Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - December 2025

DEVELOPMENTS

Dairy Farmers of America commended the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate for passing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. The legislation restores whole and reduced-fat milk as options on school menus. “Common sense has prevailed with Congress and the Senate recognizing the importance of giving kids access to more complete nutrient-rich and delicious beverage options that support growth and overall health," said Dennis Rodenbaugh, DFA's President and CEO. "This legislation is a win for children's health and for America's dairy farm families who work tirelessly to produce wholesome, high-quality and delicious milk. We're proud to see whole milk back on school menus, where it belongs."

President Donald Trump announced a $12 billion farm aid package on December 8 – a boost to farmers who have struggled to sell their crops while getting hit by rising costs after the president raised tariffs on China as part of a broader trade war. He unveiled the plan Monday afternoon at a White House roundtable with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, lawmakers and farmers who raise cattle and grow corn, cotton, sorghum, soybeans, rice, wheat, and potatoes. “$12 billion is a lot of money,” President Trump said, adding that the additional aid will help provide certainty for farmers. The money is coming from tariff revenue, he said. Secretary Rollins said that $11 billion is being announced on Monday, while another $1 billion is being held back for specialty crops.  Source: Associated Press, December 8, 2025.

China is on pace to meet its pledge to buy 12 million tons of U.S. soybeans by the end of February, said U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent earlier this month—but the announcement appeared to extend an earlier deadline for Beijing’s purchases. The Trump administration has said that China had agreed to buy the shipments during the last two months of 2025. “China is on track to keep every part of the deal, every part of the deal,” Bessent told the New York Times event and as reported by Bloomberg. Asked about the pace of soy purchases and the time left before the end of the year, he clarified that the target was “the end of the season, so I think that’ll be Feb. 28.” Source: Pro Farmer, December, 2025.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture partnered with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture to host a beef cattle genetics trade team from Mexico for a multi-state inbound trade mission in mid-November. A delegation of seven Mexican cattle producers traveled through New Mexico and Kansas to strengthen commercial ties and explore the importation of U.S. beef cattle genetics. The mission was made possible through KDA’s membership in U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc., with funding from the USDA Market Access Program. For more information, contact KDA international trade director Katheryn Wessel at Katheryn.Wessel@ks.gov or 785-564-7466.

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service has begun gathering information about farm economics from farmers and ranchers throughout the United States, as the agency conducts the third and final phase of the 2025 Agricultural Resource Management Survey. To obtain the most accurate data, NASS is reaching out to nearly 40,000 producers nationwide. The 2025 ARMS survey includes a version of the questionnaire focused on farm costs of production and expenditures for cotton, hogs and broiler producers. “The data will help inform decisions on local and federal policies and programs that affect farms and farm families,” said Agricultural Statistics Board Chair Lance Honig. The expense data gathered in ARMS will be published in the annual Farm Production Expenditures report on July 24, 2026. That report and others are available at nass.usda.gov/publications.

Missouri Department of Agriculture announced that 19 projects will receive funding through the Food Insecure Cost-Share Grant Program. The competitive grant program will provide up to $50,000 per project to address food insecurity for 13 projects in urban areas, and six projects in rural areas. “Food insecurity is a problem for thousands of people across Missouri,” said Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. “The issue is not exclusive to urban or rural citizens, but rather a challenge in all areas of our state. I appreciate these groups for standing in the gap to meet the needs of our most vulnerable citizens.” Grant funds may be used to increase food production and availability within urban and rural areas; demonstrate growth of local economic communities; increase local economic impact; increase availability of food to local residents; or enhance already established areas within a community and provide assistance to the community.

Pearson Fuels, based in San Diego, recently announced the opening of its 450th E85 ethanol station in California. The Kansas Corn Commission works with corn checkoffs in Missouri, Nebraska and Iowa to help Pearson Fuels build infrastructure to offer the E85.  “The Kansas Corn Commission is part of a coalition that supports the efforts of Pearson Fuels to build ethanol demand, and it is paying off for Kansas corn and ethanol producers,” said Kansas Corn CEO Josh Roe. “Over a third of Kansas ethanol is sold to California. One Pearson Fuels station that we have visited sells 90,000 gallons of E85 per month – that’s over a million gallons of ethanol per year – equal to 2,900 acres of Kansas corn production. That station is one of 450 that are creating significant demand for corn and ethanol.”

Collaboration across state lines is helping strengthen the U.S. beef industry as organizations navigate higher costs, workforce changes and evolving consumer expectations, according to Dave Maples, executive director of the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, and Kansas State University’s beef cattle experts. One example of that cooperation is a joint effort between Kansas and Kentucky to share a nutritionist who works with the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association team. Maples said that at Kentucky’s Eden Shale Farm, the team has been able to provide hands-on learning experiences for their nutritionist, allowing her to better connect with producers while working cattle and understanding their operations firsthand.  K-State veterinarian Scott Fritz highlighted the role of social media in that effort, noting that younger generations increasingly turn to online platforms to learn about farming and ranching. “That’s an opportunity for producers to show what they do,” he said. Source: Chevy-Lynn Vaske, K-State Extension News Service.

U.S. farmer sentiment reached its highest level since June, according to the November Purdue University–CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The index climbed to 139, up 10 points from October. The increase was driven largely by a 15-point jump in the Future Expectations Index, which climbed to 144. The rise was attributed to higher crop prices and improved export prospects. Producer optimism about their farm's financial performance also increased. That index rose to 92, up 14 points from October. Optimism outweighed growing pessimism among livestock producers, who saw cattle prices fall over the past month. But sentiment about current conditions and investment slipped. The Current Conditions Index fell 2 points to 128, and the Farm Capital Investment Index dropped 6 points to 56. The survey also asked producers about their outlook on trade. Only 7% said they expect U.S. agricultural exports to weaken in the next five years, down nearly 23% from March and 7% from October. When asked whether farmers would likely receive compensation similar to the 2019 Market Facilitation Program, 60% said it was likely. Of those respondents, 58% said they would use the payments to pay down debt. The barometer is based on survey results gathered Nov. 10–14.

The House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a hearing on the Abuse of the Equal Access to Justice Act earlier this month. Todd Wilkinson, South Dakota cattle producer and NCBA past president, testified on the rampant EAJA abuse by environmental groups that have become repeat litigants as soon as Congress discontinued reporting requirements in 1995. “EAJA was created with the best intentions,” said Wilkinson, “to allow Americans to challenge government actions without facing crushing legal costs. Unfortunately, like so many well-intentioned programs, it became vulnerable to abuse when oversight faded.” In 2013, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce found that 71 sue-and-settle cases resulted in more than 100 new regulations and more than $100 million in new annual compliance costs for federal agencies. Since that time, costs have continued to stack up, straining already tight budgets and greatly reducing government efficiency. Source: Kansas Livestock Association.

PEOPLE

Seth Meyer, USDA's chief economist for nearly five years, will lead the University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute effective Jan. 1. He will succeed Pat Westhoff, who has held the position since 2011 and is retiring March 1, the university said in a statement Tuesday. Prior to Meyerʼs appointment as the USDA's top economist, he served as associate director for FAPRI and also headed USDAʼs World Agricultural Outlook Board, a key office in assessing supply and demand for domestic and global crops.

