Droughts, complicated by climate change, result in U.S. beef herd hitting historic low

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Droughts, complicated by climate change, result in U.S. beef herd hitting historic low

Of the nation's top 10 beef-producing states — responsible for nearly 60% of the country's beef production — half reported the lowest number of cattle since 1995 as of the beginning of 2024. Nationwide, the beef cattle population hit a 61-year low at the start of 2024, according to USDA data.

U.S. wheat farms declined 40% in last 20 years

Since 2002, the total number of U.S. wheat farms fell by more than 40%, according to data from the USDA Economic Research Service.

Iowa bill proposing legal immunity for pesticide manufacturers advances

In a subcommittee meeting on the bill Monday, Brad Epperly, speaking on behalf of Bayer, said the company is not able to make additional warnings outside of EPA regulations and current law. He said the bill would prevent lawsuits made on unproven bases, securing farmers' use of certain chemical tools.