Calendar Turns to February – It’s shaping up to be another busy month for agriculture. From meetings and conventions to on-farm conversations, the ag calendar is full. The Red River Farm Network will be there, covering the stories that matter across the region. RRFN will be at CattleCon in Nashville this week. The Northern Corn and Soybean Expo, Best of the Best in Wheat and Soybean Research and a Countryside Insurance Agency crop insurance meeting are also on RRFN’s schedule. The USDA Ag Outlook Forum and Commodity Classic are on tap late this month. You’ll find coverage on-air and online.

Sharpen Your Pencils – Farmers faced a tough year in 2025. According to NDSU Extension Ag Finance Specialist Bryon Parman, 2026 isn’t looking to be much better. “The margin is looking pretty tight, mainly because we haven’t seen really any decline in production costs in the last few years,” said Parman. “In fact, we’ve seen some increases depending on whether you’re talking about herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, things like that.” Low commodity prices don’t help. “We’re going to have to have some sharp pencils this year as we’re doing our budgeting and accounting to make sure that we’re as efficient and as cost effective as we can be.”

Similarities Seen With the 1980s – Crop farmers are navigating a difficult financial situation. Red ink is showing up for many farmers as they close out 2025 and secure financing for the year ahead. During an economic downturn in agriculture, comparisons are often made to the farm crisis days of the 1980s. “That’s an interesting phenomenon; it’s not the ’80s, we don’t have the leverage that we had in the eighties; we have crop insurance, which is a big difference, right?” said Lynn Paulson, senior vice president, Bell Bank. “But there are things from the ’80s that are creeping back in. In the ’80s, interest rates tripled; right now they’ve doubled. In the 1980s, we had the Soviets; now we have China. If you look in the rear-view mirror, some things are starting to creep in that are a little bit reminiscent of the ’80s.” Paulson was part of a panel discussion at the Advanced Crop Advisors Workshop in Fargo. Listen to the RRFN interview with Paulson. 

Financial Stress Conditions Vary – Challenges are seen in the ag economy, but Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfert says not all producers are facing the same level of stress. “It’s not all doom and gloom, every situation is different,” said Seyfert. “It can be very tough, but what we’re seeing is every farmer is situated differently and there are a lot of variables that impact how they’re doing right now.” Seyfert, who spoke at the American Sugarbeet Growers Association Annual Meeting, offered a mental health message. “The suicide rate for farmers is three and a half times that of the general public. Some folks maybe don’t see that there’s help, that there’s hope, that there’s a path out of the challenge that they’re in.”

Plotting a Course-Planning Prices for ’26 – NDSU Extension released its projected 2026 commodity prices for planning. Extension Farm Management Specialist Ron Haugen says there’s an opportunity there for farmers who can get contracts locked in. “Crop prices are depressed, but there are a few bright spots in barley and sunflowers holding their own on the price, and soybeans are up just a tick from the projections,” said Haugen. “If you can lock in contracts or if you plan on getting a pretty good yield, you may be able to make a profit on most crops.” Beef prices are at record highs, “but remember the price in the store is not necessarily what the rancher is getting; there are a lot of middlemen involved there, too.”

Interest Rates Hold Steady – The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged. Ten fed governors supported no change and two wanted a quarter point reduction

Look for the Positives – There’s plenty of pessimism about the farm economy, especially for the crop sector. Agricultural Economic Insights Co-Founder David Widmar is still seeing some positive news, including the ad hoc and farm bill programs. “Cash is going to hit the accounts in 2026 for the 2025 production,” said Widmar. “That’s from that FBA program; that’s the ARC and PLC program payments that we’ll get from last year’s production, but that will come in the fall of 2026 and, of course, Congress is still talking about kicking the can around a little bit about maybe more programs for 2025 production.” Positive factors also include resilient farmland values, a strong livestock sector and historically low loan delinquency levels.

Farmland Values Holding Steady – Stable farmland values are being seen for the first part of 2026. AgCountry Farm Credit Services collaborated with Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit on a benchmark farmland report. North Dakota has experienced a modest decline in farmland values, which has been offset by gains in western Minnesota. Senior Vice President and Chief Appraiser Kirk Manker said farmers came into this economic downturn with positive working capital. “Overall, with what people were predicting going into the fall and what happened have been two different things,” said Manker. “I think the producers are probably in a better financial position than what they thought. Also, the number of properties on the market is scarce enough, but there’s still enough demand out there for people to buy.” This benchmark study was done before USDA’s bridge payment announcement, but the potential for that assistance could be a factor in farmland prices.

Red River Valley Farmland Market has Staying Power – Farmland in the Red River Valley and surrounding area is holding steady, even as commodity prices and input costs stress farmers. “What’s surprising to me is how resilient the market is,” said Dale Weston, a real estate broker and appraiser with Farmers National Company. “Every day it seems like we read something not so positive, you would just assume that the land market would be heading down, but especially in the Cass County, North Dakota area, southern Red River Valley, it sure seems to be really resilient.”  Weston points to factors like the FM Diversion project and recent large sales attracting investor money as keeping land values firm. “Those sales were all pretty much up over $10,000 an acre out by that Casselton area.”

