Local, State & Ag News
Profitability challenges continue for row crop operations as cattle producers benefit from historic price levels
An ag economist says the health of the farm economy isn’t the same across the board. University of Tennessee’s Charley Martinez says he views it in two main buckets—crops and livestock. “One has had 2 1/2 to
Grassley says U-S blockade of Iran’s ports could bring ‘worthy outcome’
Iran threatens to retaliate after the U.S. military on Monday blockaded Iranian ports in the Straight of Hormuz, but Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says there are reasons for some optimism.
Grassley says U.S. blockade of Iran’s ports could bring worthy outcome
Iran threatens to retaliate after the U.S. military on Monday blockaded Iranian ports in the Straight of Hormuz, but Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says there are reasons for some optimism.
Iowa football to vacate four wins from 2023 season
The Iowa football program will vacate four wins from the 2023 season following a ruling by the NCAA. It involves improper contact with former quarterback Cade McNamara before he entered
Fertilizer prices under fire: USDA targets industry consolidation, supply cuts
USDA officials are criticizing fertilizer companies for idling production amid the conflict in the Middle East. Secretary Brooke Rollins told reporters Monday competition in the marketplace has declined. “The farmers
Ohio State calculator helping farmers maximize nitrogen fertilizer use
An agronomy specialist says a new tool from Ohio State University Extension can help farmers manage rising nitrogen fertilizer costs. Rachel Henry says the Corn Nitrogen Rate Calculator determines the
AFBF survey reveals mounting financial strain across U.S. agriculture
A recent survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation indicates the majority of U.S. farmers are experiencing stagnant or declining financial conditions. AFBF president Zippy Duvall says more than 5,700
Wet conditions keep Iowa’s farmers from getting planters into the fields
Wet conditions have slowed the start of planting a little bit compared to last year. The U.S.D.A. crop report shows 1% of corn was planted by Sunday. That’s behind the
Minnesota beef, hog, and dairy producers post improved returns in 2025
2025 saw continued improvement for Minnesota livestock producers. University of Minnesota Extension economist Pauline Van Nurden says new data shows hog, dairy, and beef operations all posted improved profitability. “Beef
Mixed outlook for ag economy as strong livestock, dairy offset crop market concerns
An economist with CoBank says the U.S. farm economy is a mixed bag. “It’s not good, but it’s not dire,” Rob Fox recently told Brownfield. Fox says crop production has
