ATRAZINE: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has finalized its biological opinion on Atrazine, determining that this key crop protection tool does not jeopardize the continued existence of threatened or endangered species. The decision clears a major regulatory hurdle before the Environmental Protection Agency can complete the registration review process for Atrazine. The outcome reflects years of engagement by farmers and grower organizations who have consistently advocated for decisions grounded in sound science, real-world data, and practical farming experience.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Tuv3so (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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A BUSY WEEK AHEAD

NEXT WEEK: Via KROX-Radio, VERBATIM: “Minnesotans are invited to celebrate the bounty of the harvest season during National Farmers Market Week, August 2-8. Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed the week Farmers’ Market Week in Minnesota, joining the nationwide celebration of farmers’ markets and the farmers, vendors, and communities that make them possible.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fxnx8E

NEXT WEEK: Via Farmfest, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins will be a featured speaker at the Farmfest Forums during this year’s Minnesota Farmfest. Secretary Rollins will address the audience gathered in the Wick Buildings Farmfest Center on Tuesday, Aug. 4, beginning at 10:10 a.m.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3S2fNCu

NEXT WEEK: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Remember: We’re offering free, onsite well water testing for nitrates Tuesday through Thursday next week at @MNFarmfest near Redwood Falls. Bring a sample from your tap to our tent and learn more about our programs while you’re there!” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4pRPj3c

THIS MONTH: Via Linder Farm Network, VERBATIM: “The Steele County Agribusiness Luncheon scheduled for Friday, August 14, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at the Owatonna Eagles Club will feature Congressman Brad Finstad and House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson. Representatives Finstad and Thompson will discuss the Farm Bill, federal agriculture policy, and the issues shaping the future of rural America.”

FARM BILL: Via Politico, VERBATIM: “Senate Republicans will include language to permanently allow year-round sales of E15 fuel in the farm bill they plan to mark up next Thursday, according to two people familiar with the plans. The E15 language that senators are planning to attach to their package is a scaled-back version of the bill the House passed in May. The House bill narrowed exemptions for certain small refiners, a provision that became a sticking point for some GOP senators.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4h9dIij

MORE: Via The Fence Post, VERBATIM: “The Office of Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., the ranking member on the committee, did not respond to a request for comment. Senate Democrats have said the bill must address the question of delaying a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that requires states to pay a portion of the cost of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits based on each state’s payment error rate.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yS6SUQ

WORKFORCE: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Minnesota Representative Michelle Fischbach is supporting legislation from House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson to modernize the H-2A agricultural guest worker program. Fischbach said the bill would streamline timelines, allow labor certifications to remain valid for three years and make other changes requested by farmers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fPBgGF

THE FEDS: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced a new U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiative to recruit veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses into mission-critical careers that protect America’s food supply, strengthen rural communities, and defend the nation’s agricultural security.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/45xSPWS

DAIRY: Via Minnesota Reformer, VERBATIM: “Food & Water Watch and the Land Stewardship Project sued the state of Minnesota Thursday over a decision to allow a Morris mega-dairy to expand without a more rigorous environmental review. Riverview wants to expand West River Dairy from 7,855 cows to almost 19,000 cows, making it the biggest dairy in Minnesota. The new dairy would create roughly the same amount of waste as a city of 750,000, and, according to the plaintiffs, at least 66,000 tons of additional greenhouse gas emissions yearly.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pUVgwm

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AG INFRASTRUCTURE

DROUGHT: As of Tuesday, 76% of the state was in formal drought status, up from 48% a week earlier. 95% – nearly the entire state – was listed as abnormally dry or worse. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/3zN8TDo

MORE: MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen shared the latest Drought Monitor via X, adding, QUOTE: “@MNagriculture watching closely as more counties will be added to USDA disaster declarations which open emergency loans & grazing.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/3Fz82gD

A LITTLE HELP: From North Dakota State Climatologist and NDAWN Director Daryl Ritcheson via X, a map showing North Dakota and Minnesota rain totals from Thursday into Friday. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/4pS5uxh

LAND: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Farmland values in North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin increased 1.2 percent over the past six months and are up 4.2 percent from a year ago, according to the latest farm real estate benchmarking study from AgCountry Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fLZa64

CRUSH CAPACITY: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “ADM says it will be making upgrades at four existing plants in the next three years, adding 700,000 metric tons of annual crush capacity . . . ADM says the expansion would create demand for more than 25 million additional bushels of soybeans annually.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4bSY0Es

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Cattle futures were slightly higher early Friday, hogs and soybeans 2-sided. Corn and wheat lower.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4xbsuJY

BEEF TOUR: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota state cattlemen’s summer beef tour made a stop at a farm near Lake Benton, Minnesota that breeds champion stock red angus. It’s one of nine stops on the tour.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/450KoTT

IN THE FIELDS

STORAGE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “‘Where are we gonna put all the grain when harvest starts?’ That’s the question John Tuttle with Brock says more commercial grain handlers are asking as the 2026 harvest approaches. The pressure is building from several directions: high old-crop corn stocks, soft commodity prices, flat storage capacity growth and a narrowing construction window for permanent storage projects.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/45wQqf9

RUST: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An agronomist is concerned as southern rust continues moving north. Grant Harms with Corteva Agriscience says the corn disease is blown in from the south and has been detected in Iowa.” HARMS: “So knowing that we have southern rust history in these regions of the bread basket doesn’t mean that we’re going to have it, but if we could prevent it for when it does show up. That’s where we like to use fungicides to prevent those diseases from getting out of control and costing yield.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4bjpz9Y

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

BIOFUELS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A group of researchers at Purdue University are looking to expand the use of biofuels in traditional diesel engines. Dr. Greg Shaver, professor of mechanical engineering, says the Purdue Biofuels Consortium is focused on creating new market opportunities for farmers.” SHAVER: “The idea is to be able to take a great fuel like ethanol and blend it together with conventional diesel fuel and biodiesel and use that in an engine that can also still be capable of running diesel fuel,” he says. “A key goal here is to increase the value of these fuels that will directly affect farmers in the state of Indiana.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4pSPnjh

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As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

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NEXT WEEK: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “Farmfest 2026 is right around the corner, and Minnesota Corn will once again have an active presence at the annual farm show and agriculture celebration at Gilfillan Estate near Morgan. Join Minnesota Corn in Tent 702 at the corner of Seventh Street and Seed Row to learn about how the organization is creating opportunities for farmers and enhancing quality of life for agricultural communities.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vUVIf8 (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

MORE: Via Farmfest, more details and a ticket discount. SEE: https://fluence-media.co/3RHMSmZ

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WEATHER CHALLENGES

HEAT: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Triple-digit heat indices swept across the Midwest and Plains late last week and into the weekend, and the damage is already showing up in the numbers. USDA’s weekly Crop Progress report released Monday showed the steepest week-over-week decline in corn good to excellent condition ratings for this point in the growing season in nearly 20 years, catching even the most bearish analyst estimates off guard.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fHAR94

CROP REPORT: Via USDA, the Crop Progress report. SEE: https://fluence-media.co/4fHY636

MORE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “USDA’s latest weekly crop update shows 77 percent of corn and 78 percent of soybeans in good to excellent condition, still well above the respective national averages. Brownton farmer Ryan Mackenthun tells Brownfield outside of a small hail event, the growing season is going well.” MACKENTHUN: “Throughout June I was starting to get worried it was getting too dry, and then all of a sudden we just kept catching rains, every three days I think we got an inch. And I was starting to worry we were getting too much rain actually then for a while. But obviously glad we got that rain to carry us through that stretch of 90’s.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4pNNLqW

HEAT IMPACT: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Nutrien Principal Atmospheric Scientist Eric Snodgrass says this year’s hot, dry weather pattern has been especially tough on producers in the Upper Midwest.” SNODGRASS: “It’s been primarily a western and upper Midwestern Corn Belt and an Upper Midwest issue. That’s going to be a major point of concern going farther into this new month of August as to where damage has been done by this crop. Parts of the Northern Plains, Red River area, we’ve really seen the heat take a toll on our crops.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3RosHKV

EL NINO: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The chief atmospheric scientist with Nutrien Ag Solutions says he expects a record setting El Nino to have significant impacts this fall. Eric Snodgrass tells Brownfield, ‘Currently we would rank this one as strong, and based on what we know about the water temperatures still yet to surface over parts of the equatorial Pacific, this will be an historic El Nino breaking records in terms of how warm it’s going to be.’” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4pJKZmB

TRACKING WX: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has expanded the Minnesota Ag Weather Network (MAWN) with the launch of two weather stations in Southeast Minnesota. The stations, located outside Peterson in Fillmore County and Mabel in Houston County, are another key step toward improving statewide data coverage for Minnesota producers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4g1dzfN

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Corn and especially soybean markets were down early Wednesday with rain chances for the dry areas of the Western Corn Belt in the forecast for Thursday to Saturday. Mike Minor of Professional Ag Marketing says the weather will have a bigger impact on soybeans, which are leading the losses.” MINOR: “Corn’s weather story was a little bit earlier, which we didn’t have many problems with. Pollination was a little hot, but the nighttime temps got decently low. It’s getting a little late for a weather story on the corn side.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4pRT48U

DAIRY: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “The economic engine of large dairies was on full display as neighbors, vendors and staff praised Riverview, LLP, during a meeting hosted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture on Tuesday, July 28. A few attendees expressed concerns over consolidation of dairies and risks to resources, namely how Riverview has become the dominant player in the upper Midwest dairy market. The meeting was in direct response to something that the Department of Ag and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency noticed during the recent comment period and completed environmental assessment of what is to become the largest dairy operation in Minnesota, Riverview’s West River Dairy expansion project near Morris, Minnesota.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fIUWvZ

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DC + AG

WOLVES: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Farmers across the Upper Midwest are encouraging U.S. senators to pass legislation this week that would bring management of grey wolves back to states. Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Tyler Wenzlaff tells Brownfield, ‘We’re inches from the finish line here, and it’s something that we’ve been working on for nearly three decades.’ He says lawmakers are expected to vote on the Pet and Livestock Protection Act this week, which the House passed in December with bipartisan support.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4w7gPLG

HEALTHCARE: Via Harvest Public Media, a look at how the expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits impacts farmers. VERBATIM: “Farmers and ranchers are among many workers who’ve relied on ACA plans. The Congressional Research Service estimates there were 1.2 million self-employed agriculture workers in 2022. A KFF survey found that around 27% of agriculture workers are on plans — a high share compared to the general population. Enrollment fell about 13% across all users after premiums spiked this year, and they could rise again next year. Many enrollees downgraded their plan level, opting for a high deductible to get a lower monthly cost.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4hycygs

CRISIS COMPARISONS: Via Harvest Public Media, VERBATIM: “While the economic stress might seem comparable, the similarities between the current downturn and the ‘80s crisis are limited, according to Seth Meyer, agriculture economist and head of the University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Institute. He said crop insurance is now commonplace for farmers, which wasn’t the case 40 years ago. Growers also have access to federal safety net programs, like Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage, that are meant to kick in when crop prices fall.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yMdHah

RENT: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Cash rent negotiations could be complicated by tight margins this fall. Farm management analyst Kent Thiesse, who is based in Minnesota, says even with recent price improvement, the cost of producing corn and soybeans next year will likely squeeze profits.” THIESSE: “It will be interesting what happens with cash rents this fall. So far we haven’t seen much adjustment downward in cash rents, and part of that from the landlord’s perspective is states like Minnesota, many counties are talking 8 to 10 percent or more increases in property taxes.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/44WMtAc

IN THE FIELDS

NUTRIENTS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A north central Wisconsin farmer says he’s surviving the high input cost environment by becoming as efficient as possible with his nutrient applications. Adam Baumann, who farms in Marathon County, says he keeps close track of his nitrogen use efficiency.” BAUMANN: “We’ve cut back on our nitrogen.” He says, “Our nitrogen use efficiency in our corn this year will be the lowest it’s ever been. So, we will take what we’ve learned in that whole digital agriculture space and move forward with better decisions and lower fertilizer rates and grow the same amount of bushels or hopefully more.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4yOPujL

BIOSTIMULANTS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “The biostimulant category is not winning grower trust through bigger promises, but through narrower claims, better agronomic explanations and proof that fits the farmer’s field. Biostimulants are gaining broader acceptance with growers, but the shift might not be because the products themselves have suddenly changed. Instead, new tracking work from Stratus Ag Research suggests the category may be benefiting from something more fundamental: better expectation-setting.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fOUXi2

NEW WEED: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “A new noxious weed appeared in Minnesota for the first time in Dakota County in 2025. On the latest Smarty Plants podcast episode, find out why Tree of Heaven is so concerning for those who monitor invasive plants, and what we can do about it.” TWEET/LINK: https://fluence-media.co/3S6pGix

GRAZING: Via KQDS-TV, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Grazing Lands Conservation Association (MNGLCA) took its on-farm education class to the Duluth Farming Company July 27. The goal was to show off grazing infrastructure and livestock handling, among other farming topics.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3RBOE9o

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

FARMFEST: Via Ag Update, VERBATIM: “Five finalists for the 2026 Farmfest Woman Farmer of the Year Award have been narrowed to one, and the winner will be announced during the final day of Farmfest. This is the seventh year Farmfest organizers IDEAg Group will present the award.” LIST: https://fluence-media.co/4g23u2c

RETAIL: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “Minnesota Grown and the Minnesota Grocers Association (MGA) are once again inviting grocery and liquor stores across the state to support farmers and show off their local pride by entering the Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year contest. This annual contest celebrates Minnesota retailers who go above and beyond to promote Minnesota Grown agricultural products—everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats, dairy, alcoholic beverages, packaged goods, and more. Stores are encouraged to create eye-catching displays and promotions that highlight produce from Minnesota’s farmers during peak season.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3RhN7oU

BUTTER: Via Owatonna People’s Press, VERBATIM: “The founding mothers of Steele County’s agriculture industry are finally getting their due. After decades of relative obscurity, pioneering dairy farmers Mina Holmes and Marianne McRostie are set to be inducted into the Livestock Hall of Fame at this year’s Steele County Free Fair. Holmes and McRostie were key figures in the local dairy industry, earning widespread recognition for their award-winning butter in the 1880s.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pKMDnZ

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SPRAY SEASON: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “Fungal infection can steal a few bushels of corn, but left uncontrolled it can take half the crop. This time of year, farmers and ag workers get out to spray fungicide from high clearance vehicles, drones and airplanes.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fCZjZl (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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MONDAY AG FEED

NEXT WEEK: Minnesota Farmfest begins Tuesday in Redwood County. SEE: https://fluence-media.co/459I3FR

MORE: Via Ag Update, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council will continue its hockey theme from MN Ag Expo, this time bringing it outdoors to Farmfest in booth 620.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vWRx2p

MORE: Via Ag Update, VERBATIM: “Families and growers from across Minnesota will be represented as the University of Minnesota honors them in the 2026 Farm Family of the Year ceremony at 1:15 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at the annual Minnesota Farmfest near Redwood Falls.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4bezihA

NEXT MONTH: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is reminding agricultural producers impacted by increased input costs and natural disasters that the deadlines to apply for safety net and disaster assistance programs designed to protect their financial security are coming soon.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3RvfrnN

HARVEST: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Small grain harvest is getting underway in Minnesota, with early reports from southern parts of the state showing better-than-expected yields and good grain quality.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/45pJqAD

HEAT: Via WCCO-Radio, VERBATIM: “Up until about one week ago, the outlook for this year’s crops seemed fantastic, says Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen.” PETERSEN: “Minnesota was kind of the garden spot for the whole United States,” he says. “But with the heat that we’ve had, we are really worried that we’re going to start to see some distress.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3RktlJo

EQUIPMENT: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “There are whispers that corn prices might be on the move, and if history is any guide, the ag equipment market won’t be far behind. Machinery Pete sees early signs of a familiar cycle taking shape — one that could put pressure on both equipment availability and prices before many farmers are ready.” QUOTE: “Auction prices will be the highest you’ve ever seen, which in my 36, almost 37, years, the last high point happened at the end of 2022,” says Machinery Pete. “If you’re late, you won’t get that new piece of equipment. It just won’t be there.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wsNCvy

FARM BILL: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives says Senate Ag Committee leaders are optimistic about marking up a bipartisan farm bill before the August recess. Duane Simpson says U.S. Senators John Boozman from Arkansas and Amy Klobuchar from Minnesota believe they are very close to a bipartisan deal.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3TXAMH3

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DC + AG

GRAIN MARKETS: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Another ceasefire between the United States and Iran sent crude oil prices lower. According to Ag Bull Trading President Tommy Grisafi, the cost of energy is just one of many factors sending grain markets significantly lower overnight.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44O9a9R

CATTLE: Via The Wall Street Journal, VERBATIM: “The Agriculture Department is lifting a more than yearlong ban on Mexican cattle imports, a move that could ease soaring beef prices. The U.S. plans to resume importing Mexican cattle at the port of entry in Douglas, Ariz., in 30 days and eventually open two additional ports of entry in New Mexico. Mexico typically sends about a million calves across the border each year, accounting for roughly 5% of the cattle processed in the U.S. Cattle imports had been cut off since last year to stem the spread of the flesh-eating New World screwworm.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wrlSqY

MORE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “[Joe] Kooima says this does matter to the market because Texas feedlots have been struggling for the last 19 months without the close source of feeders from Mexico. However, there may not be as many head that coming into the U.S. because they have ramped up their feeding and processing capacity in Mexico over time.” KOOIMA: “We’ve basically given Mexico a quick lesson on how to grow fat cattle down there and then they can ship us the beef down there. But Texas cattle feeders have made their voice known the last six, eight, nine months.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4fXAbOd

PROP 12: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The president of the National Pork Producers Council says he’s optimistic a fix for Proposition 12 can still be included in the Senate’s version of the farm bill. ‘Every indication I’ve got is they are still going to do their best to get it in there,’ Rob Brenneman told Brownfield on Monday. He says the Save Our Bacon Act, which was included in the farm bill that passed out of the U.S. House in late April, aims to override or sharply limit state-level animal welfare laws like Prop 12 in California.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4yI5Iel

AG HEADLINES

TRADE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “As the U.S., Mexico, Canada trade negotiations are underway, agriculture groups are united around one priority: protect the integrated North American market that has become critical for U.S. producers. But those close to the Trump administration say it’s not so simple. Former U.S. Trade Representative Bob Lighthizer says Mexico will likely be the biggest challenge in the talks, not Canada, pointing to the current trade deficit with Mexico as the major reason why.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wBMWnq

GRANTS: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) will open applications on Aug. 3 for the next round of Soil Health Financial Assistance Program Grants, which help producers and partners purchase or retrofit equipment that supports soil‑building practices. This is the fifth round of grants, which offers up to 50% cost‑share, with awards ranging from $500 to $45,000. A total of $5 million is available statewide through funding from the 2025 Minnesota Legislature and the EPA.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pFxdkK

FERTILIZER: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “If you apply fertilizer for hire in Minnesota, you must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Review the requirements before heading out this summer.” TWEET/LINKS: https://fluence-media.co/4fWmKxY

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

THIS WEEK: Via Minnetonka-based Pivot Bio, VERBATIM: “Following a successful national kickoff in Missouri and Iowa, Pivot Bio’s Year of One Million Thanks Buddy Seat Tour is heading to the Great Plains region for a week of conversations celebrating the people, partnerships and innovations driving the future of agriculture. The tour, spanning more than 1,500 miles across America, brings together farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry innovators with Pivot Bio leaders to elevate farmer voices and encourage greater investment in one of America’s most important industries. During the week of July 27, the tour will stop at Elevate: AI in Agriculture Summit, Grand Farm Field Day, and Ag PhD Field Day.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pHipCd

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As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

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RACING: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “Great job by our county leaders in southeast Minnesota at the annual Tasseldega Nights event at Deer Creek Speedway this past weekend!” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/4jvV3Lc (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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FRIDAY AG NEWS

DIESEL: Via Senate Joint Economic Committee - Minority, VERBATIM: “President Trump campaigned on lowering prices for farmers, but his actions have instead led to the opposite result: American farmers are facing skyrocketing costs. Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran drove up the cost of diesel fuel just as farmers were set to start their spring planting – a process that requires millions of gallons of diesel fuel across the country.”

