Local, State & Ag News
Nebraska rancher says diesel costs squeezing cattle operations
A rancher in the Nebraska Sandhills says soaring diesel prices are hitting every part of her cattle operation. Jaclyn Wilson says the run-up has been extremely discouraging. “We’re looking
SNAP cost shift remains key hurdle in farm bill negotiations
The president of Minnesota Farmers Union hopes farm bill negotiators can find middle ground on the federal nutrition program. Gary Wertish says the biggest hangup is the cost shift on
Cooler, seasonal air ahead for the Heartland; beneficial rains on the Plains to shift eastward & southward
Looking ahead, the 6- to 10-day outlook calls for near- or above-normal temperatures nationwide, with the eastern U.S. having the greatest likelihood of experiencing unusual warmth. Meanwhile, below-normal precipitation across
Iowa home sales, median price drop in August, 2026
Data from the Iowa Association of Realtors shows home sales in August fell 10.5% compared to July. The median sales price for an Iowa home in August was $267,000. That’s
Forecast indicates at least 1.5 inches of rain expected statewide over next week
A meteorologist with Iowa State University Extension says Iowans should expect clouds and rain through Sunday morning, with a brief break Monday before storms return Tuesday afternoon. The statewide average
Iowa Medicaid Fraud task force hears from top state investigator
The head of Iowa’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit says his team’s investigations led to 37 fraud convictions during the previous fiscal year and the recovery of $3.9 million. Jeremy Ingrim
Nebraska farmers, ranchers get temporary tax and transportation relief
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen is taking steps to provide economic relief for the state’s farmers and ranchers. Speaking with reporters Thursday evening, he said he signed two executive orders that

Harvest Pressures Highlight Importance of Farmer Mental Health
Harvest brings demands that extend beyond getting crops out of the field, and a Sioux Center Health provider is encouraging farm families to pay attention to the mental strain that

Sioux County Offers Free Private Well Testing, Help with Well Improvements
Sioux County residents with private wells can receive free water testing and may qualify for financial assistance to address certain well maintenance and improvement needs. Zoning Director Shane Walter said

Dordt Ranked Iowa’s Top Christian College in 2027 Niche Rankings
Dordt University ranks first among Christian colleges in Iowa and 18th among 335 Christian colleges nationwide in the 2027 Niche College Rankings. The Sioux Center university also ranked fifth among
