Significant updates to the Missouri Pesticide Use Act take effect on January 1, 2025, bringing changes that affect Private Pesticide Applicators who use Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs). The Missouri Department of Agriculture has introduced new certification requirements and licensing regulations to ensure proper handling and application of pesticides.

Private Pesticide Certification is now classified under Category 20, with additional categories introduced:

For example, growers who apply grain fumigants will need Category 20 certification but must also obtain certification in Category 22 to purchase and apply grain fumigants legally.

Previously, Private Applicators could supervise employees using RUPs. Under the new regulations, this is no longer permitted. If a grower has employees mixing, loading, spraying, cleaning equipment, storing, or disposing of pesticide containers involving RUPs, those employees must now obtain a Category 20 Private Pesticide Certified License to continue those activities legally.

Certified Provisional Private Applicator License

A new Certified Provisional Private Applicator License has been introduced for individuals 16 or 17 years old who are immediate family members of a certified Private Applicator. Upon turning 18, these individuals will automatically become Private Pesticide Certified Applicators.

If a Private Pesticide License has not yet expired, the holder may continue using Restricted Use Pesticides until the expiration date. However, recertification under the new laws will be required upon expiration. Licenses will continue to be valid for five years.

Significant updates to the Missouri Pesticide Use Act take effect on January 1, 2025, bringing changes that affect Private Pesticide Applicators who use Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs). The Missouri Department of Agriculture has introduced new certification requirements and licensing regulations to ensure proper handling and application of pesticides.New Certification CategoriesPrivate Pesticide Certification is now classified under Category 20, with additional categories introduced:<ul>
 <li>Category 21 – Soil Fumigation</li><li>Category 22 – Non-soil Fumigation</li><li>Category 23 – Aerial Application</li>
 </ul>For example, growers who apply grain fumigants will need Category 20 certification but must also obtain certification in Category 22 to purchase and apply grain fumigants legally.Supervision Rules Have ChangedPreviously, Private Applicators could supervise employees using RUPs. Under the new regulations, this is no longer permitted. If a grower has employees mixing, loading, spraying, cleaning equipment, storing, or disposing of pesticide containers involving RUPs, those employees must now obtain a Category 20 Private Pesticide Certified License to continue those activities legally.Certified Provisional Private Applicator LicenseA new Certified Provisional Private Applicator License has been introduced for individuals 16 or 17 years old who are immediate family members of a certified Private Applicator. Upon turning 18, these individuals will automatically become Private Pesticide Certified Applicators.License Expiration and RenewalIf a Private Pesticide License has not yet expired, the holder may continue using Restricted Use Pesticides until the expiration date. However, recertification under the new laws will be required upon expiration. Licenses will continue to be valid for five years.

Changes to the Missouri Pesticide Use Act (Impact Private Pesticide Applicators)

A nationwide survey of beekeepers has revealed catastrophic honeybee colony losses across the U.S. Commercial operations report an average loss of 62 percent of their populations between June 2024 and February 2025. 

These alarming losses currently surpass historical trends. This could significantly impact U.S. agriculture, particularly crop pollination for almonds, fruits, vegetables, and other essential food sources.

 “Early reports of severe colony losses began pouring in last month from beekeepers across the country,” said Danielle Downey, executive director of Project Apis m. “Our group and others have come together to quickly launch this survey to find out the scope and severity of the losses, gather critical management data, and help guide research efforts to determine potential causes.” 

Zac Browning, a fourth-generation commercial beekeeper, says, “Honeybees are the backbone of our food system, pollinating crops that feed our nation. Continued losses mean we won’t sustain our current level of food production.”

A nationwide survey of beekeepers has revealed catastrophic honeybee colony losses across the U.S. Commercial operations report an average loss of 62 percent of their populations between June 2024 and February 2025. These alarming losses currently surpass historical trends. This could significantly impact U.S. agriculture, particularly crop pollination for almonds, fruits, vegetables, and other essential food sources. “Early reports of severe colony losses began pouring in last month from beekeepers across the country,” said Danielle Downey, executive director of Project Apis m. “Our group and others have come together to quickly launch this survey to find out the scope and severity of the losses, gather critical management data, and help guide research efforts to determine potential causes.” Zac Browning, a fourth-generation commercial beekeeper, says, “Honeybees are the backbone of our food system, pollinating crops that feed our nation. Continued losses mean we won’t sustain our current level of food production.”

Survey reveals significant loss in Bee Colony Populations

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Aspiring gardeners can soon expand their knowledge through the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener (EMG) training program, offered at two locations along the U.S. 36 corridor this spring.

The sessions, running March 4 through April 17, will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays at two locations:

The Extension Master Gardener program, established in Missouri in 1983, provides in-depth horticultural training for those looking to share their expertise with their communities. Participants will learn about soil health, plant nutrition, vegetables, fruits, ornamental and herbaceous plants, propagation, pest management, and environmental stewardship.

EMG volunteers support MU Extension by sharing research-based gardening information, answering questions, teaching through demonstration gardens, donating produce, and serving as community speakers. To earn certification, participants must complete 36 hours of training and contribute 30 hours of volunteer service.

