Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - May 2025
/DEVELOPMENTS
Merck Animal Health is expanding its manufacturing facility in De Soto, Kansas. The $895 million capital expansion will be constructed on existing Merck-owned property that is the current site of its biologics facility. The 200,000-square-foot manufacturing facility project will expand filling and freeze dryer capacity for large molecule vaccines and biologic products for Merck Animal Health. Site preparation and facility design will start immediately, creating 2,500 construction jobs. Commercial manufacturing is expected to begin in 2030, creating more than 200 full-time positions. “Our De Soto manufacturing facility is strategically located in the heart of the Animal Health Corridor,” said Richard DeLuca, president, Merck Animal Health. “This investment in our site is designed to increase Merck Animal Health’s ability to meet the growing customer demand for its portfolio of animal biologics products and ensure the company remains at the forefront of innovation in the animal health sector. This initiative also reflects our dedication to advancing animal health and our on-going investment in the communities where we operate.” Merck Animal Health is partnering with the State of Kansas on expansion of the existing manufacturing facility. The investment demonstrates Merck Animal Health’s commitment to the U.S. market, in which the company has significantly invested to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of animal diseases. This marks one of the largest economic development projects in Kansas’ recent history and the largest for Merck Animal Health.
The CME Group last week published a special executive report announcing the results of the annual reset of the daily price limits in the live and feeder cattle futures contracts. The new limits will take effect Monday, June 2. For live cattle, the new initial limit will be $7.25/cwt., up 75¢ from the current initial limit of $6.50/cwt. The new expanded limit for live cattle will be $10.75/cwt. For feeder cattle, the new initial limit of $9.25/cwt. is $1.00 higher than the current initial limit of $8.25/cwt. The new expanded limit for feeder cattle will be $13.75/cwt……This reset was done in accordance with the adjusted formula, which came about as a result of NCBA’s request to reduce limits following the 2024 reset. Previously, the initial limit for live cattle was calculated by multiplying the 45-day average settlement price of the June contract by 4.25%. Under the new formula, it is multiplied by 3.5%. Feeder cattle initial limits still are 125% of the live cattle limit and expanded limits are 150% of their respective initial limit. NCBA remains in active discussions with officials at CME on ways to make the formula work better for commercial shorts in the market. Source: Kansas Livestock Association, May 27, 2025.
National Pork Producers Council president Duane Stateler released a statement May 27 on the reconciliation package that passed the U.S. House of Representatives, saying the bill includes necessary legislation to keep farms afloat during uncertain times. “America’s pork producers are one step closer to more certainty with the House’s reconciliation bill passage, which includes necessary legislation to keep farms afloat during uncertain times. At the same time, we will keep pressure on Congress to pass a five-year farm bill, which includes a fix to California Proposition 12.”
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission’s recently released report, Make Our Children Healthy Again: Assessment, raised concerns with several agricultural groups by questioning the safety of key herbicides Kansas farmers use. The Kansas Corn Growers Association and the National Corn Growers Association have been working proactively to help the MAHA Commission and the Administration understand how corn farmers are working to grow the safest, healthiest and most abundant crops in the world. “We expected the MAHA report to attack pesticides, particularly glyphosate and atrazine. Leaders of the MAHA movement continue to make unsubstantiated health claims against the herbicides which aren’t based on sound scientific evidence. Some of those unfounded opinions are in this report,” KCGA CEO Josh Roe said. “Our association and its leaders have worked on these issues for years, and continue to actively represent Kansas corn growers help regulators understand how crop protection tools are safely used in our fields and to ensure regulatory decisions are based on credible scientific evidence.”
The Missouri Department of Agriculture has launched the Missouri Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program for the 2025 season. Both programs are funded by USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service. Low-income seniors in the Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield and Mid-Missouri regions can apply to receive benefits, which will allow them to purchase eligible foods from an authorized farmer at a Missouri farmers market or roadside stand. More information about the program is available at www.Agriculture.Mo.Gov .
