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 National FFA Organization hosts the Washington Leadership Conference, where thousands of FFA members gather to learn how to be change makers in their communities.
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Farm CPA Paul Neiffer outlines how producers should navigate evolving Farm Bill provisions and prepare their operations for the next crop year.
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Heidi Exline with American Farmland Trust shares how their Farm to School initiative helps strengthen the connection between local farms and school food programs.
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FFA students in New York City are transforming urban spaces into working farms while gaining hands-on skills that connect city life with the roots of agriculture.
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President Trump is expected to press Argentina to take a tougher stance on China in exchange for political and economic support.
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Treat storage as risk management and logistics, and budget to break even since export growth is unlikely to absorb bigger U.S. corn and soybean crops.
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