“This calculation only takes into account the diesel used to plant corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and rice; it doesn’t take into account other war-related increases such as the increased costs of running diesel generators that power some greenhouses or the increases at the pump that farmers and truckers face when they drive products to market.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4flxKoC

MORE: From the Committee release, QUOTE: “Farmers have already been battling high input costs and President Trump’s ongoing war in the Middle East is further raising diesel costs,” said U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and member of the Joint Economic Committee. “American farmers have been left paying the price. Minnesota farmers are spending over $1,400 more on diesel since last year. Americans want lower prices, not costly wars with no strategic path forward.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wYmHay

REACTION: Via The New Hampshire Union Leader, VERBATIM: “The study combined fuel prices from AAA and the Energy Information administration along with crop and field operation estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Iowa State University’s Ag Decision Maker research arm. Republican State Committee Chairman Scott Maltzie panned the report as a partisan talking point.” MALTZIE: “This is not an objective economic analysis — it is a partisan press release disguised as research.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wmUOta

FERTILIZER: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Fertilizer prices are expected to remain elevated as growers prepare for fall applications. StoneX Vice President of Fertilizer Josh Linville said global supply disruptions and tightening inventories leave little hope for lower prices before fall fieldwork begins.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fCZHXL

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IN THE FIELDS

DROUGHT: The new Drought Monitor out this week shows the situation continues to get worse – 48% of the state is now in formal drought status, up from 38% a week earlier. It reflects data as of Tuesday. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/3zN8TDo

WEEDS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A professor of weed science at the University of Illinois says many farmers have faced challenges in terms of weed control this year. Aaron Hager tells Brownfield, ‘It’s been all over the board, around the state this year.’ He says, ‘We had some very good timely rainfalls when we were doing a lot of our pre-emergence products. Then we got into some very wet conditions beginning about mid-June, that delayed a lot of the post applications.’” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4hvktuX

WHEAT: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “The Wheat Quality Council Spring Wheat and Durum Tour wrapped up with a final average yield estimate of 48 bushels per acre.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wnXE11

CROP INSURANCE: Via Successful Farming, VERBATIM: “The USDA is reversing course on a change to a federal crop insurance policy to allow farmers to buy more protection if weather or field conditions prevent them from planting a crop. USDA had eliminated the option to buy additional prevented planting insurance going into the 2026 growing season.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/45l2u2X

TRADE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A former U.S. Trade Ambassador suggests the agriculture sector is often treated unfairly in trade negotiations. Robert Lighthizer uses U.S. bulk commodity agriculture as an example.” LIGHTHIZER: “We’re more competitive, and we’re more discriminated against around the world. I’ve always said that no group suffers more from protectionism abroad than agriculture.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Tjziqz

AID: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Earlier this week, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins told the Senate Appropriations Committee supplemental farmer aid is meant to be a springboard, not a new floor for government support. The administration is requesting $11.1 billion in additional supplemental agricultural assistance . . . If approved, that money would come on top of the $44.3 billion in government payments USDA’s Economic Research Service has estimated for farmers this year. Combined, that would total $55.4 billion. If spread evenly across 153.8 million U.S. taxpayers, that total would equal roughly $360 per taxpayer.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yDx3OL

AG ECONOMY: Via New Ulm Journal, VERBATIM: “Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen talked about agriculture opportunities and challenges in detail at the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC) Summer Conference at the New Ulm Convention Center Wednesday.” QUOTE: “We need all the farmers we have,” said Petersen. “We have 64,000 farms in Minnesota but we lost 1,300 farms the last two years. That’s been hard. The ag economy has really been struggling. Lots of people are retiring too.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yFN2Mj

FARM BUSINESS

NEXT MONTH: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “Attendees at Farmfest 2026 are encouraged to stop by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) exhibit for information on a wide range of agriculture programs and resources—including a free, onsite nitrate testing clinic for private well users. The annual event runs Aug. 4–6 at the Historic Gilfillan Estate near Redwood Falls.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4woiYDy

CATTLE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A southwest Minnesota livestock producer sees positives and negatives from the historically high cattle market. Danny Vos has cow-calf pairs and finishes cattle near Hendricks.” VOS: “It’s been darn good I guess. It would be a tough thing to get into now with the high prices, so it’s good to be in it I guess before this comes. But we’ve got to tread pretty lightly here and make sure we can all stay profitable.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4vNmOF6

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Cattle and hogs were mostly higher early Friday, grains mostly lower except soybeans.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4vMf1Hs

REPAIRS: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Three Democratic candidates campaigning across southeastern Minnesota this month said a recent federal settlement with John Deere is a step forward on farmers’ right to repair their own equipment, but they argue the state needs to close a gap in its own law that still leaves tractors and combines out of reach. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, along with legislative candidates Dan Wilson and Jack Hedin, discussed the issue during a July 13 campaign stop in Rushford, days after John Deere agreed in U.S. District Court to a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission and several states, including Minnesota, over claims the company blocked farmers from repairing their own equipment outside of authorized dealers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pFqUxx

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

SILOS: Via Harvest Public Media, VERBATIM: “Silos — tower-like structures on farms that hold fermented feed for livestock — have dotted the Midwestern landscape for 150 years. But they’re threatened by development and old age. One ‘silo hunter’ in northern Illinois has been tracking down silos her grandfather built before they disappear. Marianne May drove around the backroads of McHenry County on a recent afternoon, scanning for those tall, round structures with a shallow point at the top that’s characteristic of her grandfather’s silos. Some of them have a little diamond shape on the very top — his signature.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4x4D2eb

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TRADE MISSION: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “Minnesota Corn, in partnership with the U.S Grains & BioProducts Council, recently organized a trade mission to Minnesota, bringing together leading animal nutritionists from the Central America region for an immersive learning experience across the state. The mission was designed to boost confidence in using U.S. corn co-products in feed formulations, a vital step toward modernizing animal nutrition in that region.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4b4JFVb (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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DC + AG

HEMP: Via The Hill, VERBATIM: “Reps. Angie Craig (D-Minn.) and Andy Barr (R-Ky.) on Wednesday introduced a bill designed to set up a clear regulatory framework for hemp and hemp-derived THC products. The Lawful Hemp Protection Act would establish the first comprehensive federal regulatory framework for hemp products. Craig, the top Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee, credited her state with being the model ‘for responsible hemp regulation.’” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4py8aQH

MORE: Via Marijuana Moment, VERBATIM: “Under the new bill, legal hemp would not include cannabinoids that are not capable of being naturally produced by a cannabis plant or that are ‘produced, manufactured, or converted using chemical synthesis, hydrogenation, acetylation, alkylation, or any other artificial process that adds to, removes from, or otherwise alters the molecular structure of a cannabinoid so that it contains one or more functional groups or substituents that are not present in any naturally occurring cannabinoid constituent’ of cannabis.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3RTmfeZ

MINNESOTA: Via Star Tribune, VERBATIM: “Minnesota’s top cannabis regulator said hemp THC products will remain available in the state whether the federal ban takes effect or not. Minnesota has its own legislation regulating the hemp market. Like hemp business owners across Minnesota and nationwide, Leah Kollross is waiting nervously. Kollross founded the Minneapolis hemp-derived THC beverage and edible maker 23rd State with her husband, Kasey, around the time she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2023. She has been forced to rethink the future of her business after Congress passed the ban last fall.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fvluAu

WISCONSIN: Via letter from Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers to the state’s congressional delegation, QUOTE: “I must reiterate the importance of Congress providing a stable and workable path forward for Wisconsin’s hemp industry in the next Farm Bill or standalone legislation. Hemp has become an increasingly important tool for agricultural diversification, rural economic development, and value-added manufacturing, creating new opportunities for Wisconsin farmers, processors, retailers, and consumers across our state. As Congress considers the future of federal hemp policy, it is essential that any changes provide the certainty and regulatory clarity needed for this emerging industry to continue growing and investing in Wisconsin.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vNZaZ4

(DISCLOSURE: Plift is a Fluence client)

AID: Via Ingstad Minnesota Radio Network, VERBATIM: “Minnesota Congressman Brad Finstad says a House budget proposal includes $10 billion in economic aid for row crop farmers. Finstad says the assistance would be distributed through a bridge payment program similar to last year’s.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44JzGB2

AI: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking steps to speed up progress in plant science by calling on universities and stakeholders to help build new AI tools that can translate the huge amount of germplasm data the agency collects. Through the Genesis Mission and the Agriculture Advanced Research and Development Authority (AgARDA), USDA is expected to launch an Agricultural National Science & Technology Challenge later this year. The Challenge will ask innovators to create practical solutions that pull together different types of information—like images, field data, and lab results—so scientists can quickly spot important plant and seed traits and develop crops that are more resilient and productive.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wgtCvQ

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AG PRODUCTS

SOYBEANS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The new CEO of the United Soybean Board says increasing demand for U.S. soybeans is needed to help improve farmer profitability. Courtney Knupp tells Brownfield that includes market diversification and value-added opportunities.” KNUPP: “There’s a lot of versatility in this product, and we need to capture more opportunities to impact U.S. consumers and keep that product at home.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4yzBuu9

MARKETING: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A grain merchandiser says having a marketing plan can help farmers take advantage of rallies. Mathew Burkey with Ag Valley Co-Op, based in western Nebraska, says producers often overthink their strategies, which can create stress.” BURKEY: “If it is a profitable sale, then it’s a good one and then you have to move on to the next one. It’s hard to do, but if you don’t make yourself have targets and know your cost of production, sometimes you get paralyzed by emotion and not doing something is still doing something and then nothing gets done.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3TjeO12

ETHANOL: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “U.S. ethanol production bounced back after a couple of weeks of decline. The U.S. Energy Information Administration says production averaged 1.094 million barrels per day, up 54,000 on the week and 16,000 on the year, supported by margins and demand expectations.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pF8EEM

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “The grain markets were higher early Wednesday with wheat leading the price gains and adding war premium. Vince Boddicker of Farmers Trading Company says hard red winter wheat made new contract highs and new highs for the year. He says the Iran War is driving up the cost of energy and leading to inflation concerns but Boddicker is urging caution because at some point it becomes old news.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fw6S47

WHEAT: Via Barchart, VERBATIM: “The wheat complex shrugged off early weakness on Tuesday, with contracts higher across the three markets. Chicago SRW contracts were 4 to 5 cents in the green. KC HRW futures were up 9 to 10 ½ cents in the front months. MPLS spring wheat was the leader, with contracts 11 to 12 cents higher. Spring wheat led the charge higher, as Minnesota/the Dakotas through the PWN are seen with little to no precip in the next week according to the NOAA 7-day QPF.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yBaomo

JET FUEL: Via Delta, VERBATIM: “Delta Air Lines is scaling SAF through a multi-airport collaboration supported by Shell Aviation that aims to expand SAF availability and adoption. Together, the two companies will expand SAF availability across key U.S. hubs and priority cities — including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Portland International Airport (PDX), John. F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Logan International Airport (BOS) and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) — while building the infrastructure needed to support long term, reliable supply. The collaboration comes at a critical time for fuel diversification and supply resilience.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3TuahsD

(DISCLOSURE: Delta is a Fluence client)

FROM THE FIELDS

FALL: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An agronomist with CHS expects farmers to alter fall fertility plans. Corey Klaphake covers southern Minnesota and says cutbacks are likely because of high fertilizer prices.” KLAPHAKE: “I think definitely there will be some cutting back no doubt, on the phosphates probably in particular is what the big conversation has been.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4hrPsbf

SEEDS: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is reminding the public that the deadline is approaching to submit comments on whether current rules sufficiently protect natural resources from contamination allegedly associated with neonicotinoid‑treated crop seeds.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4b1K2Qs

LAND: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Farmland values have likely peaked, but a sharp decline is not expected, according to Bell Bank Director of Agribusiness Development Lynn Paulson. Speaking at the Bell Bank AgViews Live seminar, Paulson said additional farmland could come onto the market in the years ahead through estate transfers and changing farm economics.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pBpyUA

WEEDS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Some sugarbeet growers are returning to a decade’s old weed control approach because of herbicide resistance. Kevin Olson is the president of LASCO Manufacturing, which uses a patented electric discharge system on its Lightning Weeder tool to kill weeds. He tells Brownfield the weeder was developed by Allis Chalmers in the early 1980’s in response to chemically resistant weeds, but production dipped when the company experienced financial trouble.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/45flqAb

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

FREE SAMPLES: Via KQDS-TV, VERBATIM: “Ecolibrium 3‘s Lincoln Park Grocery Store is getting closer to opening to the public. In the meantime, they’re connecting with locals by offering weekly produce samples. The produce at LNPK is grown locally at Eco 3’s Urban Farm on the grounds of Lake Superior College. The produce is picked in the morning before heading to the store on West Superior Street that same day. Fresh samples are given out every Tuesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. right outside the store.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/3R56Fg8

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TICKET GIVEAWAY: From Minnesota Corn via Instagram, VERBATIM: “Minnesota Corn is giving away two sets of four single-day FarmFest admission tickets! FarmFest is August 4-6, 2026 in Redwood County, MN.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/4hluLxA (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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DC + AG

SAFETY NET: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Why do U.S. farmers pay double for inputs compared to Brazil? The answer might not be found in the supply chain, but in federal farm payments. A growing chorus of farmers and economists is asking if the U.S. farm safety net has evolved from a ‘protection’ program into a ‘profit enhancer’ that is driving up land prices and locking out the next generation. It’s a question gaining new attention as House Republicans propose an additional $12 billion in farm aid.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fKGbd1

FARM BILL: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman is facing a predicament in advancing his farm bill proposal. Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell, who is a member of the committee, has been hospitalized since mid-June. McConnell plans to return to Capitol Hill, but the timeline remains a question.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vKq2t5

AG STATS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Is USDA preparing to right a lilting ship? On July 15, USDA announced a modern makeover of the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), an agency of massive market consequence and designated statistical guardian of the farm economy. NASS has lost faith with some farmers who question its role as purported watchdog of America’s bins and bushels. According to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, a NASS rehaul is in the works, and her aims are backed by common farmers in flyover country.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3TdT7iT

ORGANICS: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is accepting applications to help with organic certification costs for 2025 & 2026 program years through Dec. 31, 2026. Up to $750 available or up to 75% of the cost, whichever is smaller.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4gNTpaa

PAYMENTS: From farm management analyst Kent Thiesse, VERBATIM: “USDA has announced the final 2025 market year average (MYA) prices for wheat and other small grain crops. The final 2025 MYA prices for wheat and small grains were based on the monthly average farm-level prices from June 1, 2025 until May 31, 2026. The monthly average prices are then “weighted”, based on the percentage of bushels sold each month, in order to arrive at a final MYA price for the marketing year.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3TulZDz

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IN THE FIELDS

SCOUTING: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An agronomist says it’s currently a prime time to be out scouting fields. Hoegemeyer’s Eric Solberg tells Brownfield, ‘First off, I want to make sure you go out there and get an accurate stand count. When the (corn) ears are pollinated, you need an accurate ear count. Because they may have planted 34,000 but the final stand might not be up to their expectations.’” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wNJaah

SOYBEANS: Via MPR, VERBATIM: “Corey Hanson, who grows soybeans in Gary in the Red River Valley, has waged many battles against Iron Deficiency Chlorosis, also known as IDC, in his crops . . . The condition appears when the soybean plants aren’t able to access the iron they need to grow. Affected soybeans’ leaves turn yellow early in their life cycle. When that happens, the plants aren’t actively photosynthesizing, which stunts their development.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44FAve8

