Trump Budget Recommendations Released – The White House has released its budget recommendations for fiscal year 2026. For USDA, the Trump Administration cuts $754 million in discretionary funding for conservation technical assistance through the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The budget calls for $358 million in cuts to Farm Service Agency salaries and expenses. The budget document said the FSA is ‘staff-heavy’ and leased premises are underutilized. More focus will be on improving online services for farmers. The proposal eliminates the McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program that buys commodities from U.S. farmers for foreign food donations. USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and National Agricultural Statistics Service budgets would be trimmed by nearly $160 million. The budget plan said it reduces funding for agricultural research projects that have gone beyond their ideal lifespan or are not a national priority. USDA Rural Development funds for broadband expansion are also eliminated

Rollins Praises Budget Plan – After President Trump submitted his budget proposal to Congress, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins issued a statement saying her boss is putting the country on a path to reducing the deficit and lowering the national debt. “We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to save our country from financial ruin.” Rollins said USDA has already started to eliminate wasteful spending, cutting red tape to put farmers first.

Budget Reconciliation Delay – A planned markup of the reconciliation bill has apparently been pushed back another week. The House Agriculture Committee was expected to tackle cost-cutting Tuesday or Wednesday. Potential cuts to the food stamp program are the biggest hurdle. Committee Chair Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson plans to update reference prices and the Dairy Margin Coverage program during budget reconciliation.

DOGE Has FSA Loan Oversight – Farm Service Agency loans and guarantees over $500,000 must get approval from the Trump Administration’s Department of Government Efficiency. Politico cited a memo to farm loan program staff from FSA Deputy Administrator Houston Bruck. Loan approval is delayed until reviewed by senior USDA staff and DOGE.

Many Moving Parts in ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ – Minnesota Representative Michelle Fischbach is a Ways and Means Committee member and is focused on the tax provisions in the budget reconciliation process. She wants the estate tax and biofuel provisions, like 45Z, to remain in the bill. Another priority is the 199A tax deduction that reduces the amount of a farmer’s business income subject to tax. “In my district, in the 7th district, 55,000 taxpayers take advantage of that 199A, including ag and small businesses,” said Fischbach. “That would be a huge increase if that expires; the taxes could go up 43 percent.”

Dry Bean Scene – In this week’s Dry Bean Scene, Northarvest Bean Growers Association Executive Director Mitch Colter talks about federal assistance coming to specialty crop producers. Click here. 

Thykeson, Campbell, Blomgren Appointed – USDA has announced the latest slate of presidential appointments for Farm Service Agency and Rural Development state directors. In North Dakota, Brad Thykeson has been reinstated as FSA State Director and Tom Campbell was selected to lead the Rural Development office. Thykeson farms at Portland and is a past president of the North Dakota Grain Growers Association. Campbell is the co-founder of Campbell Farms and was a state senator. The new state executive director for Minnesota FSA is Butterfield farmer Kurt Blomgren. The Minnesota Rural Development state director was not announced. David Ladd has been nominated for the post. South Dakota was not part of Friday’s announcement.

Focusing on WOTUS Clarity – The Trump Administration is reviewing the Waters of the United States definition. This goal is to bring the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers jurisdictional decisions in line with the Supreme Court Sackett v. EPA ruling.  “We want to focus on clarity, simplicity, and improvements that will stand the test of time, while also prioritizing the practical implementation of regulations,” said Stacey Jensen, director of the EPA oceans, wetlands and communities division. The EPA and Corps hosted a listening session for agriculture and industry stakeholders this past week. Similar listening sessions for the general public are planned, but the dates have not yet been announced.

Trade Deal is ‘Done’ – In an appearance on CNBC, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik said a deal has been reached with one trading partner, but no other details were available. “I have a deal; done, done, done,” said Lutkik. “But I need to wait for their prime minister and their parliament to give their approval, which I expect shortly.”

Trade Negotiations Possible – Early Friday, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said it was open to trade negotiations with the United States. However, if the United States wants to talk trade, China is asking the Trump Administration to demonstrate trust by canceling the new tariffs. While trade talks are possible, the Chinese officials said China is willing to fight to the end.