The United Soybean Board, St. Charles, Missouri, elected Brent Gatton from Bremen, Kentucky as the new chair during the organization’s December board meeting in St. Charles. In the coming year, he will focus on increasing communication and education efforts to strengthen the reputation of U.S. Soy with customers, amplify checkoff investments to inform U.S. soybean farmers, and enhance partnerships with 30+ state soybean boards on research, outreach and demand generation. “Farmers have weathered a year marked by real economic uncertainty, and I’m privileged to step into this role at such a pivotal moment,” said Gatton. “I’m focused on pushing forward investments that move volume while also promoting our sustainability to keep U.S. soybean farmers competitive in the global marketplace.”

Agriculture Future of America selected 12 college students from across the country to serve on the 2026 Student Advisory Team. They are dedicating a year to supporting their peers, creating safe environments and empowering industry growth to ensure AFA continues developing the kind of talent agriculture needs to thrive. “Serving as an SAT member will allow me to expose other college students to the valuable connections and experiences that AFA has to offer,” said Adrianna Meyer, an Agricultural and Extension Education major at The Ohio State University. “For me, this role is all about getting others excited to be a part of the agriculture industry and community.” Michael Curry, AFA Program Manager, Student Leaders and Selection, said, "These students represent the very best in food and agriculture. They were selected because they consistently demonstrate character, curiosity and a servant-leader mindset.” For more information about AFA, visit agfuture.org. Source: Savannah Nichols, Marketing Specialist, AFA

EVENTS

The Kansas Corn and Soybean Agronomy Series is coming in January to Hiawatha, Newton, Iola and Dodge City, sponsored by Kansas Soybean and Kansas Corn. With input from growers, the traditional corn and soybean schools have been retooled into a fresh, fast-paced agronomy series designed to prepare growers to meet today’s challenges and opportunities. Each session of the Kansas Corn and Soybean Agronomy Series features a powerful lineup with top private sector and university experts who will share insights on managing crop diseases, fertility management, herbicide strategies, markets, crop insurance and ag programs. “Using input from growers, we focused on putting together the best lineup of industry and university experts to cover a variety of topics that can help farmers have a successful growing season in 2026,” according to Connie Fischer, Kansas Corn Vice President of Market Development and Grower Services. These sessions are offered at no cost to growers and begin with registration at 8:30 a.m. with morning refreshments, and a hot lunch. Sessions begin at 9 a.m. and will wrap up mid-afternoon. Certified Crop Advisor and Commercial Pesticide Applicator credits will be available. More information is available at https://kscorn.com/agronomyseries/.

Ag Industry Influences Missouri Governor’s Policy

Addressing the Agricultural Business Council at its annual meeting this month, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe explained that agriculture is a cornerstone of his administration’s approach to political and business policymaking. He admitted that it seems an unusual position for a politician who grew up in St. Louis and who was not raised with deep roots in farming or ranching—he proudly proclaims he is a “first-generation farmer” in a state that ranks as one of the world’s major hubs of agriculture education, research, innovation, and output. He quipped that foreign farmers, agribusinesses, academics, researchers and foreign trade officials “don’t know where Missouri is, but they know what Missouri does.”

Gov. Kehoe was first attracted to agriculture when he took an after-school job on a farm at age 15. “I thought, this is the world I want to be from, and I quickly transitioned from being a city dweller to eventually acquiring my first farm when I was 19, and then my first set of cattle when I was 21.” Agricultural life and labor teaches a lot about business, he said. From his time on the farm he learned that when something inevitably goes wrong with equipment, such as a flat tire, a busted hydraulic hose, or a dead battery, there’s no time to delay responding to it. “That’s what has helped me so much in small business – you don’t just lay around and cry about the problem. You find a solution and implement it, because that’s what agriculture does.”

The governor itemized some of the economic challenges farmers face, but suggested Missouri’s agricultural future would be healthier if new markets could be opened. Producers of corn and soybeans especially have been hurt by surging input costs, while market prices for these two row crops have remained low.

Kehoe indicated Missouri state lawmakers would not be initiating major aid programs. But he said there are things that can be done to get government “out of the way” of family farmers. Government aid programs, he added, have been helpful. “But farmers and ranchers prefer trade before aid.”

Down the Road

Gov. Kehoe is wary that Missouri’s agricultural industry could age out of its current prominence. “Agriculture is who we are, who we’re always going to be,” he said, “but the industry needs to be invested in for the future.” The average age of farmers in the state is near 60. “We’ve got to get more urban, younger people involved in the agricultural labor and career market.” He is optimistic, however. The governor observed that when young people visit his farm “it’s like me when I was 15 – they are just incredibly enamored that there’s a place that has cattle.”

American Royal Announces 2026 Spring Event Lineup

The American Royal is kicking off 2026 with a full slate of events celebrating agriculture, barbecue, youth education, and community—from Royal Roundup and Backyard BBQ to youth livestock shows and hands-on Girl Scout programs.

Royal Roundup-February 25, 2026

Join us on February 25 for Royal Roundup, as we launch the 2026 season of events with an evening of fun and celebration. We have an incredible lineup of activities for the evening, including recognition of the invaluable contributions of our dedicated volunteers, an update on the new American Royal campus in Kansas City, Kansas, and hosting our annual meeting, where we’ll reflect on our achievements and set the course for the year ahead.

RSVP Here: Royal Roundup | American Royal

Backyard BBQ-March 20-21, 2026

If you are new to BBQ contests, the American Royal Backyard BBQ & Steak Cook-Off is for you and will once again be held in the West Bottoms. A Backyard Series contest is an inexpensive and fun way to get started with a barbecue contest. Come on out, join the fun and test your skills! The Backyard BBQ and Steak Cook-Off are two separate contests and teams are allowed to enter either one or both as long as you meet the KCBS definition of a Backyard Cook Team.

More Details Here: Backyard BBQ & Steak Cook-Off | American Royal

Girl Scouts "Learn to 'Que" Event-March 20, 2026

Come to the American Royal to learn from barbecue experts about the basics of the ‘que! Girl Scouts can expect to learn about the basics of competition barbecue, what makes great sauces and rubs, and food safety.

Register Here: Affiliate Programs | American Royal

Spring Livestock Show-March 26-29, 2026

The American Royal celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2024 and added a Spring Youth Livestock Show. With the American Royal being deeply committed to inspiring and developing talent for food and agriculture, we are excited to bring this back in 2026. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity where youth exhibitors are celebrated, and champions are crowned.

We will be hosting an educational Livestock Judging Clinic and Girl Scout "Buddies at the Barn" event alongside our Spring Livestock Show for youth to learn and gain further exposure to the livestock industry!

Spring Show & Livestock Judging Details Here: Spring Livestock Show | American Royal

Girl Scout "Buddies at the Barn"-March 27, 2026

Come to the American Royal to witness our Spring Livestock Show! Girl Scouts will hear from individuals who work with animals on a daily basis and learn about what it takes to care for and show cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats.

Kristie Larson and Matt Teagarden Elected to Lead Council

(Left - Kristie Larson, Right - Matt Teagarden)

KANSAS CITY, MO--   At its annual meeting on December 11, The Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City elevated former Vice Chair Kristie Larson, of The DeBruce Foundation, to serve as Chair of the Council. Larson succeeds Ron Seeber, of the Kansas Grain and Feed Association, who was term-limited.

The membership tapped Matt Teagarden, CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association, to serve as Vice Chair alongside Larson.