SORGHUM: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An official with Texas Tech University expects U.S. sorghum acreage to grow as more farmers see its benefits. Monty Christian is the university’s executive director of marketing strategies in the research and development department and says sorghum is a great rotation crop.” CHRISTIAN: “If you’ve been monocropping for a long time, sorghum is particularly great with cotton. But also some of the other crops (like) soybeans and even corn. It does tend to have a lower upfront input cross, which has been attractive in this era of high fertilizer prices, high input prices.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4fb8e5j

MARKETS & MORE

EXPORTS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Corn export inspections continue to make a strong push into the end of the marketing year. The USDA says the amount of corn that left U.S. during the week ending July 16th was up on the year and well above what’s needed to meet the target for 2025/26, which runs through the end of August. Sorghum and soybean inspections also topped their respective targets for the current marketing year.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pwf88M

CATTLE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Live and feeder cattle futures opened lower on Monday and then saw a decent bounce and it is overdue as the market is oversold. Joe Kooima, Kooima Kooima Varilek says the question is whether or not the strength will hold or if funds will use it to exit more of their long positions. Live cattle futures have been down a record 15 days and August is down $25.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4fJqFya

WEATHER: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “We have expanded our Minnesota Ag Weather Network (MAWN) with the installation of two weather stations in South Central MN. Located near Wells in Faribault County & Vernon Center in Blue Earth County, they’re a crucial step toward improving statewide data coverage for MN farmers.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4vGPlMv

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY: Via Pipestone Star, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Farm Bureau is sponsoring ‘The Ag Adventure Trail, trunk or treat through agriculture on Wednesday, July 22 from 5-7 p.m. at the Pipestone County Fairgrounds.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Rncohm

TRACTOR: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “John Deere’s new ethanol-powered tractor could create additional demand for U.S. corn farmers. Buddy Kavalier, a John Deere ethanol awareness champion, says the E98 tractor is an 8R-series model is a prototype fueled by E98 pure ethanol.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/45dQJve

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NCGA BOARD: From Minnesota Corn via Instagram, VERBATIM: “We have a Minnesotan on the National @corngrowers Board! This morning at Corn Congress, farmer-leader Dana Allen-Tully was elected to the Corn Board. Congrats, Dana! We know you’ll do a fabulous job representing Minnesota’s corn farmers- and farmers everywhere. Thank you for your service!” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/44Un2iV (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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FRIDAY AG HEADLINES

FARMLAND: Via Compeer, VERBATIM: “Minnesota farmland sales in the first half of 2026 are showing a similar pattern as the first half of 2025. Though they haven’t yet reached the peak ranges, farmers and investors still pay competitive prices for land with high soil productivity and good drainage. In south-central Minnesota, high-quality land sells for $11,500 to $13,500 per crop acre. Stronger markets, such as Nicollet County, have even seen a few sales in the $14,000 to $15,000 per crop acre range.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4hjCaxq

(DISCLOSURE: Compeer is a Fluence sponsor)

ECONOMICS: Via Farm Bureau, VERBATIM: “Crop farmers continue to face elevated production costs, lower commodity prices and tight margins – with no relief on the horizon. AFBF analysis projects 2027 will mark a sixth year of negative returns over total costs for most major row crops. Specialty crop farmers are experiencing similar financial strain, facing expected below-breakeven prices and acreage reductions across major fruit, vegetable and tree nut sectors in 2026, even as limited public data make the full scale of losses difficult to measure. At the same time, fertilizer and fuel prices remain volatile, with the Iran conflict adding additional pressure to those markets.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3TbbxAQ

MARKET FORCES: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “The big-picture issues facing agriculture today are more difficult to predict and more challenging to manage. CHS Executive Vice President of Enterprise Customer Development Gary Halvorson is watching these trends closely.” QUOTE: “The dramatic shifts and the rise of more and more production coming on in Brazil; the change in diet because of Make America Healthy Again and what we see in consumption patterns; the smallest US cattle herd since 1951 and the new renewable volume obligations that this administration just put forward,” said Halvorson. “They are all individually significant but collectively have massive influences on how we think about agriculture.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4b0FlGu

CATTLE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Live and feeder cattle futures were lower again on Friday which makes a record 15 days down in the August live cattle contract and a $20 correction. Scott Varilek of Kooima Kooima Varilek says everybody’s looking for the bottom and wants to know if it is close.” VARILEK: “Stairs up and the elevator down. It’s been brutal. It’s not acting like it’s bottoming here. I mean you would hope that on a Friday you’d see this oversold market and see some profit taking but the attitude is not there, we’re not feeling like we’ve got a bottom yet.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4aXHcvE

DAIRY: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The senior dairy analyst with Terrain says consumer demand for protein is helping drive market opportunities for dairy producers. Ben Lane says favorable margins and additional revenue streams are helping keep producers afloat.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/458uF54

BAD AIR: Via WCCO-TV, VERBATIM: “Wildfire smoke blanketing Minnesota has pushed air quality into never-before-seen levels, creating health concerns for residents across the state and forcing outdoor workers to spend hours in heat and smoke. ‘We’re always prepared, you just got to work through it,’ said 3 Bear Landscaping laborer Brandon Waak.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4fjlOlU

HEAT: MPR checked in with Minnesota farmers raising chickens and pigs to see how they’re contending with the heat. LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4wCuXNw

MORE: KTTC-TV visited the Wineshiek County Fair in Decorah, Iowa to see how they’re keeping animals cool. READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fmwsZ9

DROUGHT: This week’s Drought Monitor reflecting data as of Tuesday shows 38% of the state in formal drought status up from 29% a week earlier. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/3zN8TDo

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DC + AG

BUDGET BILL: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “The House Budget Committee has approved a budget reconciliation bill with a party line 20-to-14 vote. Within this massive $95 billion plan, the House Agriculture Committee has been directed to develop up to $12 billion in a farm assistance package.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4hiqwTp

CORN CONGRESS: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “As part of Corn Congress this week, our farmer-leaders visited with federal lawmakers and members of the administration to highlight issues important to family corn farmers. That includes year-round E15, input costs, and the meaningful updates to the farm safety net lawmakers made last summer. Thanks to lawmakers for their attention to issues important to corn farmers!” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/4wHI4Nk

(DISCLOSURE: Minnesota Corn is a Fluence sponsor)

WOLVES: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “In an ongoing analysis of wolf scat collected across California, UC Davis researchers found cattle DNA in 72% of samples, indicating cattle have become a primary food source for wolves . . . While the UC Davis findings are new for California, the challenges are familiar to ranchers elsewhere. Gray wolves have reestablished populations across much of the Upper Midwest, Northern Rockies and Pacific Northwest, where livestock producers have spent years balancing predator recovery with protecting cattle herds.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wbXMR9

DEER & ELK: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A policy specialist with the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association says better solutions for deer and elk depredation are needed. Ryan Vos tells Brownfield.” VOS: https://fluence-media.co/4aYc0fV

IN THE FIELDS

DRONES: Via WCCO-TV, VERBATIM: “Over the past several years there have been a number of advancements in farm technology. Spray drones, in particular, have taken off. It’s Tyler Larson‘s first year running a spray drone. On Thursday morning, he was applying fungicide to a soybean field near Owatonna, Minnesota. ‘If you would have asked me when I was 16 that we would have drones in the air spraying crops, I wouldn’t even know what to say,’ said Larson, of Larson Drone Spraying. It’s technology that’s taking flight in southern Minnesota.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4wl5Q1K

FUNGICIDE: Via Ag Web, a look at fungicide strategies in the corn belt. READ: https://fluence-media.co/4bQYBXd

LICENSING: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “If you apply fertilizer for hire, you must be licensed by the MDA. Businesses that sell or apply fertilizer need a fertilizer license that covers their employees. Get licensed now, before the busy season.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4b1o6Vz

GENETICS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A cow-calf producer in southwest Minnesota credits technology with helping his family farm improve. Nick Delaney of Delaney Herefords in Lincoln County says they use advanced genetics to raise high-quality cattle.” DELANEY: “With the embryo transfer and the AI, it’s really allowed us to mass multiply our best individuals. Which really helps bring up the average of the entire herd. So we have more chances for our best cow to produce calves.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4pqtwzf

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

FLOWERS: Via Minnesota Monthly, VERBATIM: “Across Minnesota, flower farms are opening their fields for ‘U-pick’ experiences, offering everything from self-serve flower patches and curated bouquet sessions to family-friendly farm activities. Whether you’re planning a weekend day trip, searching for the perfect photo op, or simply bringing home your own fresh blooms, these destinations are worth adding to your summer itinerary.” LIST: https://fluence-media.co/4fkI1Qp

PEACE: Via KARE-TV, VERBATIM: “On farm fields in Montrose, grief weighs on the friends and family of Jerry Untiedt. ‘He got to work until the day he died, which is exactly what he wanted,’ Jenna Untiedt, Jerry’s daughter, said. Jerry and Sue Untiedt started Untiedt’s Vegetable Farm in the 1970s on a small piece of land in Waverly. The farm quickly grew, as did their family.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4ywXhTm

Copyright © 2026 Fluence Media, All rights reserved.
As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

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JET FUEL: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “As demonstrated by ethanol, corn can be a tremendous feedstock for clean fuel production. But currently, it faces several limitations as a feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) . . . But new research at the University of Minnesota funded by the corn checkoff could address both of those barriers, giving corn a more viable pathway for participation in the SAF market. Assistant Professor Allen Lee is attempting to engineer a specialized yeast strain that can convert corn glucose into a precise mixture of lipids and hydrocarbons.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wKPe3x (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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OUTSIDE IMPACTS

HEAT: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Extreme heat and warm overnight temperatures have stressed crops across the Northern Plains. Sean McCoy of McCoy Seed at Northwood, North Dakota, said the corn didn’t get the nighttime recovery they need.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44Qrwah

FIRES: Via Farms.com, VERBATIM: “Farmers across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ontario and Manitoba are closely monitoring a growing wildfire situation in northern Minnesota after Governor Tim Walz declared a peacetime emergency and mobilized the Minnesota National Guard to assist firefighting efforts. The decision comes as numerous wildfires continue burning in and around Minnesota’s Boundary Waters region near the Canadian border, fueled by hot temperatures, dry conditions, low humidity and strong winds . . . While the fires are not currently causing widespread direct damage to cropland, agricultural experts say smoke, degraded air quality and transportation concerns could have important consequences for farms on both sides of the border.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vBof9w

SMOKE: Via MPR, VERBATIM: “Heat may not be the only issue farmers contend with this week. Forecasts show that the smoke could reach parts of central Minnesota. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency on Tuesday expanded its air quality alert through Friday morning across much of central Minnesota and into the southeast due to wildfire smoke from northern Minnesota. Matthew Pfarr, a University of Minnesota Extension educator based in Mankato, said he’s been paying attention to the smoke blowing from the wildfires.” PFARR: “With the heat and the smoke. There’s going to be more respiratory distress, and there’s going to be more need for ventilation.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wCuXNw

POLLINATION: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “When the heat index reaches the triple digits, questions arise about the impact on corn. Peterson Corn Product Manager Rick Swenson says most fields are just beginning to tassel, so the crop has not yet reached its most sensitive stage.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3RcXGtg

HERBICIDES: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “University of Georgia Extension Weed Scientist Stanley Culpepper has a message for U.S. farmers watching new herbicide technologies move through the regulatory pipeline: be sure to make your voice heard in the process. ‘Anytime there’s a tool that’s important to farmers, they need to be commenting and providing input,’ Culpepper says, referring to the EPA’s public comment periods during the review of crop protection products.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3T3vWI7

FUEL: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The director of public policy in renewable fuels for the National Corn Growers Association says the latest step towards implementing the 45Z clean fuel tax credit is mostly good news for farmers. Matt Ziegler says the USDA’s Regenerative Agricultural Feedstock Rule gives corn farmers a clear path toward participating in the voluntary program.” ZIEGLER: “Some key items pertaining to how on-farm practices will be scored in terms of carbon intensity, much more expanded in terms of how 45Z was originally constructed.” He says, “So yeah, we’re very pleased.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4pmVYSF

RIGHT TO REPAIR: Via KAAL-TV, VERBATIM: “It’s an issue farmers have been fighting for for years: who should have the right to repair expensive farm equipment? That question brought Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan to Rushford Monday, where she spoke with local farmers about their concerns. Currently, when a piece of high-tech equipment breaks down, farmers often are required to wait for a manufacturer-approved technician to fix it instead of making the repair themselves or hiring an independent mechanic.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4gG3qWO

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MARKETS

OVERVIEW: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Wheat futures were up 30 to 35 cents early Wednesday adding risk premium as Russia and Ukraine attacks have escalated. Jamie Gieseke with Paradigm Futures says” GIESEKE: “The region that’s most concerned is in the Sea of Azov. There’s a shipping lane that goes between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea, and that’s the point of concern right now. Ukraine’s been bombing not necessarily grain ships of Russia, but just Russian ships. And in retaliation, we’re anticipating Russia to be bombing Odessa as well in the Black Sea on the Ukrainian side.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4hfrfVw

GRAIN: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A farm business management instructor says several factors are currently influencing the grain markets. Kristina McVicker is with South Central College in Mankato, Minnesota.” MCVICKER: “Futures are reacting to the national and global picture, with the USDA reports, the I States’ weather, fund buying and selling. That’s been I think a huge factor here lately. Exports, China, South America, and then the biofuel policies.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44yOyCh

UOFM: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “A YouTube video titled ‘Scientists Tested 41 Cover Crop Mixes for 6 Years’ claims a University of Minnesota research team ran a six-season trial and found one three-species cover crop mix that outperformed every other combination by 210%. The 49-minute video, posted May 6 by a channel called Soil & Centuries, says the team tracked nitrogen transfer rates, mycorrhizal network density and weed suppression across hundreds of thousands of data points. None of it happened. The study does not exist. University of Minnesota Extension educators said the video is artificial intelligence ‘slop’ — fabricated content built to draw clicks and advertising revenue.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aV0fH2

TAR SPOT: Via Successful Farming, VERBATIM: “The season’s first cases of tar spot in Minnesota have been confirmed in Cottonwood, Fillmore, Jackson, Murray, and Nobles counties, according to the latest maps published by the Crop Protection Network. The foliar disease was confirmed on July 7.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yvsVAD

AG HEADLINES

REGENERATIVE AG: Via General Mills, VERBATIM: “General Mills, ADM and Walmart today announced a strategic collaboration to accelerate regenerative agriculture across 40,000 Midwest wheat acres. This program focuses on key growing regions where General Mills sources wheat from ADM for products sold through Walmart and Sam’s Club, demonstrating a shared commitment to strengthening supply chain resilience and farming communities.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Ti22jh

BEEF: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Cattle producers are wondering when the stretch of high beef prices might come to an end. Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association president Jake Thompson says these are unprecedented times for the cattle market.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/451vYCW

TOUR: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Today’s Summer Cattlemen’s Tour brought producers together in Lyon and Lincoln counties to showcase the innovation and stewardship keeping Minnesota’s beef industry mooving forward. Thanks to the Southwest Cattlemen’s Assn and Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Assn for hosting!” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/4won26V

BEES & GREENS: Via West Central Tribune, VERBATIM: “Local foods were not yet a thing when Kent Peterson was growing up on a dairy farm south of Benson . . . Today, Peterson is watching what he calls something of a revolution taking place. He’s a part of it as a local foods producer. ‘Lots of little places like us, and bigger, run by a couple of people producing good quality food where the food is needed,’ said Peterson . . . He and his wife, Lori, have been raising an assortment of vegetables and producing honey as ‘Bees & Greens’ since 2018, although their local foods work dates back a much longer ways.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3RFvXBw

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

STATE FAIR: Via Ellsworth Creamery, VERBATIM: “Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery is proud to announce that, as part of its sponsorship of the Food Building at the Minnesota State Fair, its famous fresh cheese curds will be available for sale for the first time at the Minnesota State Fair to be held in St. Paul from August 27- September 7.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ppALre

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RESEARCH: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “Each year, Minnesota Corn invests checkoff funds in University of Minnesota research projects that aim to increase the productivity and efficiency of corn farming while developing new markets for corn-based products. Yesterday, we partnered with the university on an event that highlighted these project[s] to state lawmakers.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/3R1cZVR (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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OUTSIDE IMPACTS

DC SITUATION: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Congress returns to Washington today after a two-week recess. Over the next month, lawmakers will need to move forward on Farm Bill 2.0, a farm assistance package and year-round E-15. Without action, those issues will be punted to the lame duck session after the November 3 elections.” SEE: https://fluence-media.co/44trnZZ

WORKFORCE: Via RFD-TV, VERBATIM: “Agricultural leaders are again calling on Congress to modernize the H-2A guest worker program, saying rising labor costs and workforce shortages continue to strain farm finances. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says a reliable workforce is essential to producing the nation’s food, fuel and fiber, but argues the current H-2A program no longer meets agriculture’s needs.” QUOTE: “A reliable workforce is essential to producing the food, fuel, and fiber Americans depend on every day,” Duvall said. “Yet many farmers struggle to find the workforce they need, and the current H-2A program does not fully meet the needs of agriculture.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vDiBny

INTERSTATE COMMERCE: Via Iowa Farm Bureau, VERBATIM: “Iowa Farm Bureau Vice President Brian Feldpausch and other livestock farmers urged Congress to pass legislation protecting interstate commerce at a press conference last week with Rep. Ashley Hinson (IA-02). Hinson sponsored the Save Our Bacon Act in the U.S. House of Representatives to protect access to interstate commerce for Iowa farmers and lower grocery prices for consumers by prohibiting state and local governments from interfering with the production of livestock in other states.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/450dHWB

