Farm News

Sec. Rollins, ethanol industry express need for E15 year-round

Friday, April 4

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... Read More.

Planting season off to a measured start in central IL

Friday, April 4

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... Read More.

A pattern shift ahead next week to drier weather; a gradual moderation of temperatures, too

Friday, April 4

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... Read More.

Early assessments on alfalfa

Friday, April 4

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,... Read More.

Corteva confirms layoffs in Johnston, Iowa

Friday, April 4

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... Read More.

The path to fair trade

Friday, April 4

Ted McKinney with the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture says the path to fair trade is likely going to be a bumpy ride. “Let’s take our sedatives in the morning, replenish at noon if we need to and add a couple of... Read More.

Wisconsin lawmakers introduce SAF tax credit legislation

Friday, April 4

Sustainable aviation fuel production could take off in Wisconsin if newly proposed legislation becomes law. Jason Mugnaini with Wisconsin Farm Bureau tells Brownfield the bill supported by the state’s agriculture coalition would incentivize fuel production in the Badger State. “Wisconsin is the only Midwestern... Read More.

Soybeans lower, corn mixed following Liberation Day

Thursday, April 3

Soybean futures closed lower, and corn was mixed a day after President Trump announced tariffs on dozens of U.S. trading partners. Farm management analyst Kent Thiesse with Green Solutions Group says the market is most likely reacting to new 34 percent tariffs on Chinese... Read More.

Mixed response to tariff news

Thursday, April 3

Soybeans ended the day lower amid tariff concerns. May contracts were down 18 cents at $10.11 and 1/2. China is the top purchaser of soybeans in the world, and the 34 percent tariff on the country could create some hiccups in business moving forward. ... Read More.

NAWG’s Life Cycle Assessment showing advancements in sustainability

Thursday, April 3

The National Association of Wheat Growers says advancements in wheat production sustainability is helping meet growing demand. CEO of NAWG Chandler Goule says the recently released Life Cycle Assessment shows advancements in climate smart practices. “Through improved varieties of wheat, precision agriculture, and conservation programs,... Read More.

Ag groups hope for quick tariff resolutions

Thursday, April 3

Agricultural groups are having mixed reactions to President Trump’s partial retaliatory tariffs. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew tells Brownfield pursuing fair trade is essential but, “There are a lot of ways to do that.” “Restoring mandatory country of origin labeling, for example, would really help distinguish the quality... Read More.