Category: Agriculture

Recent federal data presents a nuanced picture for ethanol production across the United States. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, daily ethanol output reached an average of 1.113 million barrels, representing a decrease of 5,000 barrels compared to the previous week.

Despite the weekly decline, production levels remain consistent with recent patterns and demonstrate notable improvement over the past year. Annual figures show an increase of 32,000 barrels as manufacturing facilities work to satisfy consumer demand.

The Iowa State University Center for Agricultural and Rural Development has also weighed in on the ethanol market trends, though their complete analysis was not immediately available.

Soybean producers in Brazil’s Mato Grosso region are launching a campaign to showcase their environmental efforts and transform their image from climate destroyers to sustainability champions. However, experts are concerned that the potential breakdown of a major deforestation prevention initiative could reverse the gains they’ve made in recent years.

The latest federal agriculture data reveals mixed trends in chicken production, with weekly figures showing a slight decline while annual comparisons remain positive.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 254.065 million eggs intended for meat chicken production were placed in incubators during the reporting period. This represents a decrease of 321,000 eggs compared to the previous week, though the total still exceeds last year’s figures by 2 percent.

The report also noted that hatching success rates dropped below 79 percent during this period. Meanwhile, roughly 194 million newly hatched chicks destined for meat production were transferred to growing facilities, marking a decline of 1.717 million birds from the week prior.

These statistics provide insight into the poultry industry’s production patterns, which can influence future meat supplies and pricing in the coming months.

Agricultural families in Missouri now have access to assistance from Farm Rescue, a charitable organization that steps in when farming operations face difficult circumstances. The volunteer-driven initiative provides crucial support to families who are struggling to manage their agricultural responsibilities.

The organization deploys trained volunteers equipped with up-to-date machinery to assist with essential farming operations including crop planting, hay production, transportation duties, harvest activities, and livestock care. Beginning this autumn, Missouri farmers can access harvesting support, with additional services planned to become available in the future.

This expansion brings Farm Rescue’s mission of supporting agricultural communities to a new state, offering a lifeline to families who might otherwise struggle to maintain their farming operations during challenging periods.

Agricultural producers attending this year’s Commodity Classic are making efficiency improvements their top priority as economic pressures mount across the farming industry. Rob Shafer, an Illinois farmer serving as co-chair of the conference, explains that growers are experiencing significant financial strain due to expensive input costs combined with declining commodity market values.

“If you can save a buck here, or a buck there in today’s economy that is the way,” Shafer noted, highlighting how even modest cost reductions have become essential for farm operations navigating the challenging economic landscape.

Agricultural producers across the country launched a coordinated telephone campaign Wednesday morning, targeting members of Congress with a unified demand for action on E15 ethanol fuel policy.

The corn farming community organized the phone blitz to pressure lawmakers into supporting year-round sales of E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol that is currently restricted during summer months.

Agricultural researchers are launching an extensive nationwide study designed to help corn farmers maximize their harvests through improved seed choices and farming practices.

According to a data analyst involved in the project, the expanded research initiative could provide valuable guidance to farmers looking to optimize their corn production. Jim Schwartz, who serves as director of research, agronomy, and PFR at Beck’s Hybrids, explained that experimental plots nationwide will evaluate 18 distinct management strategies for each corn hybrid variety.

“We’re looking at different nitrogen rates,” Schwartz stated, describing one aspect of the comprehensive testing program that aims to determine the most effective approaches for managing corn crops.

The research focuses on two critical areas that significantly impact farm profitability: selecting the right seed varieties and implementing optimal crop management techniques. The findings are expected to provide farmers with data-driven insights to enhance their corn yield performance across different growing conditions.

Most dairy commodity values climbed Wednesday during trading sessions at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, with several key products posting notable increases.

Dry whey maintained its position at $0.6375 per pound with no trading activity recorded at that level. Forty-pound blocks of cheese gained $0.0425 to reach $1.6025, supported by two transactions at $1.58 and $1.59. Cheese barrels experienced a stronger rise of $0.0700 to settle at $1.56, though no actual sales occurred at that price point.

Butter values advanced $0.0225 to $1.8350 per pound without any recorded transactions. Nonfat dry milk also increased by $0.0225 to finish at $1.6725, with two sales completed at the $1.67 level.

The upward movement in dairy commodities reflects ongoing market dynamics affecting milk product pricing nationwide.

For one agricultural broadcaster, the iconic blue corduroy jacket represents far more than professional expertise—it symbolizes a deep family tradition spanning four generations. This media professional wore the distinctive FFA uniform during high school, continuing a legacy established by their sister, father, and grandfather before them.

The broadcaster’s involvement with the Future Farmers of America extended beyond high school, participating as a collegiate member at Western University. This personal experience with the organization provides authentic perspective when covering agricultural topics and youth development stories.

The journey from student agriculture enthusiast to professional communicator demonstrates how FFA membership can create pathways to diverse career opportunities while maintaining strong connections to farming communities and agricultural advancement.

Wednesday’s livestock trading activity remained sluggish across cattle markets, with buyers and sellers yet to establish clear price parameters. Industry observers expect meaningful trading volumes won’t materialize until later in the week, likely Thursday or Friday.

Boxed beef values showed upward momentum during midday trading, with Choice grade cuts climbing $1.92 to reach $379.35 per hundredweight. Select grade beef also posted gains, advancing 75 cents to $366.76. The price differential between Choice and Select grades currently stands at $12.59.

Agricultural industry representatives are expressing their disappointment with the sluggish progress on biofuel policy initiatives during recent industry discussions. Brett Grauerholtz, representing Kansas Corn, highlighted the complex challenges facing lawmakers as they work toward passing comprehensive E15 legislation on a national scale before today’s congressional deadline.

“There is so many people that have to get involved with this to get legislation that benefits everybody,” Grauerholtz explained, pointing to the intricate nature of advancing year-round E15 fuel availability across the United States.

The concerns emerged during conversations at the Commodity Classic, where farming leaders gathered to discuss pressing industry issues. The proposed legislation would expand access to E15 ethanol blends throughout the entire year, rather than the current seasonal restrictions that limit its availability during certain months.

NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — Cypriot officials announced Wednesday they will launch an extensive vaccination campaign targeting thousands of farm animals as they work to stop the spread of foot-and-mouth disease that has already forced the destruction of at least 13,000 livestock and poses a serious threat to the nation’s halloumi cheese industry.

Agriculture and Environment Minister Maria Panayiotou revealed that specialists from the European Union have arrived to supervise the first phase of immunizations at agricultural operations within a 1.9-mile perimeter around where the outbreak began.

The contagious viral infection has now impacted 11 agricultural facilities across four villages near Cyprus’s southern coast. Response teams are actively disinfecting vehicles as they enter the restricted area to prevent any potential transmission of the disease, which causes high temperatures and painful mouth lesions in animals while severely cutting milk output and weakening livestock.

“Strictly obeying biosecurity measures is absolutely essential as they are a key tool to containing the virus,” Panayiotou told a news conference, adding that private veterinarians have been recruited to help state authorities administer the vaccine.

Officials will initially use 10,000 vaccine doses obtained from the island’s northern Turkish Cypriot region before receiving more than 500,000 additional doses from European pharmaceutical companies.

Soteria Georgiadou, a top administrator with Cyprus’ Veterinary Services, explained that authorities had previously provided EU-supplied vaccines to Turkish Cypriot farmers when the disease first emerged in northern livestock operations at the end of 2025. The Turkish Cypriots have now agreed to return some of those doses.

Georgiadou confirmed that 263 cattle have been eliminated, with another 13,000 sheep, goats and pigs scheduled for destruction and burial at designated locations. She indicated the vaccination effort could expand to cover a 6.2-mile radius from the outbreak’s center, while disinfection procedures will continue for several more months.

The island nation was divided along ethnic boundaries in 1974 when Turkey launched an invasion after a coup attempt aimed at joining Cyprus with Greece. Only Turkey recognizes the Turkish Cypriot declaration of independence. While Cyprus became an EU member in 2004, solely the southern Greek Cypriot region where the internationally recognized government operates receives complete membership privileges.

President Nikos Christodoulides promised government assistance and financial compensation for affected farmers. He suggested the disease may have originated from the north due to “possibly illegal activities,” though he provided no additional details.