TURKEYS: Via West Central Tribune, VERBATIM: “After about four years of fighting back against disease, producers on the roughly 600 turkey farms in Minnesota are feeling relief under the currently quiet part of the season . . . While it may look like producers could let down their guard under the summer sun, they know better. At the recent Minnesota Turkey Growers Summer Summit in Alexandria, vendors continue to push the latest technologies like lasers that can scare wild birds off. Producers continue to talk about added windbreaks around their farms that can help limit the spread of airborne disease. And the desire to implement vaccines is being pushed more aggressively than ever. The group was also abuzz over research that shows how diseases could be confirmed in wastewater, even before the birds start to show any symptoms.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vwYuY2

FARM ECONOMY: Via MinnPost, VERBATIM: “Trouble in farm country is spelling trouble for the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress as a loyal GOP constituency faces increased financial turmoil. Farm bankruptcies in the nation, and especially in Midwestern states like Minnesota, are on the rise and expected to continue to climb. Economic analyses, like the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Sector Income Forecast, show why farm failures are on the rise. The USDA predicts farm income will drop by $1.2 billion this year, even with the increased revenue from the only healthy sector of the farm economy – the beef cattle industry.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yaYsrc

LONG TERM: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “The concern extends far beyond one growing season. After several years of tight or negative margins, many economists believe row crop agriculture could remain under pressure for years.” QUOTE: “I think sometimes these cycles take a bit,” says Krista Swanson, chief economist for NCGA. “We’re really already in the fourth year for a lot of commodities, certainly across the row crop sector, of what I would say is a downturn or low margins, tight margins, negative margins. The possibility of it taking a few more years to get out of this cycle is really frustrating and makes things really difficult for farmers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wBXkeL

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TRADE

INDIA: From U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council via Facebook, VERBATIM: “USGBC Regional Director for South Asia Reece Cannady (leftmost) recently led a delegation of Indian grain buyers on a tour of the U.S. corn co-product value chain in Illinois, Minnesota, South Carolina and Georgia.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/4wFHLCz

SUGAR: Via UPI, VERBATIM: “Mexico announced the United States will begin to restore Mexican sugar’s access to its market, a measure that could significantly increase exports during the 2026-2027 season and boost income for about 170,000 sugarcane producers. Mexico’s presidency said in a statement released Friday that the measure is the result of talks with U.S. authorities led by President Claudia Sheinbaum since November 2025.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vouqxx

USMCA: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “The future of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) entered a new phase earlier this month after the Trump administration declined to automatically renew the trade pact for another 16-year term. Instead, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer says the agreement will move into rolling annual reviews through its scheduled expiration in 2036, a move the administration says was needed rather than simply extending the current deal . . . For agriculture, the announcement raises new questions about long-term certainty, future investment and whether lingering trade disputes, especially dairy, can finally be resolved. But one policy expert says it’s important to remember USMCA is much bigger than dairy and there are other segments that need to be addressed.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4wHqaKJ

ELECTRIC: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Minnesota farmers have until Aug. 11 to apply for a new state grant that reimburses up to 75% of the cost of electric farm equipment, from tractors to feed pushers to irrigation pumps. The Electric Farm Equipment Grant, administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, has $6.6 million available. Individual awards range from $1,500 to $150,000, and applicants seeking the maximum award would need to spend $200,000 on equipment, since the state reimburses 75% of total project cost, said Michael Green, senior grants specialist at the Department of Agriculture and the program’s administrator.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aMngfk

WEEDING: Via Rochester Post Bulletin, VERBATIM: “Hlee and Txongpao Lee grow a long list of vegetables on their 30-acre farm about 20 miles south of the Twin Cities. Other than the occasional help they get from their adult children and relatives, it’s their four hands doing all the work. Fortunately, they’ve found the right mechanical tools to rely on, mounted to a pair of International Farmall 140s and John Deere 950s. Two of each so they don’t have to waste time rotating parts.” QUOTE: “If it weren’t for these tractors, we wouldn’t be able to farm this many acres,” Hlee Lee said. “I always say to my husband, ‘we’ve got help from our grandma and grandpa right here,” Hlee said, pointing to the tractors.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4hbp1GF

CROP UPDATES

CONDITIONS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A technical service manager says variable crop conditions could impact fungicide applications for corn. Adam Byrne with FMC says a wide range of planting dates has created uneven development.” BYRNE: “If you have fields that are at tassel or just past tassel and have some disease risk that you want to control, now you’re talking about another return trip to spray these crops that are two, three, maybe even four stages behind,” he says. “If you have a disease creeping in or actually present in those fields that are ready now, it may be too risky to wait.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4fhDheA

REPORT: Via farm management analyst Kent Thiesse, VERBATIM: “The USDA World Supply and Demand (WASDE) Report released on July 10th projected a decrease in the projected 2026-27 corn ending stocks, based on reduced beginning stocks due to the better-than-expected corn demand for the current 2025-26 marketing year, which ends on August 31, 2026. The latest WASDE Report also showed much lower anticipated U.S. wheat production in 2026, which is expected to result in a significant reduction in the 2026-27 wheat carryover levels.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pgitbQ

DISEASES: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An agronomist in eastern Iowa is seeing escalating disease pressure in corn. Kurt Maertens with BASF says there’s been ample moisture the past month.” MAERTENS: “Over the last 30 days we’ve had several big storm events come through, and each time one of those events has come through it has splashed that overwintering inoculant on that lower canopy. And so it’s not hard for me to find quite a bit of anthracnose in that lower canopy right now.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4h9ZNs7

LABELING: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced that ten additional meat and poultry companies have adopted USDA’s voluntary Product of USA label, marking continued momentum behind the Administration’s efforts to help consumers easily identify products that are truly born, raised, harvested, and processed in the United States.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3T20lq6

BERRIES: Via Harvest Public Media, VERBATIM: “On the bluffs of the Mississippi River near Alton, Illinois, Crystal Moore-Stevens and her family grow something you won’t find on most farms: serviceberries . . . Serviceberry enthusiasts like Higgerson and Moore-Stevens are part of a new push to expose more people to this largely unknown berry. Though the native fruit is commercially harvested in Canada, experts say building a U.S. market could be a challenge.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4wDguRc

WEATHER: From ND State Climatologist Daryl Ritchison via X, VERBATIM: “The @MNagriculture in cooperation with the @NDAWNmesonet just completed an installation near Vernon Center in central Blue Earth County, Minnesota.” PHOTO: https://fluence-media.co/4pgqD3U

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

MAZE: Via Sun Post, VERBATIM: “After hosting last year’s Twin Cities Harvest Festival without their iconic corn maze, the Bouwman family is planning a return to form with their new Brooklyn Park location. At a July 8 meeting, the Planning Commission unanimously approved an interim use permit for the Bouwmans to host the event at 8901 101st Ave. N.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3TdtWNl

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RESEARCH: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “Each year, Minnesota Corn invests checkoff funds in University of Minnesota research projects that aim to increase the productivity and efficiency of corn farming while developing new markets for corn-based products. Yesterday, we partnered with the university on an event that highlighted these project[s] to state lawmakers.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/3R1cZVR (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

ETHANOL: From Senator Torrey Westrom via Facebook, VERBATIM: “WOWZERS — Homegrown fuel for $1.49/gal! Over the holiday weekend, my family and I fueled up with E85 for only $1.49 per gallon at the Cenex in Alexandria! . . . A special shout-out to our SD12 and state farmers who raise the corn that produces ethanol — processed right here at our two local ethanol plants in Benson and Morris. Homegrown, affordable fuel is possible!” POST: https://fluence-media.co/4wCWvCp

FINANCES: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Corn is tasseling. Soybeans are rapidly growing. From the road, many fields across the Corn Belt look promising as the growing season reaches its halfway point. But beneath those healthy-looking crops, many farmers say the financial outlook hasn’t improved. ‘It’s gonna be a tough year too for sure,’ says Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Jed Bower. The concern extends far beyond one growing season. After several years of tight or negative margins, many economists believe row crop agriculture could remain under pressure for years.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wBXkeL

BANKRUPTCIES: The Star Tribune reports seven Minnesota farms have filed for bankruptcy this year, putting the state on pace for the most in five years. VERBATIM: “It’s the latest signal of growing instability for the state’s growers and producers, who serve a central role in the state’s economy and identity. Beyond bankruptcies, the number of farmers defaulting on loans is also trending higher, said Tina LeBrun, the executive director of Minnesota State’s Southern Agricultural Center of Excellence. Conditions feel parallel to those in 2020, when crop prices were also low, she said.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4pmM5EE

CD1: Via news release from the Johnson campaign, VERBATIM: “On Thursday afternoon, Harold Wolle, former president of the National Corn Growers Association and the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, hosted a roundtable discussion with Jake Johnson and over a dozen area farmers and agricultural leaders. Participants raised topics ranging from the harms caused by tariffs and rising equipment costs, to the cuts to rural healthcare and key USDA programs.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vmFWcG

(DISCLOSURE: Minnesota Corn is a Fluence sponsor)

A deep dive into the CD1 race between Rep. Brad Finstad and Jake Johnson for MNSider subscribers. HERE: https://fluence-media.co/49OqNJu

WORKFORCE: Via NPR, VERBATIM: “The Trump administration wants to limit nearly all of the ways that someone can enter the U.S. legally, and that includes worker visas. There’s one type of visa even some Republicans want to expand. Demand for the H-2A visa for seasonal agriculture labor is skyrocketing. Farmers say it’s long overdue for an update.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4poL2nx

LAND: Via Farm Bureau, VERBATIM: “Since 1982, cropland, pastureland and rangeland have declined, while developed land has increased by nearly 48 million acres (66%), roughly the size of Nebraska. Acres moving between cropland, pasture and the Conservation Reserve Program may remain connected to agriculture, while land converted to housing, industrial sites, roads or other built uses is far less likely to return to production. In 2024, more than 2 million landowners rented out 347.8 million acres for agricultural purposes, with non-operating landlords controlling 79% of rented-out acres. More than a third of non-operating landlords are 75 or older, but less than 5% of owned farmland is expected to be sold or gifted in the next five years, leaving trusts, wills, heirs and lease decisions central to who can keep farming.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eX6HQ8

THIS REGION: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An ag real estate specialist describes the farmland market as durable. But Brent Wiest with Compeer Financial says it’s not uniform across the company’s three-state footprint.” WIEST: “We have not seen a broad correction in land values across Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. In many areas, values have held firm. Some areas, particularly where supply is limited or local demand is strong, values have continued to move higher.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3R0tD81

(DISCLOSURE: Compeer is a Fluence sponsor)

FOOD SAFETY: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin announced an updated Memorandum of Understanding to reaffirm their shared commitment to protecting consumers from heavy metals and other contaminants in food.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vWOFn4

WATER: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “Residents in and around Pope County can get their private well water tested for nitrate at no cost during an upcoming clinic hosted by the Pope Soil and Water Conservation District and the Chippewa River Watershed Association in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA).” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3R1oaxN

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FROM THE FIELDS

ESTIMATES: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The USDA has raised its 2026 corn and soybean production estimates, while trimming the outlook for wheat. The larger corn and soybean numbers followed the late June acreage adjustments by the department. Corn is now pegged at 16 billion bushels, with soybeans at 4.475 billion bushels. The USDA left yields at 183 and 53 bushels per acre, respectively.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3T9cKZl

PRIORITIES: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “In a season marked by uneven corn development and delayed soybeans, Farm Journal Field Agronomist Ken Ferrie is telling growers to lean on in-season management rather than write fields off. ‘Don’t walk away from a growing crop. Stay the course,’ encourages Ferrie, who’s based in central Illinois. Speaking on his latest Boots In The Field report, Ferrie lays out five priorities for farmers’ consideration now.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yagF8h

DROUGHT: This week’s Drought Monitor reflecting data as of Tuesday, ahead of significant later-in-the-week rains, shows 29% of the state remains in drought, 11% severe. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/3zN8TDo

DISASTER HELP: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making significant improvements to its disaster assistance and commodity loan programs as outlined in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act to celebrate the one-year anniversary of President Donald J. Trump signing the Act into law on July 4, 2025. As part of the commitment to put Farmers First, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is strengthening disaster assistance support for livestock producers, orchardists and nursery tree growers, increasing Marketing Assistance Loan rates, and expanding Marketing Assistance Loans to better help cotton and sugar producers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44TTmlJ

RUST: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Corn Belt farmers are entering fungicide season with fresh memories of last year’s southern rust outbreak — and many have a renewed commitment to protecting corn. But with tighter margins and uneven stands, some are taking a far more selective approach to fungicide applications in soybeans. For those growers who battled southern rust in 2025, the decision on corn is straightforward.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yc3eEU

FARM BUSINESS

DAIRY: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The senior dairy analyst with Terrain says strong U.S. dairy export growth continues to help boost producer profitability. But, Ben Lane says there have been shifts in demand.” LANE: “We had traditionally exported powders and commodities like non-fat dry milk and whey powders,” he says. “Countries are looking for more of those finished consumer products like cheese and butter, so we’ve seen huge growth in those products in terms of what we’re exporting.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4fu0ewb

ACQUISITION: Via Grand Forks Herald, VERBATIM: “A Grand Forks-based John Deere dealer that has grown in recent years throughout North Dakota and Minnesota is likely to be acquired by RDO Equipment, a family-owned agribusiness with headquarters in Fargo. RDO announced on Tuesday, July 7, that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire True North Equipment‘s John Deere agriculture locations in North Dakota and Minnesota.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wCSNIY

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

SCHOOL FOOD: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “The Farm to School Institute presented the 2026 Cream of the Crop Awards to the winners in Hutchinson, MN. This is a statewide contest to celebrate school districts, early care centers, & family day cares who buy, serve, & promote food from MN Grown farmers and producers.” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/3RbwPOb

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UPPER MISSISSIPPI: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “This summer, Minnesota Corn is recognizing a former farmer-leader for his involvement with a nongovernmental organization that works to improve river and stream fish habitat in the five-state Upper Mississippi River Basin. Steve Sodeman, a Minnesota Corn Growers Association board member from 2004-13, participated in Fishers & Farmers Partnership on behalf of Minnesota Corn for 15 years.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3R8VWku (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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MIDWEEK AG CHECK-IN

COFFEE + FARMERS: Via Albert Lea Tribune, VERBATIM: “In spring 2025, Andrew Phillips started a coffee company with a specific goal in mind. Now, with a little over a year under his belt, Phillips’ business, Farmers Fuel Coffee Co. has seen growth not only in sales and retail partners, but also in skill and product development . . . Growing up, there was an instance when his family could have lost their farm, but fortunately did not . . . This was how he learned about Farm Rescue, a North Dakota-based nonprofit that provides farm and ranch families with the operational support they need in times of crisis, according to the organization’s website, farmrescue.org. Phillips decided to start a coffee company to contribute to this cause, starting right away by learning to roast coffee in his dorm room.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4gtnziI

RIGHT TO REPAIR: Via FTC, VERBATIM: “The Federal Trade Commission, along with five states [including Minnesota and Wisconsin], secured an important settlement in an antitrust lawsuit against farm equipment manufacturer Deere & Company that will ensure farmers can enjoy the right to repair their own John Deere tractors and farm equipment. The FTC’s settlement requires Deere—for the next 10 years and under the supervision of the FTC and plaintiff states—to provide farmers and independent repair providers with the same equipment repair resources, including applicable software capabilities, that it currently provides to authorized Deere dealers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fpJI0f

MORE: Via WisPolitics, VERBATIM: “As alleged in the joint lawsuit, Deere makes the only software repair tools capable of performing all electronic repairs on Deere equipment. As further alleged, Deere, however, has previously made such tools available only to its authorized dealers, forcing farmers to rely on authorized dealers for many necessary repairs, according to the lawsuit filed in January 2025. By withholding these repair capabilities, the complaint alleged Deere unlawfully acquired and maintained monopoly power in markets for repair services for Deere farm equipment. Deere’s practices led to service delays and higher costs for farmers, the complaint further alleged.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3QKfk7z

MORE: Via news release from the Attorney General’s office, from AG Keith Ellison, ELLISON: “This settlement is a win for the right to repair that farmers and small, independent businesses have fought so hard for and richly deserve. I took on this investigation and lawsuit from the very beginning because unrigging our economy so the rest of us can afford our lives has been and will continue to be my top priority. There’s more to do and we’re going to do it.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vpeonh

CRP: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting more than 70,000 acres in Minnesota into the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) for 2026. Through CRP, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers agricultural producers and landowners incentive payments for their conservation efforts while benefiting their agricultural operations and protecting the nation’s natural resources.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4fnEsdw

STUDY: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “For years, U.S. farmers have argued they face higher production costs than competitors such as Brazil while selling into the same global commodity market. A new analysis released Tuesday by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) suggests those concerns are well founded. The study, conducted by Kynetec for NCGA, found U.S. corn growers consistently paid more than Brazilian farmers for major crop inputs between 2023 and 2025, even after adjusting for taxes, currency differences and purchasing power.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4yaPlXr

MORE: Via NCGA, from the study:

READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wBJ2Le

CROP CONDITIONS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A farmer in northwest Minnesota is encouraged by crop conditions. Austen Germolus of Borup says planting went well and rains have been timely.” GERMOLUS: “We had a good stand on corn, wheat is full and looks good. It’s all headed out (and) we got our application of fungicide applied. And the beans are probably looking the best they have in quite a few years for our farm.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4aLBVY6

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LOOKING AHEAD

FRIDAY: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Come meet our outreach veterinarians at the Web Livestock Auction in Benson on Friday, July 10! Stop by their booth from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. to pick up resources on antibiotic stewardship and drug residue prevention.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/44RtGGl

PROCESSOR: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Belgium-based potato processor Agristo has officially broken ground on its first North American processing facility in Grand Forks. The plant will process one billion pounds of potatoes annually and contract with 40 to 50 regional growers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3SPsh0o

TAX SUBSIDIES: Via Investigate Midwest, VERBATIM: “State and local governments have paid more than half a billion dollars in tax breaks to meat processing companies over nearly 20 years to attract new processing plants, as industry-wide transformation and consolidation have led to plant closures and major restructuring. Just eight companies make up the majority of production in U.S. beef, pork and poultry.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3R92q2O

