Local, State & Ag News
Red meat exports add billions in value to corn and soybean farmers
An annual study from the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows red meat exports added more than $3 billion in value to corn and soybean producers in 2025. John Hinners
Cattle futures higher to close the week
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live and feeder cattle were higher, supported by the week’s direct cash trade and tight market-ready supplies. June live cattle closed $1.82 higher at $253.90
Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: May 15, 2026
Jul. corn $4.55 and 3/4, down 11 and 3/4 centsJul. soybeans $11.77, down 15 and 1/2 centsJul. soybean meal $334.30, up $1.80Jul. soybean oil 73.88, up 22 pointsJul. Chicago wheat
Farmer, consumer sentiment remains low
An ag policy specialist says farmer sentiment continues to trend lower across agriculture. Val Dolcini with Syngenta tells Brownfield it shouldn’t come as a surprise. “Look at where farmers are
Ethanol producer says E15 could be priced even lower at the pump
Consumers see E15 as a cheaper way to fill their tank, but an ethanol producer says the price at the pump could be even lower. Erik Huschitt with Badger State

Orange City Police Investigating Hit-and-Run Involving White Ford Ranger
The Orange City Police Department is investigating a hit-and-run accident involving what officers believe to be a newer model white Ford Ranger. Authorities are asking for the public’s help as
Fertilizer prices have farmers focused on efficiency
An agronomist with Agroliquid says more farmers are exploring ways to increase their fertilizer efficiency. Reid Abbott says ever-increasing input costs have producers focused on getting the most out of
A Summer-like pattern ahead for most of the Heartland; near-seasonal rainfall for some
Looking ahead, the 6- to 10-day outlook calls for the likelihood of near-normal temperatures across the Plains, Southwest, and upper Midwest, while warmer-than-normal weather will prevail in California, the Great
Rapid weather swings causing early-season herbicide injury, replanting in some areas
An agronomist says this year’s rapid weather changes have led to some early-season herbicide injury in corn and soybeans. Jordan Arndell with Dekalb ASGROW says it’s been pretty widespread in
Iowa’s governor signs over two dozen bills into law
A new state law will require the Iowa DOT to check a federal database if someone seeking a driver’s license does not arrive with proof they’re a citizen or a
