Nebraska FARMcast - Farm and Ranch Management

As farmers and ranchers plan for 2026, federal ag policy offers a mix of stronger support and lingering uncertainty. Brad Lubben, extension ag policy specialist with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, breaks down recent policy changes, trade assistance, regulatory issues, and what producers should be watching as they make production, marketing, and financial decisions for the year ahead.

More: https://cap.unl.edu/news/policy-gains-uncertainty-looms-2026/

Nebraska’s net farm income is projected to climb more than 40% in 2025, driven by strong cattle prices and a surge in government payments. But those headline numbers don’t tell the whole story. Crop receipts have fallen for four straight years, margins remain tight, and producers across the state are facing very different economic realities depending on what they raise.

In this episode, Dr. Brad Lubben, extension policy specialist with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability, breaks down the latest Fall 2025 Nebraska Farm Income Outlook and his recent Policy Reportcolumn for Nebraska Farmer. He explains w...

For generations, Nebraska Farmer magazine and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Extension programs have helped farmers and ranchers stay informed, adapt to change, and make better business decisions.

This episode brings together two milestones in that shared mission. Nebraska Farmer is celebrating 166 years of publication, and Brad Lubben, Extension policy specialist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability, has reached 20 years of writing his monthly Policy Report column for the magazine.

Lubben and Curt Arens, senior editor of Nebraska Farmer, join Ryan Evans to reflect on how these two platforms have covered key developments in farm...

Expanding acres, adding livestock, or investing in bigger equipment can spread out costs and boost efficiency — but growth also brings new challenges. In this episode, Tim Meyer, associate professor of practice in agricultural economics at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, joins Nebraska FARMcast to discuss why bigger isn’t always better for family farms. He explains how expansion can stretch labor, complicate management, and add hidden costs that cut into profitability. Meyer also shares what signs producers can watch for that growth may be working against them, and how to strike the right balance between efficiency and sustainability.

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When U.S. beef, pork, and poultry are exported, they’re tested to make sure residues from antibiotics, dewormers, or other animal health products stay below certain limits. The catch is that those limits aren’t the same everywhere. What’s considered safe under U.S. rules might not pass in places like the European Union, Japan, or Mexico.

That mismatch can lead to trade barriers, rejected shipments, and lost market opportunities—even if the product is perfectly fine by U.S. standards. To help us understand what this means for producers, we're joined by Akinbode Okunola, a gradua...

Record-high calf prices in 2024 and 2025 have given cow-calf producers a welcome boost, but deciding how to reinvest those earnings can be tricky. Should profits go toward tax savings, new equipment, or strategies that build long-term strength in the operation? Nebraska Extension educators Brock Ortner and Glennis McClure join Nebraska FARMcast to discuss how producers can evaluate investments through an economic lens, manage liquidity, and make decisions that improve efficiency and resilience beyond the current cattle cycle. Brock Ortner is a livestock systems extension educator based in Rushville. Glennis McClure is a farm and ranch management analyst and statewide extension...

Dr. Brad Lubben, ag policy specialist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability breaks down the massive reconciliation bill – officially the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” -- signed into law early this month, which brings significant new support for farmers and ranchers. While the headlines have focused on tax changes and cuts to social programs, this sweeping legislation quietly delivered some of the most substantial updates to farm programs in years. From increased safety net protections to enhanced crop insurance and disaster assistance, Brad is here to get us up to speed as he has written about th...

The 2025 Grocery Industry Summit is Aug. 25, 2025, in Kearney. The third annual event brings together grocery store owners, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to address some of the biggest challenges — and opportunities — facing grocery businesses across Nebraska and the region.

Hosted the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center here at UNL, and the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association, the summit will focus on everything from next-generation ownership and rural grocery sustainability to cooperative partnerships, local foods, and emerging retail technologies.

Charlotte Narjes, Director of the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center, and Ansley Fellers, Executive Dire...

This episodes returns to an important conversation around farm and ranch succession planning—specifically for those who don’t have a family heir lined up to take over the operation. We're joined by Jessica Groskopf, agricultural economist with Nebraska Extension, to walk us through several key steps in this process. In the latest installments of her series on succession without a family heir, Jessica covers how to clarify your goals, build a team of trusted advisors, and put foundational legal documents in place to ensure your wishes are carried out.

Find Groskopf's most recent arti...

On this episode of Nebraska FARMcast, we’re exploring how a simple phone call sparked a movement to build a new kind of business model in Nebraska — one centered on worker ownership and community care. Cindy Houlden, Cooperative Development Specialist with the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center at Nebraska, joins us to share the story behind the Republican River Valley Homecare Cooperative, a worker-owned business recently incorporated in Arapahoe, Nebraska.

More: https://cap.unl.edu/news/introducing-republican-river-valley-home-care-cooperative/

What happens when there isn’t a family heir to take over the operation? In a new article that’s the first in a series of publications aimed at helping producers navigate succession planning without a family successor, Extension Educator Jessica Groskopf discusses the emotional side of this transition — particularly the ambiguous grief that can come when a family legacy doesn’t continue as expected.

Article: https://cap.unl.edu/news/navigating-farm-succession-without-family-heir-embracing-change-and-coping-loss/

Glennis McClure, Extension Educator and Farm and Ranch Management Analyst with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Center for Agricultural Profitability discusses the newly released “2025 Custom Service Rates for Livestock Production in Nebraska.” This report, published by the Center for Agricultural Profitability, provides insight into what livestock producers and custom operators are charging—and paying—for a wide range of services across the state.

McClure discusses what's in the report, how it's compiled, and best practices for using the custom rate data when paying for custom services related to livestock.