For more information, visit extension.missouri.edu.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Aspiring gardeners can soon expand their knowledge through the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener (EMG) training program, offered at two locations along the U.S. 36 corridor this spring.The sessions, running March 4 through April 17, will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays at two locations:<ul>
 <li>Noon to 2:30 p.m. at the MU Extension office in Buchanan County, St. Joseph</li><li>6 to 8:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Cameron</li>
 </ul>The Extension Master Gardener program, established in Missouri in 1983, provides in-depth horticultural training for those looking to share their expertise with their communities. Participants will learn about soil health, plant nutrition, vegetables, fruits, ornamental and herbaceous plants, propagation, pest management, and environmental stewardship.EMG volunteers support MU Extension by sharing research-based gardening information, answering questions, teaching through demonstration gardens, donating produce, and serving as community speakers. To earn certification, participants must complete 36 hours of training and contribute 30 hours of volunteer service.Registration deadlines:<ul>
 <li>Cameron session: <a href="https://extension.missouri.edu/events/2025-extension-master-gardener-training-cameron-mo">Register here</a> by March 4</li><li>St. Joseph session: <a href="https://extension.missouri.edu/events/2025-master-gardener-training-buchanan-and-surrounding-counties">Register here</a> by March 4</li>
 </ul>For more information, visit extension.missouri.edu.

MU Extension to Offer Master Gardener Training in St. Joseph, Cameron

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Small-scale food and farm entrepreneurs looking to strengthen their business and marketing strategies can participate in the University of Missouri Extension’s upcoming webinar series, “Growing Success: Marketing and Business Development for Small Farms.” Running throughout March, this evening series is designed to provide participants with practical tools and resources to enhance their businesses.

Supporting Entrepreneurs with Actionable Insights

“Farmers are experts in what they grow, but many struggle with the business side of their operations,” said Denice Ferguson, MU Extension Ag Business Specialist for Northwest Missouri. “These entrepreneurs are innovative, passionate, and eager to learn. They’re just short on time and need reliable, actionable information that they can immediately apply to their businesses.”

The series will feature four interactive sessions, each addressing critical aspects of farm business development:

Valuable USDA Support for Farm Entrepreneurs

Throughout the series, participants will also learn about resources available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), which provides programs to support farm and food entrepreneurs at all stages of business development.

“The FSA offers a range of programs and resources to assist farm and food entrepreneurs as they start or grow their businesses,” said Ferguson. “We want participants to know how FSA can support their journey.”

For more details and to register, visit <a href="http://muext.us/growingsuccesswebinars">http://muext.us/growingsuccesswebinars</a>.

This webinar series is funded in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency through project award number FSA23CPT0012862.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Small-scale food and farm entrepreneurs looking to strengthen their business and marketing strategies can participate in the University of Missouri Extension’s upcoming webinar series, “Growing Success: Marketing and Business Development for Small Farms.” Running throughout March, this evening series is designed to provide participants with practical tools and resources to enhance their businesses.Supporting Entrepreneurs with Actionable Insights“Farmers are experts in what they grow, but many struggle with the business side of their operations,” said Denice Ferguson, MU Extension Ag Business Specialist for Northwest Missouri. “These entrepreneurs are innovative, passionate, and eager to learn. They’re just short on time and need reliable, actionable information that they can immediately apply to their businesses.”The series will feature four interactive sessions, each addressing critical aspects of farm business development:<ul>
 <li>March 4 – "Cultivating Connections: Strategically Market Your Food and Farm Products"
Led by TaylorAnn Washburn, MU Extension Communications Strategist, this session will help participants craft targeted customer profiles, communicate their unique value, and utilize digital platforms to strengthen their marketing strategies.
</li><li>March 11 – "Will It Work? Assessing New Farm Products"
MU Extension Ag Business Specialist Katie Neuner will introduce online tools like AgSite and Intel for Ag to help attendees evaluate the viability of new products such as elderberries or pasture-raised pork.
</li><li>March 18 – "What Does It Cost My Farm to Sell in Different Markets?"
Dr. Mallory Rahe, MU Extension Ag Business Program Director, will guide participants through the Market Channel Cost Assessment Tool, helping them estimate marketing costs and determine the most profitable sales channels, including farmers markets, CSAs, and wholesale.
</li><li>March 25 – "Five Key Considerations as You Scale Your Business"
Denice Ferguson will lead an interactive session focused on assessing readiness for business growth, covering goal setting, financial capacity, labor needs, and operational efficiencies.
</li>
 </ul>Valuable USDA Support for Farm EntrepreneursThroughout the series, participants will also learn about resources available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), which provides programs to support farm and food entrepreneurs at all stages of business development.“The FSA offers a range of programs and resources to assist farm and food entrepreneurs as they start or grow their businesses,” said Ferguson. “We want participants to know how FSA can support their journey.”For more details and to register, visit <a href="http://muext.us/growingsuccesswebinars">http://muext.us/growingsuccesswebinars</a>.This webinar series is funded in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency through project award number FSA23CPT0012862.

Interactive Sessions to Enhance Marketing and Business Strategies for Small-Scale Producers

(KANSAS CITY, Mo.) — The Western Farm Show, the Midwest’s largest indoor agriculture event, is set to return for its 63rd year at the American Royal Complex in Kansas City from February 21-23.

Spanning over 400,000 square feet, the show will feature the latest in farm equipment, cutting-edge technology, and agricultural products. Organizers say this year’s event will blend education, community, and entertainment for all ages.