Beet Stock Values – There were no American Crystal Sugar Company beet shares brokered last week. Acres & Shares broker, Jayson Menke, told RRFN for the season 2,110 shares have been brokered for an average price of $3,965 per share. Menke said trading volume from the three beet stock brokerage companies is behind pace this season. The 20-year brokered volume average is 3,876 shares per season, with the 10-year average at 4,536 shares and five years at 4,719 shares per season.

Markwart: Profitability Key to Sugarbeet Industry’s Future – The American Sugarbeet Growers Association gathered this past week for its annual meeting. The industry is facing economic pressure from sugar imports, flat demand and the use of GLP-1 medications. “We’ve got to get this industry back where it’s not only sustainable but profitable as we look to the next generation coming into our farms and owning these factories,” said Luther Markwart, CEO and executive director, ASGA. “We’ve got to have a profit structure that’s going to allow that to happen.” In the meantime, Markwart said economic assistance is a must. Markwart, who will retire at the end of 2026 after 44 years in the sugar industry, reflected on his career. “I work for some of the most incredible farmer leaders in the United States and frankly, I think around the world. We do incredible things, and it is just an honor and a pleasure to serve sugarbeet farmers across the country.”

Rockstad Reflects on ASGA Leadership – Outgoing American Sugarbeet Growers Association President Neil Rockstad says growers remain focused on collaboration and optimism despite difficult market conditions. “It certainly is tough times, but I don’t see anybody in this crowd or across agriculture who’s giving up.” Rockstad is completing a two-year term as ASGA president, a period marked by sharp shifts in sugar market conditions. He said the organization remains positioned to advocate effectively on behalf of growers. “The market conditions changed drastically in 24 months,” Rockstad said. “Certainly not the way I would like to leave it, but the pieces are in place, the people are in the right places, and we’re having the right meetings to make sure there’s a bright future.” Rockstad added that while the ag industry is being heard in Washington, action often moves slower than farmers need as they prepare for another growing season.

Baldwin Elected ASGA Vice President – St. Thomas, North Dakota farmer Brent Baldwin says he is ready to get to work after being elected vice president of the American Sugarbeet Growers Association. Baldwin was elected during the ASGA annual meeting in Indian Wells, California. “I’m ready to work for the growers and we’ll keep moving forward.” Baldwin said restoring balance between prices and production costs will be a key focus as he steps into the leadership role. “Cost of production is always on the back of everyone’s mind,” Baldwin said. “We’ve got to come together as a group right now, keep pushing forward, and tell our story so we can protect ourselves from foreign sugar coming into our market.” Michigan sugarbeet grower Clint Hagen will serve as ASGA’s president.

Wasserman Sees Opportunity and Risk for Democrats – Cook Political Report Senior Editor and Elections Analyst David Wasserman says the 2025 political landscape has been defined by rapid shifts in voter sentiment, with potential downstream impacts on both parties heading into the midterm cycle. “We’re witnessing a sea change in public attitudes, particularly when it comes to immigration enforcement.” He cautioned that the moment may be temporary, noting that political reactions to President Donald Trump’s influence have often come in waves. Wasserman added that recent events could push Democratic primary voters further left, a dynamic he says could “end up helping Republicans marginally by the fall,” even as Democrats remain favorites to win control of the U.S. House. Closer to home, Wasserman said Senator Amy Klobuchar remains one of the party’s strongest performers nationally, which explains growing pressure for her to consider a Minnesota governor’s race despite her seniority and influence in Washington.

Ample Supplies, Flat Demand – American Sugar Alliance Director of Economics and Policy Analysis Rob Johansson discussed the challenges facing the U.S. sugar market during the American Sugarbeet Growers Association annual meeting. “We’ve got ample supplies coming into 2026, with a lot of refined cane and beet sugar on hand, which is weighing on the market. At the same time, demand has fallen off, and whether it flattens out the rest of the year is still unclear.” Johansson also pointed to multiple factors affecting consumer sugar use, including GLP-1 medications, inflation, and changes in dietary guidelines. “All of these things are creating downward pressure on demand.”

Uncertainty Looms Over U.S. Sugar Industry – Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association Executive Director Harrison Weber is concerned about the severe financial strain in the industry. “Our costs on farm have exploded and what we’re getting paid for our sugar has ultimately decreased.” Weber said oversupply and foreign sugar imports are at the root of the problem, prompting renewed calls for policy changes in Washington. “The key to fix this long-term is to update our tier two tariff rates. Those rates were set in 1994 and haven’t been updated and I think it’s just time that we take a look at those things to prevent foreign actors from dumping their subsidized sugar onto our market.” Despite the challenges, Weber added growers remain resilient as they look ahead to the next crop year.

