“There were other tweaks as well,” says Chris Gruenhagen, government relations counsel for Iowa Farm Bureau, including minor changes to construction standards and updated calculations of erosion in Manure Management Plans (MMP). “But the big picture is regulation is still there and producers still need MMPs, and they still need to understand and follow the rules.”

A changing regulatory environment makes the role of the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers more important than ever. “They can help translate the legalese,” says Gruenhagen.

“Farmers should take the updated rules seriously and be proactive in taking a look at their livestock farms,” says CSIF Executive Director Brian Waddingham. “Livestock rules are stringent, but we can work with them and make them work on most farms. If they have environmental concerns about their livestock farm, I would encourage them to contact CSIF and arrange a no cost, confidential farm visit.”

The rule changes were a 2-year process that involved many of CSIF’s supporting organizations. Once that process was completed, CSIF was an additional resource for farmers.

“CSIF has a unique role, filling in the gap where we don’t have the staff to help farmers implement the rules,” says Cora Fox, director of government relations with the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association.

“Iowa Pork Producers Association and CSIF are here to be part of the solution,” says Ben Nuelle, director of government relations for the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “We’re all in favor of reasonable regulation. Farmers and their families breathe the air, eat the food and drink the water. And they want to leave the environment better than they found it. When they use best practices, whether it be manure management, odor control, or animal welfare, it makes the entire industry stronger.”

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Streit Family

Multi-generational Palo Alto County farm family shows dedication to their community while demonstrating good stewardship of their land and cattle

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Kent Mowrer

Dedicated long-time CSIF employee and family farmer remembered for his contributions to Iowa agriculture

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Farm Bureau Economic Summit

Global conflicts and geopolitical shifts are creating potential risks and opportunities for the U.S. agricultural industry through 2024. Frank Kelly, founder of Fulcrum Macro Advisors, highlighted at the 2024 Iowa Farm Bureau Economic Summit that the ongoing war in Ukraine poses a significant threat to global food security. Russia’s actions could lead to a food crisis with widespread implications, such as migration crises in Africa impacting Europe.

Kelly also emphasized the importance of the U.S. forging new trade relationships, particularly with regions like Africa and countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and India. The U.S. aims to secure critical minerals and provide food security in return. As China faces demographic decline, India’s rapid population and industrial growth present new trade opportunities.

Key challenges include navigating global shipping disruptions and securing critical minerals for technology. Domestically, U.S. farmers are awaiting the passage of a new farm bill, which may be delayed until after the 2024 elections.

Latest HPAI Update

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced new testing requirements for dairy cattle participating in fairs and exhibitions, effective July 1, 2024, to minimize the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). He emphasized that HPAI affects all agricultural sectors, not just poultry, and thanked farmers for their cooperation. Increased testing, including mandatory and voluntary submissions, has resulted in more positive cases. USDA has authorized additional epidemiological strike teams and wildlife surveys to assist affected farms and understand the virus’s spread.

Naig reiterated his request to the USDA for resources to support impacted farmers, including compensation for lost production and a streamlined indemnity process. As of now, Iowa has reported 11 HPAI cases in dairy herds and three in poultry in 2024. The state encourages enhanced biosecurity measures and immediate reporting of suspected cases. Despite the challenges, Naig highlighted the cooperation and efforts of Iowa farmers in contributing to the broader understanding of HPAI.

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship assures that pasteurized dairy products and properly cooked poultry remain safe for consumption. While the virus has caused significant disruptions, continued research and biosecurity improvements aim to mitigate its impact. Farmers and producers are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their livestock, with resources and recommendations available on the Department’s website.

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Good Farm Neighbor Award – Brinegar Family

July 1, 2024 | Ottumwa, IA

Farm Fuel Tour – Village Independence Day Celebration

June 11, 2024 | Ames, IA

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Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour

July 3, 2024 | West Des Moines, IA

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July 24, 2024 | Sioux Center, IA

July 25, 2024 | Ames, IA

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Take Root Farm Continuation Workshop

July 25, 2024 | Johnston, IA

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CSIF 20th Anniversary Celebration

August 14, 2024 | Des Moines, IA

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