Here is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northwest region of Missouri for the week of March 2 - 8.

There may be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.

U.S. Route 169 – Shoulder work from County Line Road to Route D, March 3-6.

U.S. Route 136 – Shoulder work from Route M to the Nodaway County line, March 2-6.

I-29 – Pavement repair, northbound at the 110 mile marker, March 4-5. The roadway will be narrowed to one lane with a 14-foot width restriction, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Gene Field Road Bridge –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project through July 2026.

U.S. Route 59/Route 752/Route U – Intersection improvement project through spring 2027.

U.S. Route 169 (Belt Highway) – Traffic signal upgrade project at Messanie Street, through March 8.

U.S. Route 169 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for an intersection improvement project at Southeast Riverside Terrace through mid-July 2026.

Route 759 – Shoulder work from Cedar Street to Lower Lake Road, March 2-6.

Route 10 – Pavement repair and resurfacing project from Route FF to Route C in Ray County, March 2-May 15. The road will be narrowed to one lane with flaggers guiding motorists through the work zone.

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Mid-Fork Chariton River Overflow Bridge for replacement projects through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through March 2026.

Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Puzzle Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through mid-March 2026.

Route O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Bee Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Little Chariton River Bridge for a deck replacement project through March 2026.

Route 11 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Badger Creek Bridge, north of New Boston, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.

Route 139 -&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Parson Creek Bridge, north of Meadville, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.

Route U –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Long Branch Bridge, northwest of Bucklin, beginning March 2-early May for a deck replacement project.

Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the North Fork Crooked Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route JJ –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a deck replacement project through early April 2026.

Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through July 2026.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 190th Street to 200th Street, March 2, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 205th Street to 210th Street, March 3, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 210th Street to 220th Street, March 4, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 220th Street to 230th Street, March 5-6, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Locust Creek Bridge through June 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the East Locust Creek bridge due to deterioration. The bridge is scheduled to be replaced in the spring of 2026 through the Northwest Bridge Bundle.

Route 46 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at Marlowe Branch Creek for a bridge replacement project through May 2026.

Planned roadwork for Northwest Missouri, March 2 - 8

Northwest Missouri State University will host a public forum to discuss the mechanics and impact of upcoming Missouri ballot initiatives at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10.

The event, which is free and open to the community, will be held in the second-floor Living Room of the J.W. Jones Student Union.

As Missouri residents prepare for the upcoming midterm elections, the discussion aims to demystify the initiative process. Featured speakers include:

The presentation is co-sponsored by the Northwest Center for Policy and Civic Engagement and Respect Missouri Voters. Organizers say the primary goal is to provide students and local citizens with the tools to navigate complex ballot language and understand the legislative power held by voters.

NWMSU to host public forum on Missouri ballot initiatives March 10

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa D-N-R will hold a series of listening session across the state starting Monday. The D-N-R's Pete Hildreth says they want to get input on proposed changes in hunting and fishing regulations.

He says it gives staff some feedback before formal proposals are submitted to the Natural Resource Commission. Hildreth says input from the from past meetings has led to significant regulation changes.

in the Canada goose seasons, raccoon hunting dates, and antlerless deer quotas. The first session is tonight at 6 at the Waverly Public Library. Hildreth says the complete schedule of meetings is available on the D-N-R's website.

Iowa DNR Holding Input Sessions On Hunting And Fishing Regulations

Herzog Contracting Corp., in partnership with the Missouri Department of Transportation, is scheduled to begin a resurfacing project on U.S. Route 136 starting Tuesday, March 10.

The project spans Atchison and Nodaway counties, covering the stretch of U.S. 136 from Interstate 29 in Rock Port to U.S. Route 71 east of Burlington Junction.

Motorists should expect significant traffic impacts through July 2026. U.S. Route 136 will be narrowed to one lane, with flaggers and a pilot car directing traffic through the work zone. Additionally, temporary traffic signals will be installed at the bridge over I-29 in Rock Port.