Officials have moved swiftly to safeguard the island’s halloumi production, the distinctive white cheese that can be grilled and has gained popularity in international markets. The cheese generated exports worth just over 200 million euros ($236 million) during the first six months of 2025, reportedly exceeding revenues from the island’s important pharmaceutical industry.

Marios Constantinou, who leads the Cheesemakers Association, assured that halloumi manufacturing and shipments to primary markets including the EU, United Kingdom and Australia remain secure thanks to safety protocols implemented during production.

Panayiotou reported no additional cases of the disease have been discovered beyond the 11 impacted farms, and rigorous testing procedures for animal samples are now in effect. She emphasized that consuming meat remains safe even following vaccination.

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley has expressed his backing for a recent executive order from President Trump focused on increasing the nation’s domestic glyphosate production capabilities.

The Republican senator emphasized the importance of the widely-used herbicide in American agriculture. “Glyphosate is the most widely used crop protection tool in the United States,” Grassley stated. He also noted that manufacturing of the chemical takes place in Muscatine, Iowa, saying “You may not know this but part of its production is also done in Muscatine, Iowa. I’m glad to see” the administration taking action on this issue.

The executive order seeks to strengthen agricultural input supplies while providing liability protections for farmers who use these products.

Agricultural industry representatives are stressing the importance of maintaining trade stability as officials prepare to review the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement in the coming months.

Industry leaders and farming representatives gathered for discussions at the historic location where the original North American Free Trade Agreement was signed, emphasizing that the current trade framework delivers essential predictability for agricultural producers across the United States.

According to the agricultural advocates, the scheduled USMCA evaluation will bring both potential benefits and risks for the farming sector as officials examine the agreement’s effectiveness and consider possible modifications.

The trade agreement has been viewed as crucial for providing the economic stability that agricultural businesses need to make long-term planning decisions and investments in their operations.

Devastating blazes have consumed close to 850,000 acres across Kansas and Oklahoma during the past seven days, delivering severe blows to livestock operations and farming communities throughout both states.

The widespread fires have created major challenges for cattle operations and various farming enterprises as flames continue to tear through agricultural regions in the two-state area.

America’s corn-based biofuel industry is increasingly turning its attention to international markets as efforts to grow domestic consumption face mounting obstacles.

With difficulties in expanding ethanol use within the United States, industry leaders are now prioritizing overseas sales of the renewable fuel as a key growth strategy.

The agricultural industry has announced several key leadership changes across major national organizations. Christy Puffenbarger has been chosen to serve as the new chairwoman of the National Turkey Federation, taking the helm of the organization that represents turkey producers nationwide.

In other organizational news, the National Association of Conservation Districts’ board members have selected Mark Masters from Georgia to fill the role of president-elect for their conservation-focused association.

Meanwhile, CropLife America has brought on Frank Plescia to handle their state government relations as their new director. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has also expanded their team by adding Emma Johnston to serve as a senior agriculture adviser.

Additionally, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers has welcomed Kristina Aleksander to their staff, where she will manage policy communications for the trade organization.

Select sections of Florida’s Apalachicola Bay have welcomed back commercial wild oyster harvesters following a five-year moratorium on the practice. The resumption of limited harvesting operations has brought excitement to both seafood lovers and the fishing community.

The restricted reopening marks the end of a lengthy suspension that kept harvesters away from the bay’s oyster beds for half a decade. Commercial fishermen and oyster enthusiasts are celebrating the return of access to these prized shellfish waters.

Agricultural equipment manufacturing is experiencing renewed momentum across the United States, according to U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley. The Iowa Republican expressed enthusiasm about employment opportunities returning to his home state.

“I’ve been very happy to hear jobs are coming back to Iowa, whether it’s construction or making farm machinery,” Grassley stated. “It’s good for our workers and very good news for the economy.”

The positive developments in equipment manufacturing come as the agricultural sector continues working toward full recovery. Recent announcements from major manufacturers over the past month indicate growing confidence in the farm equipment industry.

While these manufacturing investments signal strength in the equipment sector, industry observers note this doesn’t necessarily indicate a complete turnaround for agriculture as a whole.

LONDON – West Africa’s leading cocoa producer, Ivory Coast, faces a mounting crisis that could leave approximately 200,000 metric tons of cocoa beans unsold by the conclusion of March, according to industry analysts and international trading company executives.

The accumulation stems from a pricing dispute where the government established farmer compensation rates last October that significantly exceed current global market values, creating financial losses for traders who purchase the beans.

Together with neighboring Ghana, Ivory Coast supplies roughly half of the world’s cocoa production. Both nations are grappling with growing stockpiles of unsold beans that have been building up at ports and inland storage facilities over recent months.

These surplus inventories have contributed to a dramatic decline in worldwide cocoa prices, which have dropped by 50% this year and recently reached nearly three-year lows.

International trading companies ceased purchasing Ivorian beans from the main harvest several months ago due to the price disparity. However, government and local trade officials confirmed that the country successfully negotiated sales of 200,000 tons from its upcoming April through September secondary harvest to global buyers last week.

The secondary crop typically undergoes local processing and commands lower prices due to perceived quality differences compared to the main harvest.

To provide financial relief to farmers awaiting payment for their main crop deliveries, Ivory Coast committed in late January to purchase 100,000 tons of unsold cocoa at an estimated cost of $500 million.

Industry executives predict the actual volume requiring government purchase will substantially exceed this amount. Two senior officials from major agricultural commodity trading firms, speaking anonymously due to media restrictions, revealed that Ivorian intermediary traders have failed to complete purchases of at least 100,000 tons from the main crop.

These same executives estimate farmers will harvest an additional 100,000 tons of main crop beans through March’s end that remain unsold to international buyers and will likely stay that way unless the government reduces its pricing structure.

The Coffee and Cocoa Council (CCC), Ivory Coast’s Abidjan-based regulatory body responsible for sector oversight and farmer price determination, disputed the market estimates of unsold inventory as “erroneous” but declined to provide additional specifics when contacted by Reuters.

On Monday, Ivory Coast’s agriculture minister announced plans to reveal farmer pricing for the upcoming secondary crop by February’s conclusion, representing an earlier timeline than typical practice.

Ghana implemented significant changes last week, reducing its farmer prices by nearly one-third following complaints from cocoa producers who reported receiving no payments since November. Industry sources indicated that Ivory Coast is evaluating similar price reductions to match Ghana’s adjusted rates.

Wisconsin Representative Derrick Van Orden is highlighting provisions in the latest farm bill that extend beyond the typical focus areas of environmental programs, food assistance, and agricultural trade enhancements.

Speaking with Brownfield, Van Orden emphasized that the legislation contains funding opportunities specifically designed to support smaller meat processing operations across the country.

“We’ve got the new mobile and expanded meat processing grants. So, there’s only four major processors in the entire country, and what we’re trying to do is” support alternatives to this concentrated industry structure, Van Orden explained.

The congressman’s comments point to efforts aimed at diversifying the meat processing sector, which has faced scrutiny over its limited number of major players controlling much of the nation’s processing capacity.

Federal workplace safety officials announced Tuesday they are imposing penalties totaling $246,609 against three companies following the tragic deaths of six dairy workers who lost their lives due to toxic gas exposure at a Colorado facility.

The deadly incident occurred on August 20, 2025, when a manure pipe became disconnected in a confined area, releasing lethal hydrogen sulfide gas that killed five men and one teenager. The tragedy devastated the small farming communities near Keenesburg, located about 35 miles northeast of Denver.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration hit the dairy operation, Prospect Ranch LLC, with the steepest penalty of $132,406 for multiple serious safety violations. Officials cited the company for inadequate worker training, poor safety planning, and failing to safeguard employees from dangerous atmospheric conditions. The company has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Federal regulators also levied fines against two contractors who were working on the manure handling system when the fatal gas release occurred, according to Tuesday’s government announcement.

Colorado-based Fiske Inc., whose subsidiary High Plains Robotics maintains dairy equipment and employed several of the victims, received a $99,306 penalty for failing to protect workers and not providing proper hydrogen sulfide detection training.

OSHA officials described the sequence of events in their statement: “A Fiske employee and a Prospect Ranch employee attempted to stop the flow but were overcome by the gas. Subsequently, three more Fiske employees and one Prospect Ranch employee entered the pump room, which led to the loss of a total of six workers.”

