Agricultural lenders report signs of tighter conditions in farm profitability and credit quality in 2025. Jackson Takach, chief economist with Farmer Mac, says a survey conducted with the American Bankers Association (ABA) of more than 450 ag lenders shows nearly 93% expect farm debt to increase over the next year.  “For the protein sector, people…… Continue Reading

Depressed commodity prices are weighing on farmers like Kevin Leiser in northwest Minnesota. “It’s just really disappointing when you have a really good season and you’re hoping you are going to break even.” Leiser grows spring wheat, corn, and edible beans near Fertile and tells Brownfield yields were strong despite some excess moisture during the…… Continue Reading

Relief on the way? “The drought monitor right now says about 70% of the lower 48 is in some stage of drought. Eric Snodgrass, chief science fellow with Nutrien Ag Solutions, says some relief to ease the drought could be on the way this month. “It takes the terrible early winter weather, a super active…… Continue Reading

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley says biofuel stakeholders met with President Trump Thursday to discuss permanent year-round E15 legislation. The Iowa Republican tells Brownfield the meeting is significant. “So I’m hoping that we get something out of the White House that the President says he wants this legislation passed.” He calls nationwide E15 an easy lift…… Continue Reading

Across the Corn Belt, drought has stubbornly persisted through autumn across the lower Midwest, from the middle Mississippi Valley into the lower Great Lakes region.  Despite periods of precipitation in recent weeks, lower Midwestern soil moisture shortages have generally persisted through the winter wheat establishment season.  However, the return of above-normal Midwestern temperatures should promote…… Continue Reading