Washington

During his stop in Washington last Friday, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to the Knupp family. While in town, Naig also discussed several agricultural topics, including E15, the Farm Bill, farmers’ priorities and inflation.

Updates on E15

During a visit to Washington in February for the Fields and Friends Party, Naig discussed efforts to secure nationwide, year-round access to E15. Although the legislation has not passed, Naig remains hopeful that it will advance later this year.

“We worked extremely hard, along with the entire Iowa delegation, to pass legislation through the House that would provide nationwide, year-round access to E15. Although it did not advance through the Senate in August, we hope it can be included in the Senate Farm Bill during the lame-duck session. Expanded access to E15 is good for the corn market, the ethanol industry and consumers, as Iowans saved $60 million last year by using E15 instead of E10.”

Farm Bill

Naig also discussed ongoing efforts to pass the Farm Bill and explained how the E15 provision is connected to the Senate’s version of the legislation.

“In the House, the Farm Bill and E15 legislation had to advance separately. In the Senate, that same E15 language is included in its version of the Farm Bill, and we want it to remain attached if the bill passes.”

State Fair and Farm Progress Show

Naig reflected on the strong turnout at the Iowa State Fair and his experience at the Farm Progress Show in Boone.

“We had a tremendous 11-day run at the Iowa State Fair, setting records for attendance and several other categories while promoting locally sourced food and vendors through Choose Iowa. We also held our largest Century and Heritage Farm Recognition Program in many years, which was very special. The Farm Progress Show returned to Boone, giving me another opportunity to meet with farmers, welcome U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and see the latest innovations in agriculture.”

Farmers’ priorities

Naig said profitability remains one of the leading concerns among farmers as they face rising expenses and uncertainty within the agricultural industry.

“Profitability remains a top concern as farmers contend with rising fuel costs, trade disruptions and uncertainty surrounding the Farm Bill and E15 legislation. However, there are also opportunities through expanding markets and new trade agreements, including record sales of ethanol, corn and other agricultural products.”

USDA reports

Naig also addressed farmers’ concerns about USDA reports that have required revisions or corrections.

“Farmers have expressed frustration with USDA reports that have required revisions or corrections. I appreciate that senior USDA leaders are examining ways to modernize the reporting process and improve accuracy through digital surveys, precision agriculture tools and satellite imagery. These reports are critically important because everyone receives the information simultaneously, but farmers need that information to be accurate.”

Need for more beef cows in Iowa

Naig said Iowa’s beef cow population is at its lowest level since the 1950s and emphasized the need to increase the number of cattle in the state.

“We need more beef cows in Iowa, and farmers are interested in expanding their herds but need access to pastureland. This expansion would benefit farm families, strengthen the economy and provide consumers with more affordable beef.”

Inflation

Naig also discussed how inflation is affecting people in Iowa and across the country, particularly through higher food costs. He emphasized that a strong agricultural industry benefits farmers and consumers alike.

“Inflation is affecting every part of our lives, including the cost of food. A strong agricultural industry benefits everyone by ensuring consumers have access to safe, nutritious and affordable food produced in the United States.”