The Weld County medical examiner confirmed through post-mortem examinations and toxicology analysis that hydrogen sulfide gas exposure caused the deaths, though few details about the specific circumstances were released beyond describing it as an industrial accident in a restricted space at the dairy operation.

A third contractor, HD Builders, received a $14,897 citation for lacking proper written hazard communication procedures and failing to train workers on hydrogen sulfide detection. Workers from this company were on-site when the pipe failure occurred but escaped injury.

All three companies now have 15 days to either pay the proposed penalties, request informal discussions with safety officials, or contest the citations before an occupational safety review board.

Confined space dangers at agricultural facilities represent a persistent and well-documented threat to farm workers nationwide, frequently involving exposure to invisible, odorless toxic gases or suffocation in enclosed areas where oxygen levels have dropped dangerously low.

Emergency responders from the local Weld County fire department arrived at Prospect Ranch around 6 p.m. on August 20 and took extensive safety measures before entering the confined area.

All six victims were Latino workers, ages 17 to 50. Tragically, four of the deceased, including the teenage high school student, belonged to the same extended family.

The victims included Alejandro Espinoza Cruz from Nunn, who died alongside his 17-year-old son Oscar Espinoza Leos and another son, 29-year-old Carlos Espinoza Prado.

The Espinoza family was connected through marriage to another victim, 36-year-old Jorge Sanchez Pena from Greeley, according to the county medical examiner.

The remaining two workers who perished were Ricardo Gomez Galvan, 40, and Noe Montañez Casañas, 32, both residents of Keenesburg.

Montañez Casañas, a veterinarian working in the United States on a visa, was laid to rest in his home state of Hidalgo in central Mexico, with assistance from the Mexican consulate in Denver.

A Wisconsin legislative initiative aimed at establishing a $20 million loan program for dairy cattle innovation has collapsed during the current session, leaving both agricultural advocates and lawmakers expressing frustration.

According to Assembly Agriculture Committee Chair Travis Tranel, the original proposal underwent significant changes during the legislative process. The bill was restructured to allocate $10 million specifically for dairy cattle loans while designating another $10 million for beef cattle financing.

“We should have recognized, and we had a substitute,” Tranel stated when discussing the bill’s challenges.

The program was designed to provide financial assistance to Wisconsin farmers looking to implement innovative practices and technologies in their dairy operations. However, the legislation has now stalled without advancing through the current session.

Both farming communities and state representatives had hoped the innovation loan program would help modernize Wisconsin’s dairy industry and support agricultural advancement throughout the state.

Trading activity on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange showed mixed results for livestock futures, with cattle contracts experiencing mostly modest gains while feeder cattle prices climbed higher. The upward movement represents a recovery from losses seen earlier in the week, supported by stronger boxed beef prices as traders anticipate direct trading sessions scheduled for later this week.

April live cattle contracts declined $0.15 to settle at $239.10, while June contracts posted a gain of $0.10 to reach $235.55. Feeder cattle showed stronger performance, with March contracts jumping $0.80 to $365.10 per hundredweight.

The livestock market activity reflects ongoing volatility as agricultural commodity traders navigate fluctuating demand patterns and supply chain considerations affecting both cattle and pork markets nationwide.

Soybean futures posted small increases during trading as investment funds and technical buying patterns drove market activity. The legume commodity took direction from soybean oil markets, which received additional strength from anticipated demand growth.

Agricultural traders are keeping a close eye on Brazil’s ongoing harvest season while remaining cautious about potential tariff developments and trade relations with China. Although Lunar New Year festivities have concluded, market participants are still uncertain about Beijing’s next moves in the agricultural trade sector.

Meanwhile, corn and wheat futures displayed varied performance, with neither commodity showing a clear directional trend as markets continue to weigh multiple economic factors affecting grain prices.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins addressed mounting concerns from farmers nationwide regarding the Department of Agriculture’s data collection and reporting methods during last week’s Ag Outlook Forum.

While defending the USDA’s market reports as the industry’s “gold standard,” Rollins acknowledged there’s opportunity for enhancement. She noted that agricultural producers throughout the nation are increasingly questioning the department’s data gathering processes and seeking greater transparency.

“We want farmers to have confidence in our reporting,” Rollins emphasized, highlighting the agency’s commitment to maintaining both accuracy and openness in its market analysis.

The secretary’s comments come as trust issues between farmers and federal agricultural reporting agencies have become more prominent, with producers seeking clearer explanations of how market data is collected and analyzed.

Agricultural extension experts are reporting that organic grain producers are facing mounting difficulties as the farming economy continues to struggle. According to Ashley Adair, an extension specialist with Purdue University Extension, these economic headwinds are preventing farmers from expanding their operations into new areas.

“We have a pretty robust market for feed-grade grains,” Adair explained. “We have a lot of organic” producers in the region, she noted, but the current market conditions are limiting their ability to branch out into different crops or farming methods.

The ongoing agricultural economic slowdown has created a challenging environment where even successful organic operations are finding it difficult to take the financial risks associated with diversification efforts.

Agricultural commodity markets wrapped up Monday’s trading session with mixed results across major futures contracts on February 24, 2026.

Grain markets showed mostly positive movement, with March corn futures finishing at $4.27¾ per bushel, gaining a quarter cent from the previous session. Soybean futures performed particularly well, with March contracts closing at $11.39½, marking an increase of 5¼ cents.

Soybean-related products also posted gains during the trading day. March soybean meal contracts ended at $310.70, climbing $2.00 higher, while March soybean oil futures reached 60.03, advancing 64 points from Friday’s close.

Wheat futures bucked the trend among grains, with March Chicago wheat contracts settling at $5.67½ per bushel, declining 2 cents for the session.

Livestock markets displayed varied performance across different contracts. April live cattle futures closed at $239.10, dropping 15 cents, while March feeder cattle contracts gained significant ground, finishing at $365.10 with an 80-cent increase.

Hog futures showed strong performance, with April lean hog contracts closing at $95.80, surging $2.10 higher than the previous trading day.

January brought an unexpected rise in the nation’s frozen pork inventory, according to new federal agriculture data. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that pork held in freezer facilities reached 410.404 million pounds by February’s beginning, marking a 1% increase from the same period last year.

The inventory boost occurred despite decreased pork production throughout January, with the growth driven primarily by larger quantities of pork butts and bone-in hams entering cold storage facilities. Meanwhile, frozen beef supplies moved in the opposite direction, dropping 4% compared to the previous year’s levels.

Federal agriculture officials report that dairy storage facilities experienced mixed inventory changes during January, with cheese stocks rising while butter reserves declined compared to the same period last year.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, cold storage warehouses held 1.38 billion pounds of natural cheese by January 31st, representing a marginal increase from the 1.37 billion pounds recorded twelve months earlier.

American cheese varieties accounted for 792.3 million pounds of the total inventory at January’s close, falling just short of the volumes stored during January 2025. Meanwhile, Swiss cheese reserves climbed to 23.1 million pounds during the reporting period.

The data reflects ongoing fluctuations in dairy product storage levels as producers and distributors manage seasonal demand patterns and production cycles throughout the industry.

Refrigerated cheese inventories held in cold storage facilities nationwide showed marginal growth as of January 31, 2026, according to newly released federal agricultural data.

The latest cold storage report indicates that natural cheese reserves increased modestly compared to December 2025 levels, while also posting a small gain when measured against the same period in the previous year.

These warehouse inventory figures provide agricultural analysts and dairy industry stakeholders with important data points for tracking supply chain trends and market conditions in the cheese sector.

The monthly cold storage survey captures inventory levels at refrigerated warehouse facilities across the country, offering a snapshot of how much product is being held in reserve at any given time.

As agricultural bankruptcies climb throughout the Midwest this year, a legal expert is recommending that farmers take proactive steps to protect their operations through comprehensive financial planning.

Joe Peiffer, an attorney with Ag and Business Legal Strategies, emphasizes that conducting thorough financial assessments could serve as an essential tool for managing risk. According to Peiffer, examining loan agreements and monitoring operational costs may help agricultural producers prevent defaulting on their financial obligations.

“If things aren’t going to work in a restructuring mode, they might have to look” at other options, Peiffer noted, suggesting that early intervention could make the difference between saving a farming operation and losing it entirely.