Council staff members Erica Venancio and Zach Helder were elevated to officer positions. Venancio, a Council staff leader of nearly two decades, has been elected President. Helder, an agricultural policy expert and former Congressional staff member, was elected Vice President.

In addition, several regional and national agricultural leaders were newly elected to the Council Board of Directors:

• Joel Leftwich, Kansas Farm Bureau

• Russell Plaschka, Kansas Cooperative Council

• Joey Peck, Northstar Wealth Navigation; and

• TaylorAnn Washburn, Missouri Farm Bureau

The Council’s new leadership reflects the organization’s tradition as a forum of senior leaders across agriculture, bringing diverse interests together to promote the industry, set a civic agenda, and advise regional officials and business leaders on agricultural issues.

Larson has served on the Council Board of Directors since 2020, and was elected Vice Chair in December 2023. She is the Strategic Relationship Manager at The DeBruce Foundation, and earlier served nearly a decade as Director of Education at the American Royal Association. She holds a B.S. in Agriculture Education from the University of Missouri.

Teagarden has served on the Board since 2019, and has served as CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association since 2015. He has served in successive roles for KLA for nearly 25 years, first joining the staff in 1999. Teagarden holds a degree in agricultural economics from Kansas State University.

The Agricultural Business Council represents over 700 members from the food and agribusiness sector. Agribusiness remains a cornerstone of the Kansas City region, driving 8% of the local workforce and 22% of the gross regional product (GRP).

For more information visit AgBizKC.Com or email zach.helder@agbizkc.com

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Celebrate Local This Season: Holiday Gift Options from From the Land of Kansas and the Missouri Grown Program

As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to share the flavors, craftsmanship, and stories of our region’s farmers, ranchers, and food entrepreneurs. Two statewide programs—From the Land of Kansas, a program of the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and Missouri Grown, a program of the Missouri Department of Agriculture—offer curated gift boxes and locally made products that make holiday giving both meaningful and delicious.

Whether you call Kansas or Missouri home, these programs showcase the incredible diversity of Midwestern agriculture and make it easier than ever to support local producers.

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From the Land of Kansas: 2025 Holiday Gift Boxes Now Available

Holiday gift boxes are now available to order for the 2025 holiday season. The holiday gift boxes contain an assortment of products grown, raised or produced in Kansas. Kansans can have a box shipped directly to their recipient with a handwritten note.

There are two boxes to choose from:

Konza Box: Mild and Sassy Dry Rub (from Spice It Up in Bonner Springs); Steak Cover Seasoning (from Yucca Flats Cattle Co. in Burdett); Medium Garden Salsa (from Holmes Made Salsa in Wichita); Pork Snack Stick in Maple Bacon Flavor (from The Gingham Pig in Neodesha); and Winter Jam (from King Bee in Kansas City).

Ad Astra Box: Beer Bread Mix (from Bruce’s Bullseye Farms in Leon); Travis’s Steak Rub (from Smokehouse Seven in Solomon); Freeze-Dried Basil Salt (from Mammoth Mouth in LaCygne); Honey (from AJ Honey Farms in Salina); Red Wine Chocolate Sauce (from Cocoavino in Kansas City); Caramel Popcorn (from Schlaegel’s Popcorn in Whiting); and Kenzee’s Everything Sauce (from MKC Kitchen LLC in Bazine).

“These holiday gift boxes are a great gift for anyone who loves Kansas. It’s a way to give back to Kansas ag businesses while making gift-giving simple and personalized,” said Robin Dolby, marketing coordinator for the program.

Gift boxes can be ordered online at shop.FromtheLandofKansas.com. Orders for guaranteed Christmas delivery must be placed by December 4, and large orders (10+) should be coordinated directly with the program (fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov).

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Missouri Grown: Showcasing the Best of Missouri Agriculture

On the other side of the state line, the Missouri Grown program connects consumers directly with Missouri-made products and the people behind them.

Missouri Grown members represent the full spectrum of Missouri agriculture, including produce and specialty crop farms, cattle and livestock operations, wineries, distilleries, and value-added food makers, agritourism destinations, and local artisans rooted in agricultural products.

This year’s Missouri Grown Holiday Box sold out quickly—proof of the strong demand for local, Missouri-made goods. The box featured a curated lineup of treats from Missouri producers. For more information on Missouri Grown products visit MissouriGrownUSA.com. Even though the holiday box is currently out of stock, the website makes it easy to browse member products and build your own Missouri-made holiday assortment.

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - November 2025

DEVELOPMENTS

At the 2025 Agriculture Future of America Leaders Conference, 850 student leaders “showed up ready to grow.” Drawn from 108 universities and selected from a record-setting applicant pool, these students demonstrated the rising demand for professional growth opportunities. With 421 industry leaders present, it’s clear the agriculture industry is committed to investing in the next generation of leadership. The conference’s four-track structure supported students at every stage of their collegiate journey. Students dug into leader development, career readiness, financial literacy and cultural competence. The cohort itself reflects the diversity needed to sustain the future of agriculture with 71% women, 15% underrepresented minority students and 209 first-generation college students. 

“Students don’t just learn about the industry and the myriad of meaningful careers. They develop skills and key relationships that will help them thrive in the future,” said Mark Stewart, president and CEO of AFA. “Students have the opportunity to connect with mentors, secure internships and gain confidence in who they want to become.” 

Throughout the three-day event, industry professionals joined roundtables, networking socials and keynote sessions that intentionally paired students and employers whose values and career goals align. The Opportunity Fair brought together 80 employers spanning the full breadth of agriculture – technology, animal systems, food and nutrition, crop sciences, finance, policy and beyond. Employers collected resumes and hired talent on the spot, filling internships and launching students into their first careers. 

Earlier this month Secretary Brooke L. Rollins led a USDA agribusiness trade mission to Mexico, in which 41 U.S. businesses, 33 cooperators and agriculture advocacy groups, six state departments of agriculture, and 150 participants conducted more than 500 business-to-business meetings over three days. The mission focused on trade ties with Mexico and bilateral cooperation on New World Screwworm (NWS). “The trading and diplomatic relationship between our two countries is of the utmost importance,” Sec. Rollins said.  “I thank President Claudia Sheinbaum for welcoming me to the Presidential Palace where we had a productive and positive conversation about how we will continue to work closely together to eradicate the NWS which is negatively impacting both our economies.”

USDA’s Farm Service Agency is delivering more than $16 billion in assistance via the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP). This assistance follows $9.3 billion in Emergency Commodity Assistance Program assistance to over 560,000 row crop farmers and over $705 million in Emergency Livestock Relief Program assistance to over 220,000 ranchers. Stage Two of SDRP covers eligible crop, tree, bush and vine losses that were not covered under Stage One program provisions.

Although the U.S. meat industry faces significant obstacles in the international marketplace, demand for quality and safety continue to drive exports of U.S. pork, beef and lamb. This was the prevailing message delivered by U.S. Meat Export Federation president and CEO Dan Halstrom at its recent Strategic Planning Conference in Indianapolis. He noted that pork exports are modestly below last year’s record pace, but the gap stems mostly from a period early this year when China’s retaliatory tariffs escalated and the U.S. industry faced uncertainty about plant eligibility. Beef exports have been hit harder by barriers in China, where U.S. beef faces retaliatory tariffs. Halstrom emphasized that fully reopening the world’s largest beef import market to U.S. beef will require several actions on China’s part, and the lockout could extend into next year. Keynote speaker Jan Lambregts, head of RaboResearch Global Economics & Markets, offered a broad overview of the global economic situation and how it has been impacted by various economic policies embraced by the United States, China, the European Union and Russia. “I’m not quite sure if you will like this news, but I don’t think there will be a comprehensive deal coming soon between China and the United States,” Lambregts said. “What the U.S. is demanding is access to Chinese markets. What China will never give is access to the Chinese market because that’s not how they’ve been winning in trade during the past 30-40 years.”

