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.
The agriculture workforce remains strong and diverse, offering meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers that support the food and farm economy.
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Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
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Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
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Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association explains a new resource designed to help farmers comply with ESA-related pesticide label requirements.
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Sen. Roger Marshall discusses the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and what expanded milk options could mean for students and dairy farmers. Industry groups say it is a win for student nutrition and dairy producers.
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Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Stage Two will disburse around $16 billion, approved by Congress last year. Sign-ups begin Monday, and producers have until April to return applications.
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Removing the 40% duty sharply lowers U.S. beef import costs on beef, coffee, fertilizer and fruit, and restores Brazil’s competitiveness during a period of tight domestic supply.
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Row crop losses in 2025 are outpacing last year. With no disaster aid yet approved, many operations face a tough financial bridge to 2026 even as Farm Bill improvements remain a year away.
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Experts say farmers and ethanol producers would benefit from a risk-based ILUC system that protects forests without relying on speculative modeling.
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