CENTRAL CITY, Neb. (RFD NEWS) — Another American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Annual Convention is in the books, bringing farmers and ranchers together this week in California to discuss issues expected to shape the agricultural economy in the year ahead. Topics ranged from rural development to market expansion, as producers from across the country gathered to share perspectives and set priorities.
Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) President Mark McHargue joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report after returning home from the convention to recap the event.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, McHargue shared highlights from the gathering and reflected on how discussions unfolded. He spoke about ongoing concerns around private property rights and the growing conversation around balancing those rights with emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centers.
McHargue also addressed agriculture’s role in discussions surrounding the newly released dietary guidelines and what he hopes to see as those conversations continue. He touched on additional major topics that surfaced during the convention, underscoring the broad range of issues on producers’ minds.
The discussion also turned to markets, with McHargue reacting to Monday’s WASDE report, which reinforced a supply-heavy outlook for major U.S. crops. He shared insight into how that outlook is affecting farmer sentiment in Nebraska. Before wrapping up, he discussed preparations for the upcoming planting season and his outlook as spring approaches.
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AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
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Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
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Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
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North Dakota CO₂ Storage Law Struck Down
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University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
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Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.
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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins today released the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030.
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