Has ag economy bottomed out?

Has the farm economy bottomed out? Iowa State University Extension and Outreach vice president Jason Henderson tells Brownfield it’s close. “I think right now we’re really close to a bottom in the farm economy. It’s gone from about $200 billion on a real basis down to about $130 to $140 billion. We’ve seen corn prices…… Continue Reading

A-PLUS local meatpacking bill reintroduced

A group of lawmakers is again pushing legislation designed to expand local meat processing options. The Amplifying Processing of Livestock in the United States, or A-PLUS Act, was reintroduced by Representatives Dusty Johnson of South Dakota, Mark Alford of Missouri, and Jimmy Panetta of California Friday. Johnson says the added processing capacity is needed outside…… Continue Reading

Sen. Ernst lauds Greer’s USTR confirmation

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst says she’s hopeful new U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will explore free trade agreements with emerging markets. “We saw absolutely no new trade deals in the previous four years,” she said. “It’s time to break that loose and get on with some new trade deals.” The Iowa Republican tells Brownfield she…… Continue Reading

A conservation convert

A central Illinois farmer says a decision to change farming practices ten years ago has made him a conservation convert. Randy Strubhar, who farms in McLean and DeWitt County, says introducing cover crops and no-till practices has transformed his farm. “We turned the corner on this piece of land.”  He says, “We’re getting some of…… Continue Reading

Tariff impacts on U.S. agriculture

With tariffs on Canada and Mexico looming, an economist is concerned about the long-term impacts on agriculture. Ohio State University professor Ian Sheldon says he’s most worried about the U.S. soybean industry. “The rates at which Brazil has been grabbing market share has been growing very, very rapidly compared to the US,” he says. “Even before the trade…… Continue Reading

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