Find the r...

The beef industry is facing a mix of optimism and uncertainty — with strong prices giving way to questions about supply, demand, regulation, and long-term sustainability. But as the industry navigates these issues, a group of students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is stepping up to study them closely.

On this episode, we’re joined by Professors Brad Lubben and Elliott Dennis, both from the Department of Agricultural Economics here at Nebraska, to talk about the latest Policy Report column in Nebraska Farmer magazine, which not only outlines key challenges in the beef sector but also highlights the wo...

The price difference between steers and heifers can be a key indicator of herd expansion or contraction and recent trends indicate that we may be at a turning point. TaraLee Hudson, a graduate researcher in the Department of Agricultural Economics here at Nebraska, and Dr. Elliott Dennis, an associate professor in the Ag Econ department, have published a new article analyzing the factors driving the price difference between steers and heifers. They discuss steer-heifer price difference and insights into herd expansion.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/steer-heifer-price-difference-implications-herd-expansion

Record-high cattle prices in 2025 have created unique opportunities and challenges for producers looking to maximize their profits. One key factor in cattle marketing is the price slide — when lighter-weight calves tend to command a higher price per pound than heavier calves. Understanding how a price slide works, and how to leverage it, can make a big difference in profitability.

This concept is covered in a new article by TaraLee Hudson, a Graduate Research Assistant in the Department of Agricultural Economics here at Nebraska, and Dr. Elliott Dennis, an Associate Professor in the department, to break down what th...

Dr. Cory Walters, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at UNL, joins to discuss a unique and potentially valuable tool for farm risk management —micro-captive insurance. This concept allows farm operations to manage risk and insurance costs in a more customized way while also presenting financial opportunities. But, as with any financial tool, micro-captives come with complexities, regulations, and risks that must be fully understood before implementation.

More: https://cap.unl.edu/news/strategically-insuring-your-farm-rise-micro-captive-insurance/

Brad Lubben, extension ag policy specialist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss his latest Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer magazine, which highlights the Nebraska Rural Poll. This long-running survey from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a unique look into the thoughts and concerns of rural Nebraskans on issues like community well-being, housing, the economy, trade, and more. He discusses the poll’s significance, its history, and what sets it apart as a valuable resource for policymakers and communities across the state.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/what-do-rural-nebraskans-care-about/

Nebraska Rural Poll: ht...

Transitioning a farm from one generation to the next isn’t just about passing down land and equipment—it’s about balancing experience with innovation, tradition with change, and family relationships with business decisions. Generational differences in farm management can lead to friction, but they also present opportunities for growth when handled with mutual respect and collaboration.

Anastasia Meyer, an agricultural economist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability, joins this episode to discuss her new article exploring the challenges and opportunities that arise when younger farmers introduce new ideas while older generations hold onto time-tested practices.

She...

On this episode of Nebraska FARMcast, we’re joined by Randy Saner, Nebraska Extension Livestock Systems Educator and Program Leader, to discuss strategies for managing bull costs and maximizing herd profitability. With rising cattle prices, producers face tough decisions about how much to invest in their bulls and how those choices affect their bottom line. Randy’s recent article breaks down the financial impact of bull prices, cost-saving strategies, and tools producers can use to make informed decisions.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/understanding-cost-bulls-and-how-maximize-your-herds-profitability/

2025 has been designated the “International Year of Cooperatives” by the United Nations, recognizing the vital role that cooperatives play in building stronger economies and communities around the world. Here in Nebraska, cooperatives have long been a cornerstone of rural development, supporting local businesses, agriculture, and essential services. The Nebraska Cooperative Development Center has been at the forefront of fostering cooperative businesses across the state for more than two decades.

On this episode, we’re joined by Cindy Houlden, Cooperative Development Specialist with NCDC, to talk about the significance of the International Year of Cooperatives, how Ne...

Brad Lubben, policy specialist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss his latest Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer.

As President Trump begins his new term, his administration has introduced a new initiative—the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE—which aims to reshape and reduce the size of the federal government. While DOGE itself isn’t an official agency, it has been a key part of the administration’s messaging on spending cuts. Dr. Lubben’s latest column examines what role DOGE might play in influencing federal agricultural programs, including the Farm Bill, crop insurance, and rural...

On this episode, we're talking about custom rates for field operations. Whether you’re a producer hiring custom work or a provider offering services, understanding pricing trends and operational costs is key.

Glennis McClure, an Extension Educator with the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss. McClure helps lead efforts on the Nebraska Custom Rates Survey, which provides valuable data to producers and custom operators across the state. She highlights what the surveys cover, how they can be used, and why understanding the economics behind custom work is more im...

Data from USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service shows that Nebraska farm real estate values increased by 6.8% in 2024, with cropland and pasture values seeing notable gains. County-level cash rent estimates also reveal trends in rental rates across the state.

To break down these numbers and what they mean for farmers, ranchers, and landowners, we're joined by Jim Jansen, an agricultural economist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Jim leads efforts on the University of Nebraska’s annual Nebraska Farm Real Estate survey, which publishes a preliminary report of updated average land values and rental rates every spring, followed by a...

Tim Meyer, associate professor of practice in the Department of Agricultural Economics at UNL, joins to discuss his new article for the Ag Econ department’s Cornhusker Economics series that explores the relationship between cash flow, profitability, and solvency in farm management.

He breaks down why those matter, how they interact, and what farmers should consider when making big financial decisions—like buying land or managing debt. We won’t be diving into all the numbers from Tim’s case study, but we will discuss the big-picture takeaways that producers can apply to their own oper...

