“We’re probably about three or four days behind where we would like to be,” says Paul Paplow of US Custom Harvesters, describing the start to the 2025 harvest season. Recent excessive rainfall has created challenging conditions for harvesters, leading to delays and concerns about crop quality.

Paplow’s operation is currently spread across several states, with machines in Kiowa and Anthony, Kansas, Kingfisher, Oklahoma, and one still in Wichita Falls, Texas. The varying locations highlight the impact of the widespread rain.

The Oklahoma Wheat Commission promotes greater use of wheat in domestic and international markets through research, market development and public education.

Our Commissioners develop policy and programs, direct the funding, represent producer interests and, of course, promote Oklahoma wheat!

Learn more about the Oklahoma Wheat Commission by clicking here for their website.

Sheri Glazier, the Dirt Road Dietitian, is known for her work to connect registered dietitians with food production. She recently represented the Oklahoma Beef Council at the multistate Nutrition Adventure event designed to connect registered dietitians with the people and practices behind beef production. Senior Farm and Ranch Broadcaster Ron Hays spoke with Glazier about the event.

Glazier explained that registered dietitians are the sought-after authorities for nutrition science and information, and sharing the beef story with this selected audience, all of whom use various media platforms to educate the public, is a great way to get information out to a broader audience through qualified voices.

Dr. Rosslyn Biggs Provides Update of New World Screwworm’s Northward Progress

The threat of New World Screwworm (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax, continues to plague cattle producers in Mexico. Eradicated from the continental U.S., this parasitic fly poses growing risks to livestock and wildlife as its range has expanded moving northward in Mexico. Additionally, as of June 2025, the Mexican Health Ministry has confirmed 13 human cases of screwworm infestation.

So, what can cattlemen and other animal owners do to prepare?



· Examine animals daily, especially after processing.

· Build a relationship with a veterinarian and have a plan in place for communication and treatment if an animal shows signs of illness or disease.

· Utilize biosecurity protocols to limit animal movement and unnecessary exposure to disease.

· Stay alert to disease announcements in the operation’s area.

· Report clinical signs consistent with NWS to a veterinarian or the State Veterinarian’s office.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a major step forward to strengthen American energy security and support American farmers by proposing Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volume requirements for 2026 and 2027.

This action represents a critical and much-needed step in the evolution of this program. This is the 20th anniversary of the RFS program. Under President Trump’s leadership, EPA’s “Set 2” proposal ensures the RFS program remains true to Congress’ original intent of increasing the use of homegrown American biofuels, unleashing American energy, and supporting rural economies.

Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA, outlined the organization’s multifront battle to protect independent U.S. cattle producers, with Farm Director KC Sheperd, focusing on key legislative efforts, long-running litigation against meatpacking giants, and the core threat to the industry’s survival.

A primary focus for R-CALF is the reinstatement of Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for beef.  When asked about his thoughts on cattle associations reportedly accepting “Earth fund money,” Bullard warned against such moves, framing it as a threat to the industry’s autonomy.

When asked about the most significant danger facing U.S. cattle producers, Bullard was unequivocal. “The single greatest threat is lack of competition in the cattle markets,” he said. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on President Trump’s commitment to preventing labor disruptions in the food supply.

“We appreciate President Trump’s comments this afternoon recognizing the contributions of farmworkers who play a vital role in growing food across America, and committing to preserve the ability of farms to provide a safe and secure food supply.

“Farm employees work hard every day to help produce healthy, American-grown food. If these workers are not present in fields and barns, there is a risk of supply chain disruptions similar to those experienced during the pandemic.

“We look forward to working with the President on solutions that ensure continuity in the food supply in the short term, and we call on Congress to follow the President’s lead to develop a permanent solution that fixes outdated and broken farmworker programs.”