Safety measures will be strictly enforced within the project limits. The speed limit will be reduced to 35 mph, and a 10-foot width restriction will be in place for all vehicles.

Construction is scheduled to take place during daylight hours, Monday through Friday. A second phase of the project, which involves resurfacing U.S. Route 71 from the Iowa state line to Route CC north of Maryville, is expected to begin in late May 2026.

All work is weather-permitting and subject to change. MoDOT officials remind motorists to stay focused, slow down, and move over when driving through work zones.

Atchison/Nodaway County U.S. Route 136 resurfacing project to begin March 10

HARRISON COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured and later arrested after an accident just after 8p.m. Sunday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F150 driven by&nbsp; Stephan D. Elliot, 48,&nbsp; Trenton, was eastbound at a high rate of speed on MO 146 five miles east of Gilman City.&nbsp; The driver failed to negotiate a curve and overcorrected. The pickup crossed the center of the road, traveled off the north side of the road and rolled onto its roof.

EMS transported to Elliot to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was arrested on requested charges of felony driving while revoked or suspended, operating vehicle in careless, imprudent manner, for no insurance and not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man arrested after pickup rollover accident

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Sunday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Nissan Rogue driven by a 37-year-old Brokefield woman was eastbound on U.S. 36 at Grand River Bridge three miles west of Chillicothe.&nbsp;The vehicle slid on the road and struck a guardrail.&nbsp;

EMS transported the driver to Liberty Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri woman injured after SUV strikes a guardrail

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Saturday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Subaru CrossTrek driven by a 53-year-old Lathrop man was eastbound on U.S. 36 at SW Taylor Road three miles west of Stewartsville. The vehicle struck a deer in the road.

DeKalb Clinton ambulance transported a 56-year-old passenger to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The driver was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman hospitalized after SUV, deer crash

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/samanthajackson/">Samantha Jackson</a>

JEFFERSON CITY — The House Education Committee is considering a bill that would bring driver’s education back to Missouri public schools at the elementary and secondary education levels.

Rep. Rodger Reedy, R-Windsor, sponsor of&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2195&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">House Bill 2195</a>, told the committee at a hearing on Wednesday that he aims to allow public schools to integrate driver education courses in their curricula for students.

Reedy said he believes teaching students about the rules of the road will help reduce the teen fatality rate and make the roads safer for everyone.

Reedy said he recognizes that some schools do have driver education courses, but they are usually in the summer and have a fee attached to them. His bill will be implemented in courses that students are already learning during the school year and will not have a fee.

Students would learn about obtaining a driver’s permit, attitudes, habits and skills on safely operating a vehicle, as well as instruction on distracted driving, traffic stops, and learn data on driver safety in the state. The bill would not require students to actually drive vehicles.

“Anytime we have better-educated drivers, I think we are a safer community,” Reedy said.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.savemolives.com/mcrs/teen-drivers" target="_blank">Missouri Department of Transportation</a>, the leading cause of teen deaths in Missouri is car crashes; in 2023, 133 people were killed in teen-driver-involved traffic crashes.

The bill asks the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to receive instructional lessons from school districts and professional organizations for safe driving programs. Schools can voluntarily adopt these programs into their classrooms with no cost.

Nick Chabarria, a public and government affairs specialist with AAA of Missouri and the chair of the Missouri Driver Education Coalition, expressed support for this “sensible, low-cost solution” in terms of fostering driver safety at a young age.

“Missouri teens, compared to surrounding states that do require some form of formal driver education, are about 80% more likely on average to be involved in a crash compared to states that don’t,” Chabarria said.

Kimberly St. Clair, inventor and founder of Doc Dash, a federally patented communication safety system for drivers, police, and EMS during traffic stops and medical emergencies, expressed support for the bill as well.

“The loss of young drivers serves as a solemn reminder that behind every statistic is a family and a community that is forever changed,” St. Clair said.

