Boozman Hopes Senate Farm Bill Markup Happens Next Week

Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman says he hopes to hold a farm bill markup next Thursday as negotiations continue on key provisions. The Arkansas Republican says discussions are ongoing with Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, including a Democratic proposal to delay a state cost-share requirement for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. “We’re working on it,” Boozman said, adding that his goal remains a bipartisan farm bill. Agri-Pulse reported that the committee’s schedule has been complicated by the continued absence of Senator Mitch McConnell, who remains in rehabilitation and has not been cleared to return to the Senate. Without a full Republican attendance, Boozman could need Democratic support to advance the legislation. Current discussions focus on delaying the SNAP benefit cost-share requirement scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2028.

USDA Updates Wetland Determination Guidance for Producers

USDA is providing farmers with greater certainty when making land management decisions by updating guidance on certified wetland determinations. The Natural Resources Conservation Service has issued an interim final rule stating that most wetland determinations made since November 28, 1990, will be considered certified if producers were notified of the decision and given appeal rights. NRCS Chief Colton Buckley says the change gives producers confidence when planning field improvements and other operations. “We want to empower farmers, ranchers, and landowners to do what they do best – farm the land,” Buckley said. Certified wetland determinations affect eligibility for USDA farm loans, conservation programs, crop insurance, and commodity programs. The agency says the rule also reduces administrative burdens by preventing previously certified determinations from being reinterpreted or replaced unless a producer requests a review.

USGBC Focuses on Trade and Market Growth at Annual Meeting

Members of the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council are meeting this week in Milwaukee for the organization's 66th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting, with a focus on expanding export opportunities and strengthening global trade. USGBC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the gathering is designed to help shape the organization's future while continuing its mission of developing markets and enabling trade. “We still hold tight to our mission of developing markets, enabling trade, and improving lives around the world,” LeGrand said. The meeting includes discussions on trade policy, supply chains, and emerging export markets. Participants also will hear from U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Julie Callahan, USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg, and Wisconsin Agriculture Secretary Randy Romanski. The conference concludes Friday with board reports, policy recommendations, and the election of new board members.

NFU Foundation Announces Annual Scholarship Recipients

The National Farmers Union Foundation has announced this year’s scholarship recipients, recognizing students committed to agriculture, leadership, and community service. Cadence Konechne (koh-NECK-knee) of the South Dakota Farmers Union received the Hubert K. and JoAnn Seymour Scholarship, while Beau Milton of Montana Farmers Union and Ruby Sheaffer of the Wisconsin Farmers Union were awarded Stanley Moore Scholarships. Mary Oluyemi (oh-loo-YAY-mee) of Purdue University and Jakari (jah-CAR-ee) Brown of Southern University and A&M College received Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences Scholarships through NFU’s partnership with MANRRS (manners). “NFU is deeply committed to fostering the next generation of advocates and providing resources to ensure their success,” said NFU President Rob Larew. The foundation says its scholarships support students pursuing education at accredited colleges, universities, and technical schools while encouraging the future of agriculture through leadership and service.

Ethanol Production Reaches Second-Highest Level On Record

U.S. ethanol production climbed to its second-highest level ever last week as output reached a 28-week-high, according to data from the Energy Information Administration analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association. Production increased 3.6 percent for the week ending July 24, averaging 1.13 million barrels per day, or nearly 47.6 million gallons daily. Output was also above year-ago levels and the five-year average. Ethanol stocks rose one percent to a nine-week high of 24.7 million barrels, while gasoline demand increased slightly but remained below last year and the five-year average. Refiner and blender ethanol use also improved, reaching the highest level since May 2025. Ethanol exports declined 13.3 percent during the week, averaging 137,000 barrels per day. The Renewable Fuels Association says the industry continues to see strong domestic production despite softer export activity.

FFA Hosts Leadership Conference for Next Generation of Farmers

The National FFA Organization recently brought together 45 young agricultural leaders from 23 states for the 2026 New Century Farmer Conference in Indianapolis. The July 18-22 event focused on building leadership and career skills while helping FFA alumni explore opportunities in agriculture and strengthen their farm businesses. “One of the most valuable aspects of New Century Farmer is bringing together young producers from diverse agricultural backgrounds to learn from industry experts and one another,” said Emma Slavens, National FFA Program Manager. Participants visited agriculture businesses, including Corteva Agriscience, CNH Industrial, and Reynolds John Deere, while learning about crop protection, equipment, business management, and financial planning. FFA says the conference helps young producers develop a vision for the future of their operations while creating networks and connections they can rely on throughout their careers.

Thursday Watch List

Markets

On Thursday, USDA will release the weekly Export Sales report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. At the same time, the Bureau of Economic Analysis will release the advance estimate of second quarter U.S. GDP, as well as the June Personal Consumption Expenditure Index.

Weather

A small disturbance moving into the Northern and Central Plains is forecast to strengthen on Thursday, producing widespread showers and thunderstorms there into the western Midwest. Some areas of heavy rain and severe weather will be possible out of the storms.