Turkey prices are low ahead of Thanksgiving, but may later be affected by a decline in supply compared to prior years, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. David Anderson, Ph.D., economist and professor in the Texas A&M Department of Agricultural Economics, Bryan-College Station, said prices on whole birds typical for table centerpieces during the holidays have been below the five-year average. The wholesale price for 8-16-pound hens was 99 cents per pound the week of Oct. 19, compared to $1.12 per pound last year and the five-year average of $1.22 per pound. “Prices are good for consumers, but they’re bad for producers,” he said. “Last year started off strong for producers, but prices bottomed out after Thanksgiving and they haven’t recovered.” Anderson said dismal prices for producers who continue to deal with higher input and labor costs contributed to a drop in production. Avian influenza and an emerging issue with avian metapneumovirus also continue to impact turkey and other poultry.

National Corn Growers Association has called on the EPA to reallocate 100% of its waivers for small refineries through a supplemental rule-making process. “A strong, transparent, and balanced Renewable Fuel Standard remains a cornerstone of America’s agricultural and energy success,” said NCGA CEO Neil Caskey. Under the RFS, enacted in 2005, EPA sets the renewable volume obligations each year, specifying the amount of renewable fuel that refiners and importers of petroleum products must blend into the nation’s fuel supply. EPA has the authority to issue Small Refinery Exemptions to refiners that can demonstrate “disproportionate economic harm” from compliance. NCGA has long argued that a dependable RFS is critical to unlocking America’s domestic energy potential, promoting ethanol growth and driving corn demand. The group has also discouraged the overuse of exemptions.

Lenexa, Kansas-based Pinion, a national leader in food and ag accounting, advisory, and consulting services, announced that Gifford & Cox, a certified public accounting firm serving clients across the Great Plains, will join the firm. This step strengthens Pinion’s presence in Nebraska, the Dakotas, Colorado, and Kansas, further enhancing its ability to serve agricultural producers and businesses throughout the region. “Gifford & Cox has built trusted relationships and a strong reputation for serving ag producers and rural businesses across the Plains,” says Jeff Wald, CEO of Pinion. “By bringing our teams together, we’re able to offer a deeper bench of expertise and a greater regional reach — connecting clients to more specialized advisors and insights to help them plan strategically and grow sustainably.”

Kansas Livestock Association staff recently participated in the “Secure America’s Workforce” fly-in hosted by the American Business Immigration Coalition, a bipartisan group of more than 1,700 employers and chief executive officers seeking lasting immigration solutions. Nearly 200 participants descended on Washington, DC, to share the critical workforce issues faced by agriculture, hospitality, healthcare and construction. Visits were made to more than 200 congressional offices, including all six members of the Kansas delegation. KLA staff also met with Senator John Boozman, chairman of the Senate Ag Committee, and senior staff of the House Ag Committee. The status of the current workforce and the need to reform the guest-worker program to meet the year-round requirements of livestock producers were emphasized during discussions.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is expanding the reach of its Farm State of Mind initiative to a broader coalition of food and farming sector partners by joining forces with the Farm Family Wellness Alliance to launch the Farm State of Mind Alliance.  “This is a critical time for mental health in rural America. Farmers and ranchers are facing economic uncertainty, the likes of which we haven’t seen in a generation,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “I’ve heard firsthand from Farm Bureau members how our Farm State of Mind resources are changing lives in rural communities. I’m so proud to broaden our coalition and bring even more organizations alongside us to share the message that it’s okay not to be okay.”

Farmers’ Almanac has announced its 2026 edition will be its last, citing the growing financial challenges of producing and distributing the book in today’s “chaotic media environment.” Access to the online version will cease next month. The Maine-based publication, not to be confused with the even older Old Farmer’s Almanac in neighboring New Hampshire, was first printed in 1818. For centuries it used a unique methodology for charting sunspots, planetary positions and lunar cycles to generate long-range weather forecasts. The almanac also contained gardening tips, trivia, jokes and natural remedies. But its weather forecasts make the most headlines. In 2017, when Farmers’ Almanac reported a circulation of 2.1 million in North America, its publisher and editors said it was gaining new readers among people interested in where their food came from. Many of these readers lived in cities, prompting the publication to feature skyscrapers as well as an old farmhouse on its cover.

Feral hogs continue to be a scourge on U.S. agriculture, causing an estimated $1.6 billion per year in damage, which includes damage to property and crops as well as predation and diseases inflicted on domestic livestock. It has been estimated that feral hogs inflict about $85 million in losses per year in livestock through predation, disease, veterinary costs and medical treatments. These figures are courtesy of an economic assessment using data released earlier this year from the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program and the National Wildlife Research Center. Those figures could grow if the population of feral hogs, which are now found in more than 30 states, increases. Feral hogs are known to have reproductive rates that allow populations to double in just four months.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced a proposed rule defining “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The proposal follows the Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA. Key proposed revisions include these

• Defining key terms like “relatively permanent,” “continuous surface connection,” and “tributary” to appropriately delineate the scope of WOTUS consistent with the Clean Water Act and Supreme Court precedent.

• Establishing that jurisdictional tributaries must connect to traditional navigable waters either directly or through other features that provide predictable and consistent flow.

• Reaffirming that wetlands must be indistinguishable from jurisdictional waters through a continuous surface connection, which means that they must touch a jurisdictional water and hold surface water for a requisite duration year after year.

• Strengthening state and tribal decision-making authority by providing clear regulatory guidelines while recognizing their expertise in local land and water resources.

• Preserving and clarifying exclusions for certain ditches, prior converted cropland, and waste treatment systems; Adding a new exclusion for groundwater.

• Incorporating locally familiar terminology, such as “wet season,” to help determine whether a water body qualifies as WOTUS.

• In addition, the limitation to wetlands that have surface water at least during the wet season and abut a jurisdictional water will further limit the scope of permafrost wetlands that are considered to have a continuous surface connection under the proposed rule.

These proposed changes are intended to provide clarity and consistency to the continuous surface connection definition. When finalized, Zeldin says the rule will cut red tape and provide predictability, consistency, and clarity for American industry, energy producers, the technology sector, farmers, ranchers, developers, businesses, and landowners for permitting under the Clean Water Act.  “We are pleased that the new rule protects critical water sources while respecting the efforts of farmers to protect the natural resources they’ve been entrusted with,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “The Supreme Court clearly ruled several years ago that the government overreached in its interpretation of what fell under federal guidelines. We are still reviewing the entire rule, but we are pleased that it finally addresses those concerns and takes steps to provide much-needed clarity.”