New for 2025 is the Women in Agriculture Event, a platform celebrating the growing role of women in farming. The event will feature influential speakers, including Kayla Wieczorek, Kylie Epperson, Brandi Buzzard, and Margaret Reynolds.

Western Farm Show Manager Jami Applegate says the event is about “growth, connection, and education,” and this year’s additions aim to highlight the achievements of women in agriculture.

Popular returning events include FFA Day, the Health and Safety Roundup, the Family Living Center, and the Upper-Level Exhibition Hall.

For more details, visit <a href="http://westernfarmshow.com">westernfarmshow.com</a>.

(KANSAS CITY, Mo.) — The Western Farm Show, the Midwest’s largest indoor agriculture event, is set to return for its 63rd year at the American Royal Complex in Kansas City from February 21-23.Spanning over 400,000 square feet, the show will feature the latest in farm equipment, cutting-edge technology, and agricultural products. Organizers say this year’s event will blend education, community, and entertainment for all ages.New for 2025 is the Women in Agriculture Event, a platform celebrating the growing role of women in farming. The event will feature influential speakers, including Kayla Wieczorek, Kylie Epperson, Brandi Buzzard, and Margaret Reynolds.Western Farm Show Manager Jami Applegate says the event is about “growth, connection, and education,” and this year’s additions aim to highlight the achievements of women in agriculture.Popular returning events include FFA Day, the Health and Safety Roundup, the Family Living Center, and the Upper-Level Exhibition Hall.For more details, visit <a href="http://westernfarmshow.com">westernfarmshow.com</a>.

2025 Western Farm Show

Senator Tammy Baldwin is one of many elected officials calling on the Trump administration to quickly develop a plan to contain the avian flu outbreak in the nation’s poultry flocks and dairy herds. 

The devastating impact on the poultry flocks is driving the cost of eggs to record high levels. Baldwin wrote a letter to the administration after the Health and Human Services Department refused to provide updated information to the public and the Centers for Disease Control didn’t release the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report for the first time in decades due to the pause on all public health communications.

 “The average wholesale price for large, white shell eggs reached $8 a dozen, a 218 percent increase from the $2.51 consumers were paying in December 2023,” she said in the letter. “HPAI detections and egg price increases won’t slow down unless your administration commits to a robust response.”

Senator Tammy Baldwin is one of many elected officials calling on the Trump administration to quickly develop a plan to contain the avian flu outbreak in the nation’s poultry flocks and dairy herds. The devastating impact on the poultry flocks is driving the cost of eggs to record high levels. Baldwin wrote a letter to the administration after the Health and Human Services Department refused to provide updated information to the public and the Centers for Disease Control didn’t release the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report for the first time in decades due to the pause on all public health communications. “The average wholesale price for large, white shell eggs reached $8 a dozen, a 218 percent increase from the $2.51 consumers were paying in December 2023,” she said in the letter. “HPAI detections and egg price increases won’t slow down unless your administration commits to a robust response.”

Calls continue for Administration to contain Avian Flu

The Trump administration is working to reverse the terminations of several USDA employees working on an agency response to highly pathogenic avian influenza. 

A USDA spokesperson said several positions working on the response were fired last weekend. The spokesperson also said several of the positions were exempt from the recent cuts by Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk. Reports say the positions that were in the process of developing a bird flu response included veterinarians, animal health technicians, and other emergency response personnel. 

“USDA continues to prioritize the response to highly pathogenic avian influenza,” the spokesperson said. “USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service frontline positions are considered public safety positions, and we’re continuing to hire the workforce necessary to ensure the safety and adequate supply of food to fulfill our statutory mission.”

 Bird flu continues to threaten poultry flocks, which is boosting egg prices.

The Trump administration is working to reverse the terminations of several USDA employees working on an agency response to highly pathogenic avian influenza. A USDA spokesperson said several positions working on the response were fired last weekend. The spokesperson also said several of the positions were exempt from the recent cuts by Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk. Reports say the positions that were in the process of developing a bird flu response included veterinarians, animal health technicians, and other emergency response personnel. “USDA continues to prioritize the response to highly pathogenic avian influenza,” the spokesperson said. “USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service frontline positions are considered public safety positions, and we’re continuing to hire the workforce necessary to ensure the safety and adequate supply of food to fulfill our statutory mission.” Bird flu continues to threaten poultry flocks, which is boosting egg prices.

USDA fires employees working on bird flu response

Clean Fuels Alliance America joined other national trade groups in sending a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin urging the agency to set robust, timely, and multiyear Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026 and beyond. 

The groups represent fuel producers, marketers, and agricultural feedstock suppliers who agree that strong RFS volumes will help deliver U.S. energy dominance. 

“Since the enactment of the RFS, our nation has benefited from increased energy security, an enhanced agriculture industry, and lower carbon fuel operations,” the groups wrote. “We believe strong, steady volumes for conventional biofuel targets, biomass-based diesel, and advanced fuels would more accurately reflect the availability and ongoing investments in feedstocks and production capacity.” 

The groups also say it would reflect the increased demand in new markets, such as marine, rail, and aviation. “Our industries will work to continue providing liquid fuels with the significant renewable fuel volumes the country needs,” the groups added.