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Soybeans futures were higher Wednesday morning after USDA confirmed China soybean purchases and with a huge rally in bean oil as the Iran cease fire is off and crude oil surged higher. Mark Knight of Farmers Keeper Financial says flash sales of 17.3 million bu. were reported with 12.3 million bu. new and 5.0 million bu. old crop.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4ycChkw

MORE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Weather has been the primary driver as corn and soybean prices climbed to start the week. U.S. Commodities president Don Roose says continued wetness is raising concerns in the Eastern Corn Belt.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4wxRLxY

FARM BUSINESS

CATTLE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An ag economist says the strength in the cull cow market is one of the factors contributing to the slow expansion of the cattle herd. Kenny Burdine with the University of Kentucky says producers have to carefully evaluate their options.” BURDINE: “How likely am I to hang on to that cow who was kind of a borderline decision as she’s approaching the end of her productive life,” he says. “I’m going to have to weigh what if we were to the cull cow right now or what is the likelihood she produces me another calf in the coming year?” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4vUZXsf

INSECTICIDES: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Chlorpyrifos - an active ingredient found in insecticides such as Pilot 4E, Warhawk, and Drexel Chlorpyrifos 4E - has reappeared in several Minnesota rivers and streams after two years with no detections.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/44Rm9au

WEEDING: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Hlee and Txongpao Lee grow a long list of vegetables on their 30-acre farm about 20 miles south of the Twin Cities. Other than the occasional help they get from their adult children and relatives, it’s their four hands doing all the work. Fortunately, they’ve found the right mechanical tools to rely on, mounted to a pair of International Farmall 140s and John Deere 950s. Two of each so they don’t have to waste time rotating parts . . . The Lee Farm in Farmington hosted one of the five mechanical weed control field days held around the state this summer by University of Minnesota Extension’s Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships and Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wBQMgg

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

GRANTS: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke L. Rollins announced the second cohort of fiscal year (FY) 2026 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants, completing the largest ever single-year financial investment in the history of the grant program. This year, USDA awarded a total of nearly $20 million to 68 projects that will empower more American farmers, producers, ranchers, and fishers to serve their local foods in school meals, summer meals, and childcare settings.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44Rp4Qv

HORSES: From MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen via X, VERBATIM: “Tonight visiting the 2026 World Percheron Congress Horse at the newly refurbished Minnesota State Fair Coliseum! Honored to have the Congress in Minnesota which attracts horses and exhibitors from all over the US to MN. Runs through the weekend, check it out!” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/44WW5L6

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250 YEARS: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “Two hundred and fifty years ago, nine out of ten Americans were farmers. Today, less than two percent of our population raise the food, feed, fiber and renewable energy that, more than ever, fuels American ingenuity and creativity. The thread that connects agriculturists across all that time is family. Family farms are as American as apple pie, as the saying goes, and they truly helped to build the strong, democratic republic we celebrate today. You can trace that family connection in the many farm families of Minnesota.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4bsXuwF (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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THE STATE OF AG

SURVEY: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Crop farmers waiting for stronger returns might have a longer road ahead than many hoped. According to Farm Journal’s June Ag Economists’ Monthly Monitor(AEEM), half of the agricultural economists surveyed don’t expect crop agriculture to return to broadly profitable margins for another three to five years.”

“The results highlight growing concerns over tight margins, shrinking working capital and continued uncertainty surrounding demand and production costs.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4f36cTm

PAIN POINTS: Via MPR, VERBATIM: “The agricultural economy isn’t the only thing causing headaches for regional farmers. Grand Farm, a Fargo-based ag nonprofit focused on research and technology, released a report identifying five pain points impacting farmers in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota. Grand Farm Executive Director William Aderholdt said his team reached out to commodity councils and associations to understand the problems ailing their members. But the report’s goal isn’t just to compile issues troubling farm country.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vd6mO4

GRAIN: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Many farmers are pricing old and new crop grain. Tim Waibel grows corn and soybeans near Courtland in south-central Minnesota and says most of his crop is priced.” WAIBEL: “We’ve done okay with the marketing, generally speaking. We have less than 10 percent to market yet, so I think we did pretty good.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3QXYYbq

FERTILIZER: Via The Street, VERBATIM: “Hunger and food insecurity don’t move in sync with oil prices—and right now, fertilizer supply and affordability remain a major global pressure point. Elizabeth Kennedy Trudeau from the George W. Bush Presidential Center explains the ‘long tail’ of fertilizer disruptions and why the impact on farmers can extend well beyond the initial shock. We discuss where risk is highest, including countries already close to food insecurity such as Ethiopia and parts of South Asia, and how high fertilizer costs force difficult decisions during planting seasons—decisions that can affect yields, staple food prices, and overall food security.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4f9k66K

MORE: Via NPR, VERBATIM: “But the costs borne by farmers don’t necessarily get passed on to consumers, and food system experts say they’re unlikely to have a major impact on the retail prices of fruit and vegetables. ‘Consumers are going to see higher food prices come September to January, once harvests start coming in, and the few months thereafter,’ said Chris Barrett, a professor of agricultural economics at Cornell University. ‘Very little of that is going to be directly attributable to fertilizer.’ That’s because food inflation is generally driven by larger factors affecting multiple parts of the food supply chain, such as fewer workers and high fuel costs.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3QBWVty

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BY THE NUMBERS

ACREAGE: From farm management analyst Kent Thiesse, VERBATIM: “The late June USDA Acreage Report is always highly anticipated, because it becomes the first ‘hard data’ after the March USDA Plantings Intentions Report to give an indication of crop production levels for a given growing season. Many times, the June USDA Report can have a big impact on grain market trends, either upwards or downwards; however, the 2026 report was basically ‘neutral’ for corn and soybeans.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ybWh6Y

REPORTING: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “One of the components of the USDA One Farmer One File Initiative is the modernization of acreage reporting. SDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce told the Red River Farm Network the first phase replaces paper maps and office visits with an interactive digital mapping system.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4eVD6Fy

ORGANIC: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is helping organic producers and handlers cover certification costs as part of the Department’s effort to put Farmers First and Make America Healthy Again. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is accepting applications to help with organic certification costs for the 2025 and 2026 program years through the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP), which covers up to 75% of eligible organic certification costs.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eLUOwp

PRIORITIES: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “The biggest mistake growers and agronomists can make this season is falling behind in scouting, planning and execution, according to Mark Herz, agronomy technical specialist at CHS. He offers three priorities to help shape a strong scouting approach.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4p3HOFM

THE PLANNER

NEXT WEEK: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) will host a free waste pesticide collection event on July 16 in Clay County. Farmers, residents, and businesses can safely dispose of unwanted and unusable pesticides. Participants from all counties are welcome.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44aQS2a

NEXT MONTH: Via Farmfest, VERBATIM: “This year could be the biggest year yet for Candidate Forums at Minnesota Farmfest, featuring four candidate forums during the event on Aug. 4, 5 and 6 at the Gillfillan Estate near Redwood Falls, Minn. In every even numbered year since 1990, Minnesota Farmfest has featured candidate forums for the Minnesota election races for Governor, U.S. Senate, and the Congressional seats in Greater Minnesota. Several other interesting forums on timely agricultural topics have also been planned during the three-day event.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44P6PLA

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Joe Kooima of Kooima Kooima Varilek says funds continue to pressure the cattle futures and he anticipates that will continue after last week’s lower weekly closes.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4aESWDj

SHEEP: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A Minnesota sheep farmer says high input costs are creating challenges. Amanda Cook of Center City tells Brownfield raising livestock is getting more expensive.” COOK: “The cost of goods is a major challenge for everybody right now. That’s really impacted our margins and being able to sustainably create products in ways that preserve our business for future years.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4y6u0hP

REGULATIONS: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to combat weaponized regulatory and enforcement actions against America’s producers, ranchers, and small businesses. This partnership advances Pillar 4 of the Farmer and Rancher Freedom Framework by building a government-wide shield against lawfare.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vkhLvN

WATER: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “The MDA and local Soil and Water Conversation Districts are hosting a series of nitrate testing clinics for private well owners this summer. All residents within driving distance are welcome to attend.” LINKS: https://fluence-media.co/4fptfIv

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

DRONES: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A crop protection specialist says spray drones can play an important role on today’s farms. WinField United’s Tyler Steinkamp tells Brownfield, ‘Drones, especially as we continue to develop this technology, they just keep getting better and better.’ He says growers can use them for a variety of crop protection applications.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wt3yxo

PEACE: via MFU advisory, VERBATIM: “National Farmers Union (NFU) and Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) mourn the passing of David Velde, a long-time Farmers Union leader and General Counsel for the organizations. Velde, 74, of Alexandria, died June 26. … He grew up in a Farmers Union family and was the director of public affairs for Minnesota Farmers Union before serving as NFU and MFU General Counsel.”

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MCR&PC: From Minnesota Corn via Instagram, VERBATIM: “Today, the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council is excited to welcome its 2026-27 chair: Jordan Goblish of Vesta. A council member since 2022, Jordan raises corn and soybeans on his fifth-generation family farm with his dad, George.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/4f9YYyd (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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AG HEADLINES

TRADE: Via NBC News, VERBATIM: “Six years to the day after the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement on trade entered into force, the Trump administration announced Wednesday that it plans to pull the plug on a deal widely viewed as a successful and stabilizing force across North America’s three largest economies. Instead of renewing the deal, a senior Trump administration official told reporters the United States will begin of a decade of negotiations on amendments to the deal.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vaDdmL

MORE: Via Oklahoma Farm Report, VERBATIM: “In response to this development, Jed Bower, an Ohio farmer and president of the National Corn Growers Association, released the following statement.” BOWER: “USMCA is the single most important trade agreement to the corn industry, with Mexico serving as the largest purchaser of corn and Canada serving as our largest ethanol market. Additionally, the dispute settlement mechanism in the agreement has been critical for corn growers challenging harmful policies impacting biotechnology access.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4axqsLH

MORE: Via statement from the National Pork Producers Council, QUOTE: “Amidst the many uncertainties that come with pork production, trade has remained a bright spot for U.S. pork producers, whose neighbors to the north and south represent a third of all U.S. pork exports. Ensuring USMCA remains intact is vital to continuing the mutually beneficial trading relationships U.S. pork enjoys with both Canada and Mexico.”

MORE: Via Farm Progress, VERBATIM: “On Monday, the Agriculture Coalition for USMCA sent a letter to President Trump urging renewal of USMCA with ‘targeted improvements.’ The letter, signed by more than 2,300 farmers, ranchers and rural Americans from across the country, highlights key benefits the agreement has produced in its first six years.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4oWqySS

EGGS: Via WPR-Radio, VERBATIM: “A multi-state investigation found that three of the country’s largest egg producers allegedly worked together for years to artificially increase the price of eggs. The Wisconsin Department of Justice, along with state attorneys general in 16 other states [including Minnesota], and the U.S. Department of Justice announced a settlement with the egg producers this week.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vJ6m9K

MORE: Via Wisconsin DOJ, VERBATIM: “The coalition’s investigation found that from approximately June 2022 to March 2025, the egg producers allegedly secretly communicated with each other to coordinate their bidding activity and influence the daily egg price quotes published by Urner Barry, a benchmark pricing service widely used in egg supply contracts. For example, in December 2022, Hickman’s CEO allegedly emailed Versova and CalMaine executives urging them to submit ‘strong bids, early and often’ to push prices higher. All three companies then allegedly submitted dozens of bids at higher prices, which led to Urner Barry increasing its price quotes. By allegedly manipulating the Urner Barry benchmark, the companies artificially inflated the price of eggs paid by retailers across the nation.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ghjaiG

POLITICS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The Ranking Member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee suggests the Trump administration is undermining farm families. During a webinar hosted by Angie Craig Tuesday, the Minnesota Democrat said the war in Iran has driven up fertilizer and fuel prices . . . Wisconsin state senator Brad Pfaff also participated in the call and said under Trump, farmers are making less while consumers pay more.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3QuBaMc

FERTILIZER: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “President Trump has signed an executive order to temporarily suspend import tariffs on Moroccan fertilizer. However, StoneX Vice President of Fertilizer Josh Linville says there’s little practical incentive for Morocco to ship phosphate to the U.S. right now.” LINVILLE: “When you look at North America phosphate values versus the rest of the world, we’re already one of the cheapest. That doesn’t mean that the prices are cheap by any means, they’re still incredibly high, but when you look at it, North America’s one of the worst destinations for phosphate.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wfIF8H

DUTIES: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The president of the National Corn Growers Association says Bayer’s move to seek duties on Chinese glyphosate is frustrating for farmers. Jed Bower tells Brownfield” BOWER: “What they are wanting to do is have the government put a tariff on the generic products coming in from China, which in turn obviously will drastically increase the price of products coming in from overseas to the American farmer.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3QKt2qV

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THE BUSINESS OF AG

GRAIN MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Grain markets ended higher on Tuesday after some friendly data in the USDA reports and were extending gains on Wednesday morning. Jon Scheve with Scheve Grain says the grain futures were beat down coming into the reports due to farmer selling head of the end of the month and first notice day on the July contracts. So with that selling pressure out of the way and a new month and quarter starting there is some new money and new buying in the grain markets.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4wpi7lK

HEAT: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Purdue University Extension’s corn agronomist says this week’s extreme heat wave could impact the 2026 corn crop. Dan Quinn says the high temperatures are accelerating plant growth.” QUINN: “It’s really helped get some of that stressed crop, where we’ve had a lot of water, up and moving,” he says. “A lot of the fields that were looking pretty rough, pretty variable, yellow, and just not moving a lot, it’s really starting to turn around in a lot of areas.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4gRSi97

MORE: Also via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A southwest Minnesota farmer anticipates rapid crop growth thanks to this week’s heat-dome smothering much of the Midwest. Carolyn Olson grows organic crops in Lyon County.” OLSON: “The talk in church yesterday was we’ll be able to sit out and watch the corn grow, but I would prefer to sit inside in the air conditioning. It is very warm and humid outside, perfect corn-growing weather.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3SWxweB

NOTE: The new Drought Monitor is expected out tomorrow – watch for it in lunch take.

ETHANOL: Via DTN, VERBATIM: “Ethanol production in the United States averaged 1.117 million barrels per day (bpd) in the week ended June 26, the Energy Information Administration reported Wednesday. That’s up 27,000 bpd week-on-week and 41,000 bpd, or 3.8%, higher than in the same week last year.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vKNDL0

PROCESSORS: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers (SPUR) Program that will provide temporary support for eligible beef processing establishments. Under SPUR, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide up to $500 million in payments to eligible entities to support stronger and more stable market opportunities for American ranchers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ffw5R6

PLANNING AHEAD

THIS MONTH: Via MDA, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is preparing to aerially manage 16 sites in Aitkin, Carlton, Pine, and St. Louis counties to slow the spread of spongy moth. Officials likely will conduct the aerial management activities July 14 - 17, beginning as early as 6:30 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. These dates are dependent on weather conditions in the area.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4feopyB MAPS: https://fluence-media.co/4azbDIl

CORN DISEASE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An agronomist is sounding the alarm as environmental conditions favor a foliar disease in corn. Ron Geis with Corteva Agriscience says gray leaf spot thrives in warm, humid, and wet weather.” GEIS: “The inoculum is here, it overwinters. So it’s already in the fields. It just needs that 11, 12 hours of leaf wetness before it really propagates.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3QVcegN

SHEEP: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “When Matti Boomgaarden and Kyle Blume added sheep to their southwest Minnesota operation two years ago, they did it as a dare . . . Two years later, Boomgaarden and Blume — who spoke during a recent University of Minnesota Extension sheep production webinar — are wrapping up their second lambing season, running 65 ewes alongside a Red Angus cow-calf herd and two off-farm jobs, with Boomgaarden’s father doing the same . . . The sheep were supposed to help the couple’s cash flow as they work toward taking over Boomgaarden’s family’s third-generation operation. What they found instead was another full-time job, a steep learning curve but eventually a workable system.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vcTvLZ

ELECTRIC: Via Lakeland PBS, VERBATIM: “The tractor remains a popular symbol for farming but on Minnesota crop fields, other equipment could soon play a larger role, including electric-powered machinery to reduce air pollution and could boost profits. Minnesota farmers have until Aug. 11 to apply for a state grant to help cover the cost of electric equipment. Eric Buchanan, renewable energy program director at the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris, is helping lead research in the movement. His team is testing robotic weeding designs which do not rely on fossil fuels.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4axh4HX

COOKOUT COST: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “According to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 Summer Cookout Cost Survey, a classic Independence Day meal for 10 people will cost an average of $73.82, or about $7.38 per person. That’s an increase of $2.90, or 4%, from last year. The survey includes holiday favorites such as cheeseburgers, chicken breasts, pork chops, potato chips, pork and beans, potato salad, fresh strawberries, lemonade, chocolate chip cookies and ice cream.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eP5Tvh

COOKOUT SAFETY: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “In preparation for America’s 250th Anniversary on the Fourth of July, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) provides tips for practicing safe food handling when grilling and hosting outdoor gatherings.” TIPS: https://fluence-media.co/44bGQOe

MORE: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Planning an Independence Day cookout? Or just picking up some chicken to cook for supper? Either way, follow these guidelines to make sure it’s safe to purchase and consume.” INFOGRAPHIC: https://fluence-media.co/3SSJp5h

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

PIVOT BIO: Via Minnetonka-based Pivot Bio, VERBATIM: “Pivot Bio, one of the world’s leading agtech companies, will unveil a special patriotic version of its logo and brand identity in recognition of two significant milestones: the United States’ 250th anniversary and Pivot Bio’s 15th anniversary of advancing agricultural innovation.” READ/SEE: https://fluence-media.co/4ax0mIJ

