Local, State & Ag News
Many farmers carrying heavier debt load
The vice president of data analysis with Illinois Farm Business Farm Management (FBFM) says the average farmer’s debt to asset ratio is relatively stable. However, Brad Zwilling says that’s because
March soybean crush, corn for ethanol use larger than last year
Strong demand continues to drive the domestic soybean and corn crushes. The USDA says 227 million bushels of soybeans were crushed in March 2026, a little bit below pre-report expectations,
Farm leader proposes labor pilot program
A farm organization is asking the federal government to consider a labor shortage solution. Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Brad Olson tells Brownfield that he asked Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins and
Wisconsin loosens restrictions on dairy cattle movement
Wisconsin’s agriculture officials have removed some transportation restrictions on dairy cattle. Effective immediately, lactating dairy cattle moving interstate from states designated with Unaffected State Status under USDA’s National Milk Testing
Farmers rely on strong lender relationships to navigate risk, Auburn study finds
Researchers at Auburn University are studying how lender relationships directly impact farm business decisions. Rural sociologist Kelli Russell tells Brownfield that middle-aged farmers prioritize working with knowledgeable lenders they trust.
Hail impacting some winter wheat prospects
The crop sales leader with COUNTRY Financial says some farmers are dealing with hail damage to vulnerable wheat crops. Jason Maschhoff tells Brownfield, “We are seeing an increase in storm
USTR highlights geographical indications as a key priority, dairy groups hope for movement with EU
The National Milk Producers Federation says the U.S. Trade Representative prioritizing geographical indication could expand dairy access in key markets, including the European Union. Shawna Morris tells Brownfield the EU
New York stage actress makes pilgrimage to ISU’s Catt Center
The actress who is portraying a famed suffragist with Iowa roots in the national touring Broadway production of “SUFFS” is visiting the Iowa State University campus today and the building
Missouri ag officials working to connect storm-hit farmers with aid
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe says he’s been talking with the USDA about ways to help farmers and ranchers impacted by the recent severe weather outbreak at the end of April.
Rains ease Missouri drought conditions, but Bootheel still dry
Drought conditions have improved in Missouri with the help of recent rains, but the state climatologist says extreme drought conditions linger in the southeast. “It’s a very regional drought right