A More Somber Mood – Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association President Darren Hoyme says the mood at the American Sugarbeet Growers Association Annual Meeting was noticeably more somber. “Whether you’re from Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, we’re all in the same boat; the cost increases and the prices of our commodity have dropped too.” Hoyme said the sugar program has to be managed correctly. “When we get too much coming in, it affects our prices. We also need the costs to come down. If the costs don’t come down, we’re still going to face the same problem this time next year.”

Disease, Expenses Challenge Sugarbeet Producers – Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association Vice President Jared Kovar says growers across the country are facing the same challenges. “A lot of times, sugarbeets are there to kind of cover up for some of the other crops and commodities that we raise to pull us through the tough times, but right now it seems like even the beets aren’t helping us get over that hump.” Disease pressure, particularly in the southern Red River Valley and southern Minnesota, was also a factor. “Those are the guys that are really suffering; at least we got the crop and we can plow through for another year and kind of keep our head above water.”

SMBSC Beet Growers Face Perfect Storm – Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative Board Chairman Nate Hultgren says a combination of disease pressure, excess moisture, and weak sugar prices made 2025 one of the most difficult years growers have faced. Speaking at the American Sugarbeet Growers Association annual meeting, Hultgren described Cercospora leaf spot as devastating for southern Minnesota. “It seemed like every morning you’d wake up and there was a tenth of rain overnight, and everything just stayed wet all the time, which is the perfect environment for disease,” Hultgren said. “The Cercospora just ravaged the beets.” Hultgren says low production values combined with an oversupplied sugar market have intensified financial pressure. “There’s no reason to be bringing in offshore sugar at this point when we produce so much of this domestically.”

Carney Downplays Tariff Threat – Trade tensions between the United States and Canada have ramped up with President Trump’s threat to impose 100 percent tariffs on all Canadian imports if Ottawa pursues a free trade agreement with China. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada and China have resolved a trade dispute over Canadian canola and Chinese electric vehicles, but a free trade agreement is not being pursued. Carney sees the Trump tariff threat as a negotiating tool ahead of this year’s review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. “It’ll be a robust review, is the expectation,” said Carney. “The President is a strong negotiator, and I view some of these comments and positioning in the broader context of that.”

Trump/Sheinbaum Discuss Trade – President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had what is being described as a ‘very productive’ phone call on Thursday. The conversation centered on border issues, drug trafficking and trade. The review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement will happen this year and was likely part of the discussion. The two sides said they would speak again soon.

U.S. and South Korea Back at the Table – A week ago, President Donald Trump was on social media complaining about South Korea and its delay in ratifying the Korea-U.S. trade deal. The threat of a tariff increase got the attention of the South Korean government. A leading South Korean trade official was dispatched to the United States and participated in trade talks throughout the weekend. The issues were not resolved, but progress was reportedly made.

U.S. Signs Reciprocal Trade Deal with El Salvador – The United States has signed a new reciprocal trade agreement with El Salvador to improve access for U.S. agricultural products. The deal, signed by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and El Salvador’s Minister of Economy Maria Luisa, aims to reduce barriers such as fumigation requirements, facility and product registration, and acceptance of U.S. regulatory certificates. U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says exports of U.S. distillers dried grains with solubles are already up in the first quarter of the 2025–2026 marketing year and expects the agreement to further boost trade. LeGrand also notes this is the first reciprocal trade agreement in the Western Hemisphere, highlighting growing opportunities for U.S. agriculture.

Trump Hosts Rally in Iowa – In a campaign-style rally in the Des Moines area, President Donald Trump said the United States is moving into the ‘Golden Age of America.’ The speech walked through Trump’s success stories, including support for year-round E15. He said he trusts House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune “to find a deal that works for farmers, consumers, and refineries, including small and mid-sized refineries, and they’re working on it. They’re very close to getting it done.” When Congress finalizes that provision, Trump said he will “sign it without delay.” Trade, tariffs and tax cuts were a big part of the speech. He also recognized John Deere executives, announcing two new projects for the farm equipment company: a manufacturing plant in North Carolina and a distribution center in Indiana.

MN Corn Matters – The year-round availability of E15 or Unleaded 88 is a top priority for the Minnesota Corn Growers Association. In this edition of Corn Matters, MCGA Past President Richard Syverson offers insight into the battle over E-15. Click here.

E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council May be a Threat to Soy Biofuels – The American Soybean Association is taking issue with the establishment of the E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council. Congress created this group last week to work on potential legislation for year-round E15. The soybean group supports E15, but is opposed to the Council’s review of soybean-based biofuels. In a statement, ASA President Scott Metzger said the open-ended directives of the Council create a dangerous precedent and could weaken the Renewable Fuel Standard and other policies that support the biofuel industry.

SD Corn Comments – South Dakota Corn Comments is a presentation of South Dakota Corn Utilization Council. DaNita Murray, South Dakota Corn, highlights money-saving options with E15. Click here. 

