Court Ruling Clouds Future of H-2A Wage Reforms, Raises Backpay Concerns

A federal court ruling has cast uncertainty over recent reforms to the H-2A agricultural guestworker program, while leaving current wage rates in place for now. On Aug. 25, a federal district court in California ruled that key provisions of a 2025 U.S. Department of Labor interim final rule revising the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, or AEWR, were unlawful because the agency failed to adequately justify several changes and bypassed portions of the public rulemaking process. The court challenged a new two-tier wage system, a housing-related wage adjustment, the use of Bureau of Labor Statistics data in wage calculations and a rule governing mixed-duty jobs. However, the judge declined to immediately vacate the rule, allowing current H-2A wage rates to remain in effect while the Labor Department develops a replacement methodology. The ruling also raises the possibility of future backpay obligations for employers if revised wage rates exceed current levels. The NC Chamber said growers should continue complying with existing rates while maintaining detailed payroll records as the case proceeds.

Dairy Industry Shifts Focus to Protein as Global Demand Grows

U.S. dairy producers are stepping up efforts to increase the protein content of milk as changing market incentives and global demand reshape the industry, according to a new report from CoBank. The report says milk protein production began outpacing butterfat production in August 2025 after protein values surpassed butterfat values for the first time in several years. That shift has encouraged farmers to focus more heavily on boosting protein levels, which are critical for cheese production and increasingly valued in global dairy markets. While U.S. butterfat production has surged over the past decade, protein gains have been more modest. Industry analysts say that imbalance has created challenges for cheesemakers, who prefer a more balanced protein-to-fat ratio for optimal yields and product quality. The United States still trails major dairy exporters in the European Union and New Zealand in overall milk protein levels. However, U.S. producers increased protein production 7.4% between 2015 and 2025, with most of that growth occurring in the past five years. CoBank said continued gains will be gradual because protein improvements depend largely on genetics.

Trump Moves to Expand Meat Processing Options for Farmers, Ranchers

President Donald Trump said Friday his administration is preparing legal action aimed at giving farmers and ranchers more freedom to process and sell meat, a move he says would increase competition in the highly concentrated meatpacking industry. The announcement comes after a presidential proclamation on August 26 that will allow an additional 300,000 metric tons of lean beef trimmings into the U.S. at reduced tariff rates beginning Sept. 1. Trump said legal documents were being prepared quickly, following comments earlier last week questioning federal restrictions on beef processing, according to Reuters. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said additional announcements are expected Monday, including efforts to expand interstate sales and support smaller processors. Four companies, Cargill, Tyson Foods, JBS USA, and National Beef Packing Co., control about 85% of U.S. meat processing. Federal law generally requires meat sold commercially across state lines to be processed under federal inspection. The Meat Institute warned that weakening inspection requirements could jeopardize food safety. USDA has previously expanded programs allowing qualifying state-inspected processors to participate in interstate commerce.

Farm Groups Warn Expanded Refinery Waivers Could Hurt Biofuel Demand

U.S. farm and biofuel organizations are urging the Trump administration to reject a potential expansion of small refinery exemptions, warning the move could reduce demand for corn, soybean oil and renewable fuels. Reuters reports the administration is considering exemptions covering as many as 1.8 billion renewable fuel credits, nearly double earlier assumptions. Small refinery exemptions allow qualifying refineries to avoid some Renewable Fuel Standard blending requirements. The American Soybean Association estimates expanded exemptions could eliminate about 500 million gallons of biomass-based diesel demand and cost soybean farmers roughly $1 billion. A coalition including the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy and National Farmers Union urged President Donald Trump to limit the waivers. Reuters reports administration officials are also considering increasing 2027 biofuel requirements by roughly 500 million gallons to compensate for demand lost through exemptions. 

USDA Raises U.S. Agricultural Export Forecast

U.S. agricultural exports are expected to strengthen as USDA raised its trade forecast and projected a smaller agricultural trade deficit for fiscal 2026. USDA's Economic Research Service and Foreign Agricultural Service forecast agricultural exports at $179.5 billion, up $3 billion from the agency's May projection. Imports are forecast at $204.5 billion, down $1 billion from May. That would produce an agricultural trade deficit of about $25 billion, compared with the $29 billion deficit projected in May and the record $42.9 billion gap recorded in fiscal 2025. USDA released the updated outlook Thursday as agricultural exporters continue navigating shifting global demand and trade policies. The department also expects exports to increase further in fiscal 2027, forecasting approximately $186.5 billion in agricultural sales abroad. USDA publishes its agricultural trade outlook quarterly through the Economic Research Service and Foreign Agricultural Service, with forecasts covering major commodities and trading partners.

Soybean Farmers Urged to Watch for Red Crown Rot as Disease Spreads

Soybean farmers seeing signs of sudden death syndrome are being urged to inspect plants closely for red crown rot, an emerging disease that can produce nearly identical leaf symptoms. Iowa State University Extension confirmed red crown rot last week in a southeastern Iowa field. The farmer previously believed the affected area had sudden death syndrome. Both diseases can cause yellowing between leaf veins and premature plant decline. However, red crown rot can be identified by reddish discoloration and tiny red fungal structures near the plant’s crown and soil line. Red crown rot, caused by a soilborne fungus, has expanded from the South into several Midwestern states. Yield losses of 25% to 30% have been documented in Louisiana and Mississippi. Iowa State officials recommend growers submit suspicious plants for laboratory testing because accurate identification can influence future disease-management decisions.

Monday Watch List

Markets

On Monday, USDA will be out with their usual Export Inspections report at 10 a.m. CDT. After the close, USDA will release the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. CDT, giving another glimpse at crop conditions around the U.S. as August comes to an end.

Weather

Temperatures have increased across much of the U.S. and will be extreme in the Southern Plains and into the southwestern Corn Belt as well. Across the north, a stalling front will bring potential for areas of showers and thunderstorms. There may also be a short-lived tropical storm in the Gulf for Monday and Tuesday.

Cattle Groups Protest as Trump Signs Beef Import Plan

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday that aims to lower ground beef prices by boosting imports from other countries, reports Politico. This is despite outrage from the beef industry. Trump’s proclamation will remove tariffs from 300,000 metric tons of imported lean beef trimmings for 90 days. He said the countries supplying the beef would sell it at 25 percent below current market prices. Industry backlash comes from the American Farm Bureau Federation, Livestock Marketing Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and United States Cattlemen’s Association. A joint letter from the groups warns that the policy will devastate domestic cattle markets, discourage herd-rebuilding, and ultimately compromise food security, reports Drovers. The coalition wrote that the announcement has already driven cattle markets sharply lower, and it undermines producers at a critical time of year when they are marketing cattle and making herd-building decisions.

Soy Checkoff Invites Farmers to Prove the Quality of Their Crop

Soybean farmers have a free, straightforward way to prove the quality of their crop to the world. Through the Annual Soybean Quality Survey, funded by the Soy Checkoff, farmers can send in a sample from their 2026 harvest at no cost and receive a personalized report on its quality. The effort helps position U.S. soy as the premium choice for customers worldwide. Farmer participation supports the U.S. Soybean Export Council in building international marketing programs. As the global marketplace grows more competitive, U.S. soy increasingly wins on value and quality rather than price alone. Survey data gives buyers a clear, science-based picture of the protein, oil value, and overall composition of the U.S. crop, and it helps ensure every growing region is represented at global buyers’ conferences. When farmers include the seed company and variety with their sample, they also help researchers identify which varieties deliver the most value to international customers. Request a free sample kit at unitedsoybean.org.

Pork Processors Confront Soft Demand

U.S. pork processors are facing growing headwinds. Prices for key products used in further processing continue to weaken, according to the National Pork Board’s latest Profit Maximizer report prepared by Steiner Consulting Group. Despite hog slaughter running below year-ago levels, bone-in ham prices remain near annual lows in the low $70 range, highlighting soft demand. Picnic primal values have also fallen sharply, down 28% from a year ago. Exports account for nearly half of U.S. ham and picnic production. Weak global prices coupled with intense international competition have weighed heavily on values. The pork trim market has shown mixed performance. Fat trim prices have benefited from a seasonal decline in slaughter, while 72% lean trim values remain under pressure as additional boneless muscle cuts enter trim channels. Fresh pork prices have been relatively steady but continue to trail year-ago levels. Ribs, which enjoyed strong summer demand, are beginning to face seasonal pressure and are expected to weaken further this fall.

Farmers Struggling to Get Services from Depleted USDA Workforce

Nationwide, farmers and rural residents describe struggling to obtain the basic services USDA is meant to offer, including loans and grants, technical assistance, and financing for housing and utilities due to “skeletal staffing”, reports The New York Times. The Natural Resources Conservation Service, for example, has lost more than 2,700 workers, or nearly a fourth of its staff. Progressive Farmer says while farmers in Polk County, Iowa, still have a Farm Service Agency office to visit, four out of five days that office will be closed. Calls are rerouted, and employees from other counties come in to staff the office. In a recent interview with DTN, Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden said NRCS has a map identifying staffing shortages and that the agency is working to even it out. The agency said it plans to hire 272 NRCS employees this year, leaving it 346 short of its 9,500-employee goal, and below its 2020-25 average of 10,698, according to Progressive Farmer.

Arizona Border Reopens to Mexican Cattle; New Mexico Crossings Next

Mexico resumed live cattle exports to the United States on Aug. 24 after a nearly two-year shutdown tied to New World screwworm concerns, with cattle crossing through the Douglas, Arizona, port under new inspection and tracking protocols, according to The Associated Press. Animals are screened by U.S. and Mexican authorities and fitted with radio-frequency identification tags. Crossings are initially capped at 700 head per day before increasing in coming weeks. Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that two New Mexico ports of entry will reopen over the next two months, a move expected to bolster U.S. beef supplies, according to Bloomberg. The Santa Teresa crossing, which handled about 40% of Mexican cattle imports before the closure, could significantly boost trade volumes, Bloomberg and Meatingplace reported. Texas ports, however, are not expected to reopen anytime soon, Meatingplace reported.