Clean Fuels Alliance America joined other national trade groups in sending a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin urging the agency to set robust, timely, and multiyear Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026 and beyond. The groups represent fuel producers, marketers, and agricultural feedstock suppliers who agree that strong RFS volumes will help deliver U.S. energy dominance. “Since the enactment of the RFS, our nation has benefited from increased energy security, an enhanced agriculture industry, and lower carbon fuel operations,” the groups wrote. “We believe strong, steady volumes for conventional biofuel targets, biomass-based diesel, and advanced fuels would more accurately reflect the availability and ongoing investments in feedstocks and production capacity.” The groups also say it would reflect the increased demand in new markets, such as marine, rail, and aviation. “Our industries will work to continue providing liquid fuels with the significant renewable fuel volumes the country needs,” the groups added.

Groups urge EPA to set robust RFS volumes

Another case of New World screwworm was found in a Mexican cow south of the border. Despite that, USDA says it won’t limit cattle imports from Mexico. Reports say U.S. cattle supplies in recent months grew tight after Washington blocked Mexican livestock shipments into the U.S. in late November due to the screwworm presence. The World Organization for Animal Health says the disease was found in a cow located in the Mexican state of Tabasco. 

Another case of New World screwworm was found in a Mexican cow south of the border. Despite that, USDA says it won’t limit cattle imports from Mexico. Reports say U.S. cattle supplies in recent months grew tight after Washington blocked Mexican livestock shipments into the U.S. in late November due to the screwworm presence. The World Organization for Animal Health says the disease was found in a cow located in the Mexican state of Tabasco.

No ban after new case of screwworm in Mexico

Today, February 20th,  is the tenth annual Give FFA Day during National FFA Week. The day is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of over a million FFA members across the country and growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world. The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization with the mission of helping students develop their leadership skills and explore career paths in agriculture.

Funds raised on Give FFA Day support the FFA and agricultural education at the local, state, and national levels. The money supports special programs and events, provides the iconic FFA blue jackets to students, supplemental travel costs for career and leadership training, and pays for teacher support and resources throughout the year.  Kim Coveney, FFA’s manager of individual giving says,  “We know that every gift makes a difference and are grateful to our donors for their continued support.” 

Today, February 20th, is the tenth annual Give FFA Day during National FFA Week. The day is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of over a million FFA members across the country and growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world. The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization with the mission of helping students develop their leadership skills and explore career paths in agriculture.Funds raised on Give FFA Day support the FFA and agricultural education at the local, state, and national levels. The money supports special programs and events, provides the iconic FFA blue jackets to students, supplemental travel costs for career and leadership training, and pays for teacher support and resources throughout the year. Kim Coveney, FFA’s manager of individual giving says, “We know that every gift makes a difference and are grateful to our donors for their continued support.”

Give FFA Day 

The D-N-R building on the Iowa State Fairgrounds known for its large tanks displaying the various fish species from across the state is getting a new interactive display. D-N-R spokesperson Tammie Krausman says the new feature is called the Conservation Discovery Area.

The inside feature will also have a tower designed into it that's modeled after the one at Pilot Knobb State Park. Krausman says another feature will be an in-floor river.

They had various outdoor displays in the 100 years the building has been on the fairgrounds, and an archery area has been one of the more recent popular attractions. Krausman says the new feature will fit in well with what they have now.

Krausman says it's hard to nail down exactly how many visitors the D-N-R building gets during the entire run of the State Fair.

&nbsp;The Natural Resource Commission approved the project at its monthly meeting and Krausman says they hope to have it done sometime in July.

&nbsp;The N-R-C approved a contract with Austincrete of Newton for nearly 125-thousand dollars to build the display. Krausman says the money comes from a 500-thousand dollar special legislative appropriation that was made to fund the update at the D-N-R building.

The D-N-R building on the Iowa State Fairgrounds known for its large tanks displaying the various fish species from across the state is getting a new interactive display. D-N-R spokesperson Tammie Krausman says the new feature is called the Conservation Discovery Area.The inside feature will also have a tower designed into it that's modeled after the one at Pilot Knobb State Park. Krausman says another feature will be an in-floor river.They had various outdoor displays in the 100 years the building has been on the fairgrounds, and an archery area has been one of the more recent popular attractions. Krausman says the new feature will fit in well with what they have now.Krausman says it's hard to nail down exactly how many visitors the D-N-R building gets during the entire run of the State Fair.&nbsp;The Natural Resource Commission approved the project at its monthly meeting and Krausman says they hope to have it done sometime in July.&nbsp;The N-R-C approved a contract with Austincrete of Newton for nearly 125-thousand dollars to build the display. Krausman says the money comes from a 500-thousand dollar special legislative appropriation that was made to fund the update at the D-N-R building.-Radio Iowa

New feature planned for DNR building at Iowa State Fair

As Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza continues to spread, University of Missouri Extension veterinarians urge strict biosecurity operations.&nbsp;

Measures include restricting the birds from exposure to other animals and wildlife. Avian influenza has been confirmed in five southwestern Missouri counties thus far affecting commercial poultry flocks in Newton, Jasper, McDonald, Lawrence, and Barry counties.