Wheat farmers across the Great Lakes region are implementing advanced management techniques to significantly increase their crop yields, according to agricultural researchers.

Dennis Pennington, an extension educator with Michigan State University, explains that developing substantial plant biomass has become crucial for optimizing grain development and achieving superior wheat production. Speaking with agricultural reporters, Pennington noted a shift in farming approaches.

“Sometimes we’ve tended to let wheat go a little bit in the spring before we start to push it,” Pennington explained. “But, I think to get the kind of yields” farmers are seeking, more intensive management is required.

The Great Lakes wheat grower network has been working to share these high-management strategies among regional farmers, focusing on techniques that maximize the grain-filling process during critical growing periods.

Agricultural economists are closely monitoring international responses following a Supreme Court decision that stripped away presidential emergency tariff authority. The ruling has removed a key negotiating tool that could affect recently announced agricultural trade agreements.

Ben Brown, an agricultural economist with the University of Missouri Extension, is tracking how trading partners might react to this shift in U.S. trade policy. Without tariffs serving as bargaining leverage, Brown questions whether agricultural purchase commitments outlined in recent trade deals will remain intact.

The economist’s concerns center on whether international partners will honor their agricultural purchasing agreements now that the threat of emergency tariffs has been eliminated from future negotiations.

Key policy decisions regarding biofuel requirements and potential trade agreements with China could dramatically influence American farmers’ crop selection this planting season, according to a leading agricultural economist.

Arlan Suderman, who serves as the principal commodities economist at Stone X Group, warns that the most significant influences on what farmers decide to plant may not be captured in upcoming federal planting intention surveys.

According to Suderman, both the Trump administration’s final requirements for biofuel blending and a potential trade agreement with China are anticipated to be announced after the U.S. Department of Agriculture completes its surveys on planting intentions.

These timing issues could mean that farmers’ actual planting decisions for corn and soybeans may differ significantly from what government data initially suggests, as producers adjust their plans based on these late-breaking policy developments.

New research from Ohio State University reveals a notable transformation taking place in agricultural real estate markets nationwide. The study shows that farmland purchase prices are climbing at a faster rate than the rental income those properties generate.

Carl Zulauf, a professor emeritus at the university, explains that this represents a major market shift. “After about 25-year period of fairly stable agricultural cropland, it began to suddenly increase,” Zulauf stated. “We may be hitting a peak now, but…”

The findings suggest that investors and farmers are paying premium prices for agricultural property even as the income potential from leasing that same land hasn’t kept pace with the rising values.

As spring planting season approaches, American farmers facing challenging economic conditions are making tough choices about what crops to grow, with soybeans emerging as the clear winner for 2026.

A fresh analysis from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange predicts that soybean plantings will jump nearly 6 percent this year as growers shift away from corn, wheat, grain sorghum, cotton and rice due to unfavorable market conditions.

The banking cooperative’s report attributes the soybean surge to expanding domestic processing facilities and anticipated continued purchases from China, which have pushed soybean prices to more competitive levels compared to alternative crops.

“Following recent price rallies, soybeans offer greater profit potential than corn, wheat, sorghum, cotton and rice,” said Tanner Ehmke, lead grains and oilseeds economist with CoBank. “Beyond price signals, crop rotation needs will also play a role. Following a big year for corn in 2025 in which acres climbed to the highest level in decades, more corn acres will be available to rotate to soybeans. And with record supplies of corn in storage, farmers will look to rotate into other crops to diversify their marketing risk. Soybeans currently offer the best marketing opportunities.”

Soybean and Corn Projections

The bank’s forecasting shows soybean plantings climbing 5.9 percent above last year’s levels to reach 86 million acres, drawing land away from multiple competing crops.

Market expectations that the Environmental Protection Agency will announce higher renewable fuel requirements, combined with ongoing Chinese demand, have boosted soybean prices relative to other commodities. Southern farmers are expected to convert cotton, rice and corn fields to soybeans, while Midwest and Central Plains producers will likely reduce wheat and corn plantings in favor of beans.

The Northern Plains region stands as an exception, where weakened export demand to China has pressured local soybean prices, encouraging farmers to favor corn over beans. Additionally, soybean performance in that region has lagged behind corn yields.

Total corn plantings are forecast to drop 4.8 percent to 94 million acres nationwide. Despite the overall decrease, corn will gain ground in western states by taking acreage from wheat, grain sorghum and soybeans, benefiting from more stable demand compared to crops affected by trade disruptions.

Northern Plains farmers dealing with poor soybean pricing will likely convert bean fields to corn, encouraged by consecutive years of strong corn yields that have proven the crop’s success in their region.

Elsewhere, last year’s heavy corn plantings suggest many acres will rotate to different crops, with soybeans typically being the preferred alternative. Midwest farmers holding record corn inventories are reluctant to plant more corn this spring.

Wheat, Durum and Sorghum Outlook

Spring wheat acreage is projected to decline 1 percent to 9.89 million acres due to weaker yields and profit margins compared to corn, as the continued westward expansion of corn production typically reduces wheat plantings.

However, if the USDA forecasts significant wheat acreage reductions in its March Prospective Plantings report, potentially triggering price increases, farmers might adjust their plans and boost wheat production in response.

Durum wheat plantings are expected to fall 3 percent to 2.12 million acres. After last year’s production increase brought U.S. durum acreage to its highest point in eight years, abundant supplies in both the U.S. and Canada have significantly weakened durum prices versus other crops. North Dakota durum growers will likely shift to pulse crops and spring wheat.

Grain sorghum acreage is forecast to decrease 5 percent to 6.31 million acres as Central Plains farmers choose more corn or soybeans for their rotations, discouraged by wide pricing gaps that make sorghum less profitable. U.S. sorghum inventories have reached four-year highs following last year’s larger harvest.

Corn’s substantial price advantage over sorghum, impressive yield performance last year, and improved soil moisture throughout the Central Plains will encourage farmers to expand corn plantings at sorghum’s expense. More consistent local corn demand from cattle feeders and better crop insurance rates also favor corn over sorghum, though sorghum acres could recover if Chinese export demand strengthens.

Cotton and Rice Forecasts

Cotton planted acreage is projected to fall 1 percent to 9.19 million acres, marking the lowest level in 11 years. Southern cotton fields will transition to soybeans, while irrigated Plains cotton acreage will move to corn. Slower U.S. cotton exports to China, increased competition from Brazilian and Australian exports, and growing synthetic fiber usage have prevented cotton price recovery. However, government base acreage payments will help stabilize cotton plantings and limit further losses.

Rice plantings are expected to reach just 2.83 million acres, representing the lowest level in three decades and a dramatic 20 percent year-over-year drop. Among major commodities, rice carries the highest planting costs and has been hit hardest by price declines. Subsidized Indian rice is overwhelming global markets while increased South American rice exports to key markets like Mexico are displacing U.S. shipments. Southern farmers are looking at soybeans as an alternative to long-grain rice, Ehmke noted.

A deadly strain of bird flu has been discovered at a commercial turkey operation in southwestern Indiana, marking the first detection in Daviess County this year. State animal health officials confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza at the facility.

The Indiana State Board of Animal Health announced that over 30,000 birds at the affected farm will need to be euthanized to prevent the virus from spreading. Officials have established containment measures including a control zone spanning approximately 6.2 miles around the infected site, with an extended surveillance area covering more than 12 miles in parts of Daviess County.

This outbreak represents the return of the dangerous bird flu strain to the southwestern Indiana region after its previous appearance in 2024. The highly contagious virus poses significant threats to both commercial poultry operations and wild bird populations.

Dairy commodity trading showed varied results during Tuesday’s session at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, with some products gaining ground while others declined.

Dry whey prices dropped by $0.0175 to close at $0.6375 per pound. Trading activity included two transactions recorded at prices of $0.6375 and $0.64.

Forty-pound cheese blocks saw an increase of $0.0450, finishing at $1.56 per pound. Market activity was robust with eight transactions completed, with prices spanning from $1.5250 to $1.56.

Cheese barrel prices held steady at $1.49 per pound with no trading activity reported for the day.

Butter maintained its previous closing price of $1.8125 per pound. The commodity saw significant trading volume with 28 transactions recorded, ranging from $1.79 to $1.8125.