How Farmer Sentiment Compares in the U.S. and Argentina

A comparison of the Purdue University–CME Group Ag Economy Barometer (U.S.) and the Austral Ag Barometer (Argentina) found sharply different outlooks among farmers despite shared challenges such as high input costs and low commodity prices. Survey data from May to June 2026 showed U.S. crop producers were largely pessimistic, with 57% expecting difficult conditions over the next five years, while 53% of Argentine producers anticipated good times. Livestock producers in both countries were optimistic, though confidence was stronger in Argentina. Argentine farmers were also more likely to expect farmland values to rise, reflecting optimism about improved agricultural policies, lower export taxes, greater market openness, and access to financing. U.S. producers generally expected stable land prices, citing factors such as high existing valuations and interest rates. Despite differing outlooks, producers in both countries identified high input costs as the biggest obstacle to improving farm finances, followed by low commodity prices and weather risks. Argentine farmers additionally highlighted policy uncertainty as a major concern affecting long-term investment decisions.

Friday Watch List

Markets

Friday looks to be a quiet day for reports. However, Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh will speak from Jackson Hole at 9 a.m. CDT, which traders and investors will surely tune in to given recent inflation concerns. After the close at 2:30 p.m. CDT, CFTC will wrap up the week with the Commitments of Traders report including position updates as of Tuesday, August 25.

Weather

A front is washing out across the far southern and eastern areas of the country on Friday, producing some areas of showers and thunderstorms. But a new system moving into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies will be bringing in more widespread showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. That will be the start of a much more active pattern across the northern tier heading into the first week of September.

Soybean Growers Warn RFS Exemptions Could Cut Biofuel Demand

The American Soybean Association is warning that a surge in small refinery exemptions could sharply reduce demand for soybean-based biofuels and hurt farmers’ bottom lines. Recent reports indicate exemptions for the 2025 Renewable Fuel Standard compliance year could exceed 1.8 billion Renewable Identification Number credits—nearly double what the Environmental Protection Agency assumed when setting current biofuel blending requirements. ASA says that level of exemptions could eliminate roughly 500 million gallons of biomass-based diesel demand and cost soybean farmers about $1 billion in lost revenue. “At a time when soybean farmers are already struggling to support our farms, we cannot afford for the rug to be pulled out from under one of our most important sources of domestic demand,” said ASA Vice President Dave Walton, an Iowa soybean farmer. ASA is urging President Trump and EPA to reject expanded exemptions and preserve the demand gains created by higher biofuel blending requirements.

Farm Bureau Warns Beef Imports Could Undercut Herd Rebuilding

The American Farm Bureau Federation is warning that President Trump’s plan to import up to 300,000 metric tons of beef over 90 days could hurt ranchers who are rebuilding herds after years of drought. Farm Bureau economists say the timing is especially concerning because about 70 percent of spring-born calves are typically sold between September and November. A surge of lower-priced imported beef could pressure cattle prices just as ranchers decide whether to expand their herds. Farm Bureau says cow-calf production costs reached a record $1,762 per head in 2025, up nearly 30 percent from 2020. In a letter to Trump, Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall said importing beef at a 25 percent discount could discourage ranchers from making long-term investments. “Bringing down the price of cattle will not bring the price of beef down for American families,” Duvall wrote.

Canada Sets Retaliatory Tariffs on U.S. Farm Goods

Canada is escalating its trade fight with the United States, announcing retaliatory tariffs on about $19.9 billion worth of U.S. goods, including dairy products and agricultural equipment. The Guardian says the tariffs range from 15 to 50 percent and target products covered by U.S. Section 338 and Section 232 tariffs. Canada says the measures will take effect September 8 and include a range of U.S. agricultural products, including dairy. The Canadian duties are intended to match the value of the U.S. tariffs dollar-for-dollar.  Steel, pulp and paper, electronics and household appliances are also included. The United States imposed 50 percent tariffs on roughly $20 billion of Canadian goods on August 22 after trade talks broke down. President Trump has also announced plans to raise tariffs on Canadian automobiles to 50 percent beginning January 1. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers is strongly urging U.S. and Canadian negotiators to return to the table, get the tariffs removed, and strengthen the USMCA. 

Ethanol Production Climbs Above Five-Year Average

U.S. ethanol production increased 2.1 percent for the week ending August 21, reaching 1.11 million barrels per day, according to Energy Information Administration data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association. That works out to about 46.7 million gallons daily, with production 3.9 percent above the same week last year and 10.7 percent higher than the five-year average. The four-week average, however, slipped slightly. Ethanol inventories rose 0.3 percent to a 10-week high of 25.2 million barrels, nearly 12 percent above year-ago levels and the five-year average. Gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, jumped 4.1 percent to an eight-week-high, although demand remained below both last year and the five-year average. Meanwhile, ethanol exports surged 25.6 percent to 162,000 barrels per day. It’s been over two years since the EIA indicated ethanol was imported into the U.S.

Michigan Farmers Stress Importance Of USMCA Markets

Michigan farmers and agricultural leaders are urging continued access to Canadian and Mexican markets as the United States attempts to renegotiate the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Congressman Tom Barrett joined producers August 11 at a roundtable hosted by Farmers for Free Trade and the Michigan Agri-Business Association at AgroLiquid in St. Johns. Farmers from across Michigan discussed how trade with Canada and Mexico affects marketing decisions, input costs, farm profitability, and long-term investments. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable market access for the next generation of farmers. Barrett said competitive access to the two markets gives producers the certainty they need to keep growing food and raising livestock. “That goal — and leveling the playing field — must remain a top priority as the Trump administration renegotiates the USMCA,” Barrett said.

USDA Unveils New Investments In School Meals

USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services are launching new efforts to connect more American farmers with local schools while improving the nutritional quality of school meals. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. announced the “Harvest to Hallways” initiative, which includes up to $70 million for school cafeteria infrastructure and equipment. The effort also expands opportunities for schools to purchase locally-produced food and provides up to $25 million in additional Farm to School Grants for fiscal year 2026. Rollins said the initiative will help schools serve more American-grown food while creating new markets for farmers and ranchers. “When we strengthen the connection between the farm and the lunchroom, everybody wins: our children eat better, our farmers gain new markets, and our communities grow stronger,” Rollins said.

Thursday Watch List

Markets

On Thursday, USDA will lead things off with the weekly Export Sales report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. Otherwise, traders will continue to watch for news out of the Black Sea and Middle East conflicts.

Weather

A front has pushed through most of the country but will continue to ignite showers and thunderstorms across the South and East for Thursday. A few pockets of severe weather and heavy rain will be possible. The next system is moving through the Pacific Northwest and will produce some isolated showers in the Northern and Central Plains, and may extend into the Canadian Prairies a bit as well. This system will be a bigger player over the weekend.

USDA Begins Phased Reopening of Southwest Livestock Ports

USDA began reopening Southwest ports for livestock trade Monday, more than a year after suspending crossings to slow the spread of New World Screwworm. The phased reopening starts with the Douglas, Arizona, port, while USDA also prepares to reopen Santa Teresa (tuh-RAY-suh) and Columbus in New Mexico. Agri-Pulse said the move comes after a recent screwworm case was detected in a cow in southern Sonora (suh-NOR-uh), about 292 miles from the U.S. border. USDA says livestock entering the country will undergo full inspections for signs of the pest. “The necessary resources — personnel, technology, laboratory support, and inter-agency coordination — are in place and ready in Douglas,” the department said. Mexico has activated surveillance and control measures, including releasing 360,000 sterile flies. USDA says it is monitoring more than 100 screwworm traps and 8,000 insect traps while deploying drones and dispersing 100 million sterile flies weekly in Mexico and Texas.

John Deere Workers Reject Contract Extension

Members of the United Auto Workers at John Deere have rejected the company’s proposal to extend their current collective bargaining agreement through 2029. UAW President Shawn Fain said workers remain concerned about job security, noting 1,600 employees are still laid off while Deere continues outsourcing some jobs. “The company failed to make an offer that addressed the issues weighing on the minds of our members, especially job security,” Fain said. A union statement points to Deere’s financial performance as another reason workers rejected the proposal. The company earned nearly $5 billion in profit last year and expects between $4.5 billion and $5 billion this year. Deere also spent $1.1 billion on stock buybacks and paid $1.7 billion in dividends in 2025. UAW Vice President Laura Dickerson said workers believe they deserve a greater share of those gains. The current contract remains in place, with negotiations expected to resume before the agreement expires in 2027.

Former Farm Leaders Warn of Crisis in Rural America

A group of former agricultural association leaders, farmers, and USDA officials says farm country is facing a serious crisis—and farmers are increasingly afraid to speak publicly about it. The group, Restore American Agriculture, launched a website where farmers and ranchers can share how trade, budget, and regulatory policies are affecting their operations. Former National Corn Growers Association CEO Jon Doggett said commodity groups may fear retaliation from the administration. “Farmers want markets. They don’t want handouts,” said Bob Dinneen, former president of the Renewable Fuels Association. “Ad hoc assistance is necessary, but it’s not sustainable, and it’s not what farmers want.” Iowa farmer and former NCGA President Pam Johnson pointed to rising diesel costs, fertilizer availability, and weak farm income. “It’s projected that farmers aren’t going to make any money for the next two years,” Johnson said. “This is a serious crisis out here in farm country.”