 To slow the spread, the state has suspended all poultry and waterfowl auctions, shows and swap meets in Missouri counties containing control areas or surveillance zones. The USDA reports that there have been 18 affected commercial flocks and one affected backyard flock in Missouri, which has resulted in the depopulation of over 2-point-8-million birds in the state over the past 30 days.

As Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza continues to spread, University of Missouri Extension veterinarians urge strict biosecurity operations.&nbsp;Measures include restricting the birds from exposure to other animals and wildlife. Avian influenza has been confirmed in five southwestern Missouri counties thus far affecting commercial poultry flocks in Newton, Jasper, McDonald, Lawrence, and Barry counties. To slow the spread, the state has suspended all poultry and waterfowl auctions, shows and swap meets in Missouri counties containing control areas or surveillance zones. The USDA reports that there have been 18 affected commercial flocks and one affected backyard flock in Missouri, which has resulted in the depopulation of over 2-point-8-million birds in the state over the past 30 days.-Missourinet

MU Extension urges biosecurity in poultry flocks

Governor Mike Kehoe has big plans for Missouri’s agriculture industry.

 Kehoe, a first-generation farmer, wants to borrow $55 million for new livestock buildings at the Missouri State Fair. 

Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn is excited to see the big investment.

&nbsp;“In the last couple of years, we received funding to build the new arena at the Missouri State Fairgrounds. It’s going to be 150,000 square foot in size. It’s really going to allow the Missouri State Fair to be used year-round not only for the two weeks during the fair, but for the other 50 weeks for larger events.”

It’s part of Kehoe’s proposed $53.7 billion budget for the state that lawmakers are currently working on. Kehoe’s administration says that the state fair bonding will be paid back over time by some of the revenues the buildings would generate.

&nbsp;Chinn says it would address a challenge regarding where people will stall their animals for big shows like rodeos.

“One will be a multiuse livestock barn that will have stalls in it and the other will be really focused more towards larger animals, your cattle and your horses. Each of the facilities should hold around 500 stalls. So, that will really make Missouri competitive in trying to host some of those national shows.”

The funds would be paid back over time by a portion of the revenues generated by these buildings.

Misouri is home to over 50 meat and poultry inspection locations. Kehoe wants to spend over $330,000 to expand the state’s inspection program as part of next year’s state budget. 

Chinn tells Missourinet that meat and poultry is an important part of the state’s economy.

“Currently, we have businesses that would like to go under state inspection, but we don’t have enough team members to help support their business. So, we are prohibiting commerce from being able to take place. So, he’s putting that money in the budget to allow us to help support this growing sector of our economy.”

Missouri is home to over 50 meat and poultry inspection locations.

Governor Mike Kehoe has big plans for Missouri’s agriculture industry. Kehoe, a first-generation farmer, wants to borrow $55 million for new livestock buildings at the Missouri State Fair. Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn is excited to see the big investment.&nbsp;“In the last couple of years, we received funding to build the new arena at the Missouri State Fairgrounds. It’s going to be 150,000 square foot in size. It’s really going to allow the Missouri State Fair to be used year-round not only for the two weeks during the fair, but for the other 50 weeks for larger events.”It’s part of Kehoe’s proposed $53.7 billion budget for the state that lawmakers are currently working on. Kehoe’s administration says that the state fair bonding will be paid back over time by some of the revenues the buildings would generate.&nbsp;Chinn says it would address a challenge regarding where people will stall their animals for big shows like rodeos.“One will be a multiuse livestock barn that will have stalls in it and the other will be really focused more towards larger animals, your cattle and your horses. Each of the facilities should hold around 500 stalls. So, that will really make Missouri competitive in trying to host some of those national shows.”The funds would be paid back over time by a portion of the revenues generated by these buildings.Misouri is home to over 50 meat and poultry inspection locations. Kehoe wants to spend over $330,000 to expand the state’s inspection program as part of next year’s state budget. Chinn tells Missourinet that meat and poultry is an important part of the state’s economy.“Currently, we have businesses that would like to go under state inspection, but we don’t have enough team members to help support their business. So, we are prohibiting commerce from being able to take place. So, he’s putting that money in the budget to allow us to help support this growing sector of our economy.”Missouri is home to over 50 meat and poultry inspection locations.-Missourinet

Missouri’s Ag director praises Kehoe’s proposed agriculture investment in budget requests

In 2018, farmers in Nova Scotia, Canada, noticed a pest they hadn’t seen in a long time — the European corn borer. 

The pest was introduced to the United States in 1917 and spread to most major corn-growing regions by the 1940s. Coined “the billion-dollar pest,” the European corn borer caused yield loss by burrowing into cornstalks and feeding on them until the introduction of Bt corn in 1996.

 The main indicator of the borer is a horizontal line of shot holes in the corn leaves. The discovery in Nova Scotia led researchers to investigate throughout Canada, where they continued to find the same Cry1F resistance in the borer as they found in Nova Scotia. Cry1F is the crystalline protein used in Bt corn that keeps larvae at bay. 

In the years from 2018–2023, researchers started to make collections all across Canada and they were finding European corn borer resistance to Cry1F toxins all across the board.