The Rural Education Center in Kansas State University’s College of Education and the Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (KFAC) received a $150,000 grant from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to attract students to degrees in agriculture and food science. The curriculum, designed to align with state and national education standards, emphasizes experiential learning and real-world applications. The program aims to inspire students from rural communities to pursue higher education and careers in the agricultural sciences. The curriculum will be available on the KFAC website, providing educators free access to the lesson plans and materials. A virtual training session for the project is coming soon; watch our newsletter for more information. To learn more about Project CARAT and to access the curriculum or newsletter, visit the KFAC website at www.ksagclassroom.org .
Higher cattle prices were at center stage at the 105th Annual Southwest Missouri All Breeds Performance Tested Bull Sale. “People were enjoying high cattle prices,” said Patrick Davis, University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist, a total of 26 bulls sold for an average price of $5,458 per bull. This average was approximately $1,200 higher per bull than the fall 2024 sale average and more than $1,600 higher per bull than the spring 2024 sale average. The 23 Angus bulls sold for an average price of $5,530 per bull and the three Gelbvieh/Balancer bulls sold for an average of $4,900 per bull. More information about Southwest Missouri Beef Cattle Improvement Association, which sponsors the sale, or about future sales, contact sales manager Chase Hultgren, 417-880-4479, chahul04@gmail.com.
The US Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (USRSB) celebrated its 10th annual General Assembly Meeting in Fort Worth, Texas, where it brought together people from the beef supply chain and recognized a decade of working on beef sustainability. The initiative stated that more than 186 stakeholders were in attendance this week to go over topics like cattle operations, land use change, sustainable finance and climate commitments. “In the past 10 years, USRSB and its members have propelled US beef sustainability forward and continue to work to create a stronger beef value chain for future generations through developing critical resources and fostering collaborative discussions,” said Samantha Werth, executive director for the USRSB.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans to visit India, Japan and Vietnam along with other countries in the coming weeks as part of trade negotiations. Rollins suggested to reporters at the White House that she will push those major U.S. trading partners to increase imports of American farm products and help rectify trade imbalances. Japan’s chief tariff negotiator Ryosei Akazawa agreed with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other U.S. Cabinet members to hold intensive ministerial discussions from mid-May onward, with the aim of a “mutually beneficial deal” as early as June. Rollins said the administration was “realigning an entire world economy around American products,” and that the benefits to U.S. farmers and ranchers would outweigh impacts to “any other American producer and whatever they’re producing.”
A new Listenership Research Study validates the power of farm radio. The National Association of Farm Broadcasting, Platte City, Missouri, noted that farm radio is local, it’s mobile and it’s trusted. “Even with the abundance of multiple media and information sources that U.S. farmers have at their fingertips today, new market research shows the trust in the farm broadcaster still leads listeners to rank ag radio as their #1 choice for daily ag news and information,” reported NAFB. It also announced it has completely upgraded and redesigned its website –www.nafb.com– to deliver the compelling story of ag radio and the association that serves the agriculture industry.
Proclaiming May as Beef Month, Governor Mike Kehoe presented the proclamation to members of the Missouri Beef Industry Council (MBIC), Missouri Cattlemen’s Association (MCA) and local beef producers during a ceremony at the Missouri Capitol. “As a first-generation beef producer, I am proud to recognize May as Beef Month,” said Governor Kehoe. Beef production is a driving force in the state’s agriculture economy, producing nearly $2 billion in sales and supporting more than 40,000 jobs. “Beef production is a large part of the $93.7 billion Missouri agriculture industry and is worthy of celebration throughout the month of May and all year,” said Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. She added, “Missouri cattle ranchers produce delicious, high-quality products desired by consumers across the state, the nation and the entire world.” Missouri ranks third nationally in the number of beef cows with nearly two million head and is consistently among the leading states in total cattle production. The meat processing industry contributes nearly $6 million to the state’s economy, according to a study showing the economic contribution of Missouri agriculture. More information about the Missouri Beef Industry Council at www.MoBeef.org.