Chinese Soybean Shipments Unlikely to Spark Basis Rally – China has purchased the 12 million metric ton soybean obligation with the United States. NDSU Extension Crops Economist Frayne Olson expects those shipments to happen in February and March from the Gulf or the Pacific Northwest. Corn is the current priority for the PNW. “Will they switch over and have higher volumes of soybean shipments is kind of uncertain, so I’m not really convinced it’s going to show up as a basis play.” Analysts are calling for a reduction in corn acres nationally this spring and a small uptick in soybeans. NDSU Extension Crops Economist Frayne Olson is looking at a different scenario in North Dakota. “What I’m hearing from farmers in this region is at least the same amount of corn, maybe a little more. I think soybean acres, based on what I’m hearing, will probably stay flat. We might see a little dip in the spring wheat acres.” Olson spoke at the North Dakota Livestock Summit, saying corn and soybean meal supplies will remain more than adequate. With the amount of crop stored outside in the region, Olson asked livestock producers to be alert to potential quality issues.

Basis Stress Possible with a Change in the Weather – Once the cold weather breaks in the Northern Plains, AgMarket.net market analyst Tyler Schau thinks there could be some stress to local basis levels. “When we get a little better temperatures, there’s probably going to be quite a bit of grain moving to town as farmers get bins cored or finish getting bins cored, and get some grain hauled to town before road restrictions come on, which is not too far away.” The spot bid in most locations may look ugly, but Schau recommends looking out a month or two. “There’s some strength, there’s some carry. Talk to your merchandiser and maybe get something on the books for 30, 60 days out. Be proactive in these types of markets.”

What’s Hot What’s Not in the Markets – In this week’s What’s Hot, What’s Not segment, Randy Martinson of Martinson Ag Risk Management breaks down the markets following Friday’s sharp sell-off. He points to live cattle, feeder cattle, and lean hogs as holding the most strength after the latest cattle inventory report, making them the “hot” segment of the market. On the flip side, grains, gold, silver, and crude oil all took hits, leaving those markets struggling for support. Click here to listen to the full report.

Early Corn Being Harvested in Brazil – The corn harvest is beginning in Brazil. “Early corn, that was planted back in September and October, is being harvested,” reports Brazilian agricultural advisor Kory Melby. “Much of their soybeans go in after the wheat harvest in December, so much of their beans are very young.” In Argentina, dry weather has been an issue. “It’s not an emergency yet, but given the forecast for the next two weeks, the market will probably be paying attention to Argentina.”

CattleCon ’26 Coverage This Week – Real cowboys are taking over downtown Nashville this week. CattleCon 2026 is the largest cattle industry event of the year. The Red River Farm Network will be reporting from CattleCon throughout this week. Thanks to the North Dakota Beef Commission, Minnesota Beef Council and North Dakota Stockmen’s Association are sponsoring this coverage.

Dairy Market Signals Distorted – U.S. milk production is at record highs, but these volumes are due to unusual market signals. Milk cow numbers are at their highest since 1993, but the supply of replacement dairy heifers is at its lowest level since 1978. According to a new report from American Farm Bureau Market Intel, strong beef prices and premiums for beef-on-dairy genetics have provided important income through calf sales while reducing the number of dairy-bred heifers going into production. This strategy has encouraged dairy farmers to keep cows in production longer, increasing the milk supply and lowering the milk check. The report questions how milk production can be at these levels before aging cows and a thin pipeline of replacements forces a sharp adjustment.

SHIC Evaluates Numerous Research Topics, Including H5N1 – The Swine Health Information Center 2025 Progress Report highlights a record year for its research investment.  “We had $2.5 million allocated from the Pork Checkoff, we utilized that with matching funds for 2025, essentially funding 32 different research projects,” says SHIC Associate Director Dr. Lisa Becton. H5N1 research was a highlight. “There’s a lot of focus and work in dairy and in poultry,” said Becton. “However, not a lot of work had been completed in swine.” SHIC funded ten projects this past year dealing with the virus “encompassing things such as what the infection looked like across multiple ages of pigs ranging from baby pigs all the way up to sows.”

USDA Steps Up Screwworm Defense Efforts – USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is expanding its New World screwworm prevention efforts into Texas. Beginning January 30, sterile fly dispersal operations have moved about 50 miles into south Texas along the border with Tamaulipas, Mexico, to stop the pest’s northward spread. Officials say no screwworm has been detected in Texas, and the sterile flies pose no risk to people or livestock. The program is a preventive step designed to reduce egg production and protect U.S. herds from potential infestations.

Opportunities for Animal Agriculture – North Dakota Livestock Alliance Executive Director Amber Wood is focused on growing animal agriculture in the state. During the North Dakota Livestock Summit, the two new dairies being built in eastern North Dakota were cited as success stories. “This will be the first new dairy herds in North Dakota since 2008, so we absolutely are at a pivotal point where we have got to get more dairy cows in North Dakota to get our infrastructure solidified.” Wood said there are also opportunities for growth in the swine industry due to the significant distances between swine barns, ensuring animals are raised in a healthy environment.