Dairy Farmers of America’s Cares Foundation Scholarship Program, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit program run by a farmer-leader board of directors, is accepting applications from students interested in career opportunities in the dairy industry. The industry needs accountants, scientists, engineers, computer technicians, market analysts, writers and so many more professionals to ensure families down the road and around the world are nourished with the goodness of dairy, notes DFA. Since its inception 15 years ago, the DFA Cares Foundation Scholarship Program has grown to honor an increasing number of outstanding students who have an interest in the food and agriculture industries. In 2025, DFA Cares awarded $86,000 to 67 students, helping pre-college, undergraduate and graduate students continue their education. Applications are due Friday, January 9, 2026. More information is available on the DFA website.

PEOPLE

Missouri Soybeans has promoted Brady Lichtenberg to associate director of conservation agronomy. In this role, Lichtenberg will lead efforts at the intersection of conservation and agronomic innovation, helping Missouri farmers adopt practices that increase productivity while improving soil, water and wildlife health. As associate director, he will collaborate with Missouri Soybeans’ research and conservation teams to expand field-level impact through grower outreach, research trials and regenerative systems demonstrations at the Farm for Soy Innovation in Columbia. “Brady has shown a deep commitment to Missouri farmers and the sustainability of our working lands,” said Blake Barlow, Missouri Soybeans’ director of research and agronomy. “His expertise and passion for production agriculture make him a natural fit to lead in this role.”

Lynn Henderson, owner of Henderson Communications LLC and publisher of the AgriMarketing magazine, was awarded the Iowa State University Alumni Association Floyd Andre Award for his support of the new agricultural communication major. More than a decade ago, Henderson worked closely with Iowa State University’s Department of Agricultural Education and Studies by coordinating meetings, rallying support and keeping stakeholders informed throughout the process. The major was first offered in fall 2023. Henderson is a journalism alumnus from the university and was active in the FarmHouse fraternity as a student.

EPA Region 7 Administrator Jim Macy presented a President’s Environmental Youth Award to high school student Archer Grier for his 2024 sustainable fish-breeding project at Cedar Lake in Olathe. The award ceremony was held at EPA’s regional office in Lenexa. Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks fisheries biologist Zach Ramsay, who sponsored the winning project, joined the presentation. “Archer’s successful project showed dedication to improving his local environment through science, innovation, and teamwork — and that’s an accomplishment worth celebrating,” said Macy. “President’s Environmental Youth Award winners are role models and problem solvers that lead the way for youth stewardship of our land. I am proud to present this national award to Archer. Congratulations on a job well-done!”

Several members of the Kansas Corn Growers Association, Kansas Corn Commission and Kansas Corn staff were selected to serve on the National Corn Grower Association CGA action teams. The action teams actively shape the future of the association by guiding its programs and carrying out the policies and priorities that drive the association. These Kansas leaders serving on NCGA action teams and committees are:

• Research and New Uses Action Team
  Chad Epler, Action Team Chair, Kansas Corn Commissioner; Connie Fischer, Kansas Corn, State Staff

• Production & Sustainability Action Team
  Tanner McNinch, Action Team Vice Chair, KCGA board member

• Risk Management Action Team
  Brent Rogers, KCGA board member; Taylor Williamson, Kansas Corn, State Staff

• Biofuels Action Team
  Brett Grauerholz, KCGA Secretary

• Communication and Education Action Team
  Kylee Geffert, KCGA board member

• CornPAC Committee
  Brett Grauerholz; Brent Rogers

• Resolutions Committee
  Tanner McNinch

Established in 1975, the Kansas Corn Growers Association is celebrating 50 years of advocacy representing its members in legislative and regulatory issues and promoting Kansas corn and its products. The Kansas Corn Commission invests corn checkoff dollars in the areas of market development, education, research and promotion to build demand, profitability and awareness of corn. Visit kscorn.com for more information.

The Missouri 4-H team from Clinton County made its mark at the 2025 American Royal 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in October. The Clinton County 4-H’ers included Shanna Aughdinbaugh, Cass Kleeman, Reagan Rodgers and Dylan Swindler. They were coached by Cody Sloan and Shane Bedwell. The team competed against individuals from 19 states, placing seventh in the overall standings. The highlight of the team’s performance came when Cass Kleeman and Reagan Rodgers were named High and Reserve High Individuals overall. “The awards were a culmination for the hard work and determination they put in through the summer and fall,” said Kelsey Fuller, University of Missouri Extension state 4-H agriculture educator. The Clinton County team placed second at the State Livestock Judging Contest in June, which qualified them to compete on the national level. This team also competed at the Aksarben Livestock Judging Contest in September and placed second.

EVENTS

Kansas Farm Bureau will hold its 107th annual meeting December 6-8 in Manhattan. “I’m excited we will be gathering soon to conduct the work of the state’s largest general farm organization,” says Joe Newland, president of Kansas Farm Bureau. “I always look forward to once again celebrating with our members, county Farm Bureaus and friends from across the state.” The organization’s annual meeting will begin Saturday evening with KFB’s Foundation for Agriculture Fundraiser. On Sunday, informational workshops, tradeshow vendors and a silent auction will be open to attendees. Workshop topics include water, energy, succession planning, mental health and more. Zippy Duvall, American Farm Bureau Federation president and Georgia farmer, will deliver the keynote address about federal issues and the importance of grassroots leadership. More information is available on the KFB website.

FarmCon is gearing up for its 2026 annual conference, January 7-8, 2026, at Loews Kansas City Hotel. FarmCon 2026 will include exclusive content, deeper investor connections, and a high-voltage atmosphere where ag innovation meets capital empowerment. More than 1,200 farmers, leading ag entrepreneurs, investors and legacy industry titans are expected. “FarmCon is fueled by relentless optimism that the best days of American agriculture aren’t behind us, they’re just beginning,” said Kevin Van Trump, the curator and host of FarmCon. "Ultimately, the benefactors from the activity created at FarmCon are American farmers." Van Trump, also Founder & CEO of Farm Direction, author of The Van Trump Report, angel investor, and host of the Highly Volatile podcast, said this year’s event will ignite conversations and the flow of investment capital across agriculture. For more information contact Kennedy@agswag.com.

At AFA Breakfast, Chevron Biofuels Leader Provides Industry Outlook

At a breakfast hosted by the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City during the AFA Leaders Conference, Paul Nees, Global Book Lead for Renewables and Carbon at Chevron, offered a sober but forward-looking assessment of the biofuels landscape. Speaking to an audience of producers, agribusiness executives and students, Nees framed the renewable fuels industry as one navigating “different cycles”—a sector caught between ambitious decarbonization goals and a tightening policy environment. The forces shaping the market, he said, now extend beyond federal mandates, driven increasingly by private-sector emissions commitments, volatile agricultural commodity prices, and global energy market shifts.

Yet those forces are colliding with what Nees described as unusually strong headwinds. The 2026 and 2027 Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) remain under review, and though the proposed numbers are promising, they are not final. Compounding the uncertainty is the unresolved status of small refinery exemption policy—long a flash point within the industry—leaving stakeholders unsure how much obligated demand will ultimately materialize.

Nees illustrated how the industry’s own successes have contributed to the turbulence. High margins in recent years triggered a wave of production capacity expansions and plant construction, intensifying competition for feedstocks and compressing profitability. New federal tax incentives—including the blender’s tax credit (BTC) and Section 45Z for sustainable aviation fuel—were once expected to stabilize the market, but recent changes to the programs under the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) have altered the calculus. Domestic-feedstock requirements and other technical adjustments have shifted the relative value of different fuels and, in some cases, stranded investments premised on earlier interpretations.