On this episode, we’re joined by Shannon Sand, an agricultural economist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability. She recently wrote an article about IRS requirements for issuing 1099 forms — a topic that’s especially relevant for farmers and ranchers this time of year. Whether you hire independent contractors, rent land, or make other payments that could require a 1099 filing, it’s important to know the rules to avoid potential penalties.

Article: https://cap.unl.edu/news/who-needs-fill-out-1099-sand-250203/

With recent land purchases, some are asking questions to learn more about IRS Section 180 and how it may provide tax deductions in the year of purchase. Shannon Sand is an agricultural economist and educator with Nebraska Extension who is based in North Platte. She joins the podcast to break down what exactly Section 180 is, who can potentially benefit from it, and how landowners can work with their tax professionals to utilize it.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/what-irs-section-180-and-how-does-it-work/

Nebraska Extension Ag Economist Jessica Groskopf discusses what happens to farmland lease agreements when a landlord passes away. With handshake agreements still prevalent in Nebraska, the nuances of ownership transitions can create uncertainty for both landlords and tenants. Groskopf has a new article on our Center for Ag Profitability website, cap.unl.edu, that unpacks these scenarios and helps provide clarity on managing farmland leases effectively.

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/news/verbal-leases-what-happens-if-someone-dies-groskopf-250115/

When farm and ranch businesses develop a business strategy to achieve specific goals, like profitability, managers often have to account for risks that come from internal and external uncertainties. On this episode, Dr. Jay Parsons, director of the Center for Agricultural Proftiability here at UNL, discusses a new article he has authored as part of the RightRisk News team. It explores how producers can approach calf retention decisions within a framework of strategic risk management, which helps us coonsider factors that influence critical decision-making and strategies for navigating the risks involved.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu...

The results of the November elections are setting the stage for substantial shifts in Washington, D.C., particularly in agriculture policy. With new leadership across Congress and the White House, key issues like the overdue farm bill, trade policies, tax reform, and regulatory changes are on the horizon. Today, we’ll discuss what these potential changes could mean for agricultural producers and the broader industry. Dr. Brad Lubben, extension policy specialist at UNL, wrote about these potential changes in his latest Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer. He joins to discuss.

Read more: https://ca...

This episode of Nebraska FARMcast takes a special look at emerging trends and the future of the workplace. From the growing demand on the part of employees for workplace flexibility to the importance of skills over degrees to employers, many businesses will face new challenges and opportunities in the coming years. Dr. Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, an Extension Specialist with Rural Prosperity Nebraska at UNL, joins to talk about a new article she has published on our center’s site, cap.unl.edu, that was inspired by recent findings from the Harvard Business School on the future of workplace environments.

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With lower commodity prices and tight margins for agricultural producers this year, paying attention for Farm Bill Commodity programs like ARC and PLC will be an important part of a farm risk management plan. On this episode, we're discussing the future of the Farm Bill safety net with Brad Lubben, associate professor and extension policy specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In a pair of recent articles for Nebraska Farmer and the Center for Agricultural Profitability, Brad dives into the complexities of federal farm programs, especially as Congress works toward a new Farm Bill. We'll explore the policy decisions...

Estate planning is a critical issue for farm and ranch families – but what happens when assets are being divided unequally. It’s a delicate, sometimes uncomfortable conversation, but one that’s important to keeping harmony in the family while looking to the future.

Anastasia Meyer, an extension agricultural economist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability has a new article on communicating estate plans to family when assets are divided unequally. She joins to discuss strategies for how families can handle these sensitive discussions and plan ahead for a smooth transition.

https://cap.unl.ed...

On October 3, 2024, the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center and Nebraska Grocery Industry Association are hosting the second annual Grocery Industry Summit in Kearney. This event brings together a wide range of stakeholders — from grocers and vendors to policymakers and more — to discuss strategies for navigating these challenges and building stronger, more resilient grocery markets in our state.

Joining on this episode is Ansley Fellers, executive director of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association, and Charlotte Narjes, director of the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

More: https://cap.unl...

On this episode, Glennis McClure, an Extension Educator and Farm and Ranch Management Analyst at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, discusses her article, “Determining a Fair Rent for Farm Buildings,” which outlines the key factors involved in establishing a fair and equitable rental agreement for farm buildings.

From calculating fixed and variable costs to considering depreciation and local market conditions, determining rent for these valuable assets is a nuanced process that requires careful evaluation. We'll discuss how property owners can make informed decisions and why understanding both the owner’s and the renter’s perspectives is crucial in setting...

On this episode, we're joined by Dr. Brad Lubben, agricultural policy specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The major party conventions are over and election season is in full swing, bringing speculation about what a new congress and administration could mean for agriculture policy. In his latest Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer magazine, Dr. Brad Lubben, extension ag policy specialist with the University of Nebraska of Nebraska-Lincoln, explores some of the questions facing agriculture as Americans prepare to head to the ballot box in November.

Looking ahead from now in the late summer of 2024, the agricultural landscape faces a mix of challenges and uncertainties. Lower commodity prices, rising production costs, and tighter margins are creating a difficult environment for producers across the country. The financial pressure is reminiscent of the hurdles faced by the ag sector a decade ago, but today’s high-interest rate climate adds another layer of complexity.

That’s according to Dr. Brad Lubben, associate professor and extension policy specialist here at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

He’s joining me to explore some of these risks facing produc...