In 2018, farmers in Nova Scotia, Canada, noticed a pest they hadn’t seen in a long time — the European corn borer. The pest was introduced to the United States in 1917 and spread to most major corn-growing regions by the 1940s. Coined “the billion-dollar pest,” the European corn borer caused yield loss by burrowing into cornstalks and feeding on them until the introduction of Bt corn in 1996. The main indicator of the borer is a horizontal line of shot holes in the corn leaves. The discovery in Nova Scotia led researchers to investigate throughout Canada, where they continued to find the same Cry1F resistance in the borer as they found in Nova Scotia. Cry1F is the crystalline protein used in Bt corn that keeps larvae at bay. In the years from 2018–2023, researchers started to make collections all across Canada and they were finding European corn borer resistance to Cry1F toxins all across the board.-NAFB

The ‘Billion-Dollar Pest’ reappears in Canada, Connecticut

Brazil’s Energy and Mining Minister Alexandre Silveira said on Thursday that a potential U.S. tariff on Brazilian ethanol would be unreasonable, emphasizing that the two countries have historically negotiated ethanol and sugar trade together. 

His remarks came after President Donald Trump moved to scrap decades-old low tariff rates, raising them to match those of other countries. A White House fact sheet on the plan pointed to Brazil’s ethanol tariffs as an example of unfair trade practices. 

The U.S. tariff on ethanol is a mere 2.5%, yet Brazil charges U.S. ethanol exports an 18% tariff. As a result, in 2024, the U.S. imported over $200 million in ethanol from Brazil while exporting only $52 million in ethanol to Brazil, the document said on Thursday.

Brazil’s Energy and Mining Minister Alexandre Silveira said on Thursday that a potential U.S. tariff on Brazilian ethanol would be unreasonable, emphasizing that the two countries have historically negotiated ethanol and sugar trade together. His remarks came after President Donald Trump moved to scrap decades-old low tariff rates, raising them to match those of other countries. A White House fact sheet on the plan pointed to Brazil’s ethanol tariffs as an example of unfair trade practices. The U.S. tariff on ethanol is a mere 2.5%, yet Brazil charges U.S. ethanol exports an 18% tariff. As a result, in 2024, the U.S. imported over $200 million in ethanol from Brazil while exporting only $52 million in ethanol to Brazil, the document said on Thursday.-NAFB

Brazil Says U.S. Ethanol Tariff Would Be Unreasonable

A major soybean research project, which collaborates with the University of Missouri (MU), will shut down April 15 due to President Donald Trump's dismantling of funding to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). 

The Soybean Innovation Lab, based at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, was formed in 2011 to provide researchers and organizations with the resources needed to advance soybean development. The lab is comprised of over 100 technical soybean experts from 24 countries, each representing a variety of institutions. 

The land-grant system will lose 19 innovation labs across 17 states, including Missouri. MU has been involved in the Soybean Innovation Lab since 2013, said Kerry Clark, an MU researcher who leads the mechanization division for the lab. 

Clark said MU's sector of the Soybean Innovation Lab research received $1.2 million, or about $150,000 annually, before losing funding.

A major soybean research project, which collaborates with the University of Missouri (MU), will shut down April 15 due to President Donald Trump's dismantling of funding to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The Soybean Innovation Lab, based at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, was formed in 2011 to provide researchers and organizations with the resources needed to advance soybean development. The lab is comprised of over 100 technical soybean experts from 24 countries, each representing a variety of institutions. The land-grant system will lose 19 innovation labs across 17 states, including Missouri. MU has been involved in the Soybean Innovation Lab since 2013, said Kerry Clark, an MU researcher who leads the mechanization division for the lab. Clark said MU's sector of the Soybean Innovation Lab research received $1.2 million, or about $150,000 annually, before losing funding.-NAFB

Soybean research projects shutting down as USAID funding cut off

Snowfall has been sparse across Nebraska this winter, but a cattleman said the lack of snow has made for “beautiful cattle feeding” conditions.

 Craig Uden, a fourth-generation cattleman and part-owner of Darr Feedlot in central Nebraska, said there have only been about six inches of snow all winter long. Despite the lack of snow, Uden said the weather has been “wonderful for cattle feeding conditions.” A lot of Uden’s cattle have been able to stay in the corn fields as a result of “so many 50–60 degree days. It’s actually been a tremendously easy year to winter cows,” according to Uden. 

The concern of being able to find grass increases the stress of keeping additional heifers. According to the latest drought monitor map, less than 1% of Nebraska is free from drought stress. Eight percent of the state is abnormally dry, 44% is in D1 moderate drought, 40% is in D2 severe drought, and the remaining 8% is in D3 extreme drought.

Snowfall has been sparse across Nebraska this winter, but a cattleman said the lack of snow has made for “beautiful cattle feeding” conditions. Craig Uden, a fourth-generation cattleman and part-owner of Darr Feedlot in central Nebraska, said there have only been about six inches of snow all winter long. Despite the lack of snow, Uden said the weather has been “wonderful for cattle feeding conditions.” A lot of Uden’s cattle have been able to stay in the corn fields as a result of “so many 50–60 degree days. It’s actually been a tremendously easy year to winter cows,” according to Uden. The concern of being able to find grass increases the stress of keeping additional heifers. According to the latest drought monitor map, less than 1% of Nebraska is free from drought stress. Eight percent of the state is abnormally dry, 44% is in D1 moderate drought, 40% is in D2 severe drought, and the remaining 8% is in D3 extreme drought.-NAFB

Little snow leaves nearly all of Nebraska facing drought conditions

The White House called out Brazil for its almost ten-year old tariff on US ethanol as an example of duties the US needs to fight back against with reciprocal tariffs.