Truitt: U.S.-China Talks Ongoing – Despite denials from the Chinese government, Policy Solutions President Jay Truitt believes that behind-the-scenes negotiations over trade are underway. “I’m certain there are conversations that are taking place, whether the Chinese consider them official or not,” said Truitt. “When I talk to the folks in the USDA circle, they’ve had a never-ending series of discussions back and forth.” Despite market volatility, Truitt said momentum is building. “Clearly, the market is starting to see that some progress is being made; one way or another, we need to get it done as quickly as possible.”

Cramer Discusses U.S.-China Trade Tensions – North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer remains optimistic about the long-term outlook for U.S.-Chinese trade. “The two nations, being the biggest economies in the world, and China with a huge population, they really do need each other.” However, Cramer is worried about the impact on U.S. agriculture. “For farmers, one season can be their entire operation or their career,” he explained. “These little moments matter a great deal, particularly when you’re in a state like North Dakota with a short growing season.”

Resolution to Overturn Tariffs Falls Short – A Senate vote to overturn President Trump’s broad Liberation Day tariffs failed Wednesday in a 49-49 tie, falling short of the majority needed to pass the resolution. The measure, led by Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, sought to end the emergency powers used by Trump to impose a ten percent tariff on most imports, along with steeper levies on China. The resolution faced opposition from several senators, but key figures such as Senators Mitch McConnell and Sheldon Whitehouse were absent, leaving the vote tied. Only three Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the measure, underscoring the division within the Senate on the issue. The failure to pass the resolution highlights ongoing debate over trade policies and their economic impact.

Mexico to Surpass Canada as Top Destination for U.S. Ag Commodities – Mexico is expected to become the top destination for U.S. agricultural exports this year. Food and ag exports south of the border rose 65 percent in the past four years. A report from the CoBank Knowledge Exchange said Mexico’s economy is growing and the appetite for meat and dairy products is following suit. U.S. dairy exports are enjoying noticeable growth with the total U.S. dairy export value increasing 76 percent since 2020.

‘Put Through Hell’ by Government Overreach – Cabinet members and lawmakers shared the stage with a South Dakota ranch family Wednesday in Washington, D.C. The Trump Administration dropped criminal charges against Charles and Heather Maude. The couple was indicted in June of last year for theft of government property. The Maudes were alerted by the U.S. Forest Service that their fencing blocked access to the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. It turned into a legal dispute over 25 acres of federal land and property rights. “The Maude family’s been put through hell by the overreaching federal government and today we restore sanity, we restore fairness and justice, and we send a clear message to the American people that this administration stands with you,” said South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden. “The federal government threatened the Maudes with up to a quarter million dollar fine and ten years in prison, all for working the land and to put food on the table for the American people.” Heather Maude thanked their supporters, including her neighbors. “Our neighbors stood up for us with the threat of retribution to their own operations that they still face until we get this completely resolved.” The media briefing also featured Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds and South Dakota Congressman Johnson.

Craig Announces Senate Run – House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig is running for the U.S. Senate. Craig has been in Congress since 2019 in a swing district that covers most of the southern Twin Cities suburbs and rural areas to the southwest. This is an open seat with Minnesota Senator Tina Smith not seeking reelection. Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan is also seeking the DFL nomination.

A Week of Action – The National Farmers Union is on Capitol Hill this week for what is billed ‘a week of action.’ Minnesota Farmers Union Vice President Anne Schwagerl is part of the delegation that will be meeting with lawmakers this week. “We’re planting right now, taking time away from our farms to go to D.C. to urge Congress to act for farmers’ sake, we’re looking to urge Congress to pass a strong five-year farm bill.” The NFU has five priorities. “We want a strong farm safety net that supports family farmers, we want to build upon voluntary conservation programs, we want fairness and opportunity in the marketplace for farms to thrive, we want to deliver fast and reliable risk management programs and we want one that will garner broad support from both farmers and consumers.” The farm bill has been extended twice and now may be included in the budget reconciliation process. “It’s time for Congress to put the political theatre aside to strengthen the farm safety net and Rural America.” The Red River Farm Network coverage from the National Farmers Union Week of Action is made possible by the Minnesota Farmers Union.