Nonfat dry milk posted a modest gain of $0.0050, reaching $1.65 per pound, though no sales were completed during the session.

Tuesday’s livestock cash market opened with minimal activity as cattle trading remained stagnant with no established bid or asking prices. Market analysts expect substantial trading activity may not materialize until later in the week, possibly Thursday or Friday.

Current inventory listings present a mixed picture across key cattle-producing regions. Kansas and Texas are reporting decreased showlist numbers, while Nebraska and Colorado are seeing increases in available livestock.

Last week concluded with limited direct trading activity that emerged on Friday in Northern markets, suggesting a gradual buildup toward more active trading sessions later this week.

Farmers who grow potatoes in Michigan are sounding the alarm about proposed state regulations that could cut off their access to crucial irrigation water sources. The potential changes would involve reclassifying certain waterways, which agricultural producers fear could severely limit their ability to water crops.

Kelly Turner, who serves as Executive Director for Potato Growers of Michigan Incorporated, explained to reporters that guaranteed water access forms a critical part of agreements between farmers and the companies that process their potatoes. “That will directly affect the amount of water that is available for large” operations, Turner stated, highlighting the significant impact such restrictions could have on agricultural businesses throughout the state.

The farming organization is now urging local water management districts to take action to safeguard irrigation rights for potato producers who depend on consistent water supplies to meet their contractual obligations and maintain viable crop production.

A middle school instructor from Bedford County has received Virginia’s highest recognition for weaving agricultural concepts into her teaching curriculum.

Cindy Watson, who teaches at Forest Middle School, has been selected as the 2026 Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year. The honor celebrates educators who successfully blend farming topics with standard academic subjects.

The recognition highlights Virginia educators who effectively weave agricultural themes into their regular lesson plans.

Watson builds her exploratory science and robotics design courses around agricultural foundations, creating hands-on STEM experiences for students. Her technology-focused lessons help pupils grasp how farming affects everyday life while dispelling outdated beliefs about contemporary agricultural practices.

“Cindy’s application of agriculture in her curriculum enhances her students’ agricultural literacy and sparks curiosity,” said Lynn Black, Virginia AITC director of education. “By connecting farming with STEM concepts, she’s helping students become more informed and responsible adults who understand where their food comes from, and the vital role agriculture plays in our world.”

Watson’s classroom activities have included challenging science projects such as NASA’s Plant the Moon initiative, Growing Beyond Earth experiments, and Space Chile Grow a Pepper Plant studies. These educational experiences allowed students to investigate agricultural fundamentals including plant genetics, soil composition, hydroponics systems, and nutrient cycles while gathering and examining plant development data.

Her curriculum also incorporates robotics technology, unmanned aircraft systems, and computer modeling to study pollination processes and food production ecosystems, natural disaster impacts, and intricate agricultural distribution networks. The robotics component introduces students to precision farming techniques and shows how farmers employ drones and GPS technology for crop management and operational improvements.

Watson’s lessons demonstrate career connections between agriculture and STEM fields, including programming autonomous harvesting equipment, applying biotechnology for drought-resistant crop development, and managing vertical farming operations. Her teaching approach emphasizes how science and technology drive modern agriculture and help innovation address global food security challenges.

“Students can figure out at a younger age whether this is something they’d want to pursue as a career,” said Watson, who grew up on a farm outside of Chicago. “I like to give my students opportunities they might not get somewhere else. This is my passion, and I’m fortunate to have a community that supports these programs.”

Watson’s Virginia AITC Teacher of the Year recognition includes funding for the 2026 National AITC Conference scheduled for June in Providence, Rhode Island, plus a $500 monetary prize.

Additional details about the Teacher of the Year program are available at virginia.agclassroom.org.

The Virginia Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom operates as a nonprofit organization dedicated to building agricultural understanding and appreciation through educational programs and community outreach. More information and support opportunities can be found at virginia.agclassroom.org.

Questions can be directed to Black at [email protected] or 804-350-3596.

Federal agriculture officials have launched registration for the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, with specialty crop producers being urged to participate after meeting acreage documentation requirements.

Richard Fordyce, the USDA’s Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation, explained to agricultural reporters that numerous crop varieties are eligible for the program. He emphasized the importance of proper documentation, stating: “There’s a bunch of crops on there, and we’re asking farmers that grow those crops to make sure they have a completed acreage report.”

The federal assistance program requires growers to submit detailed acreage information before they can access the bridge funding designed to support agricultural operations.

A decade of agricultural service has provided valuable insights for one Minnesota farming professional. Joe Serbus, who operates a farm in Renville County, Minnesota, recently reflected on his extensive experience with the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council during a conversation with Brownfield.

According to Serbus, his decade-long involvement with the council has highlighted several key areas of emphasis. He points to the development of future leaders within the agricultural sector as a primary concern, alongside efforts to engage and educate younger generations about farming and related industries. Additionally, Serbus notes that improving transportation infrastructure remains a significant focus area for the organization.

Agricultural workers throughout Serbia brought traffic to a standstill Tuesday as they positioned tractors across major roadways, calling for increased government financial support and barriers against low-cost foreign agricultural products including dairy and pork.

The demonstrations began in Serbia’s southwestern region nearly two weeks ago and have now expanded nationwide, with protesters targeting 42 locations on Tuesday alone.

In the agricultural community of Bogatic, located west of Belgrade, tractors adorned with Serbian flags occupied the primary road junction. Agricultural workers stated they would maintain their blockade until officials address their concerns.

“We are ready for anything … and we will not back down … as this is the rock bottom,” stated Milan Zorbic, representing a local farmers’ organization, while recognizing that agricultural workers like himself have lost valuable field work time during the demonstrations.

Those in the dairy industry report that massive quantities of imported milk and related products, primarily originating from European Union nations and other Western Balkan countries, are being marketed at costs well beneath what local Serbian producers can maintain, pushing domestic operations toward financial ruin.

Agricultural workers also report that livestock prices have fallen to unsustainable levels, with viable pricing needing substantial increases to cover operational expenses.

Demonstrators are pursuing enhanced government financial assistance and temporary trade limitations or duties on certain agricultural imports to create more competitive market conditions.

Agriculture Minister Dragan Glamocic announced Tuesday that farming representatives had not appeared for scheduled discussions regarding measures designed to strengthen the dairy market. He noted that certain retail chains had committed to purchasing more dairy products from domestic producers.

These agricultural demonstrations are occurring alongside broader anti-government protests that began in 2024 following a train station canopy collapse that killed 16 people. Some protest signs also demanded the resignation of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic.

Agriculture represented 6.1% of Serbia’s gross domestic product in 2024, while employing 20% of the nation’s workers.

As a European Union membership candidate, Serbia has agreed to align its agricultural policies with the bloc’s standards, including opening domestic markets to EU products.

A historic Virginia mill continues operating with traditional stone-grinding methods, connecting local farms with area restaurants and consumers seeking authentic, locally-produced grains and flour.

Wade’s Mill represents a living piece of agricultural history, where time-honored techniques meet contemporary demand for locally-sourced ingredients. The facility processes various grains using stone grinding equipment, maintaining quality standards that have served the region for generations.

The mill’s operations bridge the gap between regional farmers and establishments focused on farm-to-table dining experiences. By processing locally-grown grains through traditional methods, the facility supports both agricultural producers and food service businesses committed to regional sourcing.

This approach to grain processing demonstrates how historic agricultural practices can remain relevant in today’s marketplace, where consumers increasingly value locally-produced food products and traditional preparation methods.

Agricultural leaders from Virginia made their way to California this week to take part in the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual convention held in Anaheim.

The Virginia Farm Bureau sent a delegation to represent the Commonwealth’s farming community at the national gathering, which brings together agricultural advocates from across the United States.

The convention serves as a major forum for discussing issues affecting farmers and rural communities nationwide, with state delegations participating in policy discussions and networking opportunities.

Virginia’s agricultural representatives joined their counterparts from other states to address challenges and opportunities facing the farming industry at the federal level.

DELMARVA — Delaware’s poultry industry posted mixed results during January, according to new federal agriculture data. Egg production across the state increased by 2% compared to the same period last year, providing welcome news for producers. However, hatching of egg-type chicks dropped by 6% during the month, potentially signaling future supply challenges. On the broiler side, chicks destined for meat production showed encouraging numbers.