USDA Purchases U.S. Pork for Food Assistance Programs

USDA is purchasing U.S. pork for federal food assistance programs, a move welcomed by the National Pork Producers Council as hog producers face a challenging market. National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman, an Iowa pork producer, said the purchase will help put more American pork into schools and food banks nationwide. “More high-quality, wholesome, and nutrient-dense protein is on its way to American schools and food banks across the country thanks to this purchase of U.S. pork,” Brenneman said. The purchase is being made under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935. The law allows USDA to buy agricultural commodities and provide disaster assistance using funds tied to annual U.S. customs receipts. USDA routinely purchases pork and other commodities for federal food programs, including school breakfast and lunch programs.

Farm Bureau Urges U.S., Canada to Resume Trade Talks

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall is urging the United States and Canada to return to the negotiating table after trade talks broke down and additional tariffs were imposed. Duvall said Canada has been one of U.S. agriculture’s most important trading partners since the first free trade agreement between the two countries in 1989. He warned that further tariff increases and Canadian retaliation could hurt farmers and ranchers already dealing with difficult economic conditions. “Our strong agreements with Canada and Mexico have eliminated nearly all tariffs for U.S. agriculture, allowing the majority of our farm products to enter those markets duty- and quota-free,” Duvall said. He emphasized that agricultural exports are critical to farm profitability and generate economic activity beyond the farm gate. Duvall called for de-escalation of the trade dispute and renewal of the USMCA while maintaining duty-free market access for U.S. agricultural products.

USDA Trade Mission Targets Australia, Pacific Markets

USDA is sending a delegation of American agribusinesses and state agriculture officials to Australia this week to strengthen export opportunities for U.S. farmers and ranchers. The Foreign Agricultural Service trade mission runs August 30 through September 2 in Melbourne and will include 38 agribusinesses and trade organizations, along with representatives from ten state agriculture departments. Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg will lead the delegation. “There’s no substitute for getting our producers face-to-face with overseas buyers,” Lindberg said. “It’s the best way to showcase the best of what American agriculture has to offer.” Australia imported nearly $1.7 billion in U.S. agricultural products last year, making it America’s 18th-largest agricultural export market. Consumer-oriented products accounted for 85 percent of that total. U.S. exports to New Zealand reached $612 million in 2025. The mission will also target opportunities in New Zealand and Pacific Island markets through buyer meetings, market briefings, and site visits.

Wednesday Watch List

Markets

First thing on Wednesday, the Bureau of Economic Analysis will be out with the second estimate of second quarter U.S. GDP, as well as the July Personal Consumption Expenditure report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. Later in the morning, the Energy Information Administration will release the weekly Petroleum Status report at 9:30 a.m. CDT.

Weather

A stalled front continues to produce showers near the Gulf Coast for Wednesday. But it will be a front that continues to push into the Southern Plains up through the Midwest Wednesday that will be more significant. That front could produce areas of severe weather throughout the day, including where it butts up to the Rockies in the central High Plains.

Ag Coalition Urges USMCA Exemptions Amid Canada Tariffs

The Agricultural Coalition for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement is urging the Trump administration to exempt all USMCA-covered products from new 50 percent tariffs on about $20 billion worth of Canadian goods. The duties took effect under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as U.S. and Canadian officials continue negotiations aimed at resolving trade disagreements. Coalition spokesperson Bryan Goodman says the group appreciates efforts by both governments to address sector-specific trade issues, but wants negotiations to continue toward a quick resolution. The coalition says USMCA remains an important achievement for American agriculture and should be renewed with targeted improvements. Goodman says strengthening the agreement could protect farmers while preventing similar trade disputes in the future. The coalition has consistently supported maintaining the trilateral agreement, arguing that predictable access to Canadian and Mexican markets remains important to American agriculture. The Ag Coalition for USMCA represents stakeholders across the food and agricultural value chain. 

Diesel Costs Rise Into Harvest, Squeezing Farm Margins

Diesel prices are climbing just as harvest approaches, adding another expense for farmers already dealing with higher fertilizer costs. Mid-August diesel prices are at their highest level in a decade, according to AAA data. Ohio corn and soybean farmer Jed Bower says he expects to spend an additional 20- to 25-thousand dollars on diesel this year compared with January prices. Bower, who serves as president of the National Corn Growers Association, says rising input costs are putting more pressure on already-thin farm margins. Diesel supplies are also tightening. Government data show U.S. distillate inventories are about 13 percent below the five-year average. A University of Missouri agricultural analyst says harvest is the single most fuel-intensive farm operation, running through November for much of the country. The diesel market is being pressured by disruptions tied to conflicts involving Iran and Ukraine.

Dairy Groups Back U.S. Pressure On Canada

The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council are backing the Trump administration's latest pressure on Canada over dairy trade under USMCA. The groups say a 50% tariff on certain Canadian imports that took effect over the weekend should encourage Canada to return to negotiations and address long-running market access concerns. USDEC President Krysta Harden says Canada has had multiple opportunities to resolve what the group calls unfair dairy practices and fulfill its USMCA commitments. NMPF President Gregg Doud says Canada's continued use of what the group calls loopholes has real consequences for U.S. dairy farmers and exporters. Under USMCA, Canada agreed to provide additional duty-free access for U.S. dairy products through tariff-rate quotas and failed to do so, resulting in chronic underfill. U.S. dairy groups say Canada has repeatedly failed to fill those quotas and has sidestepped trade rules involving dairy protein exports.

Sorghum Group Questions New CME Futures Contract

The National Sorghum Producers is asking federal regulators to review a new sorghum futures contract before farmers and grain buyers begin relying on it. The CME Group planned to begin trading the contract Monday. The Chicago Board of Trade self-certified the contract earlier this month, meaning it told the Commodity Futures Trading Commission the contract meets federal requirements. NSP's primary concern is the proposed delivery map, which the group says covers counties representing only about 19 percent of U.S. sorghum acreage. The map excludes major production and marketing areas in western Kansas, Texas, the High Plains, and along the Gulf Coast. NSP Chair Amy France says a properly designed contract could benefit farmers, but the current proposal needs more scrutiny. “Our objection is not to the idea,” France said. “It is to asking farmers to rely on this design before the exchange has shown that it represents our physical market.”

Fall Soil Testing Can Help Uncover Hidden Soybean Yield Loss

As soybean harvest approaches, farmers have a chance to uncover a hidden yield thief: nematodes lurking beneath the soil. The Soy Checkoff says fall, right after harvest, is an ideal time to collect soil samples and test for soybean cyst nematode and other parasitic nematodes that can reduce yields without obvious above-ground symptoms. The checkoff helped fund new Soybean Nematode Management Guides developed by university plant pathologists and nematologists. The guides cover soybean cyst, root-knot, root lesion, and reniform nematodes, with tools to identify infestations and develop management plans. Soybean cyst nematode is considered the leading soybean pathogen in North America and can cause yield losses of up to 30 percent. “Protecting soybean yield starts with knowing what's in your fields,” says Michigan farmer United Soybean Board Director Laurie Isley. “This is exactly the kind of practical, science-based tool your checkoff investment is meant to deliver.”

USDA Opens Applications for Southeast Asia Trade Mission

The USDA is opening applications for an upcoming trade mission to Singapore, aimed at helping American agribusinesses build export opportunities across Southeast Asia. The Foreign Agricultural Service mission is set for December 7 through 9 and will connect U.S. exporters with buyers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Applications are due September 8. U.S. agricultural exports to the three countries totaled more than three billion dollars in 2025, including one-point-three billion dollars to Thailand, one billion to Malaysia, and 769 million dollars to Singapore. USDA says growth opportunities exist for products including tree nuts, beef, dairy, seafood, processed foods, pulses, and pet food. “Expanding our footprint in Southeast Asia is critical as we work to diversify export opportunities,” says USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg. The mission will include business meetings, market briefings, site visits, and networking events.

Tuesday Watch List

Markets

There are no major reports scheduled for Tuesday. Traders will likely continue to monitor U.S. growing conditions through the final stages, while also staying updated on the latest geopolitical news.

Weather

A front remains stalled across the Southeast where scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop throughout the day. Another front will move through the Central Plains and Upper Midwest with scattered showers as well. Any storms here have a chance of becoming severe.

Pro Farmer Crop Tour Concludes, Projects Lower Corn, Higher Soybean Yields vs. 2025

Pro Farmer is projecting a smaller U.S. corn crop in 2026 after its annual Crop Tour found lower yield potential across much of the Corn Belt. The organization estimates the national corn yield at 173.2 bushels per acre, with production totaling 15.344 billion bushels. The yield forecast is about 5% below 2025 levels and marks the first time in three growing seasons that Pro Farmer has not projected a record yield. Pro Farmer economist and Eastern Crop Tour lead Lane Akre (AAY-kree) said samples showed smaller crops than last year across multiple states. Expectations that Iowa could offset weather-related losses in Indiana and Illinois were tempered by drought in western Iowa. “When that spread is 20 bushels” in major eastern producing states, Akre said, it becomes difficult for Iowa to compensate. Soybeans provided a brighter outlook. Pro Farmer projected a national average yield of 53.3 bushels per acre and total production of 4.57 billion bushels, slightly above the 2025 yield but about 1 bushel below 2024.

EPA Waiver Keeps E15 Fuel Available Through Summer, Growth Energy Pushes for Permanent Fix

The Environmental Protection Agency has issued an emergency waiver allowing continued sales of E15 gasoline through the remainder of the summer driving season, a move welcomed by biofuel producers who say it provides certainty for fuel retailers and consumers. E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol, is approved for use in most vehicles on U.S. roads and is often sold at a discount to conventional fuel. Federal regulations have historically restricted summertime sales in some markets because of air-quality concerns, prompting the EPA to issue temporary waivers in recent years. Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, praised the agency’s action and urged Congress to pass legislation allowing year-round E15 sales nationwide. In a statement, Chief Executive Officer Emily Skor said farmers, fuel retailers and motorists should not have to rely on emergency waivers to maintain access to the fuel blend. The waiver preserves E15 availability through the end of the summer, while the broader debate over a permanent legislative solution continues in Washington.

