years ahead. Analysts say nitrogen fertilizers have seen the largest increases due to disruptions tied to...
E15 fight reaches critical moment in Congress
The push for nationwide year-round E15 could soon clear one of its biggest hurdles yet as the U.S. House prepares to vote on standalone legislation next week that would permanently allow the fuel blend to be sold through the summer driving season nationwide. Growth...
U.S. Export Sales Report (5-7-26)
Once again the corn sales were strong this week, and the soybean sales were disappointing. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest U.S. Export Sales Report. Even with the strong corn exports, McBride said the USDA will likely have to make...