Cattle Herd Continues to Tighten – The U.S. cattle herd is at its smallest level in more than 75 years. According to USDA’s new cattle inventory report, the supply of cattle and calves totaled 86. 2 million head on January 1. That’s down from 86.5 million a year ago. Beef cow numbers declined one percent while the inventory of dairy milk cows rose two percent. Beef heifer replacements rose one percent. Dairy heifer inventories edged up two percent. The calf crop is down two percent.

Next Step Taken in MPCA Feedlot Rulemaking Process – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is amending its rules for feedlots and manure storage. Potential changes could include adjustments to setbacks, manure sampling requirements and nitrogen best management practices. MPCA will now move into the rule development stage of the process, which is expected to last several years.

Cattle Country Conversations – In this week’s edition of Cattle Country Conversations, A1 Development Solutions partner Ty Eschenbaum discusses the livestock permit hearing process. Eschenbaum spoke on this topic at the North Dakota Livestock Summit. Listen to the report with a simple click. 

NDFU Defends PP Buy-Up Option – The Risk Management Agency eliminated the voluntary five percent buy-up option for prevented planting crop insurance coverage. North Dakota Farmers Union President Matt Perdue is asking USDA to reverse its decision. “We don’t think that there is any justification for eliminating that important option that passes the smell test,” said Perdue. “We’re asking them to admit they got it wrong here and make sure that farmers have this important risk-management tool moving forward.” When RMA eliminated the buy-up option, it said it primarily benefited the Dakotas. “It was frustrating to see them throw the Dakotas under the bus; the Prairie Pothole region under the bus. This not a Dakota-specific tool, it is used in other states.”

MFU Minute – In Wednesday’s edition of the MFU Minute, Minnesota Farmers Union Director of Government Relations Stu Lourey talked about a potential partial government shutdown. Click here.

Goehring, Petersen, Roberts Included in Letter to STB – Agriculture commissioners and secretaries from ten states have signed a joint letter to the Surface Transportation Board highlighting their concerns over the proposed merger between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific railroads. The letter voices concern over the level of consolidation in the rail industry and the impact on agricultural shippers. North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring, Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen and South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture Hunter Roberts were signatories on this letter to the STB.

BNSF Criticizes UP-NS Merger Proposal – The proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger would put 45 percent of the freight that moves by rail today in the hands of one company. BNSF Assistant Vice President of Public Affairs Amy McBeth said it is important for agricultural shippers to have access to more than one railroad. “This proposal would really limit that option,” said McBeth. “What that has the effect of doing is allowing one railroad to dictate your service, meaning your service could degrade or increase your prices because they’re going to favor the move that they could make for the long haul versus interchange traffic coming from a railroad that’s not UP or not NS, so it definitely has the potential to increase prices for shippers throughout the country.” Due to agriculture’s dependence on rail, McBeth said the Surface Transportation Board hears from farmers and ag businesses. The STB review of the proposed UP-NS merger is expected to last another 12 to 18 months.

Legal Blow to China’s Influence at the Panama Canal – China’s bid to operate ports at either end of the Panama Canal has taken a huge blow. The Supreme Court of Panama determined that the terms under which the Hong Kong company has run the ports are unconstitutional. This ruling comes one year after President Trump said China’s infrastructure in the region was a security threat to the United States. The case may now be taken to international arbitration.

Labor and Equipment Costs Worry Custom Harvesters – U.S. Custom Harvesters Inc. President Paul Paplow says labor and high equipment costs have been the talk of the group’s annual convention. “High equipment costs are going to be an issue for everybody, and labor is also one of the biggest issues that we face every year. Right now, some states are issuing H-2A visas, while others are not, so, until that stuff gets opened back up and H-2A visas are being approved everywhere for Commercial Driver’s Licenses, that’s going be a major issue for a lot of our members.”

Dicamba Approval Expected This Week – The Washington Post is reporting the EPA will reapprove dicamba with an announcement this week. The over-the-top application in soybeans and cotton will include label changes. Those measures are expected to include the use of buffering agents, calendar cut-off dates and a ban on applications when temperatures top 95 degrees.

Waterhemp Pressure Rising After Back-to-Back Wet Seasons – The fall of 2025 is hanging over the upcoming cropping season. Rock and Roll Agronomy owner Jason Hanson, who is based at Webster, North Dakota, said fall rains left the fields unworkable. “We got hardly any fields fertilized last fall,” said Hanson. “Most of my fields are not worked, which most of them usually are.” Hanson’s biggest concern heading into the next growing season is waterhemp. “We had a wet ’24, and we had a wet fall of ’25, so not only is kochia always on my mind, but waterhemp now is on top of my mind, too.”

Trend Moves to Corn, Beans in NW ND – Speaking at the KMOT Ag Expo, Dakota Agronomy Partners Sales Manager Hunter Schreiner said the acreage mix in northwest North Dakota remains a question mark. “I would say that the wheat acres are probably going to get beat up a little bit this year, depending on what kind of spring that we have,” said Schreiner. “We’re back to a more normal level for canola acres, the guys that are growing corn are growing more of it. Insurance guarantee is good, and it just seems to be the trend moving this way is corn and beans.”

