The Senate Ag Committee held a hearing this week to examine the ag economy, getting perspectives from farmers, ranchers, and industry leaders.
National Farmers Union President Rob Larew spoke with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander on the 2025 Farm Bill, trade policies’ effect on farm incomes, and the Packers and Stockyards Act.
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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.
A mid-January winter storm delivered snow, ice, and extreme cold to a broad swath of the U.S., disrupting transportation, stressing livestock systems, and adding cost and complexity to winter farm operations as producers look toward spring.
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Strong production and rising stocks may pressure ethanol margins unless demand or exports continue to improve.
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.