This episode dives more into decision-making in agriculture, focusing on a powerful tool that can help farmers navigate the complexities and uncertainties they face. Jay Parsons, a professor in Nebraska’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Director of the Center for Agricultural Profiability, joins to discuss his article "Branching Out: Harnessing the Power of Decision Trees." It is co-authored with John Hewlett at the University of Wyoming and Jeff Tranel at Colorado State University, and first published in the July 2024 edition of RightRisk News, which you can find at rightrisk.org. The article delves into how decision trees can ai...

Anastasia Meyer, an agricultural economist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability, discusses her new article on estate planning, which focuses on stepped-up tax basis and its role in estate planning. She talks about how this adjustment can significantly reduce capital gains taxes for heirs and explores its implications for the transfer of farmland and other assets to the next generation.

This year’s Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market Highlights Survey, recently published by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, includes a special feature section that takes a closer look at the emerging trends and considerations for cover crops and their implications on lease arrangements. Jim Jansen, an ag economist with UNL and co-author of the annual real estate report, delves into these findings and explores the motivations and benefits of cover crops for landowners and operators across the state.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/land/cover-crop-utilization-implications-cropland-lease-arrangements-2024

A recent Supreme Court ruling overturning the 1984 Chevron doctrine put a stop to the decades-long precedent that federal courts defer to federal agencies for interpreting statutory provisions set by Congress, and the Farm Bill could be one of the first tests of the decision’s impact. Brad Lubben, extension policy specialist and associate professor with the Center for Agricultural Profitability wrote about the ruling and its possible implications in his Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer Magazine’s August issue. He joins to discuss more on this episode.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/poli...

Jessica Groskopf, an ag economist with Nebraska's Center for Agricultural Profitability and Nebraska Extension, has continued her series of articles that looks at creative ideas for estate and transition planning with a new publication on gifting ownership of the farm or ranch business.

She discusses gifting ownership shares, considerations for ownership transfer, and the importance of planning for both the current and future generations.

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/succession/ideas-estate-and-transition-planning-gifting-ownershiphttps://cap.unl.edu/succession/ideas-estate-and-transition-planning-gifting-ownership.

The 2024 Nebraska Custom Rates Report, which offers insights for agricultural producers and service providers, is now available through Nebraska Extension and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability. The report, published at cap.unl.edu/customrates, compiles survey data from 159 respondents, providing current market rates for 138 different custom operations and services across Nebraska.

This comprehensive resource serves as an essential guide for those offering and seeking custom agricultural services. While the report offers a detailed overview of market trends, custom service providers are encouraged to consider their own operational costs when determining th...

The higher interest rates that were established to counter inflation a couple years ago are persisting into 202, continuing to affect agricultural producers. On this episode, Jay Parsons, professor and farm and ranch specialist at the University of Nebraka-Lincoln, discusses how these economic pressures are impacting crop production, machinery purchases, and cattle herd rebuilding efforts. How do these rates stack up historically and what do they mean for producers trying to navigate these financial challenges this year?

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/finance/what-do-ongoing-high-interest-rates-mean-ag-producers.

The quest in Congress to pass a new farm bill continued on May 23 when the House Agriculture Committee finished their markup on the bill after a long session that saw major amendments proposed by the minority fail, leaving a bill generally resembling the one that was introduced. Dr. Brad Lubben, an agricultural policy specialist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability wrote about how this signifies the “starting line” for the bill’s ultimate passage in his policy report column for Nebraska Farmer. He discusses what this step means and what the road ahead now looks like for the Farm Bill...

What's the impact of cover crops on the profitability and sustainability of livestock systems?

Dr. Jay Parsons, a professor and farm and ranch management specialist and director of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability, discusses a new USDA Economic Research Service report on the integration of cover crops into livestock operations, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits.

Read more and find the full report at https://cap.unl.edu/livestock/nebraska-researchers-contribute-study-cover-crops-livestock-operations.

The newly published Nebraska Feedlot Labor and Management Survey Report, by Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Cattlemen, looks at data through 2021 and reveals significant changes in labor costs, compensation, and management practices within Nebraska's feedlot industry over the past few years. To discuss the key findings from the survey, including the challenges and trends feedlot operators face in navigating labor costs and industry shifts, is Dr. Elliott Dennis, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist at Nebraska, and a co-author of the report.

Find the report at https://cap...

Cindy Houlden, a Cooperative Development Specialist with the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss g a pressing issue facing rural Nebraska and much of the country – the challenge of aging in place and the innovative solutions being developed to address it. Houlden shares insights from her recent article on the establishment of the Homecare Worker Cooperative Academy and how it's helping communities like Arapahoe find sustainable ways to support their elderly residents.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/rural/aging-place-rural-nebraska-homecare-worker-cooperatives

More about the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center: https://ncdc.un...

Borrowing a loan can be a useful tool for farmers and ranchers, especially to fill in gaps when cash or working capital is short to cover current obligations or to make necessary or planned capital purchases. Before signing for a loan, understand the loan terms and repayment requirements as spelled out in the loan documents.

Jessica Groskopf, an agricultural economist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability, defines and explains important lending terminology and considerations for farmers and ranchers.

More at: https://cap.unl.edu/finance/basics-loans-farmers-and-ranchers

This episode explores how federal policy shapes the market for biofuels, a critical aspect impacting farmers nationwide. Nebraska Extension Policy Specialist Dr. Brad Lubben’s latest Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer magazine dives into how U.S. policy drives the development of the renewable fuels markets and how the increased use of products like renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel might help to propel the ag economy. He joins to discuss.

More at https://cap.unl.edu/forage/how-policy-can-drive-market-biofuels

Jessica Groskopf, a Nebraska Extension agricultural economist, discusses one approach to wealth transfer and estate planning within farming families. Jessica has just published the third article in a series that highlights different tactics for bringing family members into the operation.