Waiting Can be the Worst Decision – Peterson Farms Seeds Sales Rep Paul Bromely says there’s still plenty of uncertainty around key crop input decisions, especially in western North Dakota. “Whether you’re in seed, chem, or fertilizer, the industry is always constantly wondering what has and hasn’t been decided and I think generally speaking the further you go west in North Dakota, you have way more options and that makes the decision harder.”Choosing to wait to make a decision can be the worst decision to make. “Waiting costs money, whether it be losing financing options or product availability, and I would highly encourage growers to at the very least start narrowing their choices down before a lot of products are sold out.”

Canola Minute – Canola Minute is a presentation of the Northern Canola Growers Association. NCGA Executive Director Barry Coleman comments on the resolution of the trade dispute between Canada and China and its impact on canola markets. Listen here. 

Seed Supply Drives Early Decisions for 2026 Crop Plans – There’s still time left to finalize plans for the upcoming planting season and Pioneer Field Agronomist Kristie Sundeen says farmers should have most of their planning already worked out. “Realistically, most guys should have about half of their farm, if not more than half, decided by December, and the reason I say that is you start looking at the seed world and supply and your best genetics are going to be the first things that go from the shelves.” Sundeen says they’re seeing a shift in canola acres this season. “For canola the interest is in the non-traditional areas, to be honest. A lot of the acres are moving out of that northeast pocket and they’re moving back to the southeast, out west.”

Sunflowers Gaining Interest – Proseed sales representative Jeff Hamre is fielding many calls from farmers this winter about maximizing yields without raising input costs. Acreage decisions are being finalized. “We know we’re going to do this with 90 percent of our ground, but there’s ten percent we’re not exactly sure about.” Sunflowers are garnering interest. “Farmers are thinking maybe getting back into sunflowers because they want to change up their rotation in that area that’s been canola on canola.”

Record Canola Yields in 2025 – 2025 was another big year for canola in North Dakota. “We’re a bit surprised to see these really good yields for canola all across the state,” said Northern Canola Growers Association Executive Director Barry Coleman. “USDA says we had a 2,100-pound average in the state, which is a record for North Dakota.” All this was achieved on fewer acres than 2024. Coleman thinks there’s even more room for growth, especially in the northwestern and southwestern parts of the state.

Full House for Advanced Crop Advisors Workshop – A total of 150 crop consultants and crop advisors participated in the two-day Advanced Crop Advisors Workshop in Fargo. University of Minnesota Extension Educator Angie Peltier is a co-chair of the event. “The goal is to provide continuing education to our crop advisors in both Minnesota and North Dakota,” said Angie Peltier, Extension Educator, University of Minnesota. This is part of the certification process. “That’s what this conference is all about, giving them the latest research-based information so they can help advise the farmers they work with.”

Savings Possible Through New Disease Risk Prediction Tools – NDSU Extension Plant Pathologist Sam Markell was part of a panel discussion at the Advanced Crop Advisors Workshop focused on making every input count. As a pathologist, Markell cited the new disease risk prediction models that can be used to assist in the decision-making process. “There’s a whole bunch that have been launched on NDAWN in the last six, eight months,” said Markell. “There’s white mold work that’s being done that is fantastic. We’re beta-testing it on dry beans; it hasn’t been validated, but it is going to give us a look because it is based on the pathogen, not the plant.” A soybean cyst nematode loss indicator is also available that can provide information for a farm’s specific field. “We haven’t had these tools before.” The Advanced Crop Advisors Workshop is a joint project of the University of Minnesota Extension and North Dakota State University Extension.

Dry Bean Scene – In the Dry Bean Scene, NDSU Extension dry bean breeder Juan Osorno highlights his two latest varieties. Click here to listen. The Dry Bean Scene is a presentation of the Northarvest Bean Growers Association.

Details Matter for Weed Control – Little things can make a big difference in managing weeds. At the Advanced Crop Advisors Workshop, NDSU Extension Cropping Specialist Jeff Stachler said that is especially important with the current economic environment. The timing between the first and second post-application was cited as an example. “In the past, we’ve waited until the weeds came above the soybean canopy for the second application; it’s a little too late by then,” said Stachler. “Depending on the herbicide and the program, seven to 14 days is where we should be at for the second application.” Sprayer management is also important. “Technically, every chemical should have its own specific nozzle, but we can’t afford a bunch of nozzles for a bunch of different herbicides, right? so, let’s try to group them together and do the best that we can. We clearly have to do a better job than what we’re doing.”

A Transition in the Weather – Speaking at the Northern Pulse Growers Association Annual Meeting, Nutrien Ag Solutions Senior Meteorologist Andrew Pritchard predicted an uptick in moisture heading into spring. “I think that we may have a few little blips where we let storm systems come in in the late winter into the early spring, but I think the bigger transition’s gonna be later on in the growing season as we come through the back part of the spring into the summer,” said Pritchard. “I think we’ll finally make that turn from what’s been predominantly a dry pattern going back to last fall to one that’s a bit more active with heavier moisture.”

