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Vilsack considers staying on if Dems win

Sep 03, 2024
By Farms.com

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack might serve another term

 

Tom Vilsack, the United States Secretary of Agriculture, expressed openness to another term if the Democratic Party wins the upcoming election.

Vilsack's continuation in the role could see him match the record tenure of James "Tama Jim" Wilson, another long-serving secretary from Iowa, emphasizing the historical significance of his potential reappointment.

Vilsack's political journey includes roles as the mayor of Mount Pleasant and the governor of Iowa, leading up to his pivotal contributions in agriculture at a national level. His deep roots in agricultural policy were further deepened by his legal work during the 1980s Farm Crisis, which he credits for reshaping his career trajectory towards supporting rural communities.

At the recent Farm Progress Show, Vilsack engaged with farmers and policymakers about current issues like international trade, the need for a new farm bill, and a vaccine for bird flu.

These discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges in agriculture that Vilsack is passionate about addressing. His dedication to the sector is evident in his willingness to continue his service, ensuring that the interests of farmers and rural towns remain a priority in national policy discussions.


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The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. Emerson Nafziger from the University of Illinois breaks down decades of nitrogen research. From the evolution of N rate guidelines to how soil health and hybrid genetics influence nitrogen use efficiency, this conversation unpacks the science behind smarter fertilization. Improving how we set nitrogen fertilizer rates for rainfed corn is a key focus. Discover why the MRTN model matters more than ever, and how shifting mindsets and better data can boost yields and environmental outcomes. Tune in now on all major platforms!

"The nitrogen that comes from soil mineralization is the first nitrogen the plant sees, and its role is underestimated."

Meet the guest:

Dr. Emerson Nafziger is Professor Emeritus of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, with degrees in agronomy from Ohio State, Purdue, and Illinois. His research has focused on nitrogen rate strategies and crop productivity. He co-developed the Maximum Return to Nitrogen (MRTN) model, which is widely used across the Midwest. His research spans N response trials, hybrid interactions, crop rotation effects, and yield stability.