NCBA Criticizes Trump Comments on Beef Imports, Warns of Market Impact

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association on Friday criticized a social media post by President Donald Trump regarding beef imports, saying the remarks could undermine efforts to rebuild the U.S. cattle herd and have already contributed to lower cattle prices. In a statement, NCBA Chief Executive Officer Colin Woodall said the cattle industry shares a goal of keeping food affordable for consumers but argued that increasing imports of government-subsidized, below-market beef is not the solution. Woodall said cattle markets turned sharply lower Friday morning following the announcement, hurting producers at a crucial time as ranchers make decisions about herd expansion. The organization said U.S. cattle producers have been rebuilding herds after years of drought, high input costs and other challenges that reduced cattle numbers nationwide. NCBA warned that market interventions could discourage herd growth and threaten the industry's long-term stability despite strong demand for beef. The group said policies that weaken market signals risk slowing recovery efforts by farmers and ranchers seeking to expand production.

Screwworm Case Raises Questions Ahead of Cattle Border Reopening

A confirmed New World screwworm case in the Mexican state of Sonora is raising questions just days before the United States is scheduled to begin reopening a border crossing to Mexican cattle. Reuters reported Sonora confirmed its first case and activated emergency surveillance and containment measures. USDA previously announced the Douglas, Arizona, port would begin accepting livestock Aug. 24 as part of a phased reopening, provided Mexico continued meeting requirements under a joint action plan. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service says screwworm larvae infest wounds in warm-blooded animals and can cause severe injury or death if untreated. The United States has restricted Mexican cattle movements while officials work to prevent the parasite from moving north. Drovers reported the Sonora discovery could complicate the reopening timeline. U.S. cattle producers are watching closely because imported feeder cattle affect supplies, while introduction of screwworm could create major economic losses for ranchers and livestock markets.

Senators Question USDA After Beef Export Data Error

Six Democratic senators are seeking answers from the Agriculture Department after a major error in U.S. beef export sales data raised concerns about the reliability of federal agricultural statistics. Reuters reported the senators, led by Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar, asked USDA to explain how the mistake occurred and whether staffing reductions contributed. USDA previously reported beef export sales that appeared to surge nearly 500%, then revised the figure downward by about 90%. Reuters reported in July that incorrect sales to Italy and Chile were among the data problems. USDA described the incident as an isolated processing issue. Agricultural markets rely heavily on federal reports to assess supply, demand, exports and prices, meaning large errors can affect trading and producer decisions. The senators also requested information about USDA staffing changes and safeguards designed to prevent future mistakes. USDA has been reviewing its reporting procedures following recent questions about agricultural data accuracy and reliability.

California Growers Push for Stronger USMCA as Trade Review Begins

California farmers, agribusiness leaders and state officials are urging the United States, Mexico and Canada to extend and strengthen the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement as the trade pact enters a new round of annual reviews. At a roundtable in Fresno last week, participants emphasized the importance of tariff-free access to Canada and Mexico, which together purchased $8.2 billion in California agricultural products in 2025, according to data released by Brian Kuehl's organization, Farmers for Free Trade. The exports supported an estimated 40,700 jobs in the state. Speakers, including Rep. Jim Costa and California Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross, said predictable trade rules are critical for growers making long-term decisions on planting, labor and capital investments. Participants also called for progress on issues including sanitary and phytosanitary standards, maximum residue levels and Canada's dairy tariff-rate quotas. They warned that trade disruptions could reduce U.S. competitiveness in global markets. USMCA remains in force following its first mandatory joint review in July, though the three countries did not approve a full 16-year extension.

Monday Watch List

Markets

On Monday, USDA will be out at 10 a.m. CDT with their weekly Export Inspections update. In the afternoon, the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. CDT will give a look into crop conditions heading into the final business week of August.

Weather

An old front remains stuck across the Gulf Coast into the coastal Carolinas, an area that should remain active with scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the day that may stretch back to Oklahoma as well. Another system is moving through the Canadian Prairies with scattered showers. Its cold front will push through the Northern and Central Plains with areas of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. Both regions may see some severe weather Monday.

Corn Futures Above $5 for First Time in 18 Months

Corn futures topped the $5-a-bushel mark for the first time in 18 months as weaker-than-expected US crop tour results add to global supply concerns for the staple grain, reports Bloomberg. Reports from Western Iowa and Illinois show corn yields below those seen last year, according to data from the Pro Farmer Crop Tour. Yields in four other Midwestern states surveyed also came below the tour’s three-year average. This is after parts of the central US — where most of the crop is grown — were recently hit by severe storms and sweltering temperatures earlier in the summer. Adding to the strain on global supply: Europe was hit by a series of summer heat waves, France is forecasting its smallest corn harvest since 1980, and attacks in the Black Sea have slowed crop exports from Ukraine. “Overall, $5 will likely hold as significant resistance for now as we approach harvest,” said Naomi Blohm, an analyst at Total Farm Marketing.

Corn Belt Farmland Values Flat

Farmland values across the Central Corn Belt were unchanged in the second quarter of 2026 compared with a year earlier, marking the slowest annual growth since late 2024, according to a Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago survey of agricultural lenders. The survey found no quarter-to-quarter change in the value of “good” farmland across Illinois, Indiana and Iowa, although Illinois and Iowa posted annual gains while Indiana and Wisconsin declined. Adjusted for inflation, district farmland values fell 3.7% year over year, the largest real decline since 2016. Most lenders expect values to remain stable in the third quarter, with 81% forecasting no change and 43% describing farmland as overvalued. Lenders said investment demand from data centers and renewable energy projects has helped support land prices. Meanwhile, agricultural credit conditions weakened, with repayment problems increasing and loan demand reaching unusually high levels.

Wheat Harvest Nears Finish

The 2026 U.S. wheat harvest continues to make steady progress. Most major classes are reporting favorable yields and quality despite pockets of weather-related challenges. This is according to the latest harvest report from U.S. Wheat Associates. Hard Red Winter wheat harvest is nearly done, with only scattered higher-elevation and irrigated fields remaining. Concerns are growing about drought conditions that could affect fall planting across more than half of winter wheat acreage. Soft Red Winter wheat harvest is done. The crop finished at U.S. No. 2 grade, showing improved protein content and lower defect levels compared to last year. Soft White wheat harvest is advancing quickly under favorable weather, with winter varieties 83% harvested and spring varieties 45% harvested. Growers report strong yields and test weights while monitoring protein levels and falling numbers. Hard Red Spring wheat harvest is now more than 40% done. Early samples show high protein levels. Northern durum harvest has reached 25% completion, with brief rainfall causing isolated delays. Early reports indicate generally better-than-expected yields and good protein levels.

NASDA Announces New Senior Director of Public Policy

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture has named Brianna Robinson-Verloop senior director of public policy. “My experience in federal food safety, trade and regulatory policy has shown me that smart, practical policy solutions deliver real impact for farmers, ranchers and communities,” she says. Robinson-Verloop brings more than 15 years of experience shaping agricultural policy across Congress, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and international forums. “Her extensive experience across agriculture, food safety and trade policy, combined with her strong understanding of the policymaking process, will be a tremendous asset,” says NASDA CEO Ted McKinney. Robinson-Verloop joins NASDA from the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, where she was most recently director of animal and animal products. She previously held roles with the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service and served as a Brookings Institute Legislative Fellow at the U.S. House of Representatives. Robinson-Verloop received a bachelor's degree in animal science from Cal Poly Pomona and a master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her first day is September 8.

American Pistachio Growers Names Its CEO

Starting September 1, Mike Forbes will become president and CEO of the American Pistachio Growers. Forbes brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the food, consumer products, and wellness sectors. A Wisconsin native with agricultural roots, Forbes grew up in 4-H and comes from a family of farmers. He held leadership roles at Jim Beam, Procter & Gamble, and General Mills before shifting his focus to food and wellness. He later spent nearly a decade with California Olive Ranch, served as CEO of Alter Eco, and held executive leadership roles with Safely, MaryRuth Organics, and The Vitamin Shoppe, where he helped drive growth, expand retail partnerships, and strengthen consumer and digital businesses. “APG has a long record of success, and I can't wait to get started, meet our members, and help build on that momentum as we continue growing demand for American pistachios around the world," Forbes says. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with Honors from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

USDA Announces $7.5 Million to Expand Cold Chain Capacity

The Cold Chain Grants for Emergency Food Assistance Program will fund projects that support cold chain equipment investments for food assistance entities to temporarily store, package, and distribute fresh, frozen, and minimally processed foods. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the funding will expand cold storage and infrastructure for homegrown proteins. Funded nonprofit organizations will administer a competitive subaward program supporting cold storage in the middle of the supply chain and consumer-facing food assistance operations. The orgs will also provide consultation and subject matter expertise to sub-awardees. Subawards will cover cold chain equipment purchases, including documented delivery and installation, up to $200,000. Sub-awardees must provide a 10% cash cost share contribution. Funded projects will increase the availability of foods produced by American farmers and ranchers, supporting healthier families and communities and aligning with the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Applications are due October 1.

Friday Watch List

Markets

On Friday, USDA will release a series of reports after the close, such as the August Cattle on Feed and county Cash Rents reports at 2 p.m. CDT. At 2:30 p.m. CDT, CFTC will close the week with the Commitments of Traders report.

