Local, State & Ag News
Alfalfa weevil pressure rising as MSU questions insecticide timing and resistance
A field crops entomologist says increased alfalfa weevil pressure this season could be a result of control failures. Chris DiFonzo with Michigan State University tells Brownfield, “It was cold enough
FCS Financial Field Notes: Helping farmers manage high input costs at planting
Chad McCullough with FCS Financial says ag lenders can help producers stay on track by regularly reviewing expenses and adjusting financial plans as conditions change throughout the year. “We can
Grocery prices see largest monthly increase since 2022, driven by weather events, trade, and rising fuel costs
A food economist says April food prices posted the largest month-to-month increase in four years. David Ortega with Michigan State University tells Brownfield there are still inflationary pressures impacting food costs.
Minnesota Biofuels leader says ASA tried to “kill the bill” on year-round E15
The executive director of the Minnesota Biofuels Association says he was caught off guard by the American Soybean Association speaking up in opposition of nationwide year-round E15 this (last) week.
Some farmers say House passed E15 legislation could strengthen corn outlook
Some farmers say the recently passed House version of nationwide, year-round E15 provides much needed certainty to the U.S. ag industry. “It’s been twenty years that we’ve been fighting for
Wisconsin ag leaders support neighbors’ mental health
A group of farmers is reaching out to neighboring farms and families to make sure they are mentally okay. Neil Christenson is part of the Shawano County, Wisconsin’s Farm Bureau
Wisconsin lawmaker pleased with E15 House vote
The House of Representatives passed legislation that would make E15 available all year, nationwide. Wisconsin Congressman Derrick Van Orden says, “This is a fantastic thing for our farmers.” The 3rd

Blood Run Forum Highlights Preservation Efforts, Future Vision For National Historic Landmark
Supporters of the Blood Run National Historic Landmark gathered Wednesday night (May 13) near Larchwood to discuss preservation efforts, Indigenous history, agriculture, and plans for one of Iowa’s most significant
Wheat tour shows 26 percent decline in production from 2025
The U.S. is on track to produce the smallest winter wheat crop in nearly half of a century, largely due to the ongoing drought in the Central Plains. Interim executive
As beef prices rise, shoppers shift within the beef case and challenge traditional demand indicators
In recent weeks the Choice/Select spread, which can be an indicator for beef demand, has been very narrow and in some instances negative. University of Kentucky ag economist Kenny Burdine says historically that shift would indicate a