Markets

March corn closed at $6.42 a bushel, up $0.04. Soybeans for March settled at $14.33, gaining $0.08. March wheat finished at $7.19, down $0.03. Locally, Delmarva grain elevators are paying $5.90 for cash corn and $13.60 for soybeans.

Forecast

The region is looking at mostly sunny skies Tuesday with temperatures reaching 35° and northwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Tonight turns mostly cloudy with a low of 24° and a chance of light snow developing. Wednesday brings a chance of mixed rain and snow with temperatures climbing to 47° and southwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Thursday looks wet with rain likely and highs reaching 43°.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, February 24, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Delaware’s poultry industry posted mixed results in January according to new USDA data released this week. Egg production across the state increased by 2% compared to last year, providing welcome news for one of Delaware’s key agricultural sectors. However, hatching of egg-type chicks dropped by 6% during the month, potentially signaling future supply challenges. On the broiler side, chicks destined for meat production saw encouraging growth during January.

Policy

Winter weather forced the House Agriculture Committee to postpone farm bill markup sessions until next week. The committee had planned to convene Monday but rescheduled due to an incoming winter storm.

Markets

March corn futures settled at $6.43 per bushel. March soybeans closed at $13.78. March wheat ended at $7.31 per bushel. Local cash corn on Delmarva is running $5.90 to $6.10. Soybeans are bringing $12.50 to $12.75.

Forecast

Expect mostly sunny skies today with highs near 35° and northwest winds 10 to 15 miles per hour. Good conditions for catching up on outdoor work after the weekend storm. Tonight turns mostly cloudy with a chance of light snow developing. Lows around 24°. Wednesday brings a chance of rain and snow with highs near 47°.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, February 24, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

National FFA Week is shining a spotlight on how the organization creates valuable opportunities for America’s youth, according to a state FFA leader. Max Luedtke, who serves as Wisconsin’s Parliamentarian, spoke with Brownfield about how FFA develops crucial leadership abilities in students.

“Such as job interviews, delivering speeches, how to network, but then also exposes them to a wide variety of careers,” Luedtke explained when describing the skills students gain through participation.

According to Luedtke, the broad exposure FFA provides helps students discover potential career paths they might not have otherwise considered.

Winter weather predictions have forced the House Agriculture Committee to reschedule an important legislative session. The committee was planning to convene Monday to start reviewing and marking up the farm bill, but the meeting has been moved to next week due to an incoming winter storm expected Sunday.

The postponement affects the timeline for debating the comprehensive agricultural legislation that impacts farming communities across the country, including those here in Delaware and the broader Delmarva region.

Corn producers across the Midwest are keeping a close watch on whether a devastating crop disease might return to plague their fields once again. After experiencing unprecedented outbreaks of southern rust in 2025, agricultural communities remain on high alert for the upcoming growing season.

Alison Robertson, who specializes in field crop diseases at Iowa State University Extension, noted that last year’s infection rates reached record-breaking proportions. “So it’s a big concern on everybody’s mind here,” Robertson explained when discussing the plant pathogen responsible for southern rust damage.

The agricultural expert emphasized that farmers throughout corn-producing regions are anxiously awaiting signs of whether this destructive disease will make another appearance in their crops this year.

Wisconsin lawmakers concluded their legislative session Friday by moving several agriculture-focused bills through the State Assembly. Multiple measures that have successfully navigated both chambers of the legislature are now awaiting action from Governor Tony Evers, who will decide whether to sign them into law or issue vetoes.

According to Wisconsin Farm Bureau representative Tim Fiocchi, the bills that have completed the legislative process and are bound for the governor’s desk represent various agricultural policy initiatives. However, the legislative pipeline still contains additional farm-related measures that require Senate consideration before they can advance further in the process.

The completion of the Assembly session marks a significant milestone for Wisconsin’s agricultural community, as these pending bills could impact farming operations and rural communities throughout the state.

Agricultural commodity markets concluded Monday’s trading session with mixed results across major grain and livestock contracts for February 23, 2026.

In grain markets, March corn futures held steady at $4.27 and 1/2 with no change from the previous session. March soybean contracts experienced downward pressure, closing at $11.34 and 1/4, representing a decline of 3 and 1/4 cents. Soybean meal for March delivery also fell, finishing at $308.70, down $1.10 for the day. However, March soybean oil bucked the trend in the soy complex, gaining 47 points to close at 59.39.

Wheat futures faced selling pressure, with March Chicago wheat contracts dropping 44 cents to settle at $5.69 and 1/2.

Livestock markets predominantly moved lower during Monday’s session. April live cattle futures declined $2.75 to close at $239.25, while March feeder cattle contracts fell more sharply, losing $3.72 to finish at $364.30. April lean hog futures provided the lone bright spot in livestock trading, edging up 2 cents to $93.70.

March Class III milk futures data was incomplete at market close.

Agricultural commodity markets showed varied performance on Monday as traders closely monitored crop conditions across South America. Soybean prices displayed mixed results while market participants tracked Brazil’s ongoing harvest progress, which has now reached approximately 30% completion.

Weather patterns in Argentina continue to capture traders’ attention as the country’s crop conditions have experienced significant challenges this growing season. However, recent rainfall has provided some relief, leading to modest improvements in crop ratings that now exceed last year’s levels during the same period.

Market analysts are also keeping a watchful eye on potential tariff developments and their impact on commodity demand moving forward.

Livestock commodity markets experienced volatile trading today at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, with cattle contracts experiencing steep declines while hog futures moved higher.

Live cattle contracts faced significant selling pressure as traders cashed in profits and concerns about potential trade policy changes weighed on broader commodity markets. The April live cattle contract dropped $2.75 to close at $239.25 per hundredweight, while the June contract fell $2.07 to settle at $235.45.

Feeder cattle saw even steeper losses, with March contracts tumbling $3.72 to end at $364.30 per hundredweight. The selling was attributed to a combination of technical factors and uncertainty surrounding potential tariff policies affecting agricultural commodities.

In contrast to the cattle market weakness, lean hog futures posted gains during the same trading session, showing the divergent trends affecting different livestock sectors.

Agricultural markets could face significant turbulence in the months ahead, according to a financial expert who specializes in farming economics. Tanner Ehmke, an economist with CoBank, is warning that shifting weather patterns may trigger substantial price fluctuations across commodity markets.

The transition away from La Nina conditions has Ehmke particularly concerned about market stability. “There are signs that we could be getting some hot and dry conditions, so we’ve got to keep an eye on” the developing weather situation, he explained.

Beyond weather concerns, Ehmke is also monitoring how international tensions and conflicts could impact agricultural trade and pricing. These geopolitical factors, combined with changing climate patterns, create a complex environment that could surprise markets with sudden shifts.

The economist’s assessment comes as farmers across the region prepare for the upcoming growing season, making critical decisions about crop selection and input purchases that could be affected by the market volatility he’s predicting.

A series of new trade agreements with Southeast Asian countries could open significant opportunities for American pork producers, according to industry officials.

Maria Zieba, who serves as vice president of government affairs for the National Pork Producers Council, reports that these recent trade frameworks are eliminating barriers that have historically limited U.S. pork exports to the region.

The agreements address both traditional tariffs and other regulatory obstacles that previously restricted trade access. Zieba highlighted Malaysia’s particularly cooperative approach to the negotiations.

“Malaysia went above and beyond,” Zieba stated, adding that “All plants are going” to benefit from the expanded market access.

The development represents a potentially major shift for American pork producers seeking to expand their international market reach in Southeast Asia.

A new bilateral trade agreement between the United States and Taiwan promises to boost American wheat exports by permanently removing import tariffs, according to a trade policy specialist.

Ryan Olson from U.S. Wheat Associates explains that this recently unveiled reciprocal trade arrangement will create lasting benefits for American wheat producers by setting tariff rates at zero indefinitely.

“Taiwan has committed to purchasing over 130 million bushels of U.S. wheat almost through the end of this decade,” Olson stated.

The agreement represents a significant opportunity for expanding American agricultural exports to the Taiwan market, with the elimination of trade barriers expected to make U.S. wheat more competitive in the region.