This episode focues on the concept of combining gifting with lease agreements as a means of transferring assets between generations while ensuring the viability of the farm or ranch. This not only addresses the complexities of estate planning but also maintains the standard of living for all parties involved.

Find more, including the full series...

Glennis McClure, an Extension Educator and FARM and Ranch Management Analyst with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss the intricacies of farm and ranch operations’ financials at the start of the year. She talks about her new article on why traditional tax documents might not tell the full story of a farm's financial health and how accrual adjustments can offer a clearer picture.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/finance/net-farm-income-impacts-net-worth-growth

On this episode, we look at a critical decision point for cow-calf producers: whether to retain heifers for herd replacement or to opt for purchasing them. This decision can have implications on the operational goals, finances, and the herd’s genetic future for cow-calf operators. To explore what to consider in this decision-making process, we're joined by TL Meyer, a Livestock Systems Educator with Nebraska Extension, who has just authored a new article on the topic.

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/livestock/retain-not-retain-heifer-dilemma

We learn about the work of Buy Fresh Buy Local Nebraska to connect Nebraskans to local farms and foods amid their 2024 membership drive. The organization, based at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, offers members inclusion in their popular local food guide, published annually and distributed across the state. Interim Coordinator Charlotte Narjes joins to discuss.

Read more about the membership drive here or visit the Buy Fresh Buy Local Nebraska website.

Bringing children into the operation is the goal for many farms and ranches, but it can require some creative approaches so that everyone involved can earn a living. Jessica Groskopf, an extension educator and agricultural economist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability, is writing a series of articles for our website, cap.unl.edu, detailing ideas to help this transition process. She joins to discuss her first article in the series, about monetary compensation for family members.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/management/paying-family-members-farm-or-ranch

Dave Aiken, professor and extension agricultural law specialist at Nebraska, discusses two bills dealing with alien land ownership restrictions that have been introduced in the 2024 Nebraska legislative session.

https://cap.unl.edu/policy-legal/foreign-land-ownership-bills-introduced-nebraska-legislature-podcast

Applications for cooperative business development mini grants are now being accepted for 2024 by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Nebraska Cooperative Development Center. The mini grants are available to both existing cooperatives and groups who are exploring or developing cooperative business models. The application is open through February 15th. UNL Cooperative Development Specialist Cindy Houlden joins to discuss.

Find out more and apply on the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center's website, https://ncdc.unl.edu.

On this episode, we elve into the crucial realm of strategic planning within the agricultural sector, and establishing the vision and mission for an agribusiness. In an industry buffeted by the winds of economic change, environmental unpredictability, and technological advancements, having a strategic plan can act as a map through the uncharted territories of future market landscapes.

Larry Van Tassell, professor of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Director of the Center for Agricultural Profitability has authored a new article on the importance of strategic planning and we’ll discuss the art of transforming uncertainties in...

Glennis McClure, a Farm and Ranch Management Analyst with Nebraska Extension, discusses her new article on Figuring Field Operation Costs Using the Agricultural Budget Calculator Program. In it, Glennis explores the use of UNL’s Agricultural Budget Calculator (ABC) Program, a tool designed to assist producers and custom operators in calculating machinery field operation and ownership costs. By comparing newer and older equipment, the article provides valuable insights into how these calculations can influence decisions regarding machinery upgrades and their impact on production costs.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/abc/machinery

In this episode, we'll continue discussion about the complexities of the farm bill and current state of agricultural policy. After passing an extension of the 2018 farm bill in late 2023, Congress gave itself another year to enact updated legislation, but debate is expected to continue as competing interests show few signs of compromise so far. In his latest monthly policy column for Nebraska Farmer Magazine, UNL Extension Associate Professor and Policy Specialist Brad Lubben looks into these competing interests and ongoing policy debates surrounding the farm bill, and the impact on Nebraska's agricultural community.

Read...

Marilyn Schlake, a Rural Prosperity Nebraska Extension Educator at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, recently authored an insightful article titled "Agriculture and Community Well-Being: A review of three research studies," which sheds light on the dynamic relationship between agricultural producers and rural communities. I’m looking forward to hearing more about the relationship between main street and agriculture in rural communities.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/rural/agriculture-and-community-wellbeing-review-three-research-studieshttps://cap.unl.edu/rural/agriculture-and-community-wellbeing-review-three-research-studies

For new and beginning farmers, access to things like land and capital can present challenges on their road to becoming established producers. Amid the economic challenges that come with being a beginning farmer, there are programs and strategies that can offer a leg up to getting on a good path. This was the topic of a recent Nebraska Farmer magazine column by Brad Lubben, an extension associate professor and ag policy specialist here at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He’s here to talk more about the realities of starting out in ag today, the looming challenges and some innovative so...

Estate and transition planning often focuses on what happens to the farm or ranch at the death of a key person. However, a good estate and transition plan should also include contingencies for disability. Planning for a disability is not an easy task because the severity and duration of the disability are unknown. Jessica Groskfop, extension educator and agricultural economist with UNL's Center for Agricultural Profitability, offers some key items to have in place to protect you and your operation from disability.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/succession/what-happens-your-farm-or-ranch-if-you-become-disabled

Lia Nogueira, Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins this episode to discuss a rent paper about a study, "Economics of Deficit Irrigation Utilizing Soil Moisture Probes in the Western Corn Belt." This research offers a fresh perspective on how technological advancements like soil moisture probes can optimize irrigation strategies, particularly in water-scarce regions like the Western Corn Belt. We discuss the complex interplay between water usage, crop yields, and economic outcomes, unraveling how these factors are reshaping the way we think about sustainable agriculture.