100 Years of Growing Together – Did you know the Pioneer research center in Johnston, Iowa is one of the largest private agricultural R&D facilities in the world? In recognition of Pioneer’s 100th year, RRFN is counting down Pioneer milestones on Facebook and X.

Bridging the Gap Between Ag and Consumers – The keynote speaker at the North Dakota Livestock Summit, Michele Payn of Cause Matters, emphasized the importance of sharing agriculture’s story. She also believes farmers need to do a better job working together. “Whether you farm conventionally, plant GMO’s, or farm organically, you have absolutely no reason to be condemning another farming practice,” said Payn. “It’s a choice. I choose to breed beautiful black-and-white Holstein cows, I don’t choose to breed Jerseys, and that doesn’t mean I have to condemn Jersey breeders. It just means that I have a choice, just as we all have a choice.” Payn encouraged farmers to be more proactive and highlighted the use of artificial intelligence to identify consumer trends.

Ad Campaign Promotes Climate-Smart Ag – The advocacy group, the Environmental Defense Fund, is running an ad campaign in four farm states, including South Dakota. The campaign is promoting the inclusion of climate-smart agriculture practices in the new farm bill. The ads are also airing in Iowa, Indiana and Pennsylvania.

Farming for the Future – In this week’s edition of Farming for the Future, we get an update and the Minnesota Agricultural Water Certification Program. Learn more about the opportunities with this voluntary program. Click here.

Armstrong Rolls Out Soil Health and Habitat Pilot – North Dakota is launching a pilot program to help landowners turn less productive cropland into grass habitat, aiming to improve soil health, reduce erosion, and enhance water quality. Governor Kelly Armstrong says the program will benefit both landowners and hunters by providing payments for marginal acres and expanding wildlife habitat and access. The initial phase will fund up to 10,000 acres. The Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program will pay producers to plant perennial grasses on marginally productive acres through five-year agreements. Landowners may also receive incentives for seeding costs, reduced crop insurance premiums, and allowing public access. The program is backed by $4.3 million from the Outdoor Heritage Fund and $2.2 million in matching funds, with applications accepted February 2 through March 27 via local soil conservation districts.

Protein-Packed Pulses – Pulse USA builds markets internationally and domestically. According to Vice President of Research and Membership Service Todd Schultz, demand is growing because pulses are a healthy food. “Pulses help out with obesity, they decrease heart disease, they can change diabetes,” said Schultz. “The recommended daily allowance is three cups a week, and we’re eating less than 12 pounds a year.” Schultz was part of the program at the Northern Pulse Growers Association annual meeting in Minot.

Expo Offers Education and Networking Opportunities – The Northern Corn and Soy Expo will be held Tuesday in West Fargo. “This is a great way to jumpstart your season as you start thinking about planting in the spring,” said Suzanne Wolf, communications director, North Dakota Soybean Council. “There’s going to be a lot of good information and it’s a great networking and educational event for our farmers.” More information can be found at northerncornsoyexpo.com.

Precision Ag Event to Start the Week – GK Technology is hosting a precision agriculture symposium today and tomorrow in Devils Lake. Rather than going for that last bushel, agronomist Sarah Lovas is seeing more farmers focused on the bushel that will make them the most money. “It used to be that in a downturn in the economy, precision agriculture might be one of those things that would kinda get cut, but now we’re actually seeing some pretty good traction,” said Lovas. “In January, we’ve actually been fairly busy and I think it’s because farmers are looking and trying to figure out how to be more efficient.” The GK Technology event is being held at Lake Region State College, followed by Agronomy on Ice on Wednesday.

BW Fusion Road Show in SD Tuesday – BW Fusion is hosting an agronomy road show, including a stop on Tuesday in Sioux Falls. Chief Agronomy and Product Officer Jason Schley said this event will highlight strategies to get the most out of their fertilizer investment. “It’s really tying a stress management budget into your fertility budget, bringing them together because they work hand in hand,” said Schley. “The more stress the crop is under, the less that crop is going to eat. Just like you or I, if we’re sick, we’re lying around in bed, we don’t typically need to eat a lot, right? We aren’t wasting a lot of energy. However, we’re not producing much either. What are typical stresses that they may run into in the season? How do we address them? And how do we keep that plant more metabolically active,” In this environment, Schley said it is important to look out of the box, making better decisions through better information.

This is Crop Nutrition Week – The fertilizer investment is getting more scrutiny this year with tight margins. AgroLiquid Great Plains Regional Agronomist Reid Abbott said fertilizer application strategies deserve another look this season. “Hitting the easy button on a year like this year is probably going to yield less returns than if we really are paying attention to how we’re placing these products out there,” Abbott told RRFN. “Go back to the four R approach; if we’re not paying attention to all four aspects there, we might be losing or leaving a lot of return out there on the table for sure. AgroLiquid is hosting its annual Crop Nutrition Week this week. Daily forums on ways to maximize the fertilizer investment are scheduled at cropnutritionweek-dot-com.