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PATHOGEN DETECTORS: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “Through the Minnesota corn checkoff, Minnesota Corn is supporting an initiative by Root Applied Sciences to establish a network of spore traps that detect pathogens like tar spot and southern rust. The goal is to provide farmers with a real-time monitoring system on these diseases, helping with efficient management.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/4qNUe3Y (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

MORE: From Linder Farm Network via YouTube, the project. WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4gHyqWe

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FARM LOGISTICS

AUGUST: Via Farmfest, VERBATIM: “In every even numbered year since 1990, Farmfest has featured Candidate Forums for the Minnesota election races for Governor, U.S. Senate, and the Congressional seats in Greater Minnesota. The 2026 Candidate Forums take on particular importance, as they are the week prior to the Minnesota Primary Election on August 11.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Srjlya

EXPORTS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “U.S. corn continues to ship out at a relatively rapid pace. The USDA says corn export inspections during the week ending June 25th were up on the year, mainly to the key customers of Japan and Mexico. With about two months left in the marketing year, corn sales have already met the USDA’s target thanks to competitive pricing and solid global demand. Sorghum and soybean export inspections were also above year ago levels, while wheat was down on the week and the year. The USDA’s next round of supply and demand numbers is out July 10th.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eV5WGd

USMCA: Via MPR, VERBATIM: “In advance of an official review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement on July 1, some farmers are bracing for possible changes. ‘It’s so much out of my control,’ said Craig LaPlante, a farmer from Fisher in Northwest Minnesota. ‘I’m a bystander to what the politicians decide to do. That’s the hard part of it.’ The agreement, known as USMCA, allows for tariff-free trade among the three nations. However, President Donald Trump has signaled he’s not keen on extending it, as he told reporters a few weeks ago.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4eCghI9

MORE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The North America economist for Coface, a global leader in trade credit insurance and risk management, says he doesn’t expect a quick solution to the USMCA renewal process. Marcos Carias tells Brownfield the tri-lateral trade agreement is set for renewal on July 1st, however…” CARIAS: “Talks have been faster with Mexico than with Canada, but even with Mexico, we’ve got a talk scheduled for the 20th of July.” He says, “It’s not going to be a clean resolution, and we expect negotiations to extend into later this year and probably even 2027.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/442Wz2a

PAPERWORK: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced an acreage reporting modernization pilot program that is a foundational part of the administration’s One Farmer, One File effort. FSA is focused on creating a more efficient, consistent, and customer-focused acreage reporting experience for producers and FSA employees. After spring planting is complete, agricultural producers should make an appointment with their FSA county office to complete crop acreage reports before the applicable deadline. July 15 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines may vary by county and by crop.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4we9x90

PIVOT: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “The USDA’s Prospective Plantings Report on March 31 showed farmers intended to plant 95.3 million acres of corn, down 3.45 million acres from last year. Those acres were shifted over to soybeans as farmers indicated they planned to plant 3.5 million acres more soybeans in 2026. However, with the war in Iran shutting down the Strait of Hormuz and global fertilizer movement prices spiked this spring. As a result, speculation ran high the fertilizer crunch would cause U.S. producers to abandon even more acres of corn and that would show up in USDA’s June 30 Acreage Report.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4v7RFvz

MORE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Al Kluis with Kluis Commodity Advisors says he agrees with trade expectations shifting those acres to soybeans.” KLUIS: “Just the price of fertilizer, price of fuel. And last year, farmers had so much corn. So that would be consistent with what the farmers indicated in March.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3QwUBE6

CROP CONDITIONS: Via farm management analyst Kent Thiesse, VERBATIM: “If you poll corn and soybean producers across the Corn Belt regarding the condition of the 2026 crop, you will probably get some pretty positive responses in most areas of the Upper Midwest. Many portions of the region have been getting adequate rainfall, which together with above normal heat units, has resulted in very favorable growing conditions. As is usual in late June and early July, some locations have received excess amounts of precipitation, while other areas are on the dry side hoping for more rainfall in the coming weeks. There is some concern with intensifying drought conditions in portions of the western Corn Belt, especially with the extreme heat expected in early July.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vCvEpT

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DC + AG

RULING: Via SCOTUSblog, VERBATIM: “The Supreme Court on Thursday sided with Monsanto in a high-stakes dispute over cancer warnings on pesticide labels. In an opinion by Justice Brett Kavanaugh in Monsanto Company v. Durnell, the court ruled, by a vote of 7-2, that state lawsuits aimed at holding the company liable for failing to warn consumers about the potential risks of Roundup exposure are barred by the federal law governing pesticide sales.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44AOIc9

MORE: Via The Hill, VERBATIM: “For some MAHA supporters, Thursday’s verdict showed that despite Trump’s alliance with Kennedy, the administration would rather prioritize the interests of pesticide makers.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vFasQf

SCREWWORM: Via States Newsroom, VERBATIM: “Members of the New Democrat Coalition asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Thursday to provide fresh details about the nation’s screwworm outbreak and demanded that the Trump administration allocate more resources to containing the spread. Reps. Sharice Davids of Kansas, Gabe Vasquez of New Mexico and Jim Costa of California led 18 other members of the moderate coalition in a June 24 letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins in which they highlighted ranchers’ and farmers’ growing concerns over the New World screwworm’s impact on livestock health and food prices.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44z2s7h

MORE: Via Rep. Davids, the letter. Among the signers is Rep. Angie Craig. READ: https://fluence-media.co/3QqeCMA

PLANNING AHEAD

AUGUST: Via Farmfest, VERBATIM: “With input costs rising, commodity prices under pressure, and policy moving slower than the farm economy needs, many producers are feeling the financial squeeze. This interactive 2‑hour session brings together agricultural economists, marketing specialists, financial experts, and mental health advocates to deliver real‑time insights, practical marketing strategies, and financial planning tools to help you maximize your 2026 crop revenue and position your operation for a stronger 2027 season.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eR5RTV

INPUTS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The USDA says farm production costs could hit a record high in 2027. Ag economist Brad Lubben with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln says inflation has been the biggest factor since the COVID-19 pandemic.” LUBBEN: “We have continued to be at the higher levels along with trade and global security shocks that have amped up certain markets. Right now, we’re just dealing with higher production costs.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4uYuB2p

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Live and feeder cattle futures were lower early Monday with a risk off tone to the entire market place and it is end of the month and quarter and that creates some profit taking in profitable positions. However, Brad Kooima of Kooima Kooima Varilek says in cattle it also comes after a push to new highs for this move last week in the futures and even new contract highs in the June live cattle futures on Friday.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4w8ogCo

DRONES: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Spencer Neugebauer farms corn and soybeans with his family in Ethan, South Dakota. In 2022, his uncle mentioned purchasing a drone for their farm. ‘We kind of went out on a limb and ended up buying one,’ Neugebauer said. ‘Initially it was just for our own farm to use, spraying tough areas we’ve never been able to reach before and do a bunch of different stuff over top of corn and soybeans from spraying insecticide to spraying fungicides and stuff like that.’ But, what started as a personal drone, quickly turned into a booming business.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eDolII

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

PRINCESSES: Via Perham Focus, VERBATIM: “Audrey Weller and Addison Dilly were crowned as the 2026 East Otter Tail County Midwest Dairy Princesses . . . In addition to the two princesses, three girls were honored as 2026 Dairy Ambassadors. These include Maggy Weller, daughter of Brad and Bridget Weller, Lucey Minten, daughter of Mike and Jen Minten and Ella Horn, daughter of Devin and Samantha Horn.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3T7JYIu

Copyright © 2026 Fluence Media, All rights reserved.
As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

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RESEARCH: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “Through the Minnesota corn checkoff, Minnesota Corn is supporting an initiative by Root Applied Sciences to establish a network of spore traps that detect pathogens like tar spot and southern rust. The goal is to provide farmers with a real-time monitoring system on these diseases, helping with efficient management.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/4qNUe3Y (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

MORE: From Linder Farm Network via YouTube, the project. WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4gHyqWe

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INPUTS

STRAIT OF HORMUZ: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “As of [Thursday], 70% of the sulfur tons that were trapped behind the Strait of Hormuz due to its closure have now transited through and are in transit for the global market. That was the good news shared by The Fertilizer Institute’s Corey Rosenbusch on AgriTalk. Fertilizer is once again flowing through the critical part of the global supply, which had been largely blocked for traffic since the end of February. Every year more than one-third of all fertilizer globally transits through the Strait of Hormuz.” ROSENBUSCH: “Half of the world’s sulfur that’s traded comes through the strait,” he says. “Because it’s the key raw material in phosphate production– Saudi phosphate, Moroccan phosphate, US phosphate–they had all started to curtail production because they couldn’t get sulfuric acid to make it.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/43X7EBK

UNCERTAINTY: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An ag economist says uncertainty continues to surround a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran. Jim McCormick with AgMarket.Net says there’s currently a dispute over some frozen Iranian funds that could impact U.S. agriculture.” MCCORMICK: “President Trump came out over the weekend and has talked several times saying how as we unfreeze some of these Iranian funds, they were going to essentially say that those funds would have to turn around to buy U.S. agricultural products.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4vJ8HBi

$11.1 BILLION: Via DTN, VERBATIM: “The White House on Wednesday asked Congress to pass a supplemental funding package that includes a request for $11.1 billion for farmers and calls for Congress to pass year-round E15. The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) sent a request for $87.6 billion in supplemental funding to House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La. The lion’s share of that request -- $67.1 billion -- was for the War Department.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4w3sP0M

DROUGHT: This week’s Drought Monitor shows 41% of the state in formal drought status, up from 38% a week earlier. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/3PP2Kzy

MORE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Across the Corn Belt, scattered showers accompany near- or below-normal temperatures. Friday’s Midwestern high temperatures will remain below 80°F, except across the southern tier of the Corn Belt. With soil moisture shortages mostly limited to parts of the upper Midwest, most corn and soybeans continue to develop with minimal stress.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4g2D8h3

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PROUD TO CHAMPION ATHLETES EVERYWHERE: Minnesota’s 24,000 family corn farmers may come from different fields than the athletes participating in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which are set for June 20-26 in Minnesota. But they share the same values, including dedication, hard work, and perseverance. This summer, Minnesota Corn salutes the talented athletes participating in the games. We’ll be cheering them on from our fields as they shine in yours. (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn)

OUTSIDE IMPACTS

FARM BILL: Via KAXE-Radio, VERBATIM: “Minnesota dairy farmer James Kanne hopes politics stay out of the final push and that fairness for noncorporate operations becomes a priority. Kanne, who farms in Renville County, recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to push for provisions in the sprawling agricultural policy package. He said the process in recent years has become so fraught with partisan approaches that smaller, independent operations like his are left fighting for scraps.” KANNE: “We’re just playing Whack-A-Mole,” Kanne said. “We’re just trying to bat down the biggest of the problems, and to support maybe one or two things that we can add to the farm bill that would be a positive.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4g8CRcp

EXTENSION: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “University of Minnesota Extension Dean Bev Durgan says strong county support remains critical to Extension’s success despite tight budgets. ‘State funding has not been increasing, but our county support is the strongest it has ever been.’ Speaking with the Red River Farm Network during a tour of northwest Minnesota, Durgan said county investments remain especially important for youth programming.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4f1d98J

RIVER PORTS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The director of operations for the Corn Belt Ports says the newly formed Northern Corn Belt Ports initiative brings five more key Mississippi River ports into the overall organization. Chris Smith says it builds on work began in 2022 in Minnesota and Wisconsin.” SMITH: “We want to create a governance structure to identify priorities for the region, have a regional identity, and use that to increase opportunities for multimodal investment.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aoLEmT

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Grain markets saw a strong rally on Thursday. Don Roose of U.S. Commodities says corn made new contract lows, filled long held chart gap from last fall at $4.05 ¼ on the July corn and then closed higher scoring a key reversal. He says the market was oversold and due for a correction and funds covered some of the short position they had recently built. However, the market had also removed too much weather premium.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uYgzxO

CONCERNS & OPPORTUNITIES

RED CROWN ROT: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Red Crown Rot has officially been confirmed in Wisconsin, and an Extension field crops pathologist is encouraging farmers to increase scouting efforts this season. Damon Smith with the University of Wisconsin–Madison tells Brownfield the disease was reported last September in Columbia County.” SMITH: “It’s kind of a head-scratcher on how it just sort of like leapfrogged from the closest county confirmations are down in Illinois, and so how did it get to sort of a south-central county in Wisconsin.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4w4bULM

MORE: Via UofM Extension, news from last October that Red Crown Rot had been found in southwest Minnesota. READ: https://fluence-media.co/3R6R1k6

REGENERATIVE: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “On the heels of President Donald J. Trump signing an Executive Order advancing regenerative agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke L. Rollins simultaneously announced a final Regenerative Feedstock Rule, a landmark action that will help farmers voluntarily capture new value from regenerative agricultural practices through biofuel markets.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vBHEIm

FSA: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Do you have a passion to support fellow farmers? Nominate yourself to be a @USDAFSA county committee member.” INFOGRAPHIC: https://fluence-media.co/4w6z2Jp

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

DICAMBA: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The commissioner of agriculture for Minnesota says dicamba restrictions seem to be working. Thom Petersen tells Brownfield the final dates for over-the-top applications of the herbicide in the state are June 12th south of Interstate 94 and June 30th to the north.” PETERSEN: “It’s hard to tell how much dicamba is there, we do have some. And we want to remind producers of that, that’s worked really well for Minnesota (with) dicamba being back on the market right now.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3R58nhl

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ATHLETES: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “Great job by our team today of highlighting Minnesota Corn to the athletes participating in the Special Olympics USA Games! Wishing all the participating athletes the best this week in their competitions. Make sure to visit the Minnesota Corn tent at the Fredrikson Fan Zone in Blaine!” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/4oIw0Zn (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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FARM BILL PROGRESS

SENATE: Via The Hill, VERBATIM: “Senate Republicans unveiled the text of a sweeping five-year farm bill Tuesday afternoon that omits Democrats’ stated top priority. Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.), the chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, said in a statement that this legislation would ‘increase investments for rural communities and foster a more resilient agriculture sector.’” QUOTE: “I’m proud to put forward this discussion draft that reflects the input and priorities of Republicans, Democrats, and most importantly, rural America,” Boozman wrote. “This bill is built for the people who feed America, and I look forward to continuing conversations with my colleagues about how we can best serve them and the communities they call home.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4xLl5Cn

MORE: Via Politico, VERBATIM: “Senate Republicans’ farm bill proposal rejects Democrats’ demands to delay a planned shift of some food aid costs to states, according to three people familiar with the plans — jeopardizing hopes of winning bipartisan support for the package. Democrats say they will oppose a farm bill that doesn’t push back a requirement that will soon force some states to pay for some Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, a provision included in the domestic policy megalaw Republicans passed last year.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4b2kORF

MORE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Not all 12 farm bill titles were addressed in the One Big Beautiful Bill, so Farm Bill 2.0 is critical to get a permanent bill in place. It builds on those farm safety net investments but makes updates to conservation, rural development and farm credit programs. The proposal also expands on the Working Families Tax Cuts farm safety net provisions, further improving existing commodity, dairy, standing disaster and crop insurance programs while also addressing specialty crops.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4wc6HSc

REACTION: Via House Ag Democrats, from Ranking Member Angie Craig, QUOTE: “Farmers and working people need real solutions that will open markets, bring down costs and make everyday life less expensive. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to negotiate a truly bipartisan farm bill that serves the needs of farmers and families and stands a chance of becoming law.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uZiTVo

WHEN: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Washington, D.C. analyst Jim Wiesemeyer believes it will be a tight fit to get the farm bill through the Senate Ag Committee before the July fourth recess.” WIESEMEYER: “Both the House and the Senate really don’t have that many congressional days left before the November third elections.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4xIlyp7

SNAP: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the annual Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payment error rates (PER), which measure how accurately states determine who is eligible for SNAP and how much they should receive. The national payment error rate for fiscal year (FY) 2025 is 10.62%, far surpassing the congressional threshold of 6%.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uPJHqV

E15: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A south-central Minnesota farmer who owns shares in a local ethanol plant is encouraged by congressional movement on year-round nationwide E15. Tim Waibel grows corn and soybeans near Courtland and says he was pleasantly surprised when the House passed E15 legislation.” WAIBEL: “We have eight House seats in the state of Minnesota, four Democrats and four Republicans, and they all voted for it. So kudos to our representatives from the state of Minnesota knowing that E15 is a big deal not only for farmers but for the state’s economy.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4w825fB

(DISCLOSURE: Tim Waibel is a member of the board of Minnesota Corn, a Fluence sponsor)

LEGISLATION: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Representatives from Minnesota Farmers Union met with area farmers and electoral candidates at the Fergus Falls Public Library on June 23, recapping what did and did not occur during the most recent legislative session. Farmers from north of Breckenridge to north of Perham, Hitterdal, a transplant from Missouri, and local farmers were joined by former senator Dan Skogen, Minnesota House of Representatives 9A candidate Nick Hanson and Senate District 9 candidate Krystyne Knutson, among others, as the agricultural wins and losses were recapped.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44ujV0C

WAR: Via WCCO-Radio, VERBATIM: “The possible end of the Iran war is still being discussed. But is it too late for farmers in the U.S. who have been hit particularly hard by an increase in fuel and fertilizer costs? The president of the Minnesota Farmers Union says he’s skeptical about promises from the Trump administration that the Ag industry will be helped by current peace negotiations with Iran. Farmers Union President Gary Wertish told Vineeta Sawkar on the WCCO Morning News Tuesday that he’ll believe it, when he sees it.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4akgAVv

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PROUD TO CHAMPION ATHLETES EVERYWHERE: Minnesota’s 24,000 family corn farmers may come from different fields than the athletes participating in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which are set for June 20-26 in Minnesota. But they share the same values, including dedication, hard work, and perseverance. This summer, Minnesota Corn salutes the talented athletes participating in the games. We’ll be cheering them on from our fields as they shine in yours. (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn)

MARKETS

PRICES: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “After a down day on Tuesday the grain markets were higher early Wednesday a result of short covering according to Lane Akre, economist with Pro Farmer. However, he thinks the market has also taken out too much weather premium.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4eCmmCX

EXPORTS: Via DEED, VERBATIM: “Minnesota exports of goods were valued at $5.8 billion in the first quarter of 2026, slipping 8% (down $504 million) compared to the first quarter of 2025, according to data released by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) . . . Exports in Q1 fell sharply to North America (down 23%), with gains to Mexico (up 18%) offset by steep declines to Canada (down 41%). Asian markets dipped 3%, with mixed performances across markets, including a slide of 23% in exports to China.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/43Qz2Bt

CHINA: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “The latest NDSU Agricultural Trade Monitor reviews the U.S.-China Phase One trade agreement. It says U.S. ag exports to China reached a record $38 billion in 2022. That’s up from $9 billion during the trade war in 2018.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3QFuJFR

MORE: Via NDSU, from the report:

FULL REPORT: https://fluence-media.co/4f07JL3

CORN: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “History is not on the side of higher corn prices anytime soon. University of Minnesota Extension grain market economist Ed Usset says he recently analyzed the behavior of corn futures in late spring and early summer going back to 1990.” USSET: “And what we’ve seen is like a 12 to 14 percent price decline from the May high in December Corn to the June low. And I’m like ‘wow, that’s a big decline.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4vueDOH

RAW MILK: Via Rochester Post Bulletin, VERBATIM: “The food safety topic du jour is unpasteurized, or raw, milk. In recent years, interest in raw milk — and the market for it — has grown, as ProPublica reports, with the nation’s health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., having said he consumes raw milk, too. Pasteurization — a process required for the vast majority of dairy products on U.S. grocery store shelves — kills off bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. In recent years, pathogens in raw milk have sickened thousands of Americans. MDH said it sees 60 to 80 reportable disease cases annually in Minnesotans who drank raw milk.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aLWUKc

CROP UPDATES

CONDITIONS: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Crop conditions declined over the past week in Minnesota. Corn dropped one percentage point in USDA’s latest weekly crop update to 79 percent good to excellent, while soybeans went from 80 to 76 percent good to excellent. University of Minnesota Extension crops educator Ryan Miller tells Brownfield moisture has been variable so far.” MILLER: “So some people are sitting with plenty of rainfall and have had timely and frequent rain, and other folks have had a little bit less. So that’s kind of created a couple of issues for the people who didn’t have as much rain.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4eIIUly

NOTE: Look for this week’s Drought Monitor Thursday in lunch take and Friday in ag take.

