AMES, Iowa (RFD-TV) — Iowa’s agricultural leaders are emphasizing the state’s deep farming roots as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) moves forward with its reorganization plan. A delegation from the state is urging the department to relocate Agricultural Research Service (ARS) projects to Ames, Iowa, which already serves as a hub for agricultural research and innovation.
U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share why Ames is uniquely positioned to support expanded USDA operations. She highlighted the region’s existing infrastructure, noting that Ames currently has one of the largest concentrations of USDA facilities and employees outside Washington, D.C.
In her interview with RFD-TV News, Sen. Ernst also addressed the delay of a much-anticipated federal aid package and shared what she is hearing from Iowa’s producers as they navigate ongoing financial challenges and the uncertainty created by the government shutdown.
She also discussed her efforts to have phosphate added to the U.S. Critical Minerals List, which would help stabilize fertilizer markets. He offers a message of reassurance to farmers and ranchers during these uncertain times.
And in celebration of National 4-H Week, Ernst reflected on her own experience in 4-H and the program’s enduring impact on youth leadership in Iowa and across the nation.
ARC/PLC, marketing loans, and crop insurance each matter at different points in the price cycle — and the new Farm Bill strengthens the balance among them.
November 10, 2025 01:38 PM
·
Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on what the bill could mean for truckers.
November 10, 2025 11:46 AM
·
The DOJ’s new antitrust probe could reshape beef-packer behavior, with potential impacts on fed-cattle prices, processor margins, and long-term competition across the supply chain.
November 10, 2025 10:35 AM
·
The Senate has cleared a path to reopen USDA, but full restoration of services depends on House approval and the President’s signature.
November 10, 2025 10:13 AM
·
Congressman Blake Moore of Utah discusses the bill’s potential to promote both economic growth and healthier forests on this week’s Champions of Rural America.
November 07, 2025 01:36 PM
·
Stagger buys and diversifies fertilizer sources — watch CBAM, India’s tenders, and Brazil’s import pace to time urea, phosphate, and potash purchases.
November 07, 2025 11:16 AM
·
Tight cattle supplies keep prices high for ranchers, but policy shifts, export barriers, and packer losses signal a volatile road ahead for the beef supply chain.
November 07, 2025 11:02 AM
·
Recognizing phosphorus and potash as critical minerals underscores their importance in crop production and food security, providing producers with an added layer of risk protection.
November 06, 2025 03:40 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer shares insight into what these new accounts, established in provisions of the Big, Beautiful Bill, could mean for the farm families.
November 06, 2025 02:34 PM
·