Agricultural financing experts are predicting a substantial reduction in rice cultivation across Arkansas this spring season, citing depressed market prices as the primary factor affecting the nation’s leading rice-producing state.

According to Greg Cole, a representative from AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, the state normally plants between 1.3 and 1.4 million acres of rice annually. However, Cole warned in an interview with Brownfield that current economic conditions could force a significant decrease in planted acreage.

“We could see rice acres” drop considerably from typical levels, Cole indicated, as farmers grapple with unfavorable pricing that makes rice cultivation less profitable compared to alternative crops.

This potential decline in Arkansas rice production could have broader implications for the national rice supply, given the state’s dominant position in American rice agriculture.

The chief executive of biofuel company POET is expressing frustration over continued delays in advancing nationwide E15 ethanol legislation through Congress. Jeff Broin, who founded and leads the company, shared his disappointment with the ongoing obstacles preventing year-round E15 availability across the country.

“We have been working on that for literally over a decade,” Broin said in an interview with Brownfield. “I cannot believe what it’s taken.”

According to Broin, pushing federal E15 policy through to President Trump’s desk represents a vital step for America’s rural communities. The legislation would allow the higher ethanol blend to be sold throughout the entire year nationwide, rather than facing seasonal restrictions.

The nation’s egg industry kicked off 2026 with encouraging production figures, according to new data from federal agriculture officials.

January numbers show the country produced nearly 9.2 billion eggs, representing a 2% increase over the same month in 2025. The United States Department of Agriculture released the production statistics showing 9.196 billion eggs were laid during the first month of the year.

The growth stems from improvements in both the size of laying flocks and individual bird productivity. The total number of laying hens reached 374.566 million birds, climbing 1% from the previous year. Meanwhile, production efficiency also improved, with each group of 100 hens producing an average of 2,455 eggs, also up 1% annually.

These January figures suggest the industry may continue its expansion trajectory throughout the year, building on steady growth patterns in the agricultural sector.

Farmers in Missouri will catch a break on their state taxes thanks to efforts by the Missouri Soybean Association, which successfully lobbied for tax relief on federal disaster assistance payments.

Ben Travlos, who serves as policy director for the Missouri Soybean Association, provided additional information about this development in a recent Spotlight on Soybeans segment.

The tax relief measure will benefit soybean producers who receive federal disaster payments, allowing them to avoid double taxation on assistance designed to help them recover from natural disasters and other qualifying events.

Federal agricultural officials are highlighting a remarkable surge in corn shipments from American ports, with export inspections reaching exceptional levels during the week that concluded on February 19th.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, inspectors processed over two million tons of corn destined for international markets. The bulk of these shipments headed to Japan, South Korea, and Mexico – three major trading partners that have demonstrated exceptionally robust appetite for American corn throughout this marketing season.

The agricultural department also noted that wheat exports experienced weekly gains during the same period.

A leading agricultural commodities analyst is expressing renewed confidence that China will increase its purchases of American farm products, driven by political considerations rather than market forces.

Arlan Suderman, who serves as the top commodities economist at StoneX Group, recently shared his growing optimism about Chinese agricultural imports with Brownfield. According to Suderman, Chinese President Xi Jinping is currently navigating complex domestic political challenges and may seek American support to strengthen his position.

“My bias at this point is he will survive it, but in the meantime,” Suderman explained, suggesting that Xi’s political calculations could lead to increased cooperation with U.S. agricultural exporters.

The economist’s assessment indicates that geopolitical factors may play a more significant role than traditional market dynamics in shaping future trade relationships between the world’s two largest economies.

Monday’s trading session at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange brought mostly declining values for dairy commodities, with block cheese standing as the lone exception to the downward trend.

Dry whey prices fell by 2.5 cents to settle at 65.5 cents, though no transactions were completed during the session. Meanwhile, 40-pound blocks of cheese bucked the overall trend, climbing 1.75 cents to reach $1.5150 per pound. Trading activity was robust for cheese blocks, with six transactions recorded at prices spanning from $1.49 to $1.5150.

Cheese barrels maintained their previous closing price of $1.49 per pound without any recorded sales activity. Butter experienced the steepest decline of the day, dropping 5.75 cents to $1.8125 per pound. This commodity saw significant trading volume with 18 transactions completed, with prices ranging between $1.81 and $1.87 per pound.

Nonfat dry milk rounded out the session with a 4-cent decrease, closing at $1.6450 per pound. Two sales were documented for this commodity, with transactions occurring at $1.64 and $1.6450 per pound.

A coalition of environmental and conservation organizations has filed a federal court petition seeking to halt the agricultural use of dicamba herbicide on cotton and soybean crops.

The National Family Farm Coalition and Center for Food Safety, along with other advocacy groups, are challenging three recently approved product labels in their legal filing. The organizations argue that the Environmental Protection Agency failed to comply with requirements outlined in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act during the approval process.

The lawsuit specifically targets the EPA’s authorization for over-the-top dicamba applications, a farming practice where the herbicide is sprayed directly over crops that have been genetically modified to resist the chemical.

Three decades after helping establish what would become a flagship agricultural conference, one of its founding organizers expresses amazement at the event’s transformation into a cornerstone gathering for the farming industry.

Kent Kleinschmidt, an Illinois agricultural producer, served as one of two original co-chairs responsible for launching the inaugural Commodity Classic in Phoenix, Arizona thirty years ago. The farmer recalls the extensive preparation that went into creating the event.

“We formed a committee about two years before the” first gathering, Kleinschmidt noted, reflecting on the early planning stages that laid the groundwork for what has since developed into one of agriculture’s most significant annual conferences.

The evolution of the Commodity Classic from its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier industry event demonstrates the growing importance of unified agricultural forums in bringing together farmers, industry leaders, and stakeholders from across the nation.

The week’s cattle trading activity has gotten off to a slow beginning, with minimal movement in the direct cash market. Market participants on both sides are currently conducting assessments of their inventory positions and making preparations for the days ahead.

No firm bid or offer prices have been established at this point in the week. Based on patterns observed over recent weeks, substantial trading activity may not materialize until later in the week as buyers and sellers continue to evaluate market conditions.

The leader of the House Agriculture Committee has unveiled new legislation designed to address ongoing concerns about California’s animal welfare regulations affecting farmers nationwide.

Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson announced that his Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 contains provisions specifically targeting California’s Proposition 12. In an interview with Brownfield, Thompson explained that his bill includes language he refers to as the ‘Save the Bacon Provision.’

“The base language in the bill is called ‘Save the Bacon Provision,’ that basically doesn’t interfere with the state’s policies on animal welfare,” Thompson stated.

The proposed legislation represents Thompson’s attempt to create a federal framework that would work alongside state-level animal welfare requirements, particularly California’s controversial Proposition 12, which has created compliance challenges for agricultural producers across the country.

A Wisconsin state representative believes recent legislative action regarding renewable energy development demonstrates a clear position on safeguarding agricultural land from solar and wind projects.

Representative Travis Tranel indicated that the community solar legislation was moved from the Energies and Utilities Committee to the Agriculture Committee as the State Assembly concluded its Friday session. According to Tranel, this committee transfer resulted in Agriculture Committee members conducting proceedings on the matter.

The lawmaker views this procedural move as delivering a significant statement about the development of renewable energy infrastructure on valuable farming acreage throughout the state.

A Nebraska representative reports that members of Congress are working intensively to reach an agreement regarding nationwide, year-round availability of E15 ethanol fuel. Representative Mike Flood indicated that legislators are making significant headway in their negotiations.

“On the last call I was on, all I will say is, I felt like there was substantial progress and there was some coalescing on some of the concepts,” Flood stated. The congressman serves as a member of the Rural Domestic Energy Council, which has been involved in the ongoing discussions.

A Wisconsin dairy operation owner is raising concerns that crossbreeding practices between beef and dairy cattle are creating financial headaches for the milk industry. Mike Yager, who operates a 325-head Holstein operation near Mineral Point, Wisconsin, argues that while these crossbreeding programs may seem lucrative on paper, they’re contributing to market oversaturation that’s driving down milk payments.

According to Yager, who spoke with agricultural news outlets, the current milk market is flooded with excess supply, partly due to dairy producers extending the productive life of their herds to capitalize on beef genetics opportunities. This practice of keeping cattle in production longer to benefit from crossbreeding programs is exacerbating the industry’s surplus challenges, he explained.