MORE: Via Farm Progress, VERBATIM: “For the most part, corn and soybeans battled through frost and early crusting on Johnson Farms near Wells, Minn. Darin Johnson was concerned during a May 13 visit about field conditions after planting wrapped up in early May. ‘It worked out, for the most part, really quite well. We had a lot of soybeans that had some crusting issues, [and] a little bit of corn. We saw more of it in soybeans,’ Johnson said during a June 10 visit.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4erElgG

COOL CROPS: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “With the cool temps, it has been a good year for the wheat, barley, and canola crops. ‘Those three crops look exceptional at this point,’ said Jason Hanson, Rock and Roll Agronomy. Weed control has been a priority.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eIX4mS

MANURE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “On many farms, manure is still treated as a waste product to be hauled off when time allows. On Shawn and Mike Feikema’s third-generation operation in southwest Minnesota, near Luverne, it’s the engine that fuels their family’s crops, shapes land purchases and helps underpin the long-term profitability of the entire business.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4oIGRT7

TAR SPOT: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A stretch of cool, wet weather is resulting in early detections of tar spot in several Corn Belt states. Syngenta agronomic service representative Logan Dinkla says the crop disease has been confirmed in Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Kansas.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/43YuKrE

RGS: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “On Tuesday’s Crop Watch, RRFN caught up with Pioneer Field Agronomist Kristie Sundeen at Pekin, North Dakota. With the corn, ‘we are seeing some rapid growth syndrome that’s showing up right now; it’s just starting to unfurl.’” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uNSjyd

FUNGICIDE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “As disease pressure ramps up across the Corn Belt, many growers are trying to determine the return on investment for fungicide. Tyler Harp with Syngenta tells Brownfield research indicates an application when the corn plant is tasseling pays the most dividends.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4fYVQWR

DICAMBA: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Reminder: Over-the-top use of the three approved dicamba products (Engenia, Stryax, and Tavium) on dicamba-tolerant soybeans ends on June 30 for everywhere in MN north of Interstate 94. It ended on June 12 for everywhere south of I-94.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/3SuUAB0

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

MARKETS: Via Minnesota Monthly, VERBATIM: “There’s something uniquely Minnesotan about a farmers market. From neighborhood parks to bustling city plazas, each unique stop brings communities together and puts a pause on the busy lives we’re all living. Whether it’s a quick stop or a full afternoon, each market brings its own version of Minnesota charm and fresh products, no matter the season.” LIST: https://fluence-media.co/3Sqm3UE

BIRDS: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Bobolinks were calling across Rock Dell Forage Farms on June 9, evidence of a wildlife shift that began when John Meyer walked away from row crops. Meyer, a regenerative grazier who farms south of Rochester, hosted the ‘Feathers on the Farm’ field day, welcoming farmers, conservationists and consumers to tour pastures that now support dozens of grassland bird species where few existed before.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4w35QmE

Copyright © 2026 Fluence Media, All rights reserved.
As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

Our mailing address is:
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THIS WEEK: From Minnesota Corn via YouTube, VERBATIM: “Minnesota Corn is proud to support the athletes competing in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Their commitment, determination, and pursuit of excellence reflect values shared by communities across Minnesota. As these athletes train, compete, and achieve their goals, we celebrate their accomplishments and the spirit that brings us together. We’re honored to stand alongside them and cheer them on every step of the way.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4g0vROS (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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MONDAY’S CROP

SCREWWORM: Via MPR, VERBATIM: “New World screwworm, a gruesome parasite, was recently discovered in cattle and pets across Southern states. Now, Minnesota officials worry it could make its way here . . . The screwworm has so far been contained to the South. Still, Brian Hoefs, the Minnesota state veterinarian, remains concerned it could make its way here through the movement of not only livestock but also pets.” HOEFS: “Anyone traveling with your dog to vacation areas that are endemic with this parasite needs to be aware that your dog can be infested as well, and you could be bringing it back on them.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uMAwHJ

PROP 12: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Nolan and Trisha Zachman raise pigs without gestation crates at Feathered Acres Learning Farm and Inn in Belgrade, Minnesota. They farm within the Niman Ranch network, which Trisha Zachman described as more than 600 independent family farmers committed to raising pork without the use of controversial 2-foot-by-7-foot crates in which most pork producers house pregnant sows. For Zachman, Proposition 12 — a voter-passed California law regarding animal welfare — created a market her operation could compete in.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vp1u9o

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Corn and wheat were lower early Monday with soybeans trying to hold gains. Cattle were sharply higher, milk futures mixed.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4eXiMER

CROP UPDATE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A farmer in west-central Minnesota says they’ve been fortunate so far with severe weather. Jamie Beyer and her husband grow corn, soybeans, sugarbeets, and alfalfa near Wheaton.” BEYER: “Things are looking pretty good. We were happy to miss some of the storm damage, it kind of came through Hoffman. But the crops are still pretty short, so we’re okay. It’s always good to miss hail and that sort of thing.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4uQGLdI

SUGARBEETS: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “American Crystal Sugar Co., the U.S’s largest sugarbeet company, was still slicing its 2025 crop at the end of May. The Moorhead, Minnesota, factory district finished slicing sugarbeets on May 20, 2026, and Crookston, Minnesota and East Grand Forks, Minnesota, factory districts were scheduled to finish the weekend of May 29. In North Dakota, the Hillsboro and Drayton factory districts were estimated to finish in early June, said Steve Roseau, American Crystal Sugar Co. vice president of agriculture.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vpQkRQ

HARVEST: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “An unusually early wheat harvest and ongoing drought conditions are creating challenges for custom harvesting crews across the Central Plains.” QUOTE: “We’re for sure two weeks, if not three weeks ahead of schedule the whole summer so far,” said U.S. Custom Harvesters Vice President Mychal Neumiller. “We’ve literally only made one move with our entire Texas stop zeroed out. Some combines started in Kansas and some started in Oklahoma, and we’ve only got those jobs done and moved here. It’s definitely a weird year.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uQPpJi

DISEASE: Via MPR, VERBATIM: “Last year, when Joe Sullivan’s sugar beet fields were infected with a fungal disease called Cercospora leaf spot, he was devastated. Sullivan, who farms throughout Renville County, said the disease cut his yields by about a third. He had to dig into his farm’s savings to cover the losses. ‘It’s getting to the point of, it’ll be interesting if we can keep growing the crops because they’re very expensive crops to grow,’ said Sullivan. Cercospora leaf spot is a fungus that infects sugar beets. It damages their leaves, leaving spots on them.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/43QZJ8Z

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PROUD TO CHAMPION ATHLETES EVERYWHERE: Minnesota’s 24,000 family corn farmers may come from different fields than the athletes participating in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which are set for June 20-26 in Minnesota. But they share the same values, including dedication, hard work, and perseverance. This summer, Minnesota Corn salutes the talented athletes participating in the games. We’ll be cheering them on from our fields as they shine in yours. (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn)

THE BUSINESS OF AG

DATA: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “A greased hog of crop data has slipped the farm and turned into bacon for every other sector of the ag industry, contends Halterman, a particularly galling dynamic for many producers flailing for survival.” QUOTE: “The data and crop reports have grown into a monster,” echoes Bailey Buffalo, owner of Buffalo Grain Systems in Jonesboro, Arkansas. “The future is farmers generating their own proof. If enough bins were synced through a producer-controlled network, the market would no longer have to depend solely on USDA estimates. Buyers of corn, rice, and soybeans would have to negotiate against verified regional inventory controlled by the farmers who own the grain.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/44sYzRa

TRADE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association says the review of the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement could boost U.S. ethanol exports. Geoff Cooper tells Brownfield Mexico has regulatory barriers in place, but.” COOPER: “There does seem to be a growing openness and understanding in Mexico that they really could benefit from opening their market to U.S. ethanol. It would help lower their prices.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3Slg1Vb

INPUTS: Via Successful Farming, VERBATIM: “Farm News Media reported that ‘USDA’s new 2027 cost of production forecast reveals farmers may not see meaningful relief from elevated production costs anytime soon. The projections show total production costs continuing to rise for most major crops, pushing all commodities to record highs — including corn at $952 per acre, soybeans at $701, sorghum at $477 and wheat at $428.’” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4vYAqxF

FERTILIZER: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The chief economist with The Fertilizer Institute says global fertilizer supplies will be constrained for the foreseeable future even if the Strait of Hormuz fully reopens. Veronica Nigh says many questions remain about the state of Middle Eastern production facilities.” NIGH: “How long is it going to take for those fertilizer vessels to get through? I don’t think they’re probably going to be the first priority vessel to get through there.” She says, “How long is it going to take for those facilities, even if they’re undamaged, to get back up and start producing?” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3QWwBu4

LOOKING BACK & AHEAD

NEXT MONTH: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Ready to expand into international markets? Join MDA and @FoodExports on July 22 for a full-day seminar covering export readiness, market research, pricing, trade agreements, and more.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/3So10ls

MORE: Via Food Export Midwest USA, seminar details. SEE: https://fluence-media.co/4uTQIqW

PAYMENTS: From farm management analyst Kent Thiesse, VERBATIM: “The USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) recently announced the final RMA county average yields for corn and soybeans. The RMA yields are used to determine payment eligibility for producers that caried either 95 percent or 90 percent Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO), or Supplemental Crop Option (SCO) area-based crop insurance coverage for the 2025 crop year. ECO and SCO insurance coverage utilize the same Spring projected price and the same harvest price as the typical individual crop insurance policies; however, ECO and SCO insurance indemnity payments are based on county average expected yields and final harvest yields, rather than individual farm yields.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4oLMG2j

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

BREAKFAST: From MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen via X, VERBATIM: “This morning in greater Princeton, Minnesota for Kanabec/Isanti County Breakfast on the Farm at Haubenschild dairy. Dennis and his family have always been leaders and appreciate how they open their farm to the public!” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/3SUXUpa

150+ YEARS: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “A Norwegian fellow named Ollie Hustad who started farming 160 acres near Battle Lake back in 1875 probably never imagined his legacy of farming continuing on today. But it has, first through his son Nels, who took over the farm after him. Nels’ son Agnar came after him. Then Arvid and finally Arlyn, the present-day owner, who has watched his son James start to farm the acreage as the sixth generation of Hustad on the rolling fields outside Battle Lake.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Qw70Io

Copyright © 2026 Fluence Media, All rights reserved.
As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

Our mailing address is:
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PO Box 270031
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PLASTICS: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “Corn-derived plastics called PLA polymers are helping drive growth in the biodegradable plastics industry and creating potential new uses for corn beyond food and fuel markets. The challenge is balancing performance and biodegradability. Consumers want products that are durable and reliable during use, but capable of breaking down naturally after disposal.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aacwHh (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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BY THE NUMBERS

POT: Via Office of Cannabis Management, planting numbers since last fall:

REPORT: https://fluence-media.co/4fVEwlF

MORE: Via Axios, VERBATIM: “Minnesota’s burgeoning legal marijuana industry reported $17.6 million in retail sales in May, a near doubling since the first non-tribal shops began opening last fall. Yes, but: That pace is still well behind one cannabis law firm’s prediction of $550 million in Minnesota’s first full year.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4w3Cbda

DROUGHT: It rained, but still things got worse. The latest Drought Monitor, reflecting data as of Tuesday, shows 78% of the state is abnormally dry with 38% in formal drought. An area of southwest Minnesota remains in extreme drought. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/3PP2Kzy

MORE: Via WCCO-Radio, VERBATIM: “‘We have two things going on in the state. We have a short term and a long-term drought,’ says State Climatologist Pete Boulay. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report is kind of a combination of both.” QUOTE: “We’ve had lots of wonderful rain this week, and it kind of created a green veneer out there,” says Boulay. “But deep down in a few places, especially like the Mississippi headwaters, and far southwest Minnesota, we’re still behind.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4oB3oBk

OPPOSITE PROBLEM: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “For Scott Burger, this growing season feels like a race he can’t win. Each time his fields get dry enough to sidedress nitrogen or spray with herbicides, another band of rain rolls through. Overnight, on Tuesday, it happened again. Burger, who farms in northeast Iowa, says his fields caught between 2” and 2.5” of rain in just a few hours — dumped on top of already saturated soils.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eloe4b

WX EXTREMES: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “NDSU Extension Cropping Systems Specialist Jeff Stachler says this season’s weather has created challenges for several crops.” STACHLER: “Twisted whorl corn syndrome is something that happens when we have rapid growth followed by cold weather, which is what we’ve had.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aXD92g

MN CROPS: Via Successful Farming, VERBATIM: “Conditions vary across Minnesota, however. Jeff Vetsch, a soil scientist with the University of Minnesota’s Southern Research and Outreach Center in Waseca, said crops in south-central and southeastern Minnesota look very good, particularly corn. Most corn in those regions is at the V7—V8 growth stage and growing rapidly, while soil moisture levels are near ideal, he said.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4gx3KXz

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PROUD TO CHAMPION ATHLETES EVERYWHERE: Minnesota’s 24,000 family corn farmers may come from different fields than the athletes participating in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which are set for June 20-26 in Minnesota. But they share the same values, including dedication, hard work, and perseverance. This summer, Minnesota Corn salutes the talented athletes participating in the games. We’ll be cheering them on from our fields as they shine in yours. (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn)

OUTSIDE IMPACTS

WAR: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The U.S. and Iran have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to end the war, and an ag economist says the ripple effects are impacting the ag sector. Frayne Olson with North Dakota State University Extension says there’s frustration among some farmers, because grain futures have moved lower. He says grain futures are connected to the energy complex.” QUOTE: “In my opinion, we’re still going to have uncertainty and volatility in the markets simply because we don’t know how geopolitically this is going to turn out and a lot of things can still happen,” says Olson. “We’re very hopeful. We’re optimistic that yes, we have some stability, but that’s not a guarantee.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4oB8nBY

INPUTS: From the Farm Bureau’s new Market Intel report, VERBATIM: “USDA’s updated cost of production estimates raised fertilizer expense projections for every major field crop for the 2026 growing season, but see relief in fuel and fertilizer prices in 2027. Higher production costs in 2027 are expected to be driven by higher prices for seed, chemicals, repairs, labor, machinery, and cash rents. Preliminary 2027 projections suggest fertilizer costs will remain elevated despite expectations for improved global supply chains. With farmers continuing to face tight margins, the persistence of high input costs reinforces the need for congressional action, including authorizing year-round E15, providing additional market assistance and passing a modernized five-year farm bill.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4acV5Wu

TRADE: Via Reuters, VERBATIM: “U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that the United States would do better without the U.S.-Mexico-Canada ​Agreement on trade and that he would prefer not to have a new ‌one, but added that he was open to doing it . . . The three countries need to approve a renewal of their existing agreement ​by July 1 or signal their intention to exit the pact, a ⁠process that would take 10 years and would buy time for alterations. The U.S. Trade ​Representative’s Office is holding talks with Mexico this week in Washington focused on agriculture and ‘a ​level playing field,’ with a third set of talks in Mexico City scheduled for the week of July 20.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3SB1WTw

AFRICA: Via Insight News, VERBATIM: “Fresh off an annual gala that raised more than $51,000 for its community development programs, Minnesota Africans United (MAU) is launching a summer of agribusiness and trade initiatives aimed at connecting African diaspora farmers, entrepreneurs and investors with Minnesota’s agricultural economy and with markets across the continent. The through-line is access: making diaspora-owned farms and food businesses visible to buyers, and helping their owners navigate the cross-cultural barriers that keep promising operations on the margins. MAU is anchoring the season around three engagements.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4xG4WhB