Weather

A front has sunk down into the Southeast where showers and thunderstorms will form throughout the day Friday. We are even seeing some showers back into Oklahoma as well. Another front is pushing southeast through the Corn Belt, with scattered showers developing from Nebraska into the Great Lakes. Some severe storms will be possible in both regions Friday.

Canada Avoids 50 Percent Tariff In Last-Minute Deal

Canada has temporarily avoided a 50 percent U.S. tariff after reaching a last-minute agreement with the Trump administration, just hours before the higher duties were scheduled to take effect. President Donald Trump said Tuesday night that he was pausing the tariffs for three days while the two countries finalize the agreement. The tariffs would have affected about $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, including wine and hockey sticks. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said substantial progress had been made toward a trade deal, but added that more work remains. Trump also suggested the long-delayed Keystone XL pipeline could potentially be revived, although he provided few details and did not say whether it was part of the tariff agreement. The reprieve comes after months of strained U.S.-Canada trade relations and could give businesses, including farmers and ranchers on both sides of the border, more certainty. 

Ethanol Production Slips, But Remains Above Average

U.S. ethanol production fell to a five-week low last week, while output remained above year-ago and five-year average levels. The Renewable Fuels Association, analyzing Energy Information Administration data, says production for the week ending August 14 dropped 2.5 percent to 1.09 million barrels per day, or 45.74 million gallons daily. That was 1.6 percent above the same week last year and six percent above the five-year average. Ethanol inventories increased 1.3 percent to 25.1 million barrels, reaching their highest level since early May. Stocks were more than ten percent above both year-ago and five-year average levels. Gasoline supplied to the U.S. market fell 3.1 percent to an 11-week low of 8.69 million barrels per day, suggesting weaker demand. Meanwhile, refiner and blender ethanol inputs rose 1.2 percent to 926,000 barrels per day. Ethanol exports jumped 18.3 percent to 129,000 barrels per day.

Moroccan Fertilizer Supplier Returns To U.S. Market

Morocco’s state-owned OCP has returned to the U.S. phosphate fertilizer market after the Trump administration suspended countervailing duties on the company earlier this summer. OCP told POLITICO that its first shipment since the duties were lifted has arrived in New Orleans, bringing 54,000 metric tons of phosphate fertilizer into the United States. The administration suspended duties of more than 16 percent in June, citing concerns that tight fertilizer supplies could threaten U.S. agricultural production and food security. Phosphate fertilizer prices have been rising since February and are now higher than at any point in the past two years, according to USDA data. Supply disruptions in the Middle East, particularly involving sulfur and other key fertilizer inputs, have contributed to the increases. OCP North America says temporary tariff relief is helpful, but greater long-term certainty would encourage investment and help ensure adequate fertilizer supplies for American farmers.

USDA Proposes Ending National Roadless Forest Restrictions

The U.S. Forest Service is proposing to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which restricts road construction and certain forest management activities across more than 44 million acres of national forests. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says the decades-old restrictions have limited efforts to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risks. Rollins says overgrown forests, insect outbreaks, and diseases have created conditions that can turn healthy landscapes into wildfire hazards. She says the proposal would give local forest managers more authority to address conditions based on the needs of individual forests. Deputy Agriculture Secretary Stephen (Steven) Vaden called the proposal commonsense policy and said better forest management begins with having access to the land. The Roadless Rule has been in place for 25 years and applies across the country, regardless of local management needs. The Forest Service will accept public comments on the proposed rule and a draft environmental impact statement published in the Federal Register.

Sheep Industry Pushes Ahead With Lamb Import Investigation

The American Sheep Industry Association is leading an investigation into whether increased lamb imports are causing serious injury to U.S. sheep producers. ASI asked the U.S. Trade Representative to investigate in October 2025, and USTR recommended an International Trade Commission investigation in July. The ITC is now collecting testimony and data and will hold a public hearing before determining whether imports are a substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic industry. ASI says the ITC is surveying U.S. packers and importers, but not sheep producers or feeders. The association has developed its own injury questionnaire for growers and feeders, with more information expected soon. ASI says its members and state associations are already represented in the case and do not need to join another organization. The association is also raising money through its Guard Dog Fund to support the legal and economic work involved in the Section 201 trade case.

Husker Harvest Days Adds New Ag Tech Pavilion

Husker Harvest Days will debut a new Ag Tech Pavilion September 15 through 17 in Grand Island, Nebraska, giving farmers a closer look at emerging technologies and the companies developing them. The pavilion is presented by Farm Progress in partnership with The Combine and the University of Nebraska. Farmers can explore technology involving precision agriculture, automation and robotics, artificial intelligence, data management, connectivity, equipment, and other innovations. The pavilion will also feature daily 30-minute panel discussions and expert presentations focused on putting technology to work on the farm. Topics include autonomous equipment, practical artificial intelligence applications, irrigation efficiency, robotics and return on investment, and drone technology for crop scouting and livestock management. Farm Progress senior national events director Matt Jungmann says the partnership will give producers direct access to innovations that can make a difference on their operations.

Thursday Watch List

Markets

On Thursday, USDA will release the weekly Export Sales report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. In the afternoon, the weekly as well as monthly Livestock Slaughter reports will be out at 2 p.m. CDT.

Weather

A front continues to sag south through the southern end of the Corn Belt Thursday morning. That is producing some clusters of showers and thunderstorms, including some heavy rain that should extend southward throughout the day. Another system is moving into the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest with a cluster of thunderstorms over Minnesota. This system's front could produce some severe weather from Nebraska to Minnesota later Thursday.

Canada-U.S. Trade Talks Hit Dairy Roadblock

Canada and the United States remain at an impasse in trade negotiations as a 50 percent U.S. tariff threat on hundreds of Canadian goods approaches Wednesday. Canadian negotiators are seeking relief from existing tariffs while trying to prevent the new duties from taking effect. U.S. officials say Canada's treatment of American dairy, automobiles, and alcohol is among the reasons for the proposed tariffs. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer says the two countries have an “uneven dairy treatment,” pointing to Canada's tariff-rate quotas that limit some U.S. dairy imports before steep duties apply. Canadian negotiators reportedly fear they may need to make concessions on dairy to reach a deal. But changes to Canada's supply-management system could prove politically difficult, particularly in Quebec, where provincial officials say thousands of farms and jobs depend on dairy production. The outcome could have broader implications for North American agricultural trade and the future of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

Sugar Producers Push For Changes To Outdated Tariffs

U.S. sugar producers and policymakers are pressing for changes to what they say is an outdated tariff structure that is contributing to record-high sugar stocks. The issue was discussed at the American Sugar Alliance’s 41st annual International Sweetener Symposium in Colorado, where sugarbeet and sugarcane producers met with industry leaders and policymakers. USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden reaffirmed the administration’s support for domestic sugar producers, saying the government will not allow unfair foreign competition to take American markets away from U.S. farmers. USDA sugar program manager Carlann Unger said the United States entered 2026 with its highest sugar stocks on record. She pointed to the over-quota tariff on imported sugar, saying the rate was established in 2000 and is no longer high enough to effectively limit imports. Meanwhile, 112 members of Congress have urged the U.S. Trade Representative to investigate foreign trade practices and update sugar tariff-rate quotas.

Year-Round E15 Could Expand Ethanol Market

Year-round sales of E15 gasoline could give consumers more opportunities to save money at the pump while expanding markets for corn-based ethanol, industry representatives said Monday. North Dakota Monitor said a roundtable in North Dakota focused on removing the federal restriction that limits E15 sales during the summer. The U.S. House passed legislation in May allowing year-round E15 sales, but the bill still needs Senate approval. Dave Olson of Petro Serve said E15 sells for about 15 cents less per gallon than regular gasoline in the Fargo area. North Dakota State University bioenergy economist Dave Ripplinger said year-round availability could change the economics for retailers reluctant to offer fuel they can sell only part of the year. North Dakota has grown from less than 500,000 acres of corn to 4.5 million acres in two decades. Supporters say expanded ethanol markets could also benefit livestock producers, oil production through carbon capture, and emerging markets such as sustainable aviation fuel.

Swine Industry Seeks More Focused Health Research

The pork industry is looking for a more coordinated approach to tackling major swine health challenges facing producers. The National Pork Board recently hosted a research summit bringing together researchers, funding organizations, and industry leaders to identify gaps and prioritize future investments under the National Swine Health Strategy. Dr. Marisa Rotolo (Ruh-TOE-low), National Pork Board director of swine health, says the goal was to make sure research remains focused on priorities identified by producers. Participants identified opportunities involving porcine epidemic diarrhea virus and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, including better vaccines, diagnostics, and tools to help eliminate the diseases. The group also highlighted practical ways to reduce disease spread through improved biosecurity, transportation sanitation, and adoption of proven on-farm practices. For foreign and emerging diseases, participants emphasized stronger surveillance, traceability, and preparedness. The National Pork Board says coordinating research around these priorities could help turn investments into practical solutions, thereby improving herd health and reducing risks.

Corn Export Inspections Continue To Outpace Last Year

U.S. corn export inspections continued to run well ahead of last year, while soybean and wheat shipments are showing mixed results, according to USDA. Corn inspections totaled 1.91 million metric tons in the week ending August 13, up from 1.76 million the previous week and 1.05 million during the same week last year. Wheat inspections also increased slightly to 493,401 metric tons, compared with 485,924 tons a week earlier and 403,022 tons a year ago. Soybean inspections moved in the opposite direction, falling to 270,201 metric tons from 409,509 the previous week and 502,818 a year ago. Since September 1, corn inspections have reached nearly 81 million metric tons, up from 64.2 million a year earlier. Soybean inspections stand at 40 million metric tons, down from 48.9 million last year. Wheat inspections since June 1 total 3.89 million metric tons, compared with 4.82 million a year ago.