The research sheds light on...

There are many strategies that cow-calf producers can explore to be more profitable and on this episode, we’ll hear some examples that are based on data from the University of Minnesota’s FINBIN livestock analysis tool. Randy Saner is a Livestock Systems Extension Educator with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and he’s taken a dive into the data for a new article on our website, at cap.unl.edu. He’ll share some practices that can help lead to higher gross margins, the strategic moves involving calf transfers to other enterprises, and the role that government payments can play in...

With recent land purchases, some are asking questions to learn more about IRS Section 180 and how it may provide tax deductions in the year of purchase. Shannon Sand is an agricultural economist and educator with Nebraska Extension who is based in North Platte. She joins the podcast to break down what exactly Section 180 is, who can potentially benefit from it, and how landowners can work with their tax professionals to utilize it.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/what-irs-section-180-and-how-does-it-work/

Cory Walters, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics, recently co-authored an article analyzing how fuel efficiency in tractors has changed since the introduction of EPA emissions standards. The research was led by another co-author, Jerin TeKoste, a recent graduate of the Agricultural Economics Master’s program here at UNL. Dr. Walters discusses key findings from the research and offers his perspectives on how emissions regulations have impacted tractor performance over time and why this is important for farmers making equipment purchase decisions.

Read more:

https://cap.unl.edu/policy-legal/diesel-tractor-fuel-efficiency-and-exhaust-emissions-standards.

Dr. Larry Van Tassell is a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and director of UNL's Center for Agricultural Profitability. He discusses his research into the latest data from the USDA's Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act report about foreign investment in Nebraska agricultural land, exploring key findings, where the foreign owners are from and what this data means for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and landowners.

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/policy-legal/how-much-nebraska-ag-land-owned-foreign-entities-0.

The Nebraska Entrepreneurial TaskForce (NetForce) is hosting its sixth annual Nebraska Entrepreneurship Best Practices Summit on Tuesday, November 7th, at the Bosselman Conference Center, at Fonner Park in Grand Island. The one-day event will focus on strategies for building local and regional entrepreneurial ecosystems. Molly Brandt, Innovation and Entrepreneurship 4H educator with Nebraska Extension, discusses what to expect for entrepreneurs of all ages.

Find more about the summit and register at https://www.netforcenebraska.org/aboutebps-801962.html

Foreign entities have been buying U.S. agricultural land for decades, but recent high-profile purchases have shone a spotlight on the practice. Critics argue it threatens our food security and allows foreign powers to exploit our resources. Others might see economic benefits outweighing any risks.

A new article looks at the scope of foreign farmland acquisitions, the countries involved, the incentives driving this investment, and the key pros and cons for American agriculture. It’s been published by Dr. Larry Van Tassell, professor in Agricultural Economics at UNL and director of the Center for Ag...

Cheryl Burkhart Kriesel is a professor and extension specialist with Rural Prosperity Nebraska. She joins the podcast to discuss an issue many communities may relate to - how to engage new volunteers and new ideas into established local events and activities.

Dr. Burkhart-Kriesel points out that we often hear comments like "we need new people!" and "its the same people do things every year!" when it comes to community events. But making that transition to new leadership and volunteers isn't always easy. Both established organizers and new community members wanting to help out can...

October is National Cooperative Month, a chance to celebrate cooperatives and learn about how these community-driven businesses operate, and their impacts across Nebraska.

Charlotte Narjes is an extension educator with Rural Prosperity Nebraska and director of the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center here at UNL. She has over 15 years of experience working with cooperatives and rural community development, which includes providing education and technical assistance to groups exploring cooperative business models. She is passionate about the power of cooperatives to drive economic opportunities in rural areas.

Read more at https...

In 2023, Nebraska's farm real estate values have seen a substantial increase, with the average acre now valued at $4,240, according to new information from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services – or NASS. We’ll dive into the newly published report that details land values and county-level cash rates across the state, with Jim Jansen, an agricultural economist with the Center for Ag Profitability. He’s leads UNL’s efforts to publish the annual Nebraska Farm Real Estate Survey and Report, which was released earlier this summer. He’s just co-authored an article analyzing the new USDA report and what it could mean...

Cooperative businesses are playing an increasingly large role in fostering economic growth, community bonds, and preserving local character in communities across Nebraska. From grocery stores to homecare, the cooperative model is offering innovative solutions to communities across the state. Many of those organizations work with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Nebraska Cooperative Development Center to both get their start and maximize their impact over time. Cindy Houlden is a Cooperative Development Specialist with NCDC and she joins me now to talk more about the impact that cooperative businesses are having across Nebraska.

Read more at...

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension faculty recently traveled to Darwin, Australia, to attend the World Community Development Conference and share their expertise while learning new approaches.

Marilyn Schlake, an extension educator with Rural Prosperity Nebraska, and Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, a professor and Rural Prosperity Nebraska extension specialist, made the trip in June 2023 for the global conference. They reached out to make new international collaborations for potential research opportunities and to share what Nebraska is doing in community economic development.

While the challenges of farming are vast and varied, one often overlooked issue is the risk that comes with the unexpected death or disability of a younger member of the operation. Jessica Groskopf is an extension educator and agricultural economist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her latest article serves as a call for young individuals in the farming and ranching sector to take estate planning seriously, highlighting the importance of being prepared.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/succession/are-you-farmer-or-rancher-over-18-it%E2%80%99s-time-estate-plan.

With the 2018 Farm Bill set to expire and the looming uncertainties, Brad Lubben, an extension policy specialist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, sheds light on the challenges and considerations surrounding this crucial piece of legislation.

