The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is revoking all uses of a pesticide called chlorpyrifos, which was used on corn, soybeans, and other row crops. The chemical is linked to brain damage in children and farm workers. Iowa Soybean Association President Jeff Jorgenson says anytime producers … [Read more...]
Rain helps Iowa crops stay in good condition in most of state
The U.S.D.A. crop report shows Iowa's corn crop is rated at 58% good to excellent -- a slight drop from last week's 61% rating. The soybean condition was also rated at 58% good to excellent -- down from 60% the week before. Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig says things could have been a lot worse if … [Read more...]
Biofuels industry seeks inclusion of ethanol in carbon reduction plans
The biofuels industry is casting doubt on the idea liquid fuel will be phased out anytime soon, but it's also lobbying for ethanol and biodiesel to be included in carbon reduction plans. President Biden was joined by Ford and GM executives yesterday as he announced a set of fuel efficiency … [Read more...]
Retailer says insurance requirements a snag in E15 switch
A regulatory change touted as a less expensive way for retailers to switch to selling gas with a 15 percent blend of ethanol is a key part of the debate over the governor's proposed ethanol mandate. Early this year, Governor Kim Reynolds called for a state law requiring all Iowa gas stations to … [Read more...]
Farmers urged to check fields for pests
With most of Iowa's corn in or near the critical pollination stage, farmers are being advised to scout for the usual pests that can do serious damage to a crop. Iowa State University Extension entomologist Erin Hodgson says pollination can be hampered by several types of insects. "The primary one … [Read more...]
Crops show another decline as lack of moisture continues
The U.S.D.A. crop update says the lack of precipitation is causing some stress on crops. The U.S.D.A. says the crop stress is most notable in the northern third of the state -- which has the worst drought conditions. The overall condition of the corn crop was reported at 65% good to excellent. … [Read more...]
USDA to address anti-competitive practices in ag industry
The USDA will spend half a billion dollars to help establish smaller-scale meat processing plants to compete with the four major corporations that dominate the industry. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement in Council Bluffs. "It's first and foremost going to create an … [Read more...]
Axne spoke with Biden about putting biofuels in infrastructure plan
As congressional leaders juggle three different infrastructure bills, Iowa Congresswoman Cindy Axne says the one that passed the U.S. House Thursday includes nearly $22 million for six projects in southwest Iowa. Axne, a Democrat from West Des Moines, says she's still lobbying to include funding … [Read more...]
Rain helps improve crop conditions
The U.S.D.A. crop report finds the rain last week was helpful --but more moisture is needed. The report shows the amounts of rain varied widely with northwest Iowa still reporting more than two-thirds of its topsoil moisture short to very short. While the districts in the southern one-third of … [Read more...]
ISU discusses options for farmers hit by hail damage
Some farmers now have decisions to make after their crops were damaged by hail. Iowa State University Extension held a meeting Friday for those hit in the Plymouth County areas. ISU Crop specialist, Joel DeJong says the hail damage appears to have started east of Le Mars. He says the damage looks … [Read more...]