Farmer sentiment improved in April as producers expressed more optimism about current and future conditions on their farms. The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 8 points to a reading of 148, up from 140 in March. The Index of Current Conditions climbed 9 points to 141, while the Index of Future Expectations increased 8 points to 152. The improvement in sentiment came amidst ongoing tensions with many of U.S. agriculture’s largest trading partners, including Mexico, Canada and China. Notably, a majority of producers said they believe the increased use of tariffs will ultimately benefit the U.S. agricultural economy; a view reflected in the stronger future expectations reading. The April barometer survey took place between April 14-21.“Producers seem to be gaining confidence in the ag economy’s longer-term outlook,” said Purdue University/CME, “in spite of concerns they have about the impact of tariffs. This month’s results suggest some producers are starting to look beyond near-term uncertainty and focus more on positioning their farms for the future.”
PEOPLE
Christopher S. “Kit” Bond, former governor and senator from Missouri, died on May 13. He was 86. Bond was first elected state auditor in 1971. By 1973 he was elected for the first of two non-consecutive terms as governor, flipping the seat Republican for the first time in 28 years. Bond was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1987 and won three reelections before choosing to retire in 2011. Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., was elected to fill his seat. After completing his tenure of public service, Bond became a partner at the Thompson Coburn law firm. “Kit, always with his trademark smile and sense of humor, was a fierce advocate for Missouri throughout his accomplished 40-year career of public service,” said current Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe in a statement announcing Bond’s passing. “Whenever he was thanked for his service, Kit’s response was always, 'Serving the people of Missouri was the honor of my life.’” Source: AgriPulse Communications, May 14, 2025.
Rachel Dumke is the new communications director for Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo. She worked in the Office of Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., for four and a half years, most recently as deputy communications director.
Dr. Atsuo Hata, the first consultant to join Brakke Consulting in 1986, died April 17 at age 98. Born in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, Dr. Hata attended veterinary college in Osaka. Upon graduation he was employed by Dainippon Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. After retirement he joined Brakke Consulting. Widely known and respected in Japan, he was also the Japan correspondent for Animal Pharm, an industry publication, for many years. “Dr. Hata was a valued colleague and contributed to many client engagements over the years, working well into his 90s. We will miss him,” said Ron Brakke, President Emeritus. Dr. Hata is survived by a daughter, son and two grandchildren.
Ken Selzer is the new associate director of the USDA's Risk Management Agency that runs a $20B U.S. Crop Insurance program. He previously served as the Kansas insurance commissioner
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the latest slate of presidential appointments for key Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Rural Development (RD) State Director roles. “When America’s farming communities prosper,” she said, “the entire nation thrives. This new group of USDA appointees will ensure President Trump’s America First agenda is a reality in rural areas across the country.” In Kansas, Gimmie Jo Jansonius will serve as State Director for Rural Development. She is a sixth-generation rancher actively involved in production agriculture. David Schemm will serve as State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency. He served in the same position during the first Trump Administration and has also served as Agricultural Advisor for US Senator Dr. Roger Marshall. In Missouri, Ben Baker will serve as State Director for Rural Development. He is a former Missouri State Representative.
Ranchland Trust of Kansas has hired Jessica Wilkes as its first-ever conservation coordinator. Wilkes currently lives in Manhattan and has called Kansas home for 19 years. She earned a Master of Science in horticulture and natural resources from Kansas State University and a bachelor of social welfare from the University of Kansas. She has a strong background in conservation planning and land stewardship, most recently having worked with agricultural producers in achieving their individual conservation goals at the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Patrick Penn was appointed as deputy undersecretary for the Food and Nutrition Service. He served as a state representative in the Kansas legislature for the past four years. Source: Agri-Pulse, May 28, 2025.