“This is something that should have been done many years ago. But jobs are going to go up and prices could go up somewhat, short-term, but I think prices will also go down. And I think the farmers are going to be helped by this very much.”

President Trump announced reciprocal tariffs to match others’ duties on US goods, as the White House pointed out Brazil’s 18-percent tariff on US ethanol versus almost no duty on Brazil’s ethanol.

Trump’s pick for US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer was asked about the Brazil tariff at his senate confirmation hearing.

“This is a specific kind of unfairness that drives me crazy. And it’s not just me, but the president, himself. He sees these kinds of unfairnesses and the unlevel playing field…and it’s so obvious, it’s so blatant—and it’s gone on for so long.”

But now, Greer says President Trump is ready to act.

“We need to have leverage. And, if we need to gain leverage by taking investigatory actions or other actions, we’ll do that. It’d be much better to do that on a negotiating basis, but we’ll do whatever we need to do to try to fix it.”

The US ethanol industry says its exports to Brazil have basically dried up. The Renewable Fuels Association said it hopes the president’s reciprocal tariff will finally get Brazil to return to “free and fair ethanol trade.”

The White House called out Brazil for its almost ten-year old tariff on US ethanol as an example of duties the US needs to fight back against with reciprocal tariffs.“This is something that should have been done many years ago. But jobs are going to go up and prices could go up somewhat, short-term, but I think prices will also go down. And I think the farmers are going to be helped by this very much.”President Trump announced reciprocal tariffs to match others’ duties on US goods, as the White House pointed out Brazil’s 18-percent tariff on US ethanol versus almost no duty on Brazil’s ethanol.Trump’s pick for US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer was asked about the Brazil tariff at his senate confirmation hearing.“This is a specific kind of unfairness that drives me crazy. And it’s not just me, but the president, himself. He sees these kinds of unfairnesses and the unlevel playing field…and it’s so obvious, it’s so blatant—and it’s gone on for so long.”But now, Greer says President Trump is ready to act.“We need to have leverage. And, if we need to gain leverage by taking investigatory actions or other actions, we’ll do that. It’d be much better to do that on a negotiating basis, but we’ll do whatever we need to do to try to fix it.”The US ethanol industry says its exports to Brazil have basically dried up. The Renewable Fuels Association said it hopes the president’s reciprocal tariff will finally get Brazil to return to “free and fair ethanol trade.”-NAFB

White House calls Out Brazil on ethanol duty in defending Reciprocal Tariffs

USDA is withholding funds from farmers for conservation programs, despite the White House stating last week that funds to individuals would not be frozen. 

Contractors for conservation programs also have been affected by a funding freeze. The Iowa Soybean Association, for instance, cited in a letter to lawmakers that $11 million owed to farmers is at risk. Farmers are learning their conservation payments are frozen because those contracts were funded through the Inflation Reduction Act. 

Two federal judges over the past week have ruled that the Trump administration did not have authority to block funding that was appropriated by Congress.  Repeated efforts to question USDA over which programs are frozen and questioned why payments to individual farmers were frozen. 

USDA's press office did not respond. Officials with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) also did not respond. At least one Missouri producer posted videos on TikTok worried he could lose his farm because USDA "reneged" on his cost-share contract with NRCS under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

USDA is withholding funds from farmers for conservation programs, despite the White House stating last week that funds to individuals would not be frozen. Contractors for conservation programs also have been affected by a funding freeze. The Iowa Soybean Association, for instance, cited in a letter to lawmakers that $11 million owed to farmers is at risk. Farmers are learning their conservation payments are frozen because those contracts were funded through the Inflation Reduction Act. Two federal judges over the past week have ruled that the Trump administration did not have authority to block funding that was appropriated by Congress. Repeated efforts to question USDA over which programs are frozen and questioned why payments to individual farmers were frozen. USDA's press office did not respond. Officials with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) also did not respond. At least one Missouri producer posted videos on TikTok worried he could lose his farm because USDA "reneged" on his cost-share contract with NRCS under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).-NAFB

Farmers still caught in USDA funding freeze

The Trump administration has disrupted the U.S. response to bird flu as the outbreak worsens, leading to confusion and concern among federal staff, state officials, veterinarians, and health experts.

 Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, two federal agencies responsible for monitoring and responding to the epidemic have withheld bird flu reports and canceled congressional briefings and meetings with state health officials. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) withheld two weekly reports, one on bird flu transmission and another on surveillance, and canceled several meetings on bird flu with state officials. 

The CDC and U.S. Department of Agriculture held no congressional briefings for three weeks, and the USDA did not respond to a state official’s request for information on a new program to protect the nation’s food supply. 

 The result has been anxiety among federal health staff that critical information about bird flu will not be disseminated in a timely manner or at all, even as more people and livestock test positive for the virus.

