By Scout Nelson
Nebraska's agricultural sector is poised for notable advancements with the Environmental Protection Agency's recent announcement allowing year-round sales of E15 ethanol-blended fuel starting in 2025. This change is expected to significantly boost the state's ethanol sales by an additional 13 million gallons.
In the livestock field, the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) provides an insightful update for Nebraska. As of February 1, feedlots with capacities of 1,000 or more head housed 2.55 million cattle, marking a slight decrease of 1 percent from the previous year.
January saw a 3 percent increase in placements, totaling 505,000 head, while marketings experienced a 2 percent dip, totaling 490,000 head.
The poultry sector also showed promising growth, with layer hen inventories averaging 7.50 million hens last year, an 8 percent rise from 2022. Egg production surged to 2.24 billion eggs, reflecting a 12 percent increase, and the total value of all chickens as of December 1 reached $56.8 million, an 11 percent hike.
Adding to Nebraska's agricultural accolades, the state's 3rd Congressional District, represented by Adrian Smith, leads all 435 congressional districts in the market value of agricultural products sold, underscoring the region's significant contribution to the national agricultural economy.
These updates highlight the dynamic nature of Nebraska's agricultural sector, showcasing growth in both traditional livestock and emerging fuel markets, and reinforcing its vital role in feeding and fueling the nation.
Photo Credit -shutterstock-dickgage
Categories: Nebraska, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Poultry