A critical variable for the sector’s long-term health is feedstock growth. Expanded cultivation of winter canola, camelina, and CoverCress offers meaningful promise, he said, but the industry faces practical challenges: each oilseed requires a different crush process, complicating the scaling of supply to match rising production capacity.

Still, Nees argued that the core trajectory of the industry remains intact. Global demand for low-carbon fuels continues to grow, and U.S. policy, despite its complexities, is still among the world’s most supportive. The challenge for producers and refiners, he concluded, will be managing through this transitional period—aligning investment with regulatory direction, expanding feedstock supply, and preparing for the next cycle in a market where certainty remains in short supply.

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - October 2025

DEVELOPMENTS

The Agricultural Business Council held its first Emerging Leaders Initiative happy hour event on October 22. Around 40 rising professionals in the ag industry joined AgBizKC leaders for a drink at the J. Rieger & Co. distillery. Join us for the next happy hour in early 2026; further details will be available on the website.

Kansas Livestock Association and NCBA are encouraging members to send a message directly to their legislators in Washington, DC, urging them to push back on a White House plan to import Argentine beef as a way to bring beef prices down. This would harm U.S. producers and interfere with the free market, KLA noted, which is working alongside NCBA to ensure the administration understands the industry’s opposition to government intervention in the marketplace and the lack of any consumer-facing benefit stemming from it. The administration needs to let markets work, said the two groups. Beef prices reflect strong consumer demand for the high-quality, nutritious steaks, roasts and ground beef provided by U.S. producers, and reflect the higher input costs faced by ranchers and cattle feeders. KLA and NCBA said Argentina has a deeply unbalanced trading relationship with the United States, meaning they sell far more of their beef into the U.S. market than the U.S. can sell into Argentina.

• Over the last five years, Argentina has sold $801,859,558 worth of beef to the U.S.

• In the same timeframe, Argentina purchased only $7,484,176 from the U.S.

• This represents a trade deficit of $794 million over the past five years.

• Argentina also has a history of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), and USDA’s controversial approval of Argentine beef for the U.S. market is still a sore point for most U.S. cattle producers.

American Farm Bureau Federation president Zippy Duvall commented last week on the future of America’s beef supply. “Farm families are no different from other American families. We feel the impact of higher grocery costs, but don’t get to set the prices. Meanwhile, farmers are suffering through an economic storm – expenses remain high, and cattle farms have been decimated by years of low prices, drought and the threat of the New World screwworm. “This is a pivotal moment for America’s cattle farmers as they make decisions whether to restock their pastures. Farmers know America’s families prefer to buy U.S. beef. If expanded imports push farmers deeper into the red, we face the unintended consequence of increasing reliance on other countries for our food and weakening our ability to rebuild a strong American herd.”

Kansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the FY26 Crop & Livestock Research Grant Program. Funds for the program are appropriated to the agency by the Kansas Legislature from the State Water Plan Fund. This is a competitive, reimbursement-based grant program. Applications will be evaluated by a technical review committee. The recommendations of the committee will be submitted to the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, who will make the final award determination. Applications are due to KDA no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 25, 2025. For more information, please download and carefully read the FY26 Request for Applications document from the KDA website: agriculture.ks.gov/grants.

The College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State University has released findings from a 5-year study on how online grocery shopping has affected food choices, household waste and nutritional disparities. Online grocery shopping soared during COVID-19, when social distancing recommendations enabled home delivery to become a practical alternative to going to the store. While social distancing has ended, online grocery shopping has not. In August, online grocery sales for the month surpassed $11 billion. The full report is available at https://agsci.psu.edu.

Global agriculture technology company Corteva has announced plans to separate into two independent, publicly traded entities. Current Corteva will continue to sell crop protection products: herbicides, fungicides, insecticides and biologicals. New SpinCo will focus on the seed genetics business. SpinCo will include Pioneer, the company’s legacy seed brand established in 1926, as well as Brevant regional seed brands, including Dairyland Seed. Upon separation of the companies, Greg Page, current Corteva chairman, will lead new Corteva, while Chuck Magro, current Corteva CEO, will become CEO of SpinCo. In announcing the decision by Corteva, Magro said the farmer-centric organization appreciates that its customers want and need choice across their input decisions. “The best way, maybe I can even say, the only way for this company to preserve and expand that choice and keep putting innovative, effective, sustainable solutions into the hands of farmers around the world is to give both businesses the freedom to operate without having to look out for the other,” said Magro.

Kansas Farm Bureau’s Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program received a $381,000 grant from the Kansas City-based Patterson Family Foundation to expand the trades workforce in rural Kansas. “RKAP is committed to building a high-quality workforce in rural Kansas,” said Joel Leftwich, KFB chief strategy officer. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Patterson Family Foundation for this grant supporting RKAP’s work to help businesses train and retrain qualified labor.” The Patterson Family Foundation is a family-led foundation that extends the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson. The Foundation’s mission, “Working together to help rural communities thrive,” is carried forward through strategic grantmaking and other collaborative initiatives that serve rural counties across Kansas and western Missouri. The multiyear grant will allow RKAP to educate employers about how registered apprenticeships can build talent and increase retention to meet their workforce needs. The funding will also allow RKAP to provide mini grants to help employers pay for apprentice training costs. For more information visit www.kfb.org/RKAP

The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City has opened the Center for Agriculture and the Economy, underscoring the Bank’s ongoing commitment to including perspectives from agriculture and rural areas in discussions on the national economy. “For many years, the Kansas City Fed has provided critical insights into one of the nation’s most vital industries—agriculture,” said Jeff Schmid, president and CEO. “The establishment of this center formally recognizes our District’s investment in this area and highlights the vital importance that we place on gathering insights from all of those who have a role in the ag economy.” Through its regular surveys, analysis and connections across the industry, the Kansas City Fed has had a longstanding focus on the U.S. and global agricultural economy. Leveraging this expertise, the Center will serve as a resource within the Federal Reserve System by providing timely analysis of industry developments and conducting ongoing research on the agricultural economy and the rural regions where production predominates. More information is available at https://www.kansascityfed.org/center-for-agriculture-and-the-economy/.

The USDA’s latest estimate is that U.S. farmers planted more than 98 million acres of corn in 2025, the largest planting in nearly nine decades. Comparing 2025 state acreage data with the most recent “big corn” year (94.6m corn acres in 2023) shows corn acreage is still moving west. The majority of the additional 4.1m corn acres were planted in the Northern and Central Great Plains. There was no meaningful increase in corn acreage across the eastern Corn Belt states, such as Illinois and Indiana. Ohio stands out as it reduced acreage by 200,000 acres.

If Congress passed legislation that allowed for year-round, nationwide access to fuels with 15% ethanol blends, corn use in ethanol could increase by 50% at full implementation, supporting a higher market price for corn and energy stability for Americans, according to a new analysis released by the National Corn Growers Association. “Congress could address the economic crisis affecting corn growers by passing legislation that would make higher blends of ethanol readily accessible to all Americans,” said NCGA President Jed Bower. Corn grower advocates say it is their goal to get E15 legislation across the finish line by year’s end. President Trump has expressed support for the legislation.

Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority has announced two grant programs to assist dairy and beef producers in Missouri.  Grant amounts of up to $40,000 are available to established producers in the state for facilities, equipment and upgrades directly related to increasing production in the beef and dairy industries. Proposals will be selected on a competitive basis. Each proposal will be evaluated and rated on credibility and merit, impact potential and timeliness of the impact. Applications are due no later than 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. Contact masbda@gmail.com for more information.

