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Michigan FFA continues to see growth

Michigan FFA’s state advisor says interest in career and technical training programs is helping to grow the organization. Mark Forbush tells Brownfield, “We have seven new programs than we had last year.” “We’re getting programs in more areas, interest in more areas and that’s exciting because... Read More.

January red meat production up 2% on year

U.S. commercial red meat production was up in January 2025. The USDA says total production of 4.885 billion pounds was 2% above January 2024, with beef production gaining 4% to 2.37 billion pounds and pork 1% higher at 2.502 billion pounds. The cattle slaughter... Read More.

Egg prices reach $4.95 national average in January

Egg prices continue to soar higher across the U.S. Dr. Valerie Kilders is an assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University and focuses her research on food and agribusiness marketing. She tells Brownfield the Consumer Price Index for eggs was... Read More.

Crop insurance: Get the base acres right

A crop insurance specialist is urging producers to make sure the Farm Service Agency has the right base acre data. Mike Boen with Compeer Financial says, “You only get paid on 85% of your base acres, and that’s why it’s so important to know... Read More.

Fall fertilizer purchases bringing a sense of security

The Michigan Soybean Committee President says he’s thankful to have the inputs he needs for spring as tariff threats create more market uncertainty. Mark Senk tells Brownfield fertilizer buying has been especially unpredictable. “Phosphorus especially has been very expensive for last couple years,” he... Read More.

Importance of spring nitrogen stabilizers

A nutrient management specialist is stressing the importance of spring nitrogen stabilizers. John Stoffer with Corteva Agriscience tells Brownfield most farmers understand the need for N stabilization in the fall. “However, many of those farmers will tell me they don’t need to stabilize in... Read More.

Year of caution

The president of the Illinois Farm Bureau says his farming operation is approaching 2025 with caution. Brian Duncan, who raises grain and livestock in Ogle County, tells Brownfield capital expenditures are being scrutinized. “Caution until we see some solid direction on some of these... Read More.

Ohio Corn and Wheat wants a fix for year-round E-15

Ag groups across the country are optimistic year-round E-15 will become a reality in 2025. Tadd Nicholson, executive director of the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association, says it’s been a long time coming. “It’s just been this question mark of how we can get... Read More.

Old crop marketing window getting smaller

The optimal window to market old crop grain is getting smaller. Iowa Farm Bureau Farmer Education Program Manager Zach Brummer says a lot of farmers stored more corn and soybeans than intended last harvest. “So if there’s one thought I’d leave you with is... Read More.

NFU President:  Farmers need certainty

The president of National Farmers Union (NFU) says farmers are facing unprecedented uncertainty. Rob Larew tells Brownfield, “Change always brings a lot of questions.”  He says, “I think answers will be forthcoming on where this new administration’s priorities are going to be.  But I... Read More.