Addington to Lead MN FFA in the Year Ahead – Minnesota’s new state FFA president is taking on a familiar role. Cameron Addington’s mother, Leah (Schliep) Addington, served as president 27 years ago. Addington is from the Cannon Falls FFA Chapter. The officer team includes Vice President Paisley Von Berge of Hutchinson, Secretary Dessa Terning of Dassel-Cokato and Treasurer Hailey Chambers of Medford. The reporter is Keeley Runge of St. James and the new sentinel is Lauren Hunt of Willmar.

A Lifelong Impact – Justin Miller from the Morris Area FFA Chapter was one of nearly two dozen FFA ambassadors at the state convention, connecting the students with sponsors and supporters. “I’m a senior this year and I’ve really gotten to see how connected FFA is to the ag community and the businesses.”  This fall, Miller will attend North Dakota State College of Science at Wahpeton for precision agriculture. FFA has made a lasting impact on this young man. “It turned a shy kid into a leader and someone who is willing to go up to someone, shake their hand and talk to them,” said Miller. “FFA has changed me into the person I am today and I am forever grateful.”

Four MN FFA’ers Named Stars – The Star Farmer is McKade Tewes of Jackson County Central. Willian Bastian of Gibbon-Fairfax-Winthrop FFA is the Star in Production, and the Star in Agriculture, Food and Natural Resource Sciences is Marin Knott of Tracy Area FFA. The Star in Agribusiness honor went to Jilian Schoenfeld. “I was super duper excited,” said Schoenfeld. “Being just a junior I don’t have the same amount of records that the other candidates did; having won this as a junior is kind of a big deal and I was just ecstatic.” Schoenfeld was recognized for her work at a local veterinary clinic. “I believe that I’m going to end up going to SDSU for a major in animal science with a science specialization, not necessarily the pre-vet route, but something with embryos and genetics.”

Hall of Fame Honors – Seven new individuals have been inducted into the Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame. That list includes Sarah Kuschel from Sebeka. Kuschel is a regional coordinator for Minnesota Ag in the Classroom and is a volunteer advisor for the Sebeka FFA Chapter. “It is a huge honor for me to be inducted,” said Kuschel. “It is an organization that has made an impact on my family for generations and being able to support the kids wearing the blue jackets today is really meaningful.” The other inductees include lobbyist A.J. Duerr, Linder Farm Network President Lynn Ketelsen, longtime Grand Rapids ag teacher Shawn Linder, University of Minnesota Associate Professor Amy Smith, retired Foley ag instructor Al Stemper and Iowa State University Endowed Chair Curtis Youngs.

Zeidler: Mentorship Key to FFA’s Mission – According to Minnesota FFA Alumni and Supporters Council President Amanda Zeidler, the group has a simple mission. “We’re growing leaders, and we’re trying to really instill the mentor-mentee relationship.”  Minnesota FFA will soon look very different with anyone who is in an agriculture class being considered as an FFA member. “I think it’s important for all of us to stick together and to keep growing together.”

Alumni Awards Presented in Minneapolis – The Minnesota FFA Alumni and Supporters presented the Day-Frederick Award to former ag instructor and current commodity broker Bernard Van Zomeren. The alumni group named Rylan Sabo of Rocori as its outstanding young member and Bailey Thompson of Barnesville as its outstanding member. The Outstanding Teacher Supporter is Shawn Linder of Grand Rapids. James Kruize of Barnesville is the outstanding coach and Watertown-Mayer FFA Alumni and Supporters is the outstanding chapter.

Meyer Returns to FFA Convention – The 25^th anniversary state officer team was part of the first full day of the Minnesota FFA Convention. Dr. Tammy (Gilland) Meyer was the vice president in 1999-2000. She is an alumnus of the Cedar-Mountain FFA Chapter. “As an FFA member, my SAE focused on ag broadcasting while working at KLGR Radio in Redwood Falls.” Meyer was an agriculture education major at South Dakota State University. In addition to farming with her husband at Sisseton, South Dakota, Meyer taught school, spent time as a middle school principal and is now the school superintendent. Meyer and her husband, Andy, have three children. Jack, Beth and Kate. The FFA legacy continues. “Beth is a regional officer and our daughter, Kate, was just named the South Dakota FFA secretary a couple of weeks ago.”

