Local, State & Ag News
AEM watching for signs of increased confidence in the ag economy
The senior vice president with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says the industry is closely watching for signs of increased confidence in the ag economy. Curt Blades says equipment dealer
Family speaks out, but few details released in West Des Moines cold case arrest
West Des Moines police says they don’t expect any more arrests in the cold case death of Realtor Ashley Okland, but are releasing few other details. Police charged 53-year-old Kristin
Insurers, business groups urge Iowa lawmakers to abandon HMO tax hike
Insurance companies and other opponents of a temporary state tax increase on HMO premiums are urging House members to abandon the idea. Governor Reynolds and Republican lawmakers say the tax
Iowa State’s Jefferson and Iowa’s Stirtz garner All American honors
Iowa State Senior Joshua Jefferson completed the All-American circuit. Jefferson was named a second team All-American by both the NABC and the USBWA. Last week, Jefferson was named a First
Schools, farmers say restoring Michigan’s 10 Cents a Meal Program would boost economy and student nutrition
Advocates for Michigan’s 10 Cents a Meal Program are asking lawmakers to reconsider funding the initiative to support farmers and students in the next budget. Northern Michigan vegetable grower and
Nebraska lawmakers to consider amendments to Nebraska Brand Law
The executive vice president with the Nebraska Cattlemen says she expects some movement on legislation changing the state’s brand law. Laura Field says the organization continues to be opposed to
Deputy Ag Secretary says E15 expansion within reach despite congressional hurdles
Deputy Ag Secretary Stephen Vaden says he’s optimistic that 2026 could be the year a federal E15 solution finally gets across the finish line. “I think E15 is going to
Middle East conflict tightening urea supplies
The chief economist with The Fertilizer Institute says the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is raising concerns about U.S. fertilizer supplies. “We think we’re about 2 million tons short
Nebraska officials outline resources for livestock producers affected by wildfires
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen says all options are on the table to support livestock producers affected by wildfires. Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, he said one of his goals is
USDA APHIS urges stronger biosecurity in Indiana
Highly pathogenic avian influenza continues to impact poultry producers in Indiana, and a USDA veterinarian says the agency is closely monitoring the outbreak. Dr. Chelsey Shivley with USDA’s Animal and