Doc Dash has been implemented in five schools, teaching students traffic laws, compliance, safe driving behavior, and clear communication to officials during traffic stops, crashes and emergencies. Their curriculum also includes mock traffic stops and scenarios for students to get a full demonstration of real-world events.

“These students are not only reminded what the law requires, but why compliance matters, and how speed, distraction, documentation, readiness, and respectful engagement are all very necessary,” St. Clair said.

Having trained nearly 600 students, St. Clair says her organization is “more than prepared” to provide curriculum lessons to DESE to enhance students’ knowledge on driver education and safety.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/local/house-bill-would-bring-drivers-ed-courses-back-to-schools/article_2ca7bee2-f5c8-4c26-a78a-fb5d836ba097.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

House bill would bring driver’s ed courses back to Missouri schools

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

The two online bookies who financed the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/opponents-of-missouri-sports-betting-amendment-pull-tv-ads-in-campaigns-homestretch/">campaign to legalize sports wagering</a>&nbsp;in Missouri have won $120 million from bets placed in the state but so far have not had to pay any tax on those profits.

FanDuel and DraftKings handled 73% of the $928 million wagered in Missouri during the first two months of legal sports wagering, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/SportsWagering/sw_financials/FY26_SWFinReport/01_Jan/SW%20Monthly%20Financials%200126.pdf" target="_blank">latest financial report</a>&nbsp;from the Missouri Gaming Commission. The two companies have 77% of the profits from those bets, but offset the entire amount won from players by deductions for promotional wagers and other costs.

Their winnings so far are about three times what it cost the companies in the 2024 election.

Missouri taxes the operator winnings of mobile platforms and casino-based retail sports at 10%, but the constitutional amendment passed in 2024 allows a write-off of all promotional costs, federal taxes and other business costs, from the taxable amount.

Sports wagering launched in Missouri on Dec. 1, and bettors&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/30/missouri-sports-betting-tops-543m-in-first-month-but-deductions-leave-state-with-only-521k/">placed $543 million in bets</a>. The total fell in January but in the two months combined, the eight mobile providers and the eight retail locations have netted $157.7 million from lost wagers, with 99% of the profits going to mobile platforms.

The state has received $659,196 in taxes over two months, or just less than one-half of 1% of the amount won by the online and retail bookmakers.

“The latest data shows more Missourians are ditching their bookies and illegal websites and enjoying the safeguards and convenience of placing sports bets legally,” Jack Cardetti, spokesman for the&nbsp;&nbsp;Sports Betting Alliance, said in a statement to The Independent. “This initial success is building a rock-solid foundation that will ensure Missouri receives the ongoing benefits of legal, regulated sports betting for decades to come, including millions in permanent, dedicated tax revenues.”

DraftKings and FanDuel are dominating the market.

The two companies are almost equal in their share so far. Players wagered $339.7 million on the DraftKings platform and $338.4 million on the FanDuel app. DraftKings reported it won $54.4 million over the first two months, while FanDuel won $65.6 million.

During the 2024 campaign, FanDuel and DraftKings each contributed $20 million for the $43 million effort. Major Missouri sports teams contributed the rest.

Other than licensing fees, neither company has paid the state any taxes.

DraftKings has $20.6 million in net write-offs it will carry forward before it has any tax due. FanDuel has $8.1 million.

The total amount of unrealized write-offs for all eight mobile bookmakers is $33.8 million.

FanDuel, DraftKings take Missouri profits nearly triple their cost for sports wagering campaign

The following are health inspections in Nodaway County. Inspections are released monthly.

Elks Lodge #760-222 E. 3rd (2-27-26) Critical:

St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic School-315 S. Davis (2-27-26) No violations.

