The beef industry is facing a mix of optimism and uncertainty — with strong prices giving way to questions about supply, demand, regulation, and long-term sustainability. But as the industry navigates these issues, a group of students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is stepping up to study them closely.

On this episode, we’re joined by Professors Brad Lubben and Elliott Dennis, both from the Department of Agricultural Economics here at Nebraska, to talk about the latest Policy Report column in Nebraska Farmer magazine, which not only outlines key challenges in the beef sector but also highlights the work of the Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars — a unique program developing the next generation of policy-minded leaders in agriculture.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/beef-scholars-program-addresses-most-important-issues-producers/

The price difference between steers and heifers can be a key indicator of herd expansion or contraction and recent trends indicate that we may be at a turning point. TaraLee Hudson, a graduate researcher in the Department of Agricultural Economics here at Nebraska, and Dr. Elliott Dennis, an associate professor in the Ag Econ department, have published a new article analyzing the factors driving the price difference between steers and heifers. They discuss steer-heifer price difference and insights into herd expansion.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/steer-heifer-price-difference-implications-herd-expansion

Record-high cattle prices in 2025 have created unique opportunities and challenges for producers looking to maximize their profits. One key factor in cattle marketing is the price slide — when lighter-weight calves tend to command a higher price per pound than heavier calves. Understanding how a price slide works, and how to leverage it, can make a big difference in profitability.

This concept is covered in a new article by TaraLee Hudson, a Graduate Research Assistant in the Department of Agricultural Economics here at Nebraska, and Dr. Elliott Dennis, an Associate Professor in the department, to break down what the price slide means, how it’s shaping cattle markets in 2024, and how producers can use it to make informed marketing decisions.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/leveraging-price-slide-marketing-opportunity-amid-record-high-prices/

Dr. Cory Walters, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at UNL, joins to discuss a unique and potentially valuable tool for farm risk management —micro-captive insurance. This concept allows farm operations to manage risk and insurance costs in a more customized way while also presenting financial opportunities. But, as with any financial tool, micro-captives come with complexities, regulations, and risks that must be fully understood before implementation.

More: https://cap.unl.edu/news/strategically-insuring-your-farm-rise-micro-captive-insurance/

Brad Lubben, extension ag policy specialist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss his latest Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer magazine, which highlights the Nebraska Rural Poll. This long-running survey from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a unique look into the thoughts and concerns of rural Nebraskans on issues like community well-being, housing, the economy, trade, and more. He discusses the poll’s significance, its history, and what sets it apart as a valuable resource for policymakers and communities across the state.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/what-do-rural-nebraskans-care-about/

Nebraska Rural Poll: https://ruralpoll.unl.edu

Transitioning a farm from one generation to the next isn’t just about passing down land and equipment—it’s about balancing experience with innovation, tradition with change, and family relationships with business decisions. Generational differences in farm management can lead to friction, but they also present opportunities for growth when handled with mutual respect and collaboration.

Anastasia Meyer, an agricultural economist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability, joins this episode to discuss her new article exploring the challenges and opportunities that arise when younger farmers introduce new ideas while older generations hold onto time-tested practices.

She covers how farm families can navigate these transitions smoothly, preserve family harmony, and ensure long-term success.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/balancing-old-wisdom-new-ideas-farm/

On this episode of Nebraska FARMcast, we’re joined by Randy Saner, Nebraska Extension Livestock Systems Educator and Program Leader, to discuss strategies for managing bull costs and maximizing herd profitability. With rising cattle prices, producers face tough decisions about how much to invest in their bulls and how those choices affect their bottom line. Randy’s recent article breaks down the financial impact of bull prices, cost-saving strategies, and tools producers can use to make informed decisions.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/understanding-cost-bulls-and-how-maximize-your-herds-profitability/

2025 has been designated the “International Year of Cooperatives” by the United Nations, recognizing the vital role that cooperatives play in building stronger economies and communities around the world. Here in Nebraska, cooperatives have long been a cornerstone of rural development, supporting local businesses, agriculture, and essential services. The Nebraska Cooperative Development Center has been at the forefront of fostering cooperative businesses across the state for more than two decades.

On this episode, we’re joined by Cindy Houlden, Cooperative Development Specialist with NCDC, to talk about the significance of the International Year of Cooperatives, how Nebraska’s cooperative movement fits into this global recognition, and what opportunities exist for communities and businesses looking to explore cooperative models.

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/2025-year-cooperatives-building-better-nebraska-and-beyond-houlden-250218/

Brad Lubben, policy specialist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss his latest Policy Report column for Nebraska Farmer.

As President Trump begins his new term, his administration has introduced a new initiative—the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE—which aims to reshape and reduce the size of the federal government. While DOGE itself isn’t an official agency, it has been a key part of the administration’s messaging on spending cuts. Dr. Lubben’s latest column examines what role DOGE might play in influencing federal agricultural programs, including the Farm Bill, crop insurance, and rural development

Read more: https://cap.unl.edu/news/will-important-recommendations-doge-affect-farmers-and-ranchers-lubben-250213/

On this episode, we're talking about custom rates for field operations. Whether you’re a producer hiring custom work or a provider offering services, understanding pricing trends and operational costs is key.

Glennis McClure, an Extension Educator with the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins to discuss. McClure helps lead efforts on the Nebraska Custom Rates Survey, which provides valuable data to producers and custom operators across the state. She highlights what the surveys cover, how they can be used, and why understanding the economics behind custom work is more important than ever.

Read more:https://cap.unl.edu/news/custom-rates-2025-field-operations-mcclure-250213/