National FFA Convention Named Among Nation’s Largest Trade Shows

The National FFA Convention and Expo has been named to Trade Show Executive’s Gold 100 Class of 2025, recognizing it among the 100 largest trade shows in the United States. The annual event brought 73,379 attendees to Indianapolis last October and generated an estimated $41 million economic impact for the city. The convention spans multiple venues, including Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indiana Convention Center and the Indiana State Fairgrounds. National FFA says organizers also focus on giving back to the host community. Last year, FFA members and advisors braided 70,000 feet of paracord into more than 1,500 dog leashes, which were donated to Indy Humane. The National FFA Convention and Expo will be honored at the Gold 100 Awards and Summit September 22 through 24 in Palos Verdes, California. The recognition highlights the convention’s growing national scale and its role in connecting young people with agriculture and leadership opportunities.

Wednesday Watch List

Markets

On Wednesday, the EIA will release the weekly Petroleum Status report at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Otherwise, there are no other major reports scheduled, with traders likely to maintain their focus on U.S. crop growing conditions and geopolitics.

Weather

A front is pushing south through the Central Plains and east through the Midwest on Wednesday. This front will be sparking scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, leading to some pockets of heavy rain and severe weather.

Fertilizer Prices Expected To Stay Elevated Through 2028

Fertilizer prices are expected to remain above pre-Iran war levels through 2028, according to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. Farmers and agricultural retailers continue to face higher costs as conflicts and supply disruptions affect global fertilizer markets. CoBank economist Jacqui Fatka says Middle East instability, tight supplies, and limited phosphate availability could keep prices elevated well into 2027 and beyond. The Middle East supplies more than 60 million tons of fertilizer and raw materials annually, with much of that moving through the Strait of Hormuz (hor-MOOZ). The region also accounts for more than 30 percent of global urea exports. U.S. farmers have responded to higher prices by relying more on soil testing, variable-rate applications, and precision nutrient management. Some have reduced phosphate and potassium applications by 10 to 15 percent, while maintaining nitrogen rates to protect yields. Fatka says continued reductions in fertilizer use could eventually begin affecting soil productivity and crop yields.

Biopesticides Market Expected To Nearly Double By 2030

The global biopesticides market is projected to nearly double by 2030 as farmers and crop-protection companies respond to tighter pesticide regulations and growing demand for sustainable production. MarketsandMarkets expects the market to grow from $8.94 billion in 2025 to $17.68 billion by 2030, a 14.6 percent annual growth rate. The report says biological products are gaining traction as growers look for ways to reduce pesticide residues, manage resistance, and complement integrated pest management programs. Seed treatment is expected to be the fastest-growing application segment, while cereals and grains are projected to account for a significant share of demand. Advances in microbial products, biochemical ingredients, and formulations are improving shelf life, field performance, and application efficiency. Europe is expected to remain a significant market because of regulatory efforts to reduce conventional pesticide use and promote sustainable agriculture. For U.S. growers, the trend could mean more biological crop-protection options that can be integrated with conventional products and precision agriculture.

STB Review Could Make Competition Key To Railroad Merger

The proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger faces another important step as the Surface Transportation Board reviews whether the deal would benefit competition. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern submitted additional information in July after the STB requested more details before moving forward with its review. Federal regulations say railroad mergers should serve the public interest only when demonstrated benefits, including improved service, safety, competition, and economic efficiency, outweigh potential anticompetitive effects and service disruptions. The STB has specifically warned that further consolidation among the remaining Class I railroads could reduce geographic competition and create service problems during system integration. That means enhancing competition could be a higher hurdle for the proposed merger than simply maintaining existing competition. The board can require conditions designed to preserve or improve competition if it approves a merger. For agricultural shippers, the outcome could affect railroad service, routing options and transportation costs.

Michigan Farmers Stress Importance Of USMCA Markets

Michigan farmers and agricultural leaders told Congressman Tom Barrett that maintaining strong trade relationships with Canada and Mexico is critical to the state’s farm economy. Barrett joined producers at a roundtable hosted by Farmers for Free Trade and the Michigan Agri-Business Association to discuss the ongoing review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Canada and Mexico are Michigan agriculture’s top two export markets, with more than $1.7 billion in Michigan farm and food exports flowing to the two countries each year. Farmers told Barrett that access to those markets influences marketing decisions, input costs and long-term investments in their operations. Farmers for Free Trade Executive Director Brian Kuhel says Michigan farmers need a strong trading relationship with their neighbors and should have a voice in the USMCA review. Michigan Farm Bureau’s Jacob Smith also emphasized the importance of dependable agricultural markets across North America and said the talks could have significant implications for market access and farm profitability.

New Sheep IQ Website Puts Producer Resources In One Place

Sheep producers now have a new online resource designed to put practical management information and industry tools in one place. The American Lamb Board and American Sheep Industry Association have launched Sheep IQ, a website offering education and expert guidance for both new and experienced sheep producers. Resources cover sheep management, productivity, lamb and wool quality, targeted grazing, and other production practices. The site also includes podcasts, educational videos, industry updates, events, and workshops. American Lamb Board Chairman David Fisher says the site provides a one-stop shop for producers looking to operate more efficiently. The organizations say Sheep IQ was developed to make credible, easy-to-use information more accessible and help producers put proven management practices to work. Producers can visit SheepIQ.com to explore the site and sign up for updates. The organizations say the goal is to turn information into greater productivity and long-term growth for the U.S. sheep industry.

Rising Produce Imports Add Pressure For U.S. Growers

Rising labor, input, and regulatory costs are making it harder for U.S. fruit and vegetable growers to recover expenses and remain competitive. Since 2010, U.S. fruit production has declined 32 percent, while vegetable production has fallen ten percent. Meanwhile, fresh fruit and vegetable imports have each increased about 70 percent. Imports remain important for filling seasonal gaps and providing consumers with year-round supplies. But growing volumes arriving during U.S. harvest periods can add price pressure when domestic growers are selling highly perishable crops. The impact varies by commodity, with import competition affecting markets including lettuce, cabbage, blueberries, strawberries, and tomatoes. The challenge is especially significant because growers often have only a short window to market their crops and cannot simply store fresh produce until prices improve. The trend raises broader concerns about food security as the United States becomes more dependent on foreign production.

Tuesday Watch List

Markets

On Tuesday, no major reports are scheduled to be released, though USDA's Economic Research Service will release their monthly Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook at 2 p.m. CDT. Otherwise, traders will remain focused on growing conditions and yield speculation across the U.S., as well as the ongoing situations in the wars in the Middle East and Black Sea.

Weather

A weakened front continues to drift down into the Southeast where showers and a few thunderstorm are expected for Tuesday. A stronger front has pushed its way into the Northern Plains and will continue to push into the Central Plains and Great Lakes. More widespread showers and thunderstorms and some clusters of severe weather are expected throughout the day.

Tyson Closure Disrupts Midwest Cattle Market

A sudden Tyson Foods beef plant closure in Illinois is creating uncertainty for cattle producers across the Midwest. Tyson closed its beef processing facility in Joslin, Illinois, eliminating roughly 3,000 head of daily cattle slaughter capacity. The shutdown leaves cattle feeders searching for alternative processing options and could increase transportation distances for livestock that otherwise would have been marketed through the Illinois facility. The closure comes during an unusual period for the U.S. cattle industry. Cattle supplies remain historically tight following years of drought, elevated feed expenses and herd liquidation. Those smaller supplies have contributed to historically strong cattle prices and high beef costs. Reduced processing capacity, however, can weaken competition among meatpackers for available cattle in affected regions. Farm Progress reports producers are now evaluating other plants and marketing alternatives. The impact will depend partly on how quickly competing processors can absorb cattle previously scheduled for slaughter at the Joslin facility.

Pennsylvania Apple Harvest Begins After Damaging Spring Freeze

Pennsylvania’s apple harvest is underway with growers expecting a smaller crop after spring freezes damaged orchards across the state. Rice Fruit Co. told FreshPlaza that an April freeze struck near peak bloom, reducing production across Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic. Despite losses, the company expects supplies of its full range of varieties, although volumes will be lighter for some apples. Early varieties, including Gala and Honeycrisp, began arriving in August. The damage follows an unusually difficult spring. Penn State Extension specialists estimated in May that some Pennsylvania orchards could lose 80% to 95% of their apples after freezes April 8 and April 21. The setback follows a strong 2025 crop. USDA data show Pennsylvania produced about 505 million pounds of apples last year. Growers remain optimistic about the surviving fruit’s quality as harvest continues into fall.

U.S. Soybean Export Sales Surge

U.S. soybean export sales jumped during the latest reporting week, providing encouraging news for farmers heading toward harvest. USDA data released Thursday showed sales for delivery during the 2026-27 marketing year reached 1.76 million metric tons during the week ending August 6. Agriculture.com reports that was nearly double the approximately 904,000 metric tons sold a week earlier. China accounted for most of the business, purchasing 1.45 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans. An unidentified buyer purchased another 272,000 tons, while Taiwan, Mexico and Vietnam also booked supplies. Corn export sales moved in the opposite direction. USDA reported new-crop corn sales of approximately 925,000 metric tons, down from more than 1 million tons the previous week. Mexico was the largest corn buyer. The stronger soybean sales are significant as farmers prepare for harvest and watch whether Chinese demand can provide additional support for prices during the new marketing year.

