Matt Mulch, President of the Colorado Corn Promotion Council and a member of the Trade, Transportation, and Animal Ag Action Committee with the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), discussed the current state of corn in East Central Colorado, which is looking good despite some initial concerns. Mulch highlighted the committee's focus on trade, transportation, and animal agriculture, particularly promoting U.S. meat and ethanol internationally. He noted successes in Japan and India and challenges due to ongoing trade agreements and tariffs. Mulch also expressed concerns about the potential impact of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) report on glyphosate and pesticide use, which could increase production costs and food prices

The director of Digital Agronomy at Nutrien Ag Solutions, Patrick Sanders, discussed the integration of digital agronomy to provide high-resolution recommendations for crop management. He emphasized the use of advanced technologies like soil biology tests, LIDAR data, and equipment sensors to optimize nutrient use efficiency. Sanders highlighted the importance of testing new technologies on farms to understand their effectiveness. He also noted the role of artificial intelligence in agriculture, currently used for quick information access, but not yet for specific agronomic recommendations. Sanders works closely with agronomists to implement these technologies, ensuring they are scaled and tailored to individual farm environments.

In this two-part interview, Lorrie Boyer discusses the careers of two Northeast Colorado veterinarians, Dr. Doug Ford and Dr. Clay Carlson, as they work together to serve the area. Dr. Ford, inspired by his mentor Dr. John Palero, overcame challenges to attend CSU and has been practicing since 1979.  Dr. Carlson, mentored by Dr. Ford, aims to succeed him and shares his emotional gratitude. The evolution of two well-known, well-respected men of faith, family, and passion for their veterinary work. 

Merc Pittinos is Director of Business Litigation at Fennemore Law in Denver., discussed the importance of succession planning in agriculture, particularly in Colorado. He highlighted common disputes such as non-uniform land titling and infrastructure issues that complicate property transitions. Pittinos emphasized the emotional and financial toll of litigation, advocating for early planning to avoid disputes. Key legal risks include title risks, tax issues due to rising land values, and infrastructure placement. He suggested conservation easements and early legal consultation to resolve title issues and plan for tax implications, thereby preserving agricultural legacies and reducing family conflicts.

Illinois Farm Bureau Scholarship winner. 

Today, Marc Arnusch, a Keensburg Colorado Farmer, visits with me about his new venture in growing drought tolerant barley on the plains of Northeast Colorado for New Belgium Brewing Company. He also recently won a prestigious award from Farm Journal and we talk more about that and the legacy of his farm in or conversation here today. 

CCPC President, Matt Mulch talks about his experience at the 2025 Commodity Classic and this being National Ag Week/National Ag Day on March 19.

Logan County Cattlewomen President, Britt Pratt highlights the work they do for the community, the beef industry, and in helping young people with their education through their scholarships. In addition, she talks about their upcoming fundraiser!

Learn more about what is in store at the 2005 Commodity Classic and some the workings that the USB has been up to in today's show.