Skip to content

News & Podcasts

Public sources, reviewed and organized. Editorial interviews live separately.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

How Will Tornado Damage Impact Illinois Crop Yields This Year?

How does a farmer maintain optimism in the face of tornado damage? Thomas Perkins, a farmer in central Illinois, experienced significant challenges this season, including a tornado that affected a 40-acre field. Yet, he...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Thomas Perkins faced tornado damage to a 40-acre field.
  • ▸He raises corn, soybeans, wheat, hay, and cattle in Effingham County.
  • ▸Despite challenges, he maintains a positive outlook for the growing season.
  • ▸The impact of tornadoes on crop yields can be significant.

Why it matters for agriculture → For landowners and operators in Delta farmland, understanding the impact of extreme weather events like tornadoes is crucial. Perkins' story illustrates the importance of resilience and adaptability in farming practices. As weather patterns become more unpredictable, farmers may need to consider strategies for recovery and crop management after such events. This optimism can influence market perceptions and decisions regarding crop insurance and future planting strategies.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Could Crop Prices Rise as Markets Balance This Year?

Could this be the turning point for crop prices? An extension ag economist highlights emerging optimism as farmers navigate tight crop margins. Chad Hart from Iowa State University suggests that corn and soybean usage...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Chad Hart sees reasons for optimism in crop markets.
  • ▸Corn and soybean usage may exceed production later this year.
  • ▸Higher prices could result from this balance in the market.
  • ▸Farmers are currently facing tight crop margins.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, this emerging optimism could signal a more favorable pricing environment for corn and soybeans. As usage potentially exceeds production, farmers may find better opportunities to market their crops. This shift could also influence planting decisions and financial planning for the upcoming seasons, making it crucial to stay informed on market trends.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Could Cereal Rye Chemistry Transform Cover Crop Management?

What if the chemistry of cereal rye could revolutionize cover crop management? University of Wisconsin research is exploring how the allelopathic properties of cereal rye can influence crop development when used in rotations. Preliminary...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Cereal rye's allelopathy can affect crop emergence and growth.
  • ▸Research aims to refine cover crop management strategies.
  • ▸Preliminary results indicate potential challenges with cereal rye.
  • ▸Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing crop rotations.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, this research highlights the importance of understanding cover crop interactions. Effective management of cereal rye could lead to improved soil health and crop yields, which are vital for sustainable farming practices. As agricultural methods evolve, adapting to these findings may provide a competitive edge in crop production.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Will Year-Round E15 Sales Transform the Ethanol Market?

What could happen if the U.S. Senate acts on year-round E15 sales? Iowa's Ag Secretary Mike Naig is advocating for legislation that would allow for nationwide sales of E15 gasoline, emphasizing its potential benefits...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Iowa's Ag Secretary is advocating for year-round E15 sales.
  • ▸Legislation could be part of a farm bill or standalone.
  • ▸E15 sales are expected to boost ethanol demand.
  • ▸This move could enhance market opportunities for farmers.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, the push for year-round E15 sales could mean increased demand for corn, which is a key crop in the region. If successful, this legislation may lead to higher corn prices and improved profitability for farmers. Additionally, it could strengthen the local agricultural economy by supporting ethanol production and related industries. Understanding these developments is crucial for making informed decisions about crop management and market strategies.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

How a Growing Hen Supply is Boosting Egg Production

What happens when the number of laying hens increases? U.S. egg production has surged, with June output reaching 8.899 billion eggs, a 4% increase from the previous year. This growth is primarily driven by...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸U.S. egg production rose to 8.899 billion eggs in June.
  • ▸Production increased by 4% year-over-year.
  • ▸The number of laying hens increased by 5%.
  • ▸Average production per 100 layers decreased by 1%.

Why it matters for agriculture → For landowners and operators in the Delta region, the increase in egg production could signal a growing demand for feed crops used in poultry diets. This trend may influence local agricultural markets, particularly for corn and soybean producers. Additionally, understanding shifts in poultry production can help farmers anticipate changes in land use and crop rotation strategies.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Why Did Bayer Withdraw Its Glyphosate Import Duty Petition?

What happens when a major agricultural player backs down from a key trade petition? Bayer's subsidiary Ruveon has dropped its request for antidumping and countervailing duties on glyphosate imports from China, a decision influenced...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Bayer's Ruveon withdrew its glyphosate import duty petition.
  • ▸Farmers expressed concerns about potential price increases.
  • ▸Input costs for glyphosate could rise significantly without the duties.
  • ▸The decision reflects the impact of farmer feedback on corporate actions.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, Bayer's decision could mean more stable glyphosate prices in the short term, but it also highlights the volatility of input costs. Farmers should remain vigilant about market changes that could affect their operational expenses. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions about crop management and input purchasing.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Why Scouting Fields Now Could Change Your Crop Outcomes

As crops progress, the importance of scouting fields becomes critical for farmers. Agronomist Eric Solberg emphasizes the need for accurate stand and ear counts, especially as corn approaches pollination. This period is vital for...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Scouting is essential for accurate stand and ear counts.
  • ▸Corn is nearing pollination, making timely assessments critical.
  • ▸Farmers can adjust management practices based on scouting results.
  • ▸Accurate data can influence yield predictions and input decisions.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, scouting fields now can provide crucial insights into crop health and yield potential. Accurate assessments can help in making informed decisions about inputs and management practices, ultimately affecting profitability. Understanding the current state of crops allows for timely interventions that can enhance overall productivity in the region.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Why Are Corn Export Inspections Surging This Season?

