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Maximize the august recess for ag advocacy

A crucial time for farmer-legislator meetings

By Farms.com

Every August, Congress breaks for recess, providing a strategic opportunity for farmers and ranchers to engage directly with their elected officials. This period is critical for discussing the challenges and opportunities within the agricultural sector, particularly in light of upcoming legislative actions.

Key issues for this year's recess include assessing the positions of Congress members on agricultural policies, with a focus on the farm bill and tax reforms set to expire soon. These discussions are vital as they can directly affect the operational and financial aspects of farming and ranching.

The goal during the recess is to educate and inform representatives about the real-world impacts of legislative decisions. Engaging during this time ensures that the agricultural community’s needs and perspectives are considered in policy-making processes.

To prepare, farmers and ranchers should outline their key concerns, gather supporting information, and schedule meetings with their legislators. Advocacy organizations offer guidelines and support for these engagements, ensuring that stakeholders are well-prepared to discuss their issues effectively.

This proactive approach during the August recess not only helps address immediate concerns but also fosters a longer-term dialogue between the agricultural sector and policymakers, enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.


Trending Video

Supplemental Nitrogen on Soybeans: Can Early Nitrogen Increase Yield?

Video: Supplemental Nitrogen on Soybeans: Can Early Nitrogen Increase Yield?

Can supplemental nitrogen help soybeans reach higher yield potential? Technical Agronomist Tim Sickman walks through an ongoing trial at the Nutrien Innovation Farm in Owensboro, Kentucky, exploring whether a modest amount of nitrogen applied at planting can support higher-yielding soybean environments.

The trial compares 30 pounds of supplemental nitrogen across both 15- and 30-inch rows, along with treatments that include sulfur and micronutrients. Similar trials conducted in 2024 and 2025 delivered a six- to seven-bushel yield response, prompting the team to expand the research this season.

Early observations show that treated soybeans are slightly taller and averaging about two additional nodes on the main stem. These added nodes could create more opportunities for blooms and pods, but the true results will come at harvest when the team evaluates pod development, seed fill and final yield.

In This Video:

Why high-yield soybeans may need supplemental nitrogen

Results from the 2024 and 2025 trials

Nitrogen treatments in 15- and 30-inch rows

Fertilizer placement and application methods

Differences in plant height and node counts

Potential effects on pod development and yield