Iowa Farm Bureau to host market outlook meetings

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As Iowa farmers gear up for the challenges that lie ahead in 2026, it’s essential to be informed and prepared for the economic uncertainties and market fluctuations that may impact their operations. With rising input costs, tariff volatility, declining Chinese soybean demand, and geopolitical tensions, it’s crucial for farmers to stay abreast of the latest market trends and tools to navigate a potentially volatile year.

To help Iowa farmers navigate these challenges, the Iowa Farm Bureau is organizing a series of Ag Market Outlook meetings in February. These meetings will provide farmers with expert insights into grain and livestock markets, ag finance, and risk management strategies. By attending these meetings, farmers can gain valuable knowledge on how to enhance their profitability and mitigate risks in the upcoming year.

Zach Brummer, the Iowa Farm Bureau farmer education program manager, emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors influencing the agricultural economy and commodity prices in 2026. By delving into topics such as grain and livestock market outlooks, ag finance considerations, and risk management strategies like Livestock Risk Protection (LRP), attendees will be equipped with the necessary tools to make informed decisions in a challenging economic environment.

The Ag Market Outlook series will feature presentations from industry experts, including Christopher Pudenz, Iowa Farm Bureau Economics and Research Manager, who will provide insights into the hog and cattle markets. In addition, crop insurance changes for 2026 and LRP strategies will be discussed by Farm Bureau Financial Services regional consultants Zach Hyland, Shelby Oetting, and Angie Horn.

Furthermore, attendees can expect informative sessions on ag lending and finance updates for 2026, presented by industry professionals like Carol Jensen from Luana Savings Bank, Nic Klein from Central Bank, and Trevor Hulett from F&M Bank. The meetings will also address topics like farm succession planning, ensuring that farmers have access to comprehensive information to guide their strategic planning efforts.

With a series of meetings scheduled across different counties in Iowa, farmers have the opportunity to choose a location that suits them best. Whether it’s in O’Brien, Sac, Harrison, Winneshiek, Jones, or Jefferson County, attendees can look forward to engaging discussions, valuable insights, and networking opportunities with fellow industry peers.

Registration for the Ag Market Outlook meetings is free for Iowa Farm Bureau members, offering a cost-effective way for farmers to access high-quality information and resources. Non-members who wish to participate can contact their local county Farm Bureau for registration details or consider becoming a member to take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

In conclusion, the IFBF Ag Market Outlook series is a valuable initiative that equips Iowa farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of the agricultural sector in 2026. By attending these meetings, farmers can gain strategic insights, practical advice, and expert guidance to help them thrive in a challenging and dynamic market environment.