What’s driving the surge in corn export inspections? Recent data shows that inspections for the week ending July 16th are up compared to last year and are well ahead of the pace needed to...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Corn export inspections are up compared to last year.
  • ▸Inspections are exceeding the pace needed to meet USDA targets.
  • ▸The marketing year ends in August, adding urgency to export activities.
  • ▸Strong demand for U.S. corn is reflected in these inspection numbers.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, the surge in corn export inspections signals a strong demand that could lead to favorable pricing conditions. As the marketing year concludes, understanding these trends can help in making informed decisions about planting and selling. Lenders and investors should also consider how these export dynamics might affect the overall profitability of corn production in the region.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Why Are Farmers Turning to Sorghum This Season?

Could sorghum be the next big crop for U.S. farmers? As input costs rise, many are looking to sorghum for its economic advantages and benefits as a rotation crop. Monty Christian from Texas Tech...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Sorghum is gaining popularity due to lower input costs.
  • ▸It serves as an effective rotation crop, especially for those who have monocropped.
  • ▸Texas Tech University predicts increased sorghum acreage in the U.S.
  • ▸Farmers are seeking sustainable and cost-effective cropping options.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, the rising interest in sorghum could present new opportunities for crop diversification. As input costs continue to challenge profitability, exploring sorghum as a rotation crop may enhance soil health and yield resilience. Lenders and investors should consider the potential for increased sorghum acreage as a sign of shifting agricultural practices in the region.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Could Online Disease Maps Transform Field Scouting for Farmers?

What if farmers could significantly improve their pest management strategies? An agronomist emphasizes the importance of combining traditional field scouting with online disease maps to enhance crop protection. Kurt Maertens from BASF highlights that...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Farmers are encouraged to scout fields for pests regularly.
  • ▸Online disease maps can complement traditional scouting methods.
  • ▸Kurt Maertens emphasizes examining different canopy sections for lesions.
  • ▸Integrating technology can enhance pest management strategies.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland operators, combining field scouting with online disease maps can lead to more effective pest management. This strategy helps in early detection of issues, potentially safeguarding yields and improving crop health. As pest pressures change, adapting to new tools can provide a competitive edge in maintaining productivity.

►
Podcast · AgriTalk · Jul 20, 2026✓ transcribed

What’s Driving Recent Gains in Corn and Soybean Futures?

Could the recent weather patterns and export sales be the key to rising grain prices? This episode highlights how rain in parts of the Midwest has not dampened corn and soybean futures, which are...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Corn and soybean futures are rising due to supportive weather forecasts.
  • ▸USDA reported significant soybean sales to China, boosting market confidence.
  • ▸Cattle futures are rebounding after a prolonged decline, indicating market recovery.
  • ▸Wheat futures are retracing recent gains, showing mixed signals in the grain market.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, the rising prices of corn and soybeans could signal a profitable marketing opportunity. Understanding the dynamics of export sales and weather impacts can help landowners and operators make informed decisions. Additionally, the recovery in cattle prices may provide a boost to livestock producers in the region. Staying aware of these trends is crucial for optimizing production strategies and financial planning.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 20, 2026

Could John Deere's New Ethanol Tractor Boost U.S. Corn Demand?

What if a new tractor could change the corn market? John Deere's prototype E98 tractor, powered by pure ethanol, is designed to eliminate the need for diesel exhaust fluid, potentially creating new demand for...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸John Deere's E98 tractor is a prototype fueled by E98 ethanol.
  • ▸The tractor aims to eliminate diesel exhaust fluid requirements.
  • ▸Increased ethanol usage could lead to higher corn demand.
  • ▸This innovation may influence farmers' fuel choices and crop production strategies.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, the introduction of ethanol-powered machinery like John Deere's E98 tractor could mean a shift in crop demand dynamics. If more farmers adopt ethanol solutions, it could lead to increased corn production in the region, potentially affecting land values and crop rotation strategies. Investors and lenders should watch how this technology impacts the corn market and overall agricultural sustainability efforts.

Free farmland newsletter

Get the U.S. agriculture digest

Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Agriculture across the United States: interviews, the reviewed feed, and new farmland listings.

USFarms.ag organizes and summarizes public farmland, agriculture, and commodity-related information. Summaries may contain errors and should not be treated as financial, legal, agronomic, or real estate advice. Sensitive land-sale, rent, ownership, and parcel-specific information is intentionally excluded.