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Resources Available for Producers to Navigate Record Crops, Low Prices, Cattle Market Challenges

By Alaina Friesleben and Ann Johanns

New information and decision tools are available in the August edition of Ag Decision Maker to help farmers and livestock producers make informed marketing decisions for their yields and herds.

As harvest approaches, understanding cattle marketing tools and basis is especially important, as crop yields directly affect feed availability and prices. By incorporating these resources, producers can better navigate market conditions and make more confident, risk-aware marketing choices.

Crops

According to a recent Ag Decision Maker article by Chad Hart, extension economist at Iowa State University, the USDA projects the largest corn crop on record (16.7 billion bushels), while soybean total production is expected to dip, primarily due to reduced acreage.

Record corn production also means lower prices.

Source : iastate.edu

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CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.