IARN — In a last-minute effort, the Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued three small refinery exemptions. The action reverses one denial from 2018 and granting two for the 2019 compliance year. The decision comes on the heels of the Supreme Court’s agreement to hear a Tenth Circuit case that overturned three small refinery exemptions that had been inappropriately granted. Read more
Perdue grateful to have served as US Secretary of Agriculture
IARN — Sonny Perdue’s days as US Secretary of Agriculture are winding down, but the Georgia native says he’s grateful to have had the chance to lead the US Department of Agriculture. Read more
Poeschl resigns as CEO of National FFA & National FFA Foundation
IARN — The National FFA Board of Directors and National FFA Board of Trustees announced the resignation of as CEO of the National FFA Organization and National FFA Foundation, effective January 15. In a statement, Poeschl said, “I know there have been challenges we have faced during my tenure, but my intentions have been for the best interests of FFA and our student members.” He adds, “I’m proud of what we have accomplished together, but now it’s time for the next CEO of FFA to step in and make their mark.” Read more
Calving season preparations for Iowa beef producers
IARN — Iowa beef producers are getting ready for the early spring calving season.
According to Iowa State University Extension and Outreach beef specialist Chris Clark, the month of January is a prime time to finish up all preparations for the very busy calving season that’s to come. Read more
Drought likely to continue through spring
IARN — Dry conditions are likely to continue in the western part of Iowa through the spring.
On Wednesday, January 13th, the Iowa DNR and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship sponsored a virtual meeting to provide insight into ongoing drought conditions in the state. Read more
AFBF economist provides livestock outlook
IARN — Following a challenging year in 2020, farm economists continue to provide outlooks for the Ag sector in 2021.
During the American Farm Bureau Federation’s virtual convention, AFBF livestock economist Michael Nepvuex discussed several issues that are expected to impact US livestock production this year. One of the top factors that could influence farm profitability is relations with China, according to Nepvuex. Read more