Tyson Settles Class-Action Lawsuit – Tyson Foods is paying $48 million to settle a class-action lawsuit. The allegations were that Tyson and other pork processors conspired to fix prices from 2009 to 2018. Earlier this month, Tyson paid $55 million to settle a similar lawsuit in its beef business segment.

SEC and ADM Come to Terms on a Settlement – Archer Daniels Midland has settled with the Securities and Exchange Commission, paying $40 million in a civil penalty. ADM allegedly exaggerated the success of its nutrition segment to inflate investor activity. Three ADM executives are also facing financial penalties.

A Joint Project for CF Industries and POET – CF Industries and POET have launched a pilot project with a group of farm cooperatives to develop a low-carbon fertilizer supply chain. This effort includes WinField United, NuWay-K&H, New Cooperative and Farmers Cooperative. The goal is to demonstrate how the use of low-carbon nitrogen fertilizer can reduce the carbon intensity of corn and ultimately produce low carbon ethanol.

AMBA Updates Recommended Variety List – The American Malting Barley Association has released its list of recommended varieties for 2026. The only addition to the list is ABI Montana. Three varieties were removed from the list due to declining acreage. They are all from ABInBev: spring six-row Celebration and two spring two-rows, Conrad and Merit 57.

Klobuchar Launches Gubernatorial Campaign – Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar has announced her bid for the Minnesota governor’s office. Klobuchar is serving her fourth term in the U.S. Senate. At this point, there are nine Republicans who are running for governor in Minnesota.

Muenzmaier Moves to Pivot Bio – Marty Muenzmaier is the new director of environmental policy and programs for Pivot Bio. For the past 16 years, Muenzmaier has been with Cargill.

An Addition to the USMEF Team – Ashley Michels is joining the U.S. Meat Export Federation as communications director. For the past dozen years, Michels has been a news anchor and reporter at KDVR-TV and KWGN-TV in Denver.

UMWA Officer Team Elected – The Upper Mississippi Waterway Association has a new officer team in place. Zac Morris of AMI Consulting Engineers will serve as president for a second year. The vice president is Randy Carmichael of Upper Mississippi Fleeting. Cassandra Caldwell of American Cruise Lines is chair.

USW Board Elects ’26-’27 Officer Team – U.S. Wheat Associates has elected Gary Millershaski of Kansas as its new chair, succeeding McClusky, North Dakota grower Jim Pellman. Mike Carstensen of Washington is vice chair. Mark Jossund of Moorhead, Minnesota, was elected secretary-treasurer. Jossund is the current chair of the Minnesota Wheat Research and Promotion Council.

New Officer Team for NAWG – Jamie Kress is the newly elected president of the National Association of Wheat Growers. Jamie and her husband Cory own and operate an 8,500 acre dryland farm in eastern Idaho. Nathan Keane of Montana is vice president, Chris Tanner of Kansas was elected treasurer, and Auston Andersen of Colorado is NAWG’s new Secretary.

Schauer, Schwab Receive Awards at ASI Convention – The American Sheep Industry Association honored NDSU Hettinger Research Extension Center Director Dr. Christopher Schauer with its Peter Orwick Camptender Award. The Shepherd’s Voice Award went to Northern Ag Network farm broadcaster Andy Schwab.

Awards Presented at MCIA Meeting – During the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association Annual Meeting, Milo Ravndalen and Sharon Bring received the Premier Seed Grower Award. Ravndalen raises small grains, soybeans for private seed companies, food-grade soybeans and perennial turf seed at Roosevelt in Lake of the Woods County. Bring produces spring wheat from her Marshall County farm at Newfolden. The Honorary Premier Seed Grower Award was presented to Ken Graeve of the Minnesota Department of Transportation and Craig Tomera, who manages the Grain Millers export facility in St. Peter. The Achievement in Crop Improvement, which is MCIA’s lifetime award, went to Scott Habstritt of Roseau.

LEAP Conference Included Leadership Awards – During the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation Leadership, Education, Advocacy and Promotion Conference, Katie Lee of East Polk County Farm Bureau earned the Golden Apple Award for her support of ag education and the Ag in the Classroom program. The Young Farmer and Rancher Committee also presented Matt Johnson of Meeker County with the Outstanding Friend of Young Farmers and Ranchers. Jason and Caitlin Keck of Steele County were recognized with the Golden Pitchfork Award for their hands-on involvement with the YF&R program.

Dean Aakre Passes – Funeral services were held over the weekend for a longtime North Dakota 4-H youth specialist. Dean Aacre passed away on January 26 after a courageous battle with metastatic esophageal cancer. Aarke retired in 2022 after 39 years in the state 4-H office. During his career, Aakre was named to the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame, received the NDSU AGSCO Excellence in Extension Award, the University of Minnesota-Crookston Outstanding Alumni Award and numerous other honors.