USDA announced on October 23 that it is re-opening about 2,100 county offices all across the country to help farmers and ranchers get access to $3 billion of aid from existing programs. The USDA said each Farm Service Agency office will have two workers who will be paid even though the government remains shut down. These offices help farmers apply for farm loans, crop insurance, disaster aid and other programs. Thousands of other federal employees like air traffic controllers are working without pay during the shutdown. A USDA spokesperson said this move reflects the White House’s commitment to helping farmers and ranchers.

USDA rolled out a plan last week aiming to provide short- and long-term tools for producers to help fortify the beef industry. The plan includes three coordinated priorities: protecting and improving the business of ranching; expanding processing, consumer transparency and market access; and building demand and domestic supply. Specifically, USDA intends to increase grazing access by about 5 million acres, expedite endangered species reform, improve implementation of disaster aid programs and timeliness of payment through the Livestock Indemnity Program and Livestock Forage Program, and increase access to capital and affordable risk management tools. Additionally, they are looking to cut inspection costs up to 75% for small processors, increase marketing opportunities for ranchers by enhancing local processing options, enforce compliance of those using the voluntary “Product of USA” label on meat and poultry and continue providing clearer guidance on the definition of waters of the U.S. The plan also indicates USDA wants to expand access to locally raised beef for schools and ensure finalization of the dietary guidelines, which encourage protein at every meal.

Agricultural productivity growth – producing more output with the same inputs – in the U.S. has slowed significantly in the last decade, new analysis finds. Globally, growth has also dipped and now stands well below the rate required to sustainably meet evolving global demand. These findings signal “a critical need to reinvigorate progress,” according to Virginia Tech’s 2025 Global Agricultural Productivity Report. The report notes that growing global incomes, population growth and expanding non-food uses for crops – including biofuels – are set to increase global agricultural demand by around 1% annually through 2031. Productivity growth, however, now stands at 0.76 percentage points annually. Virginia Tech researchers estimate that an average annual productivity growth rate of 1.73% is necessary to meet estimated demand by 2050, while keeping global ag’s environmental and geographical footprint to 2010 levels. “We will fall far below the growth needed to sustainably supply our needs for agricultural products unless we change course,” Tom Thomas, associate dean and director at Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the report’s executive editor, said during a launch event on Wednesday.

FYI: Every fall, pumpkins steal the spotlight with multiple purposes: as Halloween decorations, for soups and in pies. This seasonal favorite is actually a fruit, says Joe Masabni, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Pumpkins are scientifically classified as fruits because of how they grow. Anything that starts from a flower is classified botanically as a fruit. “A pumpkin starts as a small plant with a few leaves, and as the leaves grow and more branches develop, flowers will start to bloom on the plant,” he said. “Those flowers then need to be pollinated by bees or other pollinators. Once a flower is pollinated, it develops into a fruit that we consume. So ultimately, fruit relies on pollination of the flower to become the thing we eat.”

FYI: The Holiday Season is approaching, and for the fourth consecutive year, wholesale growers of real Christmas trees are offering a glimpse into what’s ahead for the holidays. The outlook is filled with holiday cheer: they expect steady demand, consistent supply, and largely unchanged wholesale prices. That’s according to the Real Christmas Tree Board’s annual survey¹ of 43 wholesale growers, representing about half-to-two-thirds of the United States’ real Christmas tree market. “Growers are prepared, supply is strong, and most are holding wholesale prices steady this year,” said Marsha Gray, Executive Director of the Real Christmas Tree Board. “This reflects the consistency of the real Christmas tree industry and the commitment of growers to ensuring that there’s a real Christmas tree for everyone who wants one.” As an agricultural commodity under the USMCA, Canadian-produced real Christmas trees are currently exempt from tariffs.

PEOPLE

 Kansas City-based AgriThority has brought on Oluwatobi (Tobi) Oni, Ph.D., as Manager of its European, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) business operations. Oni will be responsible for driving business development, acquiring new business, and supervising the management of the EMEA business while building long-term mutually profitable client relationships. "Besides his commercial awareness, Tobi’s scientific background, knowledge, and experience in regulatory affairs bring great value to the regulatory team," said Tony Pardo, AgriThority Global Director, Client Services. "His expertise in innovation across the agri-food value chain will strengthen the development projects in EMEA and globally." Oni holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Microbiology from the University of Bremen, Germany, and an MBA from Wrexham University, Wales, UK.

Jed Bower, a fifth-generation corn and soybean farmer from Washington Court House, Ohio, has begun his term as president of the National Corn Growers Association saying the challenging rural economy will be his top priority in the year ahead. “We need new markets to help alleviate the economic crisis that is threatening the survival of countless family farms across the country,” Bower said. “That’s why we will continue to encourage Congress to act immediately to pass legislation that expands consumer access to higher blends of ethanol year-round and urge the Trump administration to move quickly to develop new foreign markets.” Bower brings extensive advocacy and leadership experience to the role. He has served the last year as the vice president of the organization’s board while contributing as a member to several key NCGA committees, including the finance committee. Bower is also a board member for the Ohio Corn Marketing Program and a former president of the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association.

The Kansas FFA Foundation proudly announces that 55 Kansas FFA members have been selected to receive official FFA jackets through the Gift of Blue program for 2025. Made possible by generous sponsors, including McDonald’s Owners and Operators of the Southern Plains in Kansas, Sturgis Enterprises, MKC Cooperative, MFA Oil, Mike and Mary Smith, Vital Farms, and the Karl Mueseler Trust, these iconic blue jackets symbolize leadership, unity, and the start of each student’s personal FFA journey. Nearly 200 Kansas FFA members applied for this year’s jackets, sharing their goals and aspirations within the FFA organization. The selected recipients represent chapters from across the state and demonstrate outstanding commitment to agricultural education and leadership. “The iconic National Blue FFA jacket is more than just a piece of clothing; it represents opportunity, community, and pride,” said Beth Gaines, Executive Director of the Kansas FFA Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to our sponsors whose generosity helps open doors for students to experience all that FFA has to offer.”  Individuals and businesses interested in helping additional students receive their own FFA jacket may donate online at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/giftofblue.

EVENTS

The American Royal’s annual World Series of Barbecue takes place November 5-9 at the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kansas. It is the world’s largest competition of its kind, and is also the American Royal’s largest fundraiser. Proceeds from the event go straight to the American Royal’s mission to be the nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events, and engagement.  Tickets are available at https://americanroyal.com/events/world-series-of-barbecue/

Nothing can match the fire and brilliance of the Saddlebred Horse! The American Royal is once again honored to host the UPHA (United Professional Horsemen’s Association) National Championship. The very best Saddlebreds, Hackney Ponies, and Road Horses throughout the country will come to Kansas City to compete for the prestige of being crowned National Champions. More details are available at https://americanroyal.com/events/upha-american-royal-national-championship-horse-show/.

Kansas Livestock Association will host its 2025 Annual Convention November 19-22 at the Hilton Garden Inn and Manhattan Conference Center. This year’s event will feature a full lineup of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and industry updates designed for Kansas cattle producers. Keynote speaker Nevil Speer will discuss beef quality improvements. Also on the agenda will be presentations from the Beef Industry University, the Consumer Trends Forum, as well as insights from industry consultants and company leaders. More information at www.kla.org.