ACE Conference to Focus on Ethanol Markets, Policy and Innovation

Ethanol producers and industry leaders will gather Aug. 19-21 in Minneapolis for the American Coalition for Ethanol’s 39th annual conference, focused on expanding markets and navigating federal policy. AgNewsWire reports the conference theme, “Fueling Freedom,” ties ethanol to America’s 250th anniversary and its role in domestic energy production, rural economies and consumer fuel choices. The American Coalition for Ethanol says sessions will address E15 and E85 retail markets, international trade, new uses for ethanol and technologies aimed at improving plant efficiency and profitability. Breakout sessions will focus on leadership, technology and carbon. ACE CEO Brian Jennings said the industry enters the conference amid developments involving year-round E15, federal Renewable Fuel Standard volumes and implementation of the 45Z clean fuel production tax credit. The conference will be held at the Minneapolis Marriott City Center and bring together producers, retailers, policymakers and researchers.

Imports Increase Competition for U.S. Produce Growers

American fruit and vegetable growers are facing increasing competition from imported produce during periods when domestic crops are also available. The American Farm Bureau Federation reported Thursday that produce imports increasingly overlap with U.S. growing seasons instead of simply supplying fruits and vegetables when American production is unavailable. Farm Bureau says that shift places additional financial pressure on domestic specialty-crop producers. The organization found imports have grown substantially for several commodities as U.S. production has declined or remained relatively flat. American growers frequently face higher labor, regulatory and other production expenses than foreign competitors, making price competition difficult. Farm Bureau says greater dependence on foreign produce also creates potential risks involving supply-chain disruptions, weather events and food safety. The organization says maintaining a strong domestic specialty-crop industry will require addressing production costs, labor availability and risk-management options while maintaining international trade. The issue comes as growers prepare for important late-summer and fall harvests across the country.

Kentucky Researchers Develop Robot to Improve Greenhouse Tomato Production

University of Kentucky researchers are developing an autonomous robot designed to help greenhouse growers monitor tomato plants while reducing labor requirements. Biyun Xie, an engineering professor, is leading the project through a nearly $1.2 million National Science Foundation grant. The system combines robotics, artificial intelligence, computer vision and wireless power technology, according to the university and HortiDaily. A mobile robotic arm will travel greenhouse rows and capture images inside plant canopies. Artificial intelligence will analyze characteristics including fruit number, size, maturity, health and canopy structure, helping growers make production decisions without damaging plants. University records show the NSF-funded project runs through June 2028 and received $1.18 million. Researchers also plan wireless charging that would allow continuous operation. Xie said the technology could eventually support automated fruit harvesting and leaf pruning, expanding its potential uses beyond tomato monitoring.

Monday Watch List

Markets

To begin the week, USDA will release their regular Monday reports starting with Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the weekly Crop Progress update in the afternoon at 3 p.m. CDT.

Weather

An old front that has been very active since last week continues in the southern end of the Corn Belt Monday morning as areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms are ongoing. This front will slide southward fairly slowly Monday as showers continue. Another front is moving through the Canadian Prairies with isolated showers there. This front will slip south into the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest where scattered showers and thunderstorms will form later Monday.

Largest-Ever Combined Corn & Soy Planted Acreage

U.S. farmers planted a record amount of corn and soybeans in the 2026/27 season, USDA reported this week. Combined planted acreage of the two crops reached 183.5 million acres, more than 3 million acres higher than the previous combined crop record. The record was reflected in this week’s Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates reports from USDA, which found an additional 1.4 million planted acres for both corn and soybeans, increasing the corn crop slightly and boosting the soybean crop to the largest in U.S. history, reports Progressive Farmer. Farm Futures reports that while USDA didn’t provide specifics on reasons behind the higher corn and soybean acres, it’s likely that acreage certification data collected by USDA’s Farm Service and Risk Management agencies in recent weeks showed farmers planted more of both crops than what was forecast in June. 

Crop Tour Starts Next Week

The Pro Farmer Crop Tour returns August 17-20, giving the agriculture industry an early look at the potential size of this year’s corn and soybean crops. For more than 30 years, the annual tour has provided an independent assessment of crop conditions ahead of harvest. More than 100 scouts will travel through seven major corn and soybean-producing states, collecting data from more than 2,000 fields in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio and South Dakota. The tour will be divided into eastern and western routes before both groups conclude in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 20. Daily results will include field observations, yield estimates and historical comparisons. Coverage will be available through AgWeb, AgDay, AgriTalk, U.S. Farm Report and social media, along with nightly meetings that can be attended in person or viewed online. The tour comes as producers and markets look for updated insight into crop potential weeks before harvest gets underway.

Wheat Harvest Picks Up Steam

The Hard Red Winter wheat harvest is nearly complete, with less than 10% remaining, and the crop continues to grade U.S. No. 1, according to the U.S. Wheat Associates’ Harvest Report. Attention in the southern region is shifting to fall planting, but severe drought remains a concern. Soft White wheat harvest also advanced this week under favorable conditions, with generally good yields and test weights. However, lower protein and falling numbers are being monitored in some areas. Harvest of Hard Red Spring wheat is picking up speed, with about one-quarter of the crop now harvested. Early reports point to encouraging yields and strong protein levels, although conditions vary across the Northern Plains. Northern Durum harvest is also ahead of normal, but heat and drought are reducing yield potential. USDA estimates total U.S. wheat production at 1.53 billion bushels, down 23% from last year.

Sales of Agricultural Tractors & Combines Decline

U.S. sales of agricultural tractors dropped nearly 11% in July 2026 compared to the year before, with combine sales declining more than 5% in the same period. This is according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Canadian agricultural tractor sales fell nearly 8% in July, while combine sales declined almost 11% compared to July 2025. “The July data reflects continued softness in the agricultural equipment market as farmers and equipment manufacturers navigate persistent economic uncertainty,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “Farmers continue to face difficult decisions, and clear, consistent policy direction is essential to helping them plan, invest, and remain competitive.” AEM releases United States Ag Tractor and Combine reports monthly. The reports compile the previous month's sales for tractors and combines.

Kansas City Diamonds Help Put E15 in the Spotlight

A new women’s professional softball league is helping put ethanol fuel in front of fans across the country. The Renewable Fuels Association partnered with the Kansas City Diamonds during the league’s inaugural season as the team’s official fuel and patch sponsor. The Diamonds finished second in both the regular season and postseason, while E15 promotions appeared on uniforms, at the ballpark, fuel pumps, and television broadcasts. Several ethanol industry groups and businesses helped fund the campaign, including three regional ethanol plants. Robert White, senior vice president for industry relations and market development with RFA, says the partnership helped introduce more consumers to E15, with players even reporting that their families had started using the fuel. Television exposure also extended the campaign beyond the Kansas City area. RFA plans to continue the partnership next season as the league expands. White says the strategy is to target niche audiences and use smaller, focused campaigns to build awareness of ethanol.

NCGA Pushes to Better Track Bioeconomy Growth

The National Corn Growers Association filed comments this week with the Office of Management and Budget, encouraging the agency to reconsider updates recommended by one of its committees to more directly capture the economic impact of the emerging bioeconomy. “While growth in this sector has made significant contributions to rural America and the overall U.S. economy, measuring its true scope and value cannot be achieved without the industry-specific classifications,” says Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower. “Quantifying the impact of uses such as sustainable aviation fuel, bioplastics, renewable chemicals and other new uses helps show the potential economic impact of expanding these markets.” The continued growth of the U.S. bioeconomy depends on the ability to accurately measure it to provide important signals to policymakers, investors and analysts, says NCGA. Industries rely on federal statistics from OMB for market research, measuring their economic impact and identifying new market opportunities. 

Friday Watch List

Markets

Friday looks to be a quiet trading session for reports with no major releases due during trading hours. However, after the close USDA's Economic Research Service will release their monthly commodity outlooks at 2 p.m. CDT. Then at 2:30 p.m. CDT, the CFTC will wrap up the week with the Commitments of Traders report, updating positions as of Tuesday, August 11.

Weather

A string of showers and thunderstorms is found from Nebraska into Ohio early Friday morning, which has been producing heavy rain since the overnight. A smaller system is moving into the Northern Plains, spreading some showers there into the Canadian Prairies. Both zones remain active throughout the day with some concerns for flooding and severe weather in the Midwest.

USDA: Farmers Planting Less Corn and More Soybeans in 2026

The USDA released its August Crop Production Report that showed corn production for grain forecast at 16 billion bushels, down six percent from last year. However, if realized, it would still be the second-highest production on record. The average yield is forecast at 180.7 bushels per acre, down almost six bushels from 2025. Soybean production is forecast at 4.52 billion bushels, six percent above last year. Soybean yield is forecast at 52.7 bushels an acre, down slightly from 2025. The all-cotton production forecast is for 13.6 million 480-pound bales, two percent below last year. The average yield forecast is 798 pounds per harvested acre, down 54 pounds from 2025. The all-wheat production forecast for grain is 1.53 billion bushels, down 23 percent from 2025, with the average yield expected to be 47.8 bushels an acre, 5.5 bushels below last year. Winter wheat production is forecast at 990 million bushels, 29 percent less than in 2025. The average yield forecast is 47 bushels per acre, almost eight bushels below last year. 

USDA Accelerates Screwworm Response Efforts

USDA says a Texas facility designed to produce sterile flies for New World Screwworm control will open in spring 2027, earlier than previously expected. The facility is expected to produce 100 million sterile flies per week by the end of 2027, increasing to as many as 300 million weekly by the end of 2028. Experts estimate roughly 500 million sterile flies are needed to push screwworm populations south toward the Darien Gap, a natural geographic barrier between Central and South America.  The accelerated facility comes after the first U.S. infestation of New World screwworm in three decades was detected in Texas this summer. USDA and the Department of Homeland Security are also strengthening their response through a new biosecurity agreement. The agencies plan to use unmanned aircraft, artificial intelligence, and real-time data sharing to improve screening and response to agricultural threats, including screwworm.