North Nodaway R-6 High School-705 E. Barnard, Hopkins (2-26-26) Non-critical:

North Nodaway R-6 Elementary School-201 E. 6th, Pickering (2-26-26) Non-critical:

Baker &amp; Sons-811 S. Main (2-26-26) Non-critical:

M2V Highway Liquor-202 N. Highway 148, Hopkins (2-26-26) Non-critical:

Pagliai's Pizza-611 S. Main (2-24-26) Non-critical:

Subway #7325-524 N. Main (2-24-26) No violations.

Kawasaki Motors-28147 Bus. Hwy. 71 (2-24-26) Critical:

Hy-Vee Gas-1217 S. Main (2-11-26) Non-critical:

Hy-Vee Dining-1217 S. Main (2-10-26) Non-critical:

Hy-Vee Deli-1217 S. Main (2-10-26) No Violations.

Hy-Vee Bakery-1217 S. Main (2-10-26) Non-critical:

Hy-Vee Meats-1217 S. Main (2-10-26) Non-critical:

Hy-Vee Grocery-1217 S. Main (2-10-26) Non-critical:

Hy-Vee Chinese-1217 S. Main (2-10-26) Non-critical:

Hy-Vee Starbucks-1217 S. Main (2-10-26) Non-Critical:

Murphy USA #6539-1603 S. Main (2-9-26) Non-critical:

Inspectors noted there is no food preparation at this location.

Pizza Hut-732 S. Main (2-6-26) Non-critical:

Casey's #3430-1719 E. 1st (2-4-26) Critical:

Nodaway County Health Inspections (February 2026)

Emery Sapp &amp; Sons, Inc., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, has been contracted to replace the Marlowe Branch Creek Bridge in Worth County Missouri Route 46.

 The bridge is scheduled to close beginning Thursday, March 5.

Traffic impacts include the Marlowe Branch Creek Bridge on Route 46 will be closed from March 5 through May 2026. Motorists will need to seek an alternate route during the closure.

As a part of the project, the West Fork Grand River Bridge replacement on Route W in Worth County was completed Feb. 12.

MoDOT reminds drivers to work with crews by always buckling up, keeping your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Worth County Route 46 bridge to close beginning March 5

The wheat market led row crops higher on Friday, shaking off an otherwise sluggish week as traders took Thursday's successful hold of chart support, and lack of a deal between the U.S. and Iran as reason enough to halt profit-taking and follow the influence of higher crude oil prices to close the week. Along those lines, there were reports that Thursday's negotiations made some progress, and talks are expected to continue. Meanwhile, the surge in wheat prices positively influenced corn futures as well, which rose for the third straight session while covering technical ground. Soybeans were mixed through much of the session, struggling with resistance and hedging pressure as prices tread among November highs currently, but well supported to the downside by trade optimism and concerning conditions for the Argentine crop and ultimately managing a very strong close for the week. In outside markets, equities moved sharply lower again with the Dow Jones Industrial Average threatening a monthly loss for February, which would be the first monthly loss since April of 2025.

May corn closed up 5 cents and July corn was up 4 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 7 1/4 cents and July soybeans were up 6 1/2 cents. May KC wheat closed up 18 1/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was up 17 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 14 cents.

Live cattle futures posted active pressure across all futures contracts, with spot month February contracts trading $2 per cwt lower, while other nearby contracts traded $3 to $3.60 per cwt lower. Continued strong pressure in outside markets is adding additional pressure to the entire live cattle complex. Cash cattle markets are starting to improve with light trade reported in parts of Kansas at $244, $5 lower than last week's weighted averages. A few live deals are also being reported in parts of Nebraska. Some bids are now on the table in Texas, but so far, they are being passed. Boxed beef prices are Higher: choice up $1.08 ($378.97) and select up $3.44 ($374.23) with a movement of 48.35 loads (38.87 loads of choice, 2.46 loads of select, no loads of trim and 7.02 loads of ground beef).

