Local, State & Ag News
Latest Fed rate hike could increase borrowing costs for farmers ahead of harvest
An ag economist says the latest increase in interest rates could put added financial pressure on farmers ahead of harvest. David Widmar with Agricultural Economic Insights says many producers are
Iowa Cattlemen release ‘Building Iowa’s Cattle Future’ plan
The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association has set its state policy priorities for 2027. CEO Bryan Whaley tells Brownfield the association’s policy package focuses on strengthening the state’s cattle industry by creating
Soybeans end session mixed as corn, wheat see profit taking
Soybeans were narrowly mixed. Contracts were down early, rallied with a higher move in meal, but as those gains eased, the gains in soybeans did as well. Meal futures were
IATP research shows fertilizer industry benefitting from crises in multiple ways
The director of climate change and rural strategies with the Institute for Agriculture & Trade Policy says the fertilizer industry is once again utilizing global crises to its benefit. During
Missouri State Fair sees strong ag participation, plans more upgrades
The director of the Missouri State Fair says this year’s 11-day event had strong participation in agriculture and livestock events. Jason Moore tells Brownfield there were more than 29,000 entries
Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: September 17, 2026
Dec. corn $5.30 and 1/2, down 3 and 3/4 centsNov. soybeans $13.19 and 3/4, down 3/4 centOct. soybean meal $368.70, up $7.80Oct. soybean oil 68.68, down 51 pointsDec. Chicago wheat
‘I can’t keep heifers back’: Minnesota cow-calf producer shares impact of beef imports with lawmakers
A Minnesota cow-calf producer is voicing her concerns about beef imports to members of Congress. Ellie Trout and her family farm in Itasca County and she joined members of Minnesota
Farm bankruptcy filings up in 2025, law center says
The National Agricultural Law Center says farm bankruptcies are on pace to increase in 2026. Senior staff attorney Elizabeth Rumley tells Brownfield, “At the halfway point of 2026, ag bankruptcies

Sioux Center Leaders Discuss Northwest Iowa Priorities with Senator Grassley
Sioux Center community leaders met with U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley in Washington this week to discuss infrastructure development, agriculture, healthcare, and education in northwest Iowa. The meeting was part of
Propane provides fuel savings option for producers
The Propane Education and Research Council says some farmers are looking for alternative fuel sources to reduce energy input costs. Mike Newland says propane has remained relatively stable over