The Trump administration has disrupted the U.S. response to bird flu as the outbreak worsens, leading to confusion and concern among federal staff, state officials, veterinarians, and health experts. Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, two federal agencies responsible for monitoring and responding to the epidemic have withheld bird flu reports and canceled congressional briefings and meetings with state health officials. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) withheld two weekly reports, one on bird flu transmission and another on surveillance, and canceled several meetings on bird flu with state officials. The CDC and U.S. Department of Agriculture held no congressional briefings for three weeks, and the USDA did not respond to a state official’s request for information on a new program to protect the nation’s food supply. The result has been anxiety among federal health staff that critical information about bird flu will not be disseminated in a timely manner or at all, even as more people and livestock test positive for the virus.-NAFB

U.S. bird flu response disrupted in early weeks of Trump Administration

Brooke Rollins won confirmation as the new Secretary of Agriculture by a 72-28 Senate vote. Several U.S. ag groups congratulated the Texan on her confirmation. “America’s pork producers are eager to work with Secretary Rollins to fix the multitude of problems caused by California’s Prop 12 and ensure farm families have reasonable policies to pass down our farms to future generations,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. 

Brooke Rollins won confirmation as the new Secretary of Agriculture by a 72-28 Senate vote. Several U.S. ag groups congratulated the Texan on her confirmation. “America’s pork producers are eager to work with Secretary Rollins to fix the multitude of problems caused by California’s Prop 12 and ensure farm families have reasonable policies to pass down our farms to future generations,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer.

Rollins confirmed as Ag Secretary

The Food Price Index increased nearly a half percent in January. The food at home index rose more tha a half percent over the month, as four of the six major grocery store food group indexes increased. The indexes for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 1.9 percent for the month, as the index for eggs led the way by rising 15.2 percent. This was the largest increase in the eggs index since June 2015 and accounted for about two-thirds of the total monthly food-at-home increase. 

The Food Price Index increased nearly a half percent in January. The food at home index rose more tha a half percent over the month, as four of the six major grocery store food group indexes increased. The indexes for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 1.9 percent for the month, as the index for eggs led the way by rising 15.2 percent. This was the largest increase in the eggs index since June 2015 and accounted for about two-thirds of the total monthly food-at-home increase.

Food Price Index moves higher in January

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yjo5T4F0Z5Y?si=zvLRdXCigR7GItCb" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

Forward Ever: Amy France, chairman of National Sorghum Producers Association

The University of Illinois’ Farmdoc Daily says some farmers should possibly consider the Enhanced Coverage Option in 2025 as premium costs will be lower this year. 

The ECO is a crop-insurance product where farmers have the option to insure at either a 90 percent or 95 percent coverage level. One important fact about the ECO is that, unlike SCO, ECO does not restrict the choice of commodity title program. 

Farmers can’t purchase SCO coverage on acres enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage commodity program, but in contrast, ECO can be used even if ARC is selected as the commodity title choice. 

The Risk Management Agency has increased the premium subsidy rate for ECO to 65 percent for 2025 and future years. Farmers may wish to consider ECO because its premium will be lower than last year, and revenue protection will likely cover less of the 2025 cost of production.

The University of Illinois’ Farmdoc Daily says some farmers should possibly consider the Enhanced Coverage Option in 2025 as premium costs will be lower this year. The ECO is a crop-insurance product where farmers have the option to insure at either a 90 percent or 95 percent coverage level. One important fact about the ECO is that, unlike SCO, ECO does not restrict the choice of commodity title program. Farmers can’t purchase SCO coverage on acres enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage commodity program, but in contrast, ECO can be used even if ARC is selected as the commodity title choice. The Risk Management Agency has increased the premium subsidy rate for ECO to 65 percent for 2025 and future years. Farmers may wish to consider ECO because its premium will be lower than last year, and revenue protection will likely cover less of the 2025 cost of production.-NAFB

Enhanced Coverage Option for 2025 a better choice

Brian Kuehl, executive director of Farmers for Free Trade, the nation’s leading coalition of American ag and food producers that depend on trade and exports, reacted to the imposition of Section 232 tariffs.

 “Recent history shows that indiscriminate 232 tariffs trigger harsh retaliation against U.S. farmers and food producers,” Kuehl says. “In 2018, targeted countries responded with tariffs on uniquely American agricultural products, everything from soybeans and pork to bourbon.”

 Farmers for Free Trade says when these American products get saddled with onerous tariffs, it directly hurts American farmers, ranchers, and food manufacturers – American businesses that depend on exports to survive. 

“Rather than strengthening American industry, these tariffs make it harder to sell the very products the world wants from us,” Kuehl adds. “If we truly want to grow our economy and support Americans that are producing right here at home, we need to expand exports, not make them a target.”

Brian Kuehl, executive director of Farmers for Free Trade, the nation’s leading coalition of American ag and food producers that depend on trade and exports, reacted to the imposition of Section 232 tariffs. “Recent history shows that indiscriminate 232 tariffs trigger harsh retaliation against U.S. farmers and food producers,” Kuehl says. “In 2018, targeted countries responded with tariffs on uniquely American agricultural products, everything from soybeans and pork to bourbon.” Farmers for Free Trade says when these American products get saddled with onerous tariffs, it directly hurts American farmers, ranchers, and food manufacturers – American businesses that depend on exports to survive. “Rather than strengthening American industry, these tariffs make it harder to sell the very products the world wants from us,” Kuehl adds. “If we truly want to grow our economy and support Americans that are producing right here at home, we need to expand exports, not make them a target.”-NAFB