Beef Checkoff Research Finds No Link Between Unprocessed Red Meat and Obesity New research funded by the beef checkoff adds to the growing body of evidence that supports fresh beef as part of a healthy, sustainable diet. This study, conducted by Texas Tech University, challenges long-held assumptions about red meat and its impact on obesity. “Animal-sourced foods like red meat …
Peanut Industry Gathers in Albany, Georgia for Joint Shellers and Buying Points Meeting This week, leaders from across the peanut industry will gather in Albany, Georgia, for a joint meeting of the American Peanut Shellers Association and the National Peanut Buying Points Association. “Over 200 people are expected to attend.” This pre-harvest gathering is a key event for the industry, …
USDA Lowers 2025-2026 Beef and Pork Production Forecasts, Raises Price Outlooks The USDA has released its updated forecast for beef and pork production and pricing for 2025 and 2026, signaling a tightening in supply and continued upward pressure on prices. World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekinowski provided key insights into the changes impacting the U.S. meat sector. “Our 2025 …
The Origins of Land-Grant Universities in American Agriculture The Morrill Act of 1862 and Its Impact In 1862, the United States passed the First Morrill Act, a historic piece of legislation that reshaped higher education in the country. This act laid the foundation for what became known as land-grant universities—institutions that received federal land to fund their establishment and operations. …
USDA Expands New World Screwworm Prevention—Here’s What Cattle Producers Can Do The USDA has begun implementing expanded efforts to combat the New World Screwworm (NWS), following an announcement from U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins during a press conference held in Texas last week. With concerns rising about the pest’s potential spread, cattle producers across the country are asking: What …
USDA Reports 7.4% Increase in Peanut Acreage for 2025 Growing Season The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has released its final peanut acreage report for the 2025 growing season, based on grower reports submitted by July 15. The data shows a 7.4% increase in total U.S. peanut acres planted, with several key peanut-producing states reporting strong growth. “Alabama has got …
Pro Farmer Crop Tour Kicks Off Amid USDA Surprises; MAHA Report Brings Relief to Agriculture Well, I must start my report today wishing my wife Kathy a happy anniversary. It was a hot August day like this 52 years ago. “We said I do. A couple of Iowa farm kids, in fact, we had our reception on the Oppold farm. …
MAHA Report Draft Avoids Direct Action on Ultra-Processed Foods and Pesticides A new draft of the upcoming Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) report, reviewed by the New York Times, reveals that it will not propose direct restrictions on ultra-processed foods and pesticides, despite earlier speculation that stricter recommendations were on the table. The development could be considered a relief for …
August WASDE Lowers U.S. Wheat Production Forecast, But Export Demand Remains Strong The August World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report brings mixed news for the wheat market. While domestic wheat production was revised downward, export demand is showing significant strength heading into the new marketing year. According to Mark Jekinowski, Chair of the World Agricultural Outlook Board, the …
Shorthorn Cattle and Early American Farms The Shorthorn breed holds a significant place in American agricultural history. As settlers pushed westward, Shorthorns became the most common cattle breed found on farms and ranches throughout the expanding frontier. Why Shorthorns Were a Pioneer Favorite The Shorthorn cattle were widely favored by early American farmers and ranchers for several key reasons: This …
