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.
Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.
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USDA data indicates that 13.7 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate since 2014, even as most households remained food secure.
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Lily Pryer’s passion shows how National FFA members are making an impact in classrooms and communities all across Rural America.
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Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-IA, details how the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA) supports farmers, biofuels, and rural communities with tax breaks, crop insurance relief, and ag infrastructure.
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Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance shares risk-reduction strategies to help cattle producers prepare for a successful year ahead.
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Oregon FFA CEO Kjer Kizer discusses the proposed budget reductions, potential consequences, and the importance of protecting learning opportunities for students interested in agriculture.
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