EVENTS
Farm Aid is heading to Minnesota for the first time for its 40th anniversary festival on Saturday, Sept. 20, at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The event will launch a year-long celebration of four decades of impactful advocacy, historic cultural moments and unforgettable music. Farm Aid 40 will feature performances by Farm Aid board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young (and the Chrome Hearts), John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews (with Tim Reynolds), and Margo Price, as well as Billy Strings, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, Trampled by Turtles, Waxahatchee, Eric Burton of Black Pumas, Jesse Welles, Madeline Edwards and more artists to be announced. Ticket prices range from $101 to $390 (including fees, sales tax will be added) and will be available for purchase at farmaid40.org. A limited number of pre-sale tickets will be available beginning at 10 a.m. CDT on May 14. Visit www.farmaid.org/festival for more information.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Symphony in the Flint Hills. Over the years, various themes highlighted remarkable and singular characteristics of the beloved Flint Hills. This year event organizers will present a well-rounded anthology, showcasing one piece of work from each of the previous years’ compositions. More information at info@symphonyinthehills.org.
The Ranchland Trust of Kansas launched its 14th annual photography contest, inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to capture the natural beauty and working landscapes of Kansas ranching on May 1, 2025. The contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers. Participants are encouraged to submit images that reflect RTK’s mission: “To preserve Kansas’ ranching heritage and open spaces for future generations through the conservation of working landscapes.” Photographers may submit up to five photos that highlight the diverse faces, seasons, and scenes of life on Kansas ranchland. Entries will be accepted through September 4, 2025. More information at ranchlandtrustofkansas.org
The American Royal is hosting its 2025 Golf Tournament on July 28. This event promises excitement, bringing together golfers for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie. The tournament is an opportunity to enjoy a day on the course while supporting the American Royal scholarships and its mission to be the Nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events and engagement. More information and ticket purchasing is available at https://americanroyal.com/events/golf-tournament/
Kansas State University Olathe will hold its annual Animal Health Regulatory Affairs Conference emphasizing areas in biologics, pharmaceuticals and nutrition. The three-day, in-person event takes place September 16-18. More information at olatheinfo@k-state.edu.
Kansas State University alumni are invited to its Olathe, Kansas Campus, June 5, for the annual Leadership Luncheon, June 5, from 11:30 am to 1 pm. Kevin Honomichl, president of BHC, a national civil engineering and surveying firm headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, is the keynote speaker. Attendees will learn how his value of leadership is built into the culture of BHC and the impact it has made on the firm’s growth and success. More information at olatheinfo@k-state.edu.
The 2025 World Pork Expo, hosted by the National Pork Producers Council, invites pork professionals to connect, collaborate, and grow together. Set for June 4 and 5 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, this year’s event will once again offer industry-shaping insights, engaging sessions, and the largest pork-specific trade show in the world.“In today’s challenging market, producers are looking for smart solutions and stronger connections,” said NPPC President Duane Stateler. “World Pork Expo continues to be a space where people across the industry come together to share ideas, gain new knowledge, and move the pork sector forward.” Late registrants and international attendees can pick up credentials onsite beginning June 4. For registration details, hotel accommodations, and updates, visit www.worldpork.org.
Join the American Royal for a captivating evening on September 6 where passion meets purpose at this exclusive Farm to Table fundraiser benefiting the American Royal. The goal is to inspire and ignite meaningful and positive conversations around the diversity of food through a unique dining experience. Attendees will enjoy a cocktail hour with exquisite drinks and a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of the Saddle & Sirloin Club of KC. This private equine club champions equestrian sports across all disciplines, offers unique social and sporting opportunities, and upholds its tradition of supporting the American Royal. Engage with producers, hear directly from the chef, and savor a four-course meal prepared by the Saddle & Sirloin’s chef, Georgi Pahon. More information: https://americanroyal.com/events/farm-to-table
Gather your three closest friends on September 26 and come out to the American Royal Sporting Clays Challenge. Sporting clays is a form of target shooting designed to simulate the unpredictability of field shooting. Unique stations are set up throughout the course for teams to complete in order. Teams are scored at each station, and the final score determines the winner. Buy tickets here: https://americanroyal.com/events/sporting-clays-challenge