Fertilizer, Diesel Costs Remain Elevated Heading Into Fall

Fertilizer and diesel prices remain well above recent-year levels, adding pressure to farmers making fall input decisions for the 2027 crop. USDA data analyzed by the University of Illinois shows anhydrous ammonia averaged $915.50 per ton on August 7, up 16 percent from a year ago. DAP averaged $912.22 per ton, seven percent higher than last year. Potash prices have been more stable, averaging about $500 per ton. Diesel has been more volatile. After reaching nearly $5.50 per gallon in May, the Illinois average fell below $4 before climbing back to $4.65 on August 7. That is more than 50 percent higher than the same time in 2024 and 2025. University of Illinois researchers say farmers may want to diversify fertilizer purchases rather than waiting for prices to fall. They also recommend reviewing application rates, using soil tests, and following maximum-return-to-nitrogen recommendations. Higher soybean returns could also encourage more soybean acreage in 2027.

U.S.-Canada Trade Talks Intensify Ahead Of Tariff Deadline

Canadian trade officials met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer Tuesday as both countries work to avoid new tariffs scheduled to take effect August 19. Canada’s Minister for U.S. Trade Relations Dominic LeBlanc (leh-BLAHNK) said the two sides remain committed to negotiations and defending Canadian interests. President Donald Trump has proposed 50 percent tariffs on nearly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports, including products that previously received exemptions under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Canadian officials have indicated they could offer concessions on some U.S. trade concerns in exchange for dropping the new tariffs. Reuters said for American farmers and ranchers, the negotiations are important because Canada is a major market for U.S. agricultural products. New tariffs could raise costs, disrupt established trade flows, and potentially affect demand for U.S. commodities. The latest meeting was the third between Canadian and U.S. trade officials in three weeks, underscoring the urgency as the August 19 deadline approaches.

Generational Farmland Transfer Makes Estate Planning Critical

More than 150 million acres of U.S. farmland could change hands over the next 10 to 20 years, creating one of the largest generational transfers of agricultural land in the nation’s history. American Farmland Trust estimates more than 40 percent of U.S. farmland could transition to new owners during that period, largely as aging landowners retire. The average U.S. producer is now more than 58 years old, and many farmland owners are 65 or older. As land passes to heirs, some of whom may not farm, ownership can become divided among multiple family members. Without a plan, farm families can face disputes, forced land sales, or fragmentation of the operation. Estate planning can help families determine who will own and manage the land while protecting its financial value and long-term use. Trusts, LLCs, and buy-sell agreements are among the tools families can consider, but experts say communication among heirs is just as important. For landowners, starting those conversations before a transition occurs can help preserve both family wealth and the farm’s future.

Young Farmers See Progress, But Want More From Farm Bill

The National Young Farmers Coalition says the Senate Agriculture Committee’s latest Farm Bill markup includes several important wins for small and beginning farmers, but significant concerns remain. The committee approved amendments creating an Office of Small Farms, authorizing peer-to-peer farmer education, and establishing a permanent framework for the Local Food Purchase Assistance program. Coalition Executive Director Michelle Hughes says those provisions would strengthen local food systems and support small producers. However, Young Farmers says the bill still lacks structural investments to improve land access for beginning farmers and does not reverse $187 billion in previously enacted SNAP cuts. The group also criticized expanded Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act provisions, warning that new penalties and liens could create risks for some underserved farmers. Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says lawmakers should focus on helping young people enter agriculture rather than policies that allow large operations to expand and drive up farmland prices. Young Farmers says it will continue pushing for changes before the Farm Bill is finalized.

Thursday Watch List

Markets

On Thursday, USDA will be out with their weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m. CDT, with data as of August 6. USDA will also release a series of follow up reports to Wednesday's WASDE at 1 p.m. CDT, including updating the wheat and feed grain databases.

Weather

In the active pattern that has been present all week long, more areas of showers and thunderstorms will develop across the Corn Belt for Thursday. Of particular interest is a cluster of storms moving across Iowa early Thursday morning. That cluster is being watched for severe weather and may continue as it moves east-southeast through the Midwest. Additional showers and thunderstorms may pop up out ahead of it as well as behind it across the Northern and Central Plains throughout the day.

U.S. Wheat Builds Latin American Trade Relationships

U.S. wheat farmers and customers from Latin America and the Caribbean strengthened trade relationships during the 2026 Latin American and Caribbean Buyers Conference in Santa Fe, New Mexico. More than 140 representatives from 14 countries attended the late-July event, including 12 U.S. wheat farmers. The conference brought together producers, exporters, importers, millers, and technical specialists to discuss wheat markets, trade, and logistics. U.S. Wheat Associates President and CEO Mike Spier says building relationships remains critical to the industry’s success. “The relationships built and partnerships strengthened through events like the LABC are a cornerstone of our industry’s success,” Spier said. USDA Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley also emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between U.S. wheat producers and international customers. “You will always have FAS as a partner in your trade endeavors,” Whitley told attendees. The conference also covered global supply and demand, price risk, trade policy, and transportation.

Klobuchar Vows To Keep Working On Farm Bill

Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar says she remains committed to working with Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman to advance a new Farm Bill, despite last week’s committee vote failing to move the legislation forward. Klobuchar, the committee’s ranking Democrat, pointed to provisions she supports, including permanent, year-round E15 sales, an issue she has championed for years. She also noted the committee approved several additional bipartisan amendments she supports. However, Klobuchar continues to push for a two-year delay in a requirement that states and counties share more of the cost of providing SNAP benefits. She says the one-year delay offered in the bill does not put states on equal footing, particularly because states with higher SNAP error rates could avoid costs that other states would face. Klobuchar says she wants to continue negotiations with Boozman, noting the committee remains open for further discussions on the legislation.

Missouri River Runoff Remains Well Below Average

July runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, totaled two million acre-feet, or 61 percent of average, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Runoff was below normal to well below normal in the Fort Peck, Garrison, and Oahe (oh-AH-hee) reaches, while conditions were better farther downstream. John Remus, chief of the Corps’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division, says warmer, drier weather and limited mountain snowpack have contributed to weak inflows. The basin’s 2026 runoff forecast remains at 15.4 million acre-feet, or 60 percent of average. If realized, it would rank as the 11th-lowest runoff in the period of record. About 80 percent of the basin remains abnormally dry or in drought, with conditions expected to persist or expand across the Dakotas, Nebraska, and Iowa. Meanwhile, reservoir storage continues to decline. The Corps expects the winter release from Gavin’s Point Dam to remain at a minimum of 12,000 cubic feet per second.

USDA Extends Disaster Relief Application Deadline

USDA is giving farmers more time and flexibility to apply for Supplemental Disaster Relief Program assistance covering qualifying losses from 2023 and 2024. The Farm Service Agency has extended the deadline for both Stage 1 and Stage 2 applications to September 30, 2026. USDA is also allowing producers who experienced quality-related discounts to use verifiable documentation to demonstrate losses caused by natural disasters. Farmers can now use a quality-loss percentage when a crop’s final use differs from its intended use. FSA Administrator Bill Beam says the changes will reduce the burden on producers and help more eligible farmers access assistance. SDRP provides more than $16 billion in disaster relief for producers who experienced revenue, quality, or production losses involving crops, trees, bushes, or vines. Stage 1 is for producers with indemnified losses based on crop insurance or NAP data. Stage 2 covers non-indemnified, uncovered, and quality losses. Eligible producers may receive payments under both stages for 2023, 2024, or both years.

Black Sea Attacks Threaten Global Grain Supplies

Escalating attacks on Black Sea ports and commercial vessels are disrupting grain exports from Russia and Ukraine, raising concerns about global supplies and agricultural markets. The Black Sea is a major shipping route for wheat, corn, oil, and other commodities. Russia is the world’s largest wheat exporter, while Ukraine is also a major agricultural supplier. Ukraine reported 67 strikes on port facilities and dozens of attacks on vessels during July. The disruptions are already threatening Ukraine’s agricultural exports. Ukraine’s Agriculture Ministry estimates the country could export about 29.6 million tons of agricultural products during the 2026-27 marketing year, down more than half from an earlier forecast of 64.4 million tons. Wheat exports could fall 53 percent to 8.3 million tons. Reduced Black Sea shipments could tighten global grain supplies and potentially provide support for U.S. wheat and other crop prices. For American producers, the situation is another reminder that geopolitical conflicts can quickly reshape global commodity markets and export competition.

Feed Industry Reviews Proposed Changes To Ingredient Safety Rules

The American Feed Industry Association is reviewing proposed FDA changes to the regulatory framework for ingredients considered Generally Recognized as Safe, or GRAS. AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman says the organization supports efforts to strengthen ingredient oversight while maintaining a safe animal food supply and encouraging innovation. Cullman says the FDA must have sufficient resources and tools to review animal food ingredients efficiently if changes are made to the GRAS framework. “For years, the animal food industry has worked closely with the FDA to strengthen the animal food ingredient review pathways,” Cullman said. AFIA says it is evaluating how the proposal could affect ingredient approvals, innovation, and feed safety. The organization plans to submit comments to FDA, focusing on resources and process improvements needed to make the system work effectively. For livestock producers, changes to the ingredient review process could affect the availability and development of new feed ingredients and technologies.

Wednesday Watch List

Markets

On Wednesday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics will lead off the day with the July Consumer Price Index report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. However, the Ag trade will center around the release of USDA's August World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) and Crop Production reports out at 11 a.m. CDT.

Weather

Clusters of thunderstorms are ongoing Wednesday morning across portions of Nebraska, Iowa, and from Indiana to Kentucky and western Ohio. This is all due to the extremely active pattern across the Corn Belt which will continue to see these clusters develop and move eastward Wednesday. Additional storms will likely form out in the Plains Wednesday afternoon and evening and continue east overnight as well. Heavy downpours and strong winds are possible in the clusters.