President’s Column - Facing the Season Together

Many of us are heading into the spring season with more uncertainty than we’d like.

The devastating wildfires across our state, the worst in Nebraska’s history, have taken a real toll on families, operations, and entire communities. Many of you know someone who’s been affected, or you’ve felt it firsthand. In times like these, the strength of agriculture is found in how we show up for one another. Nebraska Farm Bureau is here to help, and our Disaster Relief Fund is one way we’re supporting neighbors as they begin to recover and rebuild.

At the same time, drought is weighing on all of us. Every corner of Nebraska is experiencing some level of drought, adding another layer of concern as planters begin to roll. These challenges come on top of an already tight agricultural economy, where global events are driving up fertilizer and fuel costs and squeezing already thin margins.

I want you to know these concerns are being heard.

I’ve been in regular conversations with the American Farm Bureau, making sure the challenges facing Nebraska farmers and ranchers are front and center. Those discussions are reaching the White House and federal leaders, especially around rising input costs. Recent survey data gathered from farmers and ranchers is helping ensure those decision-makers have a clear picture of what’s happening on the ground and why meaningful action is needed.

I recently had the opportunity to represent Nebraska agriculture at National Agriculture Day events in Washington, D.C., including at the White House. It’s always a privilege to represent you and carry your voice into those conversations, especially as we continue to push for a modernized Farm Bill and year-round access to E15, both critical to the future of our industry.

Back here at home, the Nebraska Legislature has wrapped up its session, and we saw progress on several of our policy priorities. From strengthening protections around ag data privacy to protecting the Livestock Brand, and bringing greater clarity to zoning laws, these are real steps forward that reflect the policies you’ve set.

I also want to take a moment to thank you, our members, for showing up and making your voices heard this session. Whether you connected with your senator, testified at the Capitol, or took part in our Legislative Conference, your involvement matters. When you share your story and explain how these issues impact your farm or ranch, it brings a level of real-world perspective that no one else can provide.

Whether at the state or federal level, my focus remains the same: ensuring rural Nebraska has a seat at the table. That includes engaging with business leaders and decision-makers, so agriculture and rural communities are part of broader economic development conversations shaping our state’s future.

I also look forward to hearing from you about how we ensure our rural communities thrive. Your perspective helps guide our work and ensures we’re focused on what matters most to your operation and your community.

There’s no question we are navigating turbulent times in agriculture. But if there’s one thing I know, it’s this: agriculture is resilient. And Nebraska Farm Bureau has always been there, working through challenges, standing with our members, and finding solutions.

My commitment to that remains as strong as ever.

Best regards,

Mark McHargue