The dairy operator’s concerns highlight a growing tension in the industry between short-term profits from beef-on-dairy programs and the long-term stability of milk pricing for producers nationwide.

With warmer weather on the horizon, agricultural producers are beginning to prepare for the upcoming planting season. According to Heather Vosburgh, Strategic Account Manager for Nitrogen Stabilizers at Corteva Agriscience, farmers need to carefully evaluate multiple factors when determining the optimal timing for nitrogen fertilizer applications.

Federal agriculture officials are reporting a dramatic decline in cattle processing during January, with livestock marketings falling by 13 percent compared to previous periods. The sharp decrease has caught the attention of agricultural economists who are tracking trends in the beef industry.

Kenny Burdine, an agricultural economist at the University of Kentucky, analyzed the latest Cattle on Feed report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and found the numbers particularly striking. The decline represents the most significant drop in cattle marketings since the early days of the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’ve got to go back to 2020 and COVID time period to find something that light,” Burdine explained when discussing the January figures. The comparison to 2020 is notable, as that year saw major disruptions to meat processing facilities and supply chains due to pandemic-related shutdowns and worker shortages.

The reduced pace of cattle slaughter could have implications for beef prices and availability in grocery stores and restaurants across the region. Industry analysts are monitoring whether this trend will continue in the coming months or if January’s numbers represent a temporary adjustment in the market.

Congressional budget analysts have determined that a Republican-backed farm bill proposal would slash nearly $1 billion from a widely-used conservation program over the coming four fiscal years.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program, which enjoys broad support among farmers, would see its budget authority reduced as Republican members of the House Agriculture Committee redirect those funds toward other legislative priorities, according to the Congressional Budget Office’s analysis.

The proposed legislation essentially treats EQIP as a source of money to finance different aspects of the farm bill, rather than maintaining its current funding levels.

DELMARVA — The Supreme Court ruled Friday to limit presidential tariff powers under emergency legislation, a decision Delaware’s farm community is celebrating.

Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association says the IEEPA tariffs have been used on several ag products, creating uncertainty for producers across Delmarva. The ruling restricts how presidents can utilize the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for trade restrictions.

Policy

Meanwhile, USDA opened registration this week for an $11 billion farm relief program. The Farmer Bridge Assistance initiative starts Monday with one-time payments targeting row crop farmers dealing with disrupted trade markets and rising costs.

Markets

March corn closed at $2.65¼, up $0.01. March soybeans finished at $9.23¾, down $7.75. March wheat gained $0.05½ to $4.95¼. Live cattle for April dropped $1.42 to close at $242 per hundredweight.

Forecast

A major winter storm is headed to the region. Tonight expect mostly cloudy skies with lows around 31°F. A blizzard warning is in effect through Monday evening for Sussex County with heavy snow and blowing snow expected Sunday night into Monday. Winter storm warnings cover Kent County and portions of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Temperatures Sunday will reach 38°F before heavy snow moves in overnight. Clearing returns Tuesday with highs in the low 30s.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, February 21, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

America’s cattle industry is experiencing a crisis not witnessed in more than seven decades, with livestock numbers falling to their lowest levels since 1951.

The dramatic decline in cattle populations nationwide has created unprecedented challenges for ranching families, prompting discussions about the future of beef production in the United States.

NPR’s Scott Simon recently conducted an interview with Oklahoma ranchers Zach and Kacie Scherler-Abney to explore the mounting difficulties confronting cattle operations across the country.

The conversation with the Scherler-Abney family sheds light on the complex issues plaguing the livestock industry, as ranchers struggle to navigate economic pressures and changing market conditions.

This significant reduction in cattle numbers represents a concerning trend for both producers and consumers, potentially impacting beef availability and pricing in markets nationwide.

DELMARVA — State officials have confirmed a highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza outbreak at a commercial broiler operation in Wicomico County. According to the Maryland Department of Agriculture, this marks the county’s first outbreak this year and the state’s second confirmed case.

All birds at the facility have undergone depopulation and the property remains under quarantine. None of the affected poultry will reach consumer markets.

Policy

Farmers across Delmarva should note that USDA registration opens Monday for the new Farmer Bridge Assistance program. The $11 billion initiative offers one-time direct payments to row crop producers dealing with disrupted trade markets and rising input costs. Producers with Login.gov accounts will see pre-filled applications when the portal opens Monday morning.

Markets

Soybeans closed mixed this week with technical selling offsetting small weekly gains. Wheat futures finished higher on dry weather concerns and short covering. Corn held steady as traders await planting season demand signals.

Forecast

Today looks decent with mostly sunny skies and highs near 47°F. However, a significant weather event begins Sunday. Rain develops Sunday with temperatures near 38°F before transitioning to heavy snow Monday with blizzard conditions expected. Strong north winds 15-25 mph will create blowing snow and dangerous travel. Accumulations look substantial with the heaviest snow Monday into Monday night. Temperatures drop to the low 20s Monday night before moderating midweek.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, February 21, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Agricultural leaders across multiple states are sounding the alarm about data centers expanding into farming communities, warning that valuable agricultural land needs better protection from commercial development.

According to Farm Bureau officials, the growing presence of data facilities in countryside locations has sparked concerns about preserving prime agricultural property. Ohio Farm Bureau’s president Bill Patterson describes this as part of a broader land use challenge affecting much of the Midwest region.

“Whether it’s green energy, commercial, housing, or eminent domain, you have to” address these competing land uses, Patterson explained, highlighting the various pressures facing rural landowners today.

The Farm Bureau leadership is now developing new policies specifically designed to shield farming operations from encroaching data center development while maintaining the agricultural character of rural communities.

Delaware’s agricultural community is welcoming a Supreme Court decision that restricts presidential authority to impose trade tariffs under emergency powers legislation.

Scott Metzger, who leads the American Soybean Association, expressed relief following Friday’s high court ruling that limits how presidents can utilize the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for imposing trade restrictions.

“The IEEPA tariffs have been used on several ag products,” Metzger stated, highlighting concerns about how these trade measures have impacted farming operations.

The Supreme Court’s Friday decision struck down multiple tariffs implemented during the Trump administration, providing what soybean producers view as protection against similar future trade policies that could harm their industry.

DELMARVA — The United States Department of Agriculture announced registration opens Monday, February 23, for an $11 billion farm relief program. The Farmer Bridge Assistance initiative will provide direct, one-time payments to row crop producers navigating disrupted trade markets and rising production costs. Farmers with Login.gov accounts will have access to pre-completed application forms through the online portal.

Policy

Delaware’s agricultural community is celebrating a Supreme Court decision that restricts presidential authority to impose trade tariffs. Scott Metzger, who leads the American Soybean Association, says the ruling limits how presidents can utilize the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.

Markets

Corn futures showed mixed activity while soybeans faced downward pressure from profit-taking. Wheat climbed higher on dry weather concerns and short covering. At Dover, grain elevators are reporting corn at $6.20 per bushel, soybeans at $11.40 per bushel.

Forecast

Areas of fog are clearing this evening with temperatures near 52 degrees. Tonight drops to 34 with mostly cloudy skies. Saturday brings partly sunny conditions with highs near 48. Sunday brings rain transitioning to rain and snow by evening. A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through Sunday night with heavy snow possible Monday.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, February 20, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Agricultural commodity markets presented a mixed picture during Thursday’s trading session, with grain and livestock futures showing divergent movements across various sectors.

In grain markets, March corn futures climbed 1 and 3/4 cents to settle at $4.27 and 1/2 per bushel. Meanwhile, March soybean contracts dropped 3 and 1/2 cents to close at $11.37 and 1/2. Soybean meal for March delivery surged $5.00 to reach $309.80, while March soybean oil fell 76 points to finish at 58.92.

Wheat markets showed strength, with March Chicago wheat futures advancing 14 cents to end the session at $5.73 and 1/2 per bushel.

Livestock markets faced downward pressure for the most part. April live cattle contracts decreased $1.42 to settle at $242.00, while March feeder cattle dropped $2.25 to close at $368.02. However, April lean hog futures bucked the trend, gaining 22 cents to finish at $93.67.

These market movements reflect ongoing supply and demand dynamics affecting agricultural commodities, which can impact local farming operations throughout the region.