Local, State & Ag News
Fertilizer prices surge as Hormuz closure enters fifth week, analyst says
A fertilizer market analyst says prices remain stubbornly high, offering little relief for farmers heading into the growing season. “It’s getting to the point where farmers are throwing their hands
Kansas decision on E15 draws criticism from corn leaders
The CEO of Kansas Corn says he’s disappointed and frustrated by his state’s decision to opt out of selling year-round E15 starting in 2027. Josh Roe says it undercuts efforts
Purdue economist: Financial risk grows for farmers heading into 2026 season
An ag economist at Purdue University says the conflict in the Middle East is contributing to increased financial strain. Michael Langemeier says operating expenses are running about 2 percent higher than
Lahn says Iowa economic development funds should be for Iowa businesses
The State of Iowa has been offering a variety of grants and tax breaks to reward out-of-state companies that expand in Iowa for decades, but Lahn says Iowa’s economic development
Celebrating 35 years of USB with Byron Lemoine
This week we’re looking back at more than three decades of farmer-led investments in research, innovation, and market development with Byron Lemoine. USB is celebrating 35 years of building demand

Minnesota Man Arrested in Connection to 2025 Hull Assault Involving Minor
A Minnesota man has been arrested in connection with an assault investigation dating back to last summer in Hull. According to the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, 45-year-old Thomas Kenneth Bartkowicz
An active, moisture-laden pattern to return for many; briefly cooler days ahead
Looking ahead, the 6- to 10-day outlook calls for the likelihood of near- or above-normal temperatures and precipitation across most of the country. Cooler-than-normal conditions will be confined to southern

STEM With Heart: The Alan Bandstra Story
Inside the walls of Mr. Bandstra’s classroom at Sioux Center Christian, science isn’t just about formulas and textbooks; it’s about pickles, balloon cars, and getting your hands dirty to help
The clip-clop of horses’ hooves will be heard throughout Iowa today
Whether it’s raining, snowing or sunny, the Pony Express Riders of Iowa are preparing to leave later today for their annual horseback ride to Camp Sunnyside in central Iowa. Riders’

Rock Rapids Sidewalk Project to Improve Accessibility Along Highways 9 and 75
Construction is set to begin April 6th on a $1.88 million sidewalk improvement project along Highways 9 and 75 in Rock Rapids, fully funded by the Iowa Department of Transportation.