Closing in on 100 Years – The Minnesota FFA 96^th annual convention just wrapped up, but preparations are already underway for the group’s 100th anniversary. According to former Minnesota FFA Executive Secretary Jim Ertl, a history of the organization is being compiled. Minnesota FFA had 277 FFA chapters in 1977. Ertl said that it dropped to 150 chapters during the farm crisis in the mid-1980s. “The schools started consolidating,” said Ertl. “Farm families said to the kids, we don’t want you to come back to the farm so the kids left the farm. That’s where we lost eight teachers, too.” There’s been a rebuilding process and there are now nearly 220 FFA chapters statewide. Minnesota FFA is moving to a model where every student taking an ag class will be enrolled in the FFA. Minnesota has over 15,000 members today, but that is expected to grow to 40,000 with the change.

Dry Bean Scene – In this week’s Dry Bean Scene, Northarvest Bean Growers Association Executive Director Mitch Colter talks about federal assistance coming to specialty crop producers. Click here. 

Bumper Brazilian Corn and Soybean Harvest – With harvest nearing the finish line, Brazil is bringing in a big crop. Brazil Intel owner and ag consultant Kory Melby points to early-season rains as the catalyst. “There are a few fields left, but in general, it has been a fantastic crop with spectacular yields. Places like Sinop and the northern end of Mato Grosso have received 2,500 millimeters this season, which is 100 inches of rain. That’s exactly what the doctor ordered for a bumper soy and a bumper corn crop.” Argentina is also looking at strong corn and soybean crops this year. “Soy and corn yields are coming in better than they anticipated, given some of the early season stress that they were having back in December. The Argentine soy and corn crop is probably a little bit better than earlier estimates.”

What’s Hot, What’s Not in the Markets – In today’s edition of What’s Hot, What’s Not in the Markets, Martinson Ag Risk Management President Randy Martinson cites cattle as the one bright spot in the markets. “We continue to see new all-time contract highs on a weekly basis, almost on a daily basis in some instances.” On the other side of the ledger, crude oil is under pressure. Click here to listen.

Pioneer Agronomy Update – When the planters roll again, Pioneer Seeds Field Agronomist Kevin Sinner encourages growers to be prepared for success. “We want to make sure the seed is being placed into adequate moisture, especially with lighter soil types,” said Sinner. “And at an adequate depth that is going to provide good rooting.” Listen to the Pioneer Agronomy Update featuring Kevin Sinner. 

Corn Matters – In Minnesota Corn Matters, Minnesota Corn Board member Richard Syverson highlights the latest development with the year-round availability of E-15.  Listen here. 

ITC Rules on 2,4-D Imports – The International Trade Commission vote in favor of imposing final anti-dumping and countervailing duties on 2,4-D imports from China and India. This past month, American Soybean Association and National Corn Growers Association leaders testified before the ITC, saying farmers depend on generic 2,4-D imports for burn-down weed control. The ASA and NCGA said new duties will impact costs and access to this herbicide option.

Sugarbeet Report – In this week’s Sugarbeet Report, we get a planting update from American Crystal Sugar Company, Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative and Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative. All three cooperatives enjoyed excellent planting progress in April. Click here. 

Prospects Are Good – The two-week outlook looks positive for spring planting. “It’s been, maybe, a little slower start than we were anticipating with for the lack of snow we had and the way we thought spring was going to start, but the next 14 days look like above-average temperatures,” said BASF Business Rep Scott Hammond, who is based in Devils Lake. “We’re hoping to get more crop in the ground in that Devils Lake Basin. It’s definitely one of the slower parts of the state right now, but it isn’t unusual for us to get going in May.”

Farmers Gear Up for Spring Planting – NDSU Extension Agent Michelle Gilley says field conditions in Eddy County are great and farmers are ready to get the tractors rolling. “It’s starting to dry out enough to plant. The flatter fields are still a little bit ponded, but everything else looks really good. Just waiting for it to look warm enough to plant.” Gilley expects local farmers to start with peas, canola, and wheat.

An Update From SE ND – Wet weather early in the week slowed planting progress in parts of North Dakota’s Cass County, but Hefty Seed agronomist Jordan Swanson said the moisture was welcome. “The wheat and sugarbeets are in around the area and we have a good start on the corn.” With good weather in the forecast, Swanson said it will be a busy week for fieldwork.

