January 2, 2026: Ag Policy Takeaways from 2025, New World Screwworm Prevention

This week’s agriculture news covers USDA priorities for the year ahead, newly released commodity payment rates, and a drone ban that could impact farmers. We also take a closer look at the tools producers can use to help prevent New World screwworm from entering their herds. Agriculture headlines this week include what the USDA will be prioritizing in 2026, reports projecting a trade deficit this year, and an official report showing USDA has lost 18% of its workforce. Additional coverage includes lawmakers divided on whether a farm bill can be passed in 2026, a historic rail merger application being filed, and a study estimating the economic impact of a beef packing plant closure in Nebraska. Today’s interview features Elanco Beef Technical Consultant Dr. M. Wayne Ayers, who discusses available tools and ongoing conversations around preventing New World screwworm, Asian longhorned tick, lice, and other parasites. Stay connected with us for more agriculture content on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, along with our weekly videos!