Farmers and ranchers often find themselves defending the industry, especially when it comes to cattle’s impact on environmental sustainability. Air quality specialists are taking a closer look at the farm and say one area separates cow emissions from the rest.
“Methane from livestock is not just produced, it’s also destroyed at almost the same rate,” said renowned livestock researcher Frank Mitloehner. “And this is something that is not currently being appreciated in public policy or in the public discussion of livestock’s impact on the environment.”
Mitloehner also explained why he believes the impact of methane on the climate is overstated.
“Methane has a lifespan of 10 years, and CO2 has a lifespan of 1,000 years,” Mitloehner said. “So, methane that’s in the atmosphere is not just produced, it’s also destroyed. And that’s why the lifespan of methane is only 10 years.”
As far as the cattle producers go, he says they are always doing their part to lessen the impact on the environment.
Strong balance sheets still matter, but liquidity, planning, and lender relationships are critical as ag credit tightens, according to analysis from AgAmerica Lending.
January 19, 2026 03:00 PM
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Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.
January 19, 2026 01:00 PM
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U.S. agriculture entered the week with mixed signals as weather, logistics, and markets shaped early-year decisions. Here is a regional breakdown of domestic crop and livestock production for the week of Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
January 19, 2026 11:40 AM
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The Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features a competitive steer showcase highlighting top-quality cattle and the accomplishments of driven youth exhibitors.
January 16, 2026 01:48 PM
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Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
January 16, 2026 01:28 PM
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January 16, 2026 09:57 AM
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