Farming Against the Elements – Rhonda Larson, who farms north of East Grand Forks, was able to make significant headway in seeding wheat. “We’ve got about 800 acres of wheat in because that’s easier to plant than beets when conditions aren’t exactly perfect,” said Larson. “The topsoil had about an inch to an inch-and-a-half of really dry dirt and then you’ve got into the frost coming up and that was like a compacted soil, so when you go to plant it, you had an open trench. I didn’t have a lot of it, but I had some. The rain covers up those sins you get in the spring.” Approximately 400 acres of sugarbeets are planted and the corn planter will be busy this week.

Too Wet and Cold – Most of the fields in North Dakota’s Wells and Eddy counties remain untouched. Donny Allmaras, who is in the Bremen/New Rockford area, says it has been too wet. “It’s also been pretty cold for those crops,” said Allmaras. “During the day, it gets up to the temperatures we want, but overnight it is way below what we’d like.” Allmaras is seeing a small shift in acres away from pinto beans, wheat and canola into corn and soybeans.

Best Management Practices to Start the Season – BASF Midwest Seed Agronomist Jeff Mueller is seeing a definite trend in the acreage mix this spring. “A few more farmers are planting more corn on corn this year than they have in the past,” said Mueller. “There’s economics obviously behind that and some other things, but yes, I’m seeing more corn on corn.” For the highest yield potential, decisions must be made now to get the crop off to a good start. Mueller recommends the use of a seed treatment, planting in good soil conditions and the proper setup of the planter. “Once that seed goes into the ground, that’s 50 percent of the game right there..” For weed control, Mueller likes to start clean if possible. “Let’s make sure we’re putting down a good residual and we’re layering our residuals through that year to let our residuals do that heavy lifting.” Listen to the full interview. 

Conditions Ripe for Early Weed Growth – According to SDSU Extension Weed Management Specialist Eric Jones, conditions are favorable for weed germination. Noxious weeds are starting to populate in the eastern half of the state. “We’re seeing kochia, some of the prickly lettuce and no-till that includes Canada thistle as well.” Jones says it’s less about which weeds are in the fields and more about getting early scouting done. “We need to be cognizant that there are weeds so we can get out and manage them. Mix two herbicides together. Don’t go out with just one herbicide. Usually when you put those herbicides mixed together, you control more weed species so you increase your spectrum of control.”.

Alfalfa Sees Jump Start from Spring Rain – South Dakota’s drought conditions eased with recent rains. “We’re starting to see our cool-season grasses really green up where we got some rain, and it also helped push things along with the alfalfa” said Sara Bauder, forage field specialist, SDSU Extension. “I wouldn’t say we’re out of the woods yet, but it’s certainly going to help get a jump start on things.” Despite the rain, Bauder says wildfires are still a concern. “There are already some pretty hefty burn bans across the state and many counties and areas just because of our windy, dry days.”

Legislative Session Wraps Up – The North Dakota Legislature adjourned just after 4 AM Saturday. Seventy-four of the 80 available legislative days were used. That leaves six days if lawmakers need to return to Bismarck to complete any unfinished business.

Property Tax Relief Approved – North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong signed a property tax relief bill Saturday. “We thank the Legislature for advancing a bill with meaningful tax relief and reform,” said Armstrong. The bill increases the existing primary residence property tax credit from $500 per year to $1,600 per year. Earnings from the state’s Legacy Fund will pay for the relief. The bill also includes a three percent cap on future increases in local property tax budgets. Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Larry Luick expressed disappointment in the lack of direct relief for farmers and agricultural landowners. “A lot of them that are in charge of this were saying that the ag industry is getting enough because they’re giving a lot of funding toward township and county road projects,” Luick said. “Well, that doesn’t come back to the farmer or the landowner, that’s an infrastructure need the state should be somewhat compliant to pay for.” The bill signed into law directs the next legislature to consider broad-based tax relief.

ND Legislative Report – NDFB’s Pete Hanebutt talks about what is in the potential property tax relief bill that has dominated discussion during this year’s session. Click here to listen.

