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👉 What’s Happening: Minnesota rolled out a new nutrient reduction strategy aiming for a 32% cut in phosphorus runoff. Compliance could cost an estimated $850 M annually statewide. (Farm Progress) At the same time, global ag traders like ADM are warning of profit squeezes from trade friction and uncertain U.S. biofuel policy. (Barn Media)
✅ Why It Matters: Between regulations and market headwinds, efficiency and resilience are now make-or-break factors.
👉 Your Move: Tighten nutrient management with biology—poultry litter, cover crops, and precision placement can help you stay compliant while protecting ROI.
OTHER STORIES
Trade Uncertainty Still in the Spotlight
👉 What’s Happening: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz warned that shaky export markets could pressure prices, especially for grain. He pointed to biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel as key growth opportunities for domestic demand. (Brownfield Ag News)
✅ Why It Matters: If exports tighten, the operations with low-carbon intensity scores and domestic buyers lined up will weather the storm.
👉 Your Move: Start tracking low-CI practices now to qualify for ethanol and SAF premiums when the market shifts.
Minnesota Farmers Call for a Louder Voice in D.C.
👉 What’s Happening: At Farmfest, small- and mid-size farmers said they feel underrepresented in federal ag policy debates—especially around subsidies, trade access, and sustainability funding. (MPR News)
✅ Why It Matters: Policy directly shapes market access, cost structures, and eligibility for incentive dollars. If your segment isn’t speaking up, someone else is.
👉 Your Move: Join your commodity group’s policy committee or submit comments on USDA rule proposals—you can help steer where the money flows.
Wisconsin Budget Brings Infrastructure & Soil Dollars
👉 What’s Happening: The new $111 B Wisconsin budget invests $150 M in rural roads, dairy processing grants, cover crop and conservation funds, nitrogen optimization programs, and mental health support for farmers. (Farm Progress)
✅ Why It Matters: This isn’t just politics—it’s cash flow for infrastructure and inputs.
👉 Your Move: Tap into state cost-share programs to offset upgrades, fertility trials, and soil health work.
THE FIELDS REPORT
AUGUST: 🌦️ Storms keep rolling, heat’s hanging on, and fields are a patchwork of too-wet and thirsty spots.
🌽 Moisture Swings: Some zones are puddled, others stressing—scout and adjust fertility on the fly.
🌡️ Heat + Humidity: Expect heat stress risk, especially on pollinating corn.
🌾 Weed Flush: Warm, wet stretches are giving late-emerging weeds a head start.
🐓 Biology Boost Window: Perfect timing for poultry litter or bio-stimulants to lock in late-season vigor.
CBOT NUMBERS
CORN
SEP: $3.84½ | DEC: $4.07
Summary: New-crop export sales are up 13% year over year, even as old-crop demand fades. Prices eased on cooler-weather forecasts, but global buyers are still in the market.
Outlook: Don’t wait for a weather rally that may not come—lock in profitable bushels now, and track low-CI practices to grab biofuel premiums (see our forthcoming guide on 45z).
SOYBEANS
SEP: $9.71⅜ | DEC: $9.77⅜
Summary: Beans popped to a two-week high on weather risk and a jump in soy oil. Export pace is still beating last year, even with China buying light.
Outlook: Strong crush and export demand point to solid support—secure September prices before harvest pressure sets in.
WHEAT
SEP: $5.18¼ | DEC: $5.39
Summary: Futures are climbing on tight HRW supply and aggressive export interest.
Outlook: Watch local basis closely—if bids firm, now could be the time to move wheat.
EVENTS
Hastings Kernza Field Day
Aug 14, 2025 | 📍 Hastings, MN
Explore Kernza—the perennial grain gaining traction for yield stability, soil health benefits, and diversification. Includes lunch with registration by Aug 1.
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No-Till, No Problem: From 60-Inch Corn to Full-Season Forage (Hosted by SFA-MN)
Aug 20, 2025 | 📍 Hines, MN
A free, field-based learning on how wide-row corn and full-season forage can work together in a no-till system. Learn strategies for maximizing forage yield and soil health without tillage.
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CLC Ag & Energy Center Field Day
Aug 29, 2025 | 📍 Staples, MN
Showcase of irrigation tech, soil conservation practices, energy-efficient farm systems, and cover crop demos.
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UW–Madison Agronomy & Soils Field Day
Aug 27, 2025 | 📍 Arlington Agricultural Research Station, Arlington, WI
Theme: Profits and Progress—research-backed insights on crop management, weed control, and soil health ROI. Tours, drone demos, and CEUs available.
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Cover Crop Drone Seeding Field Day
Aug 27, 2025 | 📍 Shenandoah, IA
Learn how drones can quickly establish cover crops, plus see rainfall simulator demos and hear expert talks.
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Iowa State Fair
Aug 7–17, 2025 | 📍 Des Moines, IA
A major ag networking opportunity with exhibits, livestock shows, and education sessions.