INDIA: From MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen via X, VERBATIM: “Tonight honored to meet with a delegation from India @mncorn office in Burnsville to discuss US ethanol and dried distiller grains (DDGs) as a feed ingredient for their poultry farms to feed their growing nation.” PHOTO: https://fluence-media.co/43LRXxg

(DISCLOSURE: Minnesota Corn is a Fluence sponsor)

MARKETS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Grain markets were all lower on Thursday seeing some profit taking after Wednesday’s rally and with a risk off tone to the market place. Mark Schultz of Northstar Commodity says grain markets also saw some position squaring by traders heading into a three-day weekend as the markets are closed on Friday for Juneteenth.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4eucj2L

ETHANOL: From Chippewa Valley Ethanol via Facebook, VERBATIM: “What an incredible day yesterday celebrating 30 years of Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company! We want to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us for our open house yesterday. For three decades, CVEC has been built on the support of our community and the dedication of the people who believe in our mission.” POST: https://fluence-media.co/4vpzt1E

PEOPLE + AG

WORKFORCE: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “The U.S. Department of Agriculture today welcomed new guidance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of Labor clarifying that dairy operations may use the H-2A temporary agricultural worker program when they can demonstrate a qualifying temporary or seasonal labor need under existing law.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eiTzVg

SUMMIT: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Livestock producers and processors are gathering in central Iowa to discuss how to work together better. Practical Farmers of Iowa livestock systems manager Margaret Chamas says the Midwest Meat Summit in Ankeny is one of several events happening across the Midwest.” CHAMAS: “Just to bring together the entire value and supply chain in the meat industry, so everything from the farmers raising the animals to the people distributing, processing, butchering, moving them along. Because every part of this supply chain tends to be so isolated from each other.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4eGT4n0

URBAN AG: Via Mankato Free Press, VERBATIM: “City leaders are set to decide Monday whether backyard chickens will be welcome in Mankato for the first time. The topic was a major source of controversy in City Hall in 2009-10, when chicken lovers and chicken haters clashed over the course of multiple meetings. But based on discussions a month ago, the current City Council appears unanimously comfortable with hens joining humans within city limits.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4acFbeH

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

NEXTGEN: Via MAELC, VERBATIM: “The Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council (MAELC) is pleased to announce the selection of six students for the 2026 Agricultural Education Internship. These aspiring educators, currently pursuing degrees in Agricultural Education, have been matched with experienced high school agriculture teachers across the state to gain hands-on classroom and community experience over the summer.” QUOTE: “This program is crucial for securing a strong future for agricultural education in our state,” stated MAELC Executive Director Sarah Dornink. “Through mentorship and on-the-job experience, we are actively shaping the path for Minnesota’s future agriculture teachers and leaders.”

TEACHERS: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “While students enjoy their summer break, Minnesota teachers are getting their hands dirty. Between two events in July, K-12 educators will have the opportunity to participate in a unique continuing education experience through Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3SRys3P

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COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS: Via Minnesota Corn, VERBATIM: “Each year, the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council (MCR&PC) invests corn checkoff funds in programs that bolster agricultural literacy, develop future ag leaders, strengthen community connections, and improve public trust in farming. The following is a summary of those investments in 2026.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/43FZddW (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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AG HEADLINES

SOYBEAN SALE: Via barchart, VERBATIM: “USDA reported 372,000 MT of soybeans to unknown destinations this morning with 60,000 MT for old crop an 312,000 MT for new crop shipment.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4erJOCT

MORE: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “Was it China? Randy Martinson of Martinson Ag says,” MARTINSON: “You know, with the size of the purchase, you almost think it has to be. And the timing of it is very coincidental for the rumors that came out yesterday. So, you know, I do think it probably was China that came in and did this purchase.
We really won’t know until it gets ready to ship and it gets declared. But at this point, it looks ominous that it was China that was in buying.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Sa3uE1

FERTILIZER: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “With the Strait of Hormuz reopening, Heartland Investor Services Commodity Trading Advisor Eugene Graner is focused on the movement of fertilizer out of the Persian Gulf. Brazil imports 85 percent of its fertilizer and will be competing with the U.S. for that supply.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eeJXL8

DAIRY: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “The government relations director for the Wisconsin Farmers Union says long-term policy solutions are needed to help stabilize milk prices for producers. Michelle Ramirez-White with Dairy Together says more than 40 percent of U.S. dairy farms have been lost since 2017.” RAMIREZ-WHITE: “With the boom and bust of price cycles, the flood of milk on the market has contributed to five-year depressed and volatile milk prices,” she says. “Small and mid-sized dairy farmers just can’t compete.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/3SwkaFI

BEEF: Via watchdog organization Farm Action, VERBATIM: “Farm Action released a new rancher-backed policy roadmap to address record-high beef prices by rebuilding domestic cattle production and restoring competition, rather than relying on increased imports. The roadmap argues that today’s high beef prices are rooted in decades of consolidation in meatpacking and retail. In the 1970s, the top four beef packers controlled about 36% of the market. Today, four companies control roughly 85%, leaving ranchers with fewer buyers, less bargaining power, and a smaller share of the consumer beef dollar.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4voBbR2

CHECKOFF: Via Successful Farming, VERBATIM: “By three votes, Minnesota beef producers last month rejected a proposed increase to the state’s beef checkoff program. A successful passage would have increased the checkoff value from $1 to $1.50, the 50¢ being a refundable assessment. The increase would have made Minnesota the 20th state to add to the $1 national beef checkoff assessment.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4epebLH

CROP UPDATE: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “USDA’s latest weekly crop report says 81 percent of corn in the state is rated in good to excellent condition, up from 80 percent last week. Tim Waibel farms near Courtland in south-central Minnesota and tells Brownfield his corn looks excellent.” WAIBEL: “And the soybeans I would say would not be much behind excellent, they’re pretty good. A little iron chlorosis in some of the soybeans, but we’ve had very favorable rains.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4eoO5XO

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PROUD TO CHAMPION ATHLETES EVERYWHERE: Minnesota’s 24,000 family corn farmers may come from different fields than the athletes participating in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which are set for June 20-26 in Minnesota. But they share the same values, including dedication, hard work, and perseverance. This summer, Minnesota Corn salutes the talented athletes participating in the games. We’ll be cheering them on from our fields as they shine in yours. (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn)

HEADWINDS

MOTH: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A scouting network has identified a migratory pest in southeast Minnesota that has growers concerned. University of Minnesota Extension crops educator Ryan Miller says traps are capturing an alarming rate of true armyworm moths.” MILLER: “Early last week it first popped up. And true armyworm, it’s a migratory insect so it’s a moth that overwinters in the south and then is blown in on some of these southerly winds that we get in those low-level jets that can move insects around.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4evYu47

WEEVIL: Via Agweek, VERBATIM: “Alfalfa producers in central Minnesota lucky enough to harvest hay prior to heavy rainfall during the first and second weeks of June had some good harvests. Those who waited for some more height are now waiting for rain to stop before the first cutting. While timely harvesting of the forage crop is always a battle, alfalfa weevils are adding in some additional concerns in some pockets of the growing region.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uMdmRH

EL NINO: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Nutrien atmospheric scientist Eric Snodgrass says the current El Niño is developing faster than any previous event on record, but farmers should be cautious about assuming it will dictate summer weather patterns across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest.” SNODGRASS: “At this point in June, it’s the warmest the ocean temperatures have been since we’ve been measuring them consistently across the equatorial Pacific. A lot of the superlatives assigned to this El Niño are coming true.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4gqZPvs

WEATHER NOTE: The next Drought Monitor is due out tomorrow. Watch for it in lunch take and in Friday’s ag take.

TAR SPOT: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An agronomy manager with Wyffels Hybrids says the stormy weather pattern for much of the Corn Belt is setting the stage for tar spot issues in corn. Robby Meeker, who covers the eastern half of Illinois and all of Indiana, tells Brownfield, ‘The June rains are really what set the table and open the door for tar spot exposure. If we can get that splash event here early in the year, that’s what can bring on the later onset of tar spot.’” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4gqyOIr

MINNESOTA UPDATES

SCHOOL FOOD: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “[Monday] at the @MNArboretum we kicked off the third cohort of the #FarmtoSchool Institute, where six school teams from across MN will develop action plans to bring more local foods into their cafeterias, classrooms, and communities!” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/4eOS5lK

AG RELATIONS: From MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen via X, VERBATIM: “Appreciated opportunity to welcome the Ag Relations Council to Mpls MN today for their annual meeting. Made up of pr professionals who work in agriculture from all over the United States in all walks of agriculture!” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4eCsAD8

FSA COMMITTEES: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “Nominations are now being accepted for farmers and ranchers to serve on local U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) county committees. These committees make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ozH76N

WEEDS: Via Ag Web, VERBATIM: “The next generation of weed control has officially arrived, but for many U.S. row-crop farmers, the tools remain just out of reach. They are often too expensive, too slow, or too impractical for widespread adoption on large-scale operations. Kevin Bradley, University of Missouri Extension weed scientist, sees the dilemma clearly. He notes that conversations among his industry colleagues have fundamentally shifted away from the traditional playbook. Where scientists once focused almost exclusively on identifying specific weeds and matching them with the right chemistry solution, the industry is now forced to look beyond the jug.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ePqaSE

GRANT: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Applications are open to support Continuous Living Cover (CLC) Crop markets. This grant will accelerate the CLC crop development chain through supporting infrastructure, business development, and equipment.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4ez8yJv

RESEARCH: Via USDA, VERBATIM: “U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon hosted several land-grant university leaders at USDA for a roundtable discussion and announced the opening of the FY2026 funding opportunity for the Research Facilities Act program. President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts provided $125 million annually for the Research Facilities Act program and this historic investment will help address decades of deferred maintenance and accelerate modernization of agricultural research facilities across the country.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4oxjtbn

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

FARM TOUR: Via Minnesota Monthly, VERBATIM: “Tucked into the hills of the Driftless region near Eau Claire, Wisconsin, one farm is putting a new spin on the area’s agricultural history—and inviting visitors to get their hands in the dirt (literally). Sacred Blossom Farm has been a destination for foodies and the farm-curious since 2016, and this summer, it’s opening its gates for two weekends of open house farm tours.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4esAUVB

BERRIES: From the Star Tribune, a guide to berry picking options. LIST: https://fluence-media.co/4xAgdjm

AWARD: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Last week, the MDA’s Food Safety Team received the Elliot O. Grosvenor Food Safety Award from the Association of Food and Drug Officials. This award recognizes the outstanding achievements made by the Food and Feed Safety Division at the MDA in food safety.” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4vc4x4M

Copyright © 2026 Fluence Media, All rights reserved.
As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

Our mailing address is:
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WASECA CTY: From Minnesota Corn via Facebook, VERBATIM: “On Tuesday night, Waseca County Corn & Soybean Growers Chair Craig Baxter represented the group at the Waseca County Farm Bureau’s Taste of the Farm event. Thanks to Craig for highlighting agriculture in his local community!” PHOTOS: https://fluence-media.co/4xtnuS3 (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn Growers Association)

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OUTSIDE IMPACTS

WAR: Via Red River Farm Network, VERBATIM: “Markets reacted quickly to the news of the potential end of this war. AgBull Trading President Tommy Grisafi said stock prices rose overnight.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/43B6Ke8

MORE: Via Successful Farming, VERBATIM: “Pro Farmer’s Bill Watts reported that ‘grain and soy complex futures opened modestly lower Sunday night after the U.S. and Iran announced a deal to open the Strait of Hormuz, setting the stage for further talks aimed at ending a four-month old conflict.’” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eg5Po0

SCREWWORM: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “An extension livestock veterinarian encourages producers in the Upper Midwest to have a level-headed response to New World screwworm. Dr. Angie Varnum with the University of Minnesota calls detections of the parasitic pest an important issue for the country.” VARNUM: “But it’s not something that’s currently urgent for Minnesota beef, dairy, small ruminant, swine, or equine producers.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4vP0MCc

EXPLAINER: Via Stateline, VERBATIM: “The New World screwworm poses potentially life-threatening risks to pets, wildlife and livestock. While the risk is concentrated in a few states, experts say a massive invasion could ripple across the American economy through higher grocery prices.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4eui0hf

MORE: You can find MDA information about the screwworm HERE: https://fluence-media.co/4a3YgzL

TRADE IMPACT: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “Following the confirmation of New World screwworm in the United States, both Canada and Mexico have issued import restrictions on live cattle from the U.S. University of Tennessee ag economist Charley Martinez says the impacts will vary.” MARTINEZ: “We probably do send more to Mexico than Canada in terms of just how we trade and the product that we’re sending just south of the border out of Texas,” he says. “When we say Canada, there’s probably not as many cattle going from Texas to Canada in terms of having really big impact on trade.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4oO3BBv

FLANAGAN: Via KVRR-TV, VERBATIM: “Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor stopped by Moorhead this weekend for some face time with local farmers – and prospective voters. Peggy Flanagan is running for U.S. Senate, and as part of her campaign, she visited Prairie Rose Farm to learn more about agricultural business and local food systems.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4uCjT1q

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PROUD TO CHAMPION ATHLETES EVERYWHERE: Minnesota’s 24,000 family corn farmers may come from different fields than the athletes participating in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which are set for June 20-26 in Minnesota. But they share the same values, including dedication, hard work, and perseverance. This summer, Minnesota Corn salutes the talented athletes participating in the games. We’ll be cheering them on from our fields as they shine in yours. (SPONSORED: Minnesota Corn)

WEATHER

EL NINO: Via Brownfield, VERBATIM: “A crop protection specialist expects this summer’s El Nino to influence crop disease pressure. Tyler Harp with Syngenta says conditions in the southern U.S. are typically wetter than normal, with the northern tier of states warmer than average.” HARP: “We transitioned into El Nino from La Nina, probably one of the quickest on record. And so it’s going to be a quite strong one. If we have really wet conditions, we’ll see a lot of tar spot. We could see a lot of southern rust if it stays hot.” LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4uFM9Aq

BEETS: Via Ag Update, from Montevideo farmer Megan Horsager, VERBATIM: “Overall, it has been a successful start to the season on our farm. We had good windows for planting with well-timed rains to get the crops germinated timely and evenly. The long stretch of cold and wind in the middle of May put a damper on growth, but we managed to avoid significant frost damage. Since finally turning the corner into summer weather, things have been progressing well.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ebP12Y

STORM DAMAGE: From MDA via X, VERBATIM: “Reminder: Federal disaster loan application deadline for losses caused by storms/winds on 6/21/25 is near for affected counties (Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Marshall, Pennington, Roseau).” TWEET: https://fluence-media.co/4edqvi0

MORE: Via Small Business Administration, more on disaster loans and how to apply. SEE: https://fluence-media.co/4vQDzjd

PROJECTIONS: Via farm management analyst Kent Thiesse, VERBATIM: “The USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Report released on June 11 did not change estimated 2026 corn or soybean production levels, and did not make any significant adjustments in the projected 2026-27 demand levels for either corn or soybeans. The only significant change in the June WASDE report from the May monthly report was a decline of 0.5 bushels per acre in the projected 2026 national average wheat yield, with a corresponding adjustment to the estimated 2026 wheat production and the 2026-27 ending stocks. There were no adjustments to the 2026-27 corn and soybean carryout levels.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4xwzzps

WHAT’S NEXT

THIS MONTH: Via MYLE, VERBATIM: “The seventh annual Minnesota Youth Livestock Expo (MYLE) Livestock Show will be held on June 25-28 at the Martin County Fairgrounds in Fairmont, Minnesota. The event will feature 4-H and FFA members, as well as other youth livestock exhibitors from throughout Minnesota, showcasing their top-notch beef, sheep, goat and rabbit projects. The MYLE Show is the largest youth livestock show in Minnesota outside of the Minnesota State Fair later this Summer.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3QineVq

NEXT MONTH: Via Worthington Globe, VERBATIM: “University of Minnesota Extension will host a free agrivoltaics webinar, ‘Keeping the farm in ‘solar farm’: Agrivoltaic logistics,’ at 7 p.m. July 14. Solar energy sites on rural landscapes are raising concerns about taking agricultural land out of production, but they can be developed to prioritize ag production, known as agrivoltaics. Building an agrivoltaic site is a logistical puzzle involving specialized site prep, complex operations management, and long-term land stewardship.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ebO1Mg

NEXTGEN: Via West Central Tribune, VERBATIM: “Area schools in Renville County attended an Ag Day during the last month of the school year. Organized by Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom, the May 5 event drew more than 130 people including students, teachers and volunteers to a rural Renville farm, according to a news release, and participants left with a greater appreciation of agriculture education.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Sd0l6e

MN / ND: Via Minnesota Lawyer, VERBATIM: “Minnesota and North Dakota play vital roles in the Upper Midwest’s agricultural economy. While the states share many industry characteristics, they differ in regulatory structures, enforcement priorities, and administrative processes. Agricultural and rural businesses operating across state lines must account for variations in jurisdiction, environmental compliance, employment regulation, real estate requirements, and legal enforcement. Without careful planning, these differences can lead to regulatory challenges, operational delays, or liability exposure.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4etlbpy

FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com

FRIDAY: Via Minnesota Spokesman Recorder, VERBATIM: “This Juneteenth, Frogtown Farm is inviting the community to gather under the evening sky for a free outdoor screening of Farming While Black, a powerful documentary about Black land stewardship, agricultural heritage, food sovereignty, and the enduring connection between land, liberation, and community.” READ/WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4gkvXAO

Copyright © 2026 Fluence Media, All rights reserved.
As someone who subscribed, or as a member of the Minnesota AgriGrowth Council you are receiving this email.

Our mailing address is:
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