An agricultural banker says some farm operations are borrowing for expansions despite the down farm economy and higher interest rates. Roger Sinkula with Nicolet National Bank tells Brownfield much of that expansion is in the dairy sector. “I see a couple of farmers that are expanding their heifer operation or are putting up some buildings…… Continue Reading
NCBA optimistic tariffs will help level the playing field for U.S. beef
The head lobbyist for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says he’s optimistic the President’s tariff announcement will level the playing field for U.S. beef on the global market. Ethan Lane says American beef has been the target of unfair trade practices. “The President, in executing this tariff strategy, is attempting to fix some of those…… Continue Reading
Planning for tar spot
An agronomist with AgriGold says many farmers have tar spot on their mind. Brian Weihmeir, who covers central Illinois, says the yield robbing corn disease is at the forefront of many farmers plans for the 2025 growing season. “That kept a lot of growers looking at not only the hybrid selection standpoint, which has probably…… Continue Reading
Farmers gaining interest in short-stature corn
There could be another uptick in short-stature corn acreage this year. Stine Seed CEO Myron Stine says more farmers are talking about growing short corn. “Our definition of short-stature corn is probably different than some other companies have, so as that whole thing has morphed into what it is today we certainly do see growers…… Continue Reading
Nebraska FFA members give back by packaging meals for kids in need
Teaming up to provide meals for 400 children statewide. Nearly 800 Nebraska FFA members took part in an event with Meals for the Heartland during this year’s 97th state convention. They packaged more than 100,000 meals to be delivered to the Food Bank of Lincoln for this year’s “Living to Serve” event. Kaytra Collins is…… Continue Reading
Sec. Rollins, ethanol industry express need for E15 year-round
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says the Trump administration remains committed to finding a permanent solution for year-round E15. “What our farmers and ranchers stand for is how we truly save the future of the country,” Rollins said. “We do believe that E15 is a big part of that. We’re working day in and day out,…… Continue Reading
Planting season off to a measured start in central IL
A pair of central Illinois farmers say the 2025 planting season is off to a measured start in their area. Ron Kindred, who grows corn and soybeans in Logan County, tells Brownfield, “A lot of anhydrous got put on in the last couple of weeks here, and a lot of field work has been done.” …… Continue Reading
A pattern shift ahead next week to drier weather; a gradual moderation of temperatures, too
Looking ahead, the 6- to 10-day outlook calls for the likelihood of below-normal temperatures along and east of a line from Louisiana to Michigan, while warmer-than-normal weather will prevail from the Pacific Coast to the Plains and upper Midwest. Meanwhile, near- or below-normal precipitation across most of the country should contrast with wetter-than-normal weather in…… Continue Reading
Corteva confirms layoffs in Johnston, Iowa
Corteva Agriscience has confirmed some upcoming layoffs at its Johnston, Iowa location. According to Iowa Workforce Development data, approximately 44 employees will be laid off next month. In a statement to Brownfield, a Corteva spokesperson said the company regularly evaluates the organization and at times adjusts how resources are deployed, “including our people to ensure…… Continue Reading
Early assessments on alfalfa
An extension crops educator encourages growers to assess alfalfa conditions. Dave Nicolai is with the University of Minnesota. “We don’t know for sure, but we think it’s actually going to be okay. It’s somewhat based on having really cold temperatures without that snow cover, the other thing is ice-heaving and maybe even ice sheeting.” He…… Continue Reading
