Think pesticide regulations only affect farmers? Think again. Recent changes to the federal pesticide registration process could limit how – and where – ranchers can use pesticides to manage rangeland resources. Whether you use zinc phosphide to manage prairie dog populations or malathion to control grasshopper outbreaks, these new rules may directly affect your ability to manage these pests.

With fuel expenses continuing to stabilize, farmers can expect more predictable operating costs and potentially healthier bottom lines. That small relief could provide a bit of breathing room in 2025 crop budgets and help offset other rising inputs.

Here’s Progressive Forage’s look at factors impacting hay producers and markets as a new year gets underway.

Farmers and ranchers across the country are expressing frustration – but very little surprise – at Congress’ continued inability to make any progress on a new farm bill. The omnibus legislation, which historically has received strong bipartisan support, expired on Sept. 30 after receiving a one-year extension in 2023.

Every day, farmers deal with variables out of their control, from weather to mechanical issues to weed pressure. In recent weeks, a new variable has affected many U.S. growers.