A big issue in 2024 was USDA’s push for “climate-smart” ag practices. The department poured $3 billion in tax dollars into getting farmers to enroll in projects to reduce emissions and sequester carbon.
With a new administration now in office, many are wondering what might lie ahead.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law spoke with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander on efforts under the previous administration, the impact on producers, and how new leadership could change USDA’s policies.
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Meat stocks rose seasonally but remain below last year overall, while tighter butter inventories could support dairy prices, and belly stocks warrant close watch for pork markets.
Payment totals alone do not show financial stress — production costs and net losses complete the picture.
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.