Feeder cattle futures were leading the market lower Friday, as buyer support seemed to crack during the Thursday trading session. The overall lack of buying interest stepping into the market during initial trade Friday in outside markets seemed to leave even more pressure flooding into the complex. Spot month contracts held the best at this point with prices over $5 per cwt lower at midday, while other nearby contracts held $7 to $7.50 per cwt losses as traders have not only focusing on outside market pressure, but also a lack of market stability through the entire beef complex at the end of the month.

Lean hog futures once again were the quiet and more stable livestock market of the complex, with prices mixed within a very narrow trading range despite the aggressive selling pressure flooding into both the cattle trade and outside financial markets. April futures continued to trade higher through the morning and heading into midday, with a 30-cent gain developing. The rest of the complex remained slightly under pressure with losses of 5 to 15 cents per cwt holding in most nearby contracts. The overall lack of direction in both pork market technical trade as well as stability in market fundamental direction through late February seems to be a welcome relief compared to the market pressure across other markets.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/27140315/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the imminent disposal of USDA’s South Building and Braddock Place, designed to reduce the real estate footprint of the U.S. Government in the National Capital Region. “This is a long overdue move to protect the American taxpayer dollars from being wasted on expensive real estate inside the Washington, D.C., area when our government should be closer to the producers we serve,” Rollins said. 

“More than 85 percent of the South Building is unoccupied, and there’s a $1.6 million backlog in deferred maintenance.” She also said it’s “unacceptable” to put these costs on the U.S. taxpayer. “We’re being strong stewards of taxpayer dollars while also ensuring top-notch customer service and fulfilling our promise to American farmers,” Rollins added. USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden added that the massive, underutilized real estate footprint wasn’t sustainable in the current USDA budget. 

USDA relocation plans moving forward

The Fertilizer Institute voiced strong support for key conservation, innovation, and nutrient stewardship provisions included in the House Agriculture Committee’s Farm Bill proposal. The organization is grateful that Chairman GT Thompson recognized the important role that nutrient stewardship and conservation technologies play in helping farmers produce abundant, affordable food while protecting natural resources. “These provisions in the draft Farm Bill reflect a practical, science-based approach to strengthening American agriculture,” said Corey Rosenbusch, president and CEO of the Institute. 

Of particular importance to TFI is the inclusion of a clear definition of plant biostimulants, as well as an exclusion to ensure that these innovative, nutrition-based products are not regulated as pesticides. “Incentivizing precision agriculture and enhanced efficiency technologies through conservation programs is a smart investment,” Rosenbusch added. “These tools help farmers get the most out of their applied fertilizer and deliver economic benefits on the farm while enhancing environmental protections.” 

Fertilizer Institute applauds Farm Bill 2.0 

What began as another mixed and dull trade for Wednesday saw soybeans again gain bullish favor by late morning, shaking off overnight lows for the third time this week and very close to challenging November highs on the May contract. Corn futures were also able to move higher for the third time in the past four sessions and back among the highs of the year thus far. Meanwhile, wheat futures continue to slide on profit-taking directly tied to simmering geopolitical concerns ahead of Thursday's continuation of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. Along those lines, crude oil futures were lower for the third straight session, but remain among the highs of 2026 with risk premium baked in. Equity markets continued their recovery of Monday's losses and treasuries were quietly lower.

May corn closed up 3 1/2 cents and July corn was up 2 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 9 3/4 cents and July soybeans were up 9 1/4 cents. May KC wheat closed down 2 3/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was down 3 1/2 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 1 1/2 cents.

