The U.S. Department of Labor’s interim final rule marks the first major change to how H-2A guest worker rates are determined since the program was established more than 30 years ago. National Council of Agricultural Employers President and CEO Michael Marsh tells Brownfield the organization has been advocating for reforms for more than a decade…… Continue Reading
Kieffer named CEO of NAWG
Sam Kieffer has been named the next chief executive officer of the National Association of Wheat Growers. Kieffer brings more than 20 years of experience in agricultural leadership and farm policy, including his most recent role as Vice President of Public Policy at the American Farm Bureau Federation. Kieffer replaces Chandler Goule and will begin…… Continue Reading
Farm bill expiration leaves key ag and conservation programs in limbo
A policy specialist says the expiration of the 2018 Farm Bill jeopardizes crucial ag and nutrition programs that farmers and rural areas depend on. “We don’t need additional uncertainty from the government on this one,” said Michael Happ, program association for climate and rural communities with the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy. Happsays the…… Continue Reading
Dry fall conditions complicate soil sampling
The outreach agronomist with the Illinois Soybean Association says farmers in drought-stricken areas should delay fall soil testing. Stephanie Porter tells Brownfield, “I’m getting some updates from crop consultants.” She says, “They are trying to go to some areas that have gotten some rain, but there’s some areas that they are not soil testing just…… Continue Reading
Variable soybean yields reported across Indiana, Purdue expert says
An extension soybean agronomist with Purdue University says early harvest results in Indiana are variable. Shaun Casteel tells Brownfield, “These are the beans that were planted earlier.” He says, “I’ve had fields that are running in the 90s, easy on yield levels, but now we’re into May planting stuff that’s matured much faster, and it’s…… Continue Reading
Zoetis rolls out new weapon against NWS
An animal health company says the first and only approved treatment against New World Screwworm is a significant step forward for the livestock industry. Mike Lormore, director of cattle and pork technical services with, says the company’s latest injectable drug – Dectomax – CA 1 – provides producers and veterinarians with another tool in the…… Continue Reading
Iowa congressional leaders call on USDA to relocate research to Ames
Iowa U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley would like USDA to consider his state for Agricultural Research Service projects as part of the department’s reorganization plan. Grassley led a letter signed by Senate colleague Joni Ernst, other members of Iowa’s Congressional delegation, and Governor Kim Reynolds urging Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins to look at Ames, Iowa for…… Continue Reading
Iowa cattle producer says strong market creates opportunity for young farmers
A southwest Iowa livestock producer suggests young farmers could have opportunities to get involved in the cattle industry. Jeff Jorgenson, who operates a cow-calf operation near Sidney in Fremont County, says producers are making good profits. “This is a really good time,” he said. “Just be careful with your numbers. Just as agriculture always does,…… Continue Reading
Avian influenza confirmed in Calhoun County, Iowa turkey flock
A new detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed in Iowa. According to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the disease was found in a commercial turkey flock in Calhoun County. The department tells Brownfield that approximately 42,000 turkeys were impacted, and the flock will be depopulated. The detection is the…… Continue Reading
Cattle futures and lean hogs close lower
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live and feeder cattle futures fell sharply, pressured by the recent wholesale and direct cash price action. Feeders had at least a little bit of additional bearishness tied to the firm move in corn and cattle futures in generally look technically weak. December live was down $1.02 at $233.47 and…… Continue Reading