Read the article in full on Nebraska Farmer's website, and visit cap.unl.edu for more ag policy information.

Consumers seem willing to pay more for their burgers and meatballs, with continued strong demand despite ground beef prices remaining high. What does this mean for cattle producers thinking about expanding their herds this fall?

We explore that question with Elliott Dennis, assistant professor and livestock marketing economist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He recently wrote an in-depth analysis looking at factors like retail beef prices, slaughter cow prices, heifers on feed, and more.

Read that article here: https://cap.unl.edu/livestock/high-culling-continues-impact-beef-market.

"Selling cattle is a complex process, with many factors determining the price producers can get for their animals. Calves with certain blemishes like bobbed tails, frozen ears, or off-colors are often discounted at sale barns. But is there another way for producers to market these calves and capture more value?

Randy Saner, a beef systems educator with Nebraska Extension, has a new article up on our site at cap.unl.edu, detailing ideas on how to add value to blemished calves.

We'll discuss Randy's advice on facilities, health protocols, enterprise analysis, and...

In 2017, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Nebraska Extension committed to implementing a multidisciplinary Beef Systems Initiative to develop and implement beef production systems a Nebraska. A parallel project, supported the the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, brought together a panel of Agricultural Lenders from across Nebraska, to advise UNL researchers on financial considerations for producers who are implementing new or expanding existing operations.

The panel of lenders first met in 2019, and recently reconvened from June 27-30, 2023, to assess the shifts in economic conditions and lender perspectives over the past fo...

Understanding your farm's finances is critical to making sound decisions and positioning your operation for success. But the accounting methods used for tax purposes don't always provide the information needed to properly manage your business.

Our guest today, Shannon Sand, is here to explain the key differences between tax accounting and managerial accounting. Shannon is an agricultural economist with the University of Nebraska specializing in farm management.

In a new article up on cap.unl.edu, she lays out how tax accounting focuses on external reporting and follows rules aimed at calculating taxable income. In...

With harvest just around the corner, many farmers may be considering the decision custom hire out harvesting work. Glennis McClure, a Nebraska Extension farm and ranch management analyst with the Center for Ag Profitability, has a new article on our site at cap.unl.edu, looking at the factors and costs that come into play when deciding between hiring a custom operator versus performing harvest with owned equipment. She also highlights how UNL’s Agricultural Budget Calculator program can assist with these decisions.

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/finance/harvest-operations-own-it-or-hire-ithttps://cap.unl.ed...

From drones scouting fields to real-time data-driven decisions, the embrace of technology by U.S. agriculture is expanding, with Nebraska at the forefront. A recent USDA-NASS survey shows 77% of Nebraska's farmers and ranchers now integrate computers into their work, a jump from 74% in 2021. Moreover, 85% use smartphones, up by five points in two years.

Larry Van Tassell is a professor in Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, and director of UNL’s Center for Agricultural Profitability. As a graduate student, he helped survey producers in the 1980s – just as personal computers were beginning to emerge – about their...

For landlords and tenants with verbal lease agreements in place, September 1st represents an important deadline in Nebraska. The state Supreme Court has ruled that the lease year begins on March 1st and the notice to a tenant to vacate under a verbal lease must be given six months in advance of the end of the lease – or no later than September 1st. We’ll walk through what this means for both parties, discuss the benefits of written leases over verbal agreements, and highlight the differences between cropland and pasture leases. Jessica Groskopf, an extension agricultural economist at UNL, disc...

Tina Barrett, with Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., explains a new tax law that could impact many agricultural operations across our Nebraska

Earlier this year, the Nebraska Legislature passed LB754, which contains changes allowing partnerships and S-corps to elect to pay state income taxes at the entity level, rather than only at the owner level. This opens up potential federal tax benefits for pass-through entities that were previously only available to C-corps in Nebraska. The law also includes options to make this election retroactively from 2018 to 2022.

Tina discusses how this new approach works, who may benefit...

Agricultural commodity prices remain strong as we head into summer 2023, but market volatility is a constant presence for farmers and ranchers, and high prices can bring both optimism and anxiety for producers. That’s according to Jay Parsons, UNL Farm and Ranch Management Specialist with the Center for Ag Profitability, who has co-authored a new article on our site at cap.unl.edu, which discusses the importance of managing market volatility this year. He’s joins to talk about current commodity prices and some strategies for growers and sellers to navigate any potential challenges in the markets.

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A new tool developed by the Center for Agricultural Profitability works to help demystify farm finances by making easy work of calculating annual loan payments. The free, web-based Loan Payment Calculator is available for use now at our website, https://cap.unl.edu/loancalculator. Extension Ag Economist Jessica Groskopf is here to talk about it. 

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/finance/new-loan-payment-calculator-tool-launched/.

Impressive yields at harvest don’t mean a lot if the costs to grow the crop outweigh the price at marketing time. On this episode, we dive into the importance of calculating breakeven prices and yields to improve profitability. From understanding how much yield you need to cover your costs, to incorporating things like family living expenses and opportunity costs, there are many considerations to be made. Enterprise budgeting to understand those expenses and determine breakeven prices and yields can be time-consuming, but we’ll also talk about how UNL’s ag budget calculator program can streamline the process. 

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In a unique initiative by the American Councils for International Education, Nebraska Extension educators Molly Brandt and Marilyn Schlake were invited to travel to the countries of Georgia and Armenia in October 2022, and April 2023, to train local educators in the principles of the 4-H Entrepreneurship Investigation (ESI) curriculum.