Registration is open for the 51st Missouri Governor’s Conference on Agriculture, scheduled for Nov. 12-13, 2025, at the Wyndham Executive Center in Columbia, Mo. “As a first-generation farmer and proud supporter of our state’s top economic driver, I look forward to joining agriculture partners from across the state in Columbia for this conference,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “A priority of our administration is to help create opportunities to add value to the agriculture products grown and raised here. The Governor’s Conference on Agriculture will bring all aspects of the industry together to talk about ways to move agriculture forward.” Missouri farmers, ranchers, agribusiness leaders and aspiring agriculturalists are invited to enjoy the program, which will include a commodity outlook, awards luncheon and nationally recognized speakers. “We are excited to host the first Governor’s Conference on Agriculture with Governor Kehoe,” said Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn.” For more information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture, visit the Department online at www.Agriculture.Mo.Gov.

University of Missouri Extension is expanding its Freeze It! food waste reduction program across rural Missouri. Food waste is an escalating environmental and health issue, says MU Extension nutrition and health specialist Rachel O’Halloran. The “Freeze It!” program responds to this challenge by empowering rural families to better manage their meals and reduce waste through strategies like meal planning, freezing meals, and sharing excess food, she says. Funding for the expansion is through a grant from the North Central Regional Center for Rural Development. The grant will support delivery of eight “Freeze It!” program series in rural Missouri communities, professional development for MU Extension health faculty on partnering with local waste management agencies and development of a statewide infrastructure for long-term support of the program. The program addresses critical health disparities in rural Missouri, where residents face higher rates of diet-related illnesses, poverty and limited access to nutrition education, says MU Extension nutrition and health specialist Carrie Elsen. For more information contact your local MU Extension Center or visit https://muext.us/FreezeIt.

The 2025 Angus Convention is Kansas City bound. This fall, cattle producers of all types will head to the Midwest metropolis known as the Heart of America with a shared purpose – to connect with fellow cattlemen and women, expand industry knowledge and take part in conversations that drive breed progress. The Kansas City Downtown Marriott will host the main stage events, Angus University sessions, and social gatherings. More information is available at www.angusconvention.com.  

FarmCon, the ag innovation and investment sector’s most energizing event, is gearing up for its 2026 annual conference January 7-8, 2026, at Loews Kansas City Hotel. Widely hailed as agriculture’s select event for top-tier farmers, innovators and investors, FarmCon 2026 will include exclusive content, deeper investor connections, and a high-voltage atmosphere where ag innovation meets capital empowerment. More than 1,200 premier farmers, leading ag entrepreneurs, tech disruptors, investors, and legacy industry titans are expected. “FarmCon is fueled by relentless optimism that the best days of American agriculture aren’t behind us, they’re just beginning,” said Kevin Van Trump, the curator and host of FarmCon. "Ultimately, the benefactors from the activity created at FarmCon are American farmers." Van Trump, also Founder & CEO of Farm Direction, author of The Van Trump Report, angel investor, and host of the Highly Volatile podcast, said this year’s event will ignite conversations and the flow of investment capital across agriculture. For more information email Kennedy@agswag.com.

New Ag Ad Analytics Tool

Farm Journal has launched a new ad insights tool, designed specifically for agrimarketers who want to measure, optimize and prove the impact of every digital dollar. As digital budgets grow and audience attention fragments across channels, agrimarketers need more than siloed reports—they need a single view of what is working and what is not. This tool delivers that clarity, providing a unified, real-time analytics resource that connects all major platforms and ad formats in one place.

How It Works

Agrimarketers face increasing complexity in campaign management, measurement and optimization. This new system – Unified Analytics Command Center for Modern Agrimarketing – answers this challenge by delivering a single, holistic dashboard that spans programmatic and endemic advertising, including display, social, native, CTV, video, digital-out-of-home, connected audio, email and text messaging. The tool is integrated with all leading platforms including Google Ads, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, LinkedIn, The Trade Desk, Simplifi, StackAdapt and Google DV360.

Farm Journal’s ad insights tool, with its advanced metrics and benchmarking, delivers true performance measurement by moving beyond traditional CTR-driven reporting, including reach, frequency, engagement, video completion and content consumption metrics, so that marketers can identify what truly resonates with high-value producer audiences. Benchmarking tools compare reach, frequency and performance against industry standards to help agrimarketers make informed decisions on segmentation, creative and channel mix.  

Navigate Multichannel Ag Campaigns

Whether an ad budget is in the millions or in the thousands of dollars, agrimarketers often face difficult choices about segmentation, reach and frequency. This tool empowers users to optimize budget allocation for maximum impact with performance benchmarks by audience size, geography and crop/livestock categories. Marketers can make data-driven decisions on new tactics, such as CTV and connected audio, with clear ROI comparisons.

Strategic Leap for the Ag Industry

“In today’s digital landscape, agrimarketers need more than just data; they need insight, context and confidence,” says Prescott Shibles, Farm Journal CEO. “This ad insights tool delivers measurable value, transparency and performance benchmarks in ways the industry has never had before.” Farm Journal’s ad insights tool is available at no charge to all agencies, marketers and consultants who are ready to accelerate their growth and maximize the impact of every dollar spent.

K-State President Linton Speaks on Progress at Annual Showcase

At the Agricultural Business Council’s October luncheon, held on the Kansas State University Olathe campus, President Richard Linton joined the deans of the Colleges of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine to highlight the university’s achievements since launching its Next-Gen K-State Strategic Plan two years ago. The discussion centered on how K-State is preparing to serve new kinds of learners, tackle global challenges, and strengthen Kansas’ economic future.

President Linton shared details of a new program offering a series of graduate certificates designed for professionals seeking specialized skills without pursuing a full degree. These certificates are more affordable than a traditional master’s program and emphasize interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to develop expertise across multiple fields.

“2025 is going to be a historic and record-breaking year,” Linton said. Among the milestones he noted:

• Total enrollment: 21,213 students this fall

• First-time freshmen: 3,788 — the fourth-highest in university history

• Research funding: National Science Foundation’s HERD Survey reported a 21.6% increase, reaching $264 million, the highest ever for K-State

• State legislative support: $150.4 million — another record

Looking ahead, K-State aims to grow research expenditures to $300 million by 2026 and secure $270 million in competitive research awards. The university also plans to reach a landmark $1 billion in fundraising by 2030.

The luncheon also marked the introduction of Dr. Ernie Minton as head of K-State’s Agriculture Innovation Initiative, following the conclusion of his time as Dean of the College of Agriculture. In this new role, Minton will focus on securing funding, engaging stakeholders and donors through the KSU Foundation and overseeing the transition of new facilities from construction to operation.

To date, $186 million of the total $210 million project cost has been secured. “The Agriculture Innovation Initiative is the largest infrastructure project in K-State’s history,” Minton said. “I’m eager to continue advancing K-State as a global leader in value-added grain and livestock-based food systems.”

Dr. Dan Moser, professor and associate dean of the College of Agriculture, is serving as interim dean during the transition.

The Agriculture Innovation Initiative represents a transformative investment in interdisciplinary education, research, and industry partnerships spanning grain, food, animal, and agronomic sciences. It will create new and modernized learning spaces serving more than half of all College of Agriculture students and support the broader Kansas economy, where agriculture contributes an estimated $81 billion annually.