Roads, Bridges and 80 MPH-Oh, My! – A total of $570 million has been approved for county, municipal and township roads and bridges in North Dakota. The legislative session also included a bump in the speed limit for interstate driving to 80 miles per hour. The bill was rejected in the House Thursday morning, but was brought up for a new vote that evening. It eventually passed 54-36 in the House and 27-20 in the Senate.

Ag Budget Clears MN Senate – The Senate passed the agriculture budget bill with 43-23 margin. Agriculture Committee Chair Aric Putnam said this budget invests in emergency preparedness, meat and dairy inspection, wolf and elk depredation, and mental health. The bill differs from the House version. “I’m not a partisan guy, but we acted like grown-ups, and the House did not,” said Putnam. “My budget target was negative so I had to cut some stuff and move some stuff around to put more money in different places. You’ll see a big difference with the House target, which was an additional $17 million in brand-new spending. I don’t know where they got it from, but, we tried to do as best as we could while trying to be as fiscally responsible.” The Red River Farm Network asked Putnam how those differences can be resolved in the conference committee. “I have no idea, man,” was the response. “It’s going to be a mess.”

An Uptick in Farmer Lender Mediation Cases – Minnesota’s Farmer Lender Mediation Program is seeing a significant uptick in cases this year. Program Director Mary Nell Preisler shared that the number of cases is already ahead of last year by around 100. “We’re ahead already of the six-month report as of the first of this month.” Preisler noted that much of the increase is due to farmers’ nervousness about the economy and tariffs, leaving many unsure whether to sell grain at a loss or hold out for a better price. Preisler also compared the current economic environment to some of the toughest times in agricultural history. “We’re back to almost an atmosphere of the mid-80s, where we had the high interest rates.”

An Easy Calving Season – Mild spring weather has been good for calving season. “Up in my neck of the woods, we’re kind of begging for little moisture, but as far as the calving season itself, it’s been pleasant,” said North Dakota Stockman’s Association President and Rugby, North Dakota, rancher Randy Schmitt. “We didn’t fight any bad weather to speak of. No big snowstorms like we normally would get, and so if that comes back to haunt us later, we’ll see, but I would classify it as an easy calving season.”

MN Beef Update – In the Minnesota Beef Update, Minnesota Beef Council CEO Kelly Schmidt recaps the FACS to the MAX event in Mankato. Local education grants are also available. Here’s the report. 

Gene-Edited Pigs Gain FDA Approval – The Food and Drug Administration has approved gene-editing technology to make pigs resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome. The swine genetics firm, PIC, is the first company to receive this approval. PRRS has a $1.2 billion impact on the U.S. swine industry. The first PRRS-resistant pigs will be available commercially in 2026.

Pork Checkoff Rolls Out Modernized PQA Plus – The National Pork Board is upgrading its Learning Management System and launching the newest version of Pork Quality Assurance Plus. “The content mainly remains the same for our producers and focuses on our We Care ethical principles, but Version 6 is focused on facilitation and supporting our PQA Plus advisors and our caretakers in understanding the content,” said Stephanie Wetter, director of animal welfare. PQA Plus can help pork producers keep up to date on diseases and timely animal agriculture issues. “We have an interactive handbook, as well as a mobile-friendly handbook for our producers and caretakers.”

Minnesota Pork Board Launches ‘Activate’ Leadership Program – The Minnesota Pork Board announced the launch of a new leadership development program called Activate. “Participants in the Activate program will focus on five key areas,” said Kate Maddock, sustainability outreach coordinator. “Those are hands-on training within advocacy, communications, relationship management, leadership, and industry knowledge.” The 18-month-long program offers six learning sessions to participants. “Our first session will kick off on July 8 and 9 at the Minnesota Pork Office in Mankato.

SD Corn Comments – In South Dakota Corn Comments, Pukwana corn and cattle producer Jim Ketelhut talks about May Beef Month and corn-fed beef. Listen here. 

Soy-Based Foam Offers Safer Firefighting Option – A new product is helping local fire departments fight fires by replacing harmful ‘forever chemicals’ with ones that are safer for both people and the environment. United Soybean Board Past Chairman Steve Reinhard says SoyFoam is gaining popularity, and its use is expanding throughout the country. “It’s out in several states now across the United States, and more are adding all the time. The distribution network is expanding, I think to 19 states, and getting bigger.” Casselton, North Dakota, Fire Chief John Hejl welcomes this new product. “Most of the time, we would get to a fire scene and ask if we should turn the foam on. Of course, it would help, but the answer is no, because we’re going to do more harm than good with it. So now with soy foam, it takes away that risk and we can just use foam.”