Brandt, an innovation and entrepreneurship 4-H educator, and Schlake, a Rural Prosperity Nebraska educator in the Department of Agricultural Economics, prepared for what they thought was a one-time experience. However, after their successful endeavor in Tbilisi, Georgia, in October 2022, they were invited back in April 2023, to deliver similar training...

As summer unofficially kicks off and fuel prices fluctuate, it’s important to understand how transportation factors like diesel prices, animal handling, and trucking industry changes are impacting the beef cattle industry. Elliott Dennis, assistant professor and livestock economist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability here at Nebraska, has a new article on cap.unl.edu about what’s behind the changing costs of cattle transportation in the U.S. and he joins the podcast to discuss what’s influencing the price of getting cattle from A to B and what challenges could be ahead for the livestock industry in thi...

When it comes to marketing feeder cattle in 2023, current calf prices are leaving some cow-calf producers optimistic about profits this year, even though forage availability continues to be tight and input costs continue to be high. Because a lot can happen between now and marketing time, price protection should still be a priority, even when that price outlook is optimistic.

That’s according to Jay Parsons, professor and farm and ranch management specialist in UNL’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Center for Agricultural Profitability. He’s authored a new article on our website, cap.unl.edu, and jo...

Cattle prices are up this year, but rising interest rates and challenges in the labor market present important decisions ahead for livestock producers. We'll explore how cattle producers can adapt their strategies to mitigate the the negative effects of the current economic environment while maintaining wide profit margins.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Livestock Economist Elliott Dennis is an assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics and has a new article on our website at cap.unl.edu, about current price trends and the importance of adopting strategies to be more profitable this year.

How active are rural Nebraskans when it comes to volunteering in their community? Rural communities depend on volunteers for a wide range of roles, including essential services like fire and rescue, coordinating community events, and supporting local youth organizations. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s 2022 Nebraska Rural Poll asked respondents about their volunteerism and attitudes toward volunteerism in their communities.

Becky Vogt, survey research manager with the Nebraska Rural Poll, discusses.

Read more at: https://cap.unl.edu/rural/rural-poll-community-size-age-impact-volunteerism-nebraska.

For the first time in history, the number of Americans 65 and older now exceeds the number of Americans five and under, according to census data. As the U.S. population continues to age, many rural communities are facing a lack of elder care facilities, forcing those in need of care to relocate to a larger community. Last year, the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center – or NCDC – at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, launched a six-week Homecare Worker Cooperative Academy in partnership with the Northwest Cooperative Development Center in Washington State. The program aims to address the potential elder care crisis by supp...

Strategic planning can usually be beneficial to any business, and farm and ranch operations are no exception. Coming up with clear missions, visions, and goals for the business can provide a roadmap to achieve a farm’s objectives and get everyone on the same page. But are farmers and ranchers taking the time for strategic planning? 

Jay Parsons, professor and farm and ranch management specialist in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Department of Agricultural Economics, looks at this topic in a new article posted on our Center for Ag Profitability’s website, cap.unl.edu. He discusses the imp...

Three significant ag law bills are being heard in the Nebraska Unicameral in 2023, dealing with agricultural leases, livestock nuisance lawsuits, and mesonet weather stations. Dave Aiken, professor and ag law specialist in the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, walks through each of these and their potential implication for agriculture in Nebraska. 

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/policy-legal/2023-nebraska-ag-law-legislative-update.

Producers have until March 15 to enroll in crop insurance coverage for 2023. Two elections that have recently been getting new attention are the Supplemental Coverage Option – or S-C-O — and the Enhanced Coverage Options — or E-C-O.

Cory Walters, an associate professor in Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, encourages caution and careful consideration before purchasing either S-C-O or E-C-O coverage.

Read more at: https://cap.unl.edu/crops/caution-needed-when-purchasing-supplemental-coverage-option-and-enhanced-coverage-option.

The cattle industry right now is seeing decreases in the number of beef cows, as well as in the number of heifers held back for retention heifers expected to calve this year. Weather in the Northern Plains region continues to impact the availability of hay following an already shortened grazing season, and many input costs for cattle producers are likely to be high again this year. With feeder cattle supplies reduced nationally, the bred cow market may be appealing for producers looking to rebuild herds. For more on what considerations should be made before making this decision, Elliott Dennis...

For older farmers and ranchers, the decision to retire and pass the operation along to the next generation can be a difficult one. Oftentimes, the older generation can find it difficult to give up the power and control they have accumulated over their careers, and may not know what else to do. However, as Nebraska Extension Educator Allan Vyhnalek points out in his work on transition and succession issues, it’s important for the older generations to train and incorporate the younger generations into the operation. And doing so with planning and care, especially in management and decision-making roles.

The U.S. economy in the upper Midwest and great plains is driven heavily by agriculture, with the seven-state region made up of Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota, being responsible for producing over 30 percent of the nation’s agricultural output. Nebraska continues to be a leader in the sector, with significant impact and high output, while occupying a substantial amount of cropland and pastureland in the region.

A new analysis on our website, cap.unl.edu, breaks down Nebraska’s position as an economic force in agriculture in both the region and the...

In rural areas, leadership is essential to the development of communities. In areas with smaller populations, volunteers often fill leadership positions, with many community members taking on multiple roles. The 2022 Nebraska Rural Poll sought to find out how residents in or near rural communities feel about their leadership. Becky Vogt, survey research manager with the Nebraska Rural Poll, discusses the findings.

Read more at https://cap.unl.edu/rural/rural-poll-gauges-sentiment-about-community-leadership-rural-nebraska.

More about the Nebraska Rural Poll at ruralpoll.unl.edu.