Category: Ag News
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USDA Declares 56 Oklahoma Counties Natural Disaster Areas
Apr 23, 2026The USDA has issued a Secretarial natural disaster designation for 56 Oklahoma counties following months of persistent, extreme drought. The move opens access to emergency loans for farmers and ranchers struggling with stunted forages and declining wheat prospects. Current reports show that 48% of the state’s winter wheat is now rated in poor to very…
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Nafziger warns Iowa farmers on early nitrogen risk
6 As planting gets underway across Iowa, nitrogen management is front and center and Emerson Nafziger says early applications carry risk. Nafziger, a longtime Extension agronomist, has warned that applying nitrogen too far ahead of crop uptake can lead to losses if conditions turn wet. “If soils stay wet for extended periods, nitrogen can be…
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Rollins says safety net updates were necessary
Producers are still waiting……. Movement on farm policy is starting to take shape and Brooke Rollins is making it clear why. Speaking in a recent ag interview, Rollins said updates to reference prices were pushed forward through recent legislation as a stopgap measure while the farm bill remains stalled. “We could not wait on a…
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Kansas wheat showing stress as wind and dryness build
Out across Kansas the wheat crop is starting to feel it. Producers from western and central parts of the state are reporting thin stands uneven growth and soil that just will not hold moisture. Wind has been relentless and that top layer is powder in a lot of fields. Some areas caught a little moisture…
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California dairy producers face margin squeeze as costs climb
California dairy country is feeling the squeeze again. Milk production is steady but input costs are creeping higher and that is tightening margins for producers. Feed remains the biggest concern with hay and ration costs staying elevated compared to where many would like to see them. Labor and regulatory costs are also part of the…
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Colorado water concerns continue to impact planting plans
Colorado producers are once again making planting decisions based on water availability as irrigation supplies remain a concern heading into the growing season. While snowpack improved in parts of the state, it has not fully eased long-term water challenges. As a result, some farmers are adjusting acreage or shifting to crops that require less irrigation.…