Farming for the Future – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is partnering with the Red River Farm Network and the Linder Farm Network to provide information on soil health events and topics. This week, Fabian Fernández, nutrient management specialist, University of Minnesota, discusses nitrogen management best practices. Click here. 

1Q Turnaround for Yara – The fertilizer company, Yara International, reports first quarter net income of $295 million. That’s up from $16 million in the same period last year. The combination of cost reduction programs and a tighter nitrogen market helped the bottomline.

Cercospora Leaf Blight Control Necessary for Soybeans – Cercospora leaf blight is the number one cause of yield loss in soybeans among leaf diseases in the U.S. BASF Technical Marketing Manager Albre Brown says it was once an issue mostly for southern farmers, but it has expanded north. “Because the past few years we’ve seen warmer temperatures, soybeans in more northern geographies are starting to show a greater symptom progression and onset of this disease in those geographies.” Brown says it all starts with prevention. “The pathogen survives in infected residue. If you’ve had the pathogen in the past, you’ll likely see it again. Prevention can occur by using high-quality seed.

Syngenta Group Releases 1Q Financials – The Syngenta Group finished the first quarter with sales of $7.3 billion, down one percent from a year ago. Crop protection sales improved five percent while seed sales declined by two percent. Seed sales rose 18 percent in China, which helped offset lower field crop sales in the U.S.

Canola Minute – In the Canola Minute, Northern Canola Growers Executive Director Barry Coleman highlights the recent producer roundtable hosted by North Dakota Senator John Hoeven and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. Misinformation about seed oils were discussed. Listen. 

A Volatile Farm Equipment Market – AGCO had net sales of $2.1 billion in the first quarter. That’s down 30 percent from the same period last year. Company officials said the global agricultural equipment market is volatile due to tariffs and shifting grain export demand. Progress was made to cut costs and a reduction in dealer inventory.

Net Income Down for CNH – CNH Industrial finished the quarter ending March 31 with net income of $132 million. That compares to $369 million in the same period last year. Agriculture net sales declined 23 percent.

Titan International Income Tops $490 Million – Titan International’s first quarter revenues of $491 million are an increase of nearly $9 million from last year. The Illinois-based company is a leader in the manufacturing of off-road tires. Income was down 17.5 percent for the agriculture business segment. Titan International has also announced the renewal of its farm tire licensing rights with Goodyear Farm Tires.

Tariff Strategy Forces a Pivot for Smithfield Foods – Due to the trade war, the world’s #1 pork buyer is no longer a destination for U.S. pork. With tariffs of 145 percent, Smithfield Foods CEO Shane Smith said China is not a viable market. Smith said that has forced the company to pivot its business. In the first quarter, Smithfield had total sales of $3.7 billion, up 9.5 percent from a year ago.

Price-Fixing Settlement – Three major pork companies have settled a price-fixing lawsuit. If the settlement is approved, Tyson Foods will pay $50 million, Clemens Food Group will pay $10 million and Triumph Foods will pay $4 million. A class action antitrust lawsuit was filed in 2018, alleging Tyson, Clemens, Triumph, JBS, Seaboard Farms, Smithfield Foods and Hormel conspired to systematically control their output with benchmarking information from Agri Stats.

A New Look for the AgriGrowth Summit – The Minnesota Ag and Food Summit will have a new look and feel in 2025. Minnesota AgriGrowth is moving the event out of downtown Minneapolis to a more convenient location in St. Louis Park. The event will also provide more networking opportunities. AgriGrowth’s Annual Fall Summit will be held in the late afternoon and evening of October 30.

A New CFO for Bayer Crop Science – Guru Ramamurthy will become the new Chief Financial Officer for Bayer’s Crop Science division. He will succeed Oliver Rittgen who has decided to pursue a career opportunity outside of Bayer after 25 years with the company. In his current role, Guru Ramamurthy is serving as CFO of Bayer US. The change will become effective as of July 1, 2025.

Erickson Moves to Terrain – The newest member of the Terrain team is senior analyst Matt Erickson. Erickson had been the agriculture economic and policy advisor for the AgCountry Farm Credit Services/Frontier Farm Credit/Farm Credit Services of America collaboration. Erickson is a former Senate Agriculture Committee chief economist. He also spent time at USDA and with the American Farm Bureau Federation.

NCI Announces Key Hires – Fargo-based Northern Crops Institute is at full staffing levels. Dr. Fatemeh Zare has been a NCI food scientist for three years and has been promoted to technical manager. Sam Wagner is a new processing technologist and Deepa Pradhan is a food technologist. Kailee Laframboise was hired as the communications and marketing specialist. Laframboise has been with Dagger Machinery for the past two years.

MN Corn Checkoff Board Members Reeelected – Three farmers have been reelected to the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council. Three-year terms will be served by Jordan Goblish of Vesta, Gary Prescher of Delevan and Chad Willis of Willmar.

Focused on Soybean Research and Promotion – George Goblish, Vesta, has been elected to his first term on the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council. Goblish succeeds Gene Stoel, Lake Wilson, who was on the Council for 18 years. Goblish joins MSRPC veterans Tom Frisch, Gail Donkers, Joe Serbus and Glen Groth.

Brandt and Huso Elected to NDWC – As of July 1, the North Dakota Wheat Commission will welcome Nate Brandt of Stanley for his first term. Scott Huso of Aneta, was elected to his second term. The North Dakota Wheat Commission sets the budget and and develops programs for research, and market development.

NDGGA Names New Executive Director – The North Dakota Grain Growers Association has named Nick Sinner as its new executive director. Most recently, Sinner served as a program manager for Northern Crops Institute. He previously was president and chief executive officer of the Minnesota-South Dakota Equipment Dealers Association and executive director of the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association.

Leadership Change Ahead for North Dakota Farmers Union – After 12 years leading the North Dakota Farmers Union, President Mark Watne has announced he will not seek re-election. Watne, who has been involved with the organization for nearly three decades, said the decision comes at a time when the group is well-positioned for a leadership transition. “I feel that strong organizations need leadership development; when you get the organization in position, that you have good candidates and good interests, it’s really a time to step back.” Watne will remain in his role through the end of the year and said he plans to take time to consider future opportunities. “Nothing’s on the agenda at the moment. That’ll have to play out a little bit.”

MFU Leader to Recieve Business Champion Award – Community Development of Morrison County Executive Director Carol Anderson is the 2025 Small Business Administration Minnesota Women in Business Champion of the Year. Anderson chairs the Minnesota Farmers Union executive committee. The award will be presented Friday.

A New Role for Bemis – Minnesota native Kaytlin Bemis has been named a policy advisor for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Most recently, Bemis managed public policy and regulatory affairs for the National Corn Growers Association. Before that, Bemis was a public policy specialist for the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation.

Chute Takes on ANCW Leadership Role – Debbie Chute of Aitkin, Minnesota, was elected vice-president of the American National Cattlewomen. Chute recently completed a four-year term as the ANCW region director.

Metzger Promoted – Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative has named Mike Metzger its executive vice president. Metzger will continue to lead the agriculture and research departments. Metzger has been with Minn-Dak for nearly 25 years.

Remembering the Man Behind the Message – A respected voice in agricultural communications and an advocate for the pork industry has passed away. Charles ‘Charlie’ Harness, 90, died April 25 at a hospital in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. In the mid-1960s, Harness served as the media relations manager for IBP. He spent time as a news director and anchor for a Sioux City television station before joining the National Pork Producers Council communications staff in 1983. The pork industry was going through massive change during Harness’ time at NPPC, including consolidation, the growth of global markets and scrutiny from environment and animal rights activists. Woodruff Managing Supervisor Cindy Cunningham worked with Harness and said Charlie “was an early advocate for helping producers tell their own story.” Cunningham went on describe Harness as “a sentinel of wisdom and experience who always had a smile and a relevant story.” Harness retired from the NPPC in 1998.

Veteran Agweek Reporter/Columnist Passes – Longtime Agweek journalist Jonathan Knutson died after a long battle with cancer. Knutson spent 19 years as a business and agriculture reporter for the Fargo Forum and 15 years with Agweek. Knutson retired in 2021.