The live cattle complex traded mostly lower into Thursday's closing bell, as the market seems to be holding its breath, unsure what's going to shake out in this week's fed cash cattle market and whether or not a strike is going to happen at JBS's plant in Greeley, Colorado. And with the market nearing resistance pressure, traders are simply unwilling to advance the contracts without further fundamental support. There are bids currently on the table in Nebraska and Texas, but no cattle have traded yet. Asking prices are noted at $388 to $390 in the North and at $250-plus in the South. Boxed beef prices were mixed: choice down $0.24 ($378.99) and select up $3.79 ($370.86) with a movement of 49 loads (28.44 loads of choice, 5.69 loads of select, 4.04 loads of trim and 10.55 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex was feeling the full effect of the market's underlying uncertainty as its contracts traded $5.00 to $6.00 lower for the bulk of Thursday's session. Without seeing the live cattle contracts trading higher -- and still no reassurance as to what's going to come of this week's fed cash cattle trade -- the feeder cattle contracts were left to trade sharply lower.

After an impressive seven-day rally, some of the nearby lean hog contracts traded slightly lower into Thursday's closing bell. With pork cutout values down again slightly, traders may be opting to reel back their support of the contracts until the market's fundamentals improve.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/26140648/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The overall Rural Mainstreet Index dropped below a growth-neutral level of 50.0 for February. That’s according to the most recent monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture or energy. The region’s overall reading for February fell to 47.9 from 52.0 in January. This marks the 12th time that the index has dropped below growth-neutral since January 2025. “Due to weakness in the farm economy, especially for grain, about 75 percent of bankers support additional Congressional financial support for the agriculture sector,” said Ernie Goss of Creighton University. “They said pullbacks in farm exports during 2025 continue to undermine the regional farm economy.” 

The February survey showed farm loan delinquency rates plateauing at a modest rate of less than 1.5 percent. The Farm and Ranchland Price Index also fell below growth neutral at 45.5. The overall index ranges from 0 to 100, with growth neutral at 50.0.

February Rural Mainstreet Index falls below growth neutral

A new ten percent U.S. tariff on goods from around the world took effect on Tuesday. Meatingplace said a list of tariff exemptions included beef, some fertilizers, and metals like steel and aluminum that are already under Section 232 national security tariffs. The ten percent tariff under Section 122 was announced last week after the Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s widespread use of tariffs, in place since February 2025. “Section 122 only allows tariffs for 150 days without congressional action,” Meatingplace said. “The President had said over the weekend he was raising them to 15 percent, the cap set in Section 122, but Tuesday’s action remained at ten percent.” 

Fertilizers that are exempt from the new import tariffs include urea, ammonium nitrate, UAN, ammonium sulfate, along with DAP, MAP, and others. Ammonia, sulfuric acid, and sulfur are not exempt, unless they are imported via the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beef, most fertilizers exempt from new tariffs

May corn closed up 3 1/2 cents and July corn was up 2 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 9 3/4 cents and July soybeans were up 9 1/4 cents. May KC wheat closed down 2 3/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was down 3 1/2 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 1 1/2 cents.

Although we still haven't heard whether or not there will be a union strike at the JBS plant in Greeley, Colorado, traders seemed comfortable advancing the live cattle contracts Wednesday. Still no cash cattle trade has developed and it's most likely trade will be delayed until Friday. If a plant strike does happen in Colorado, then there's a chance prices may trade steady as opposed to higher as not as many cattle would be needed in the immediate future. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $1.92 ($379.35) and select up $0.75 ($366.76) with a movement of 59 loads (34.16 loads of choice, 4.69 loads of select, 8.08 loads of trim and 11.88 loads of ground beef).

Upon seeing the live cattle complex step out and comfortably trade higher, the feeder cattle contracts were logging a sizeable rally ahead of Wednesday's noon hour. Nothing sent the live cattle contracts tumbling lower, the feeder cattle contracts were able to sustain the bulk of their rally into Wednesday's closing bell.

The lean hog complex continued to trade higher, keeping with what is now a seven-day rally as traders continue to drive the market higher upon the technical interest they've recently found. It's been interesting to watch the market's fundamentals play out over the last seven trading days as pork cutout values have been mostly mixed, but packer interest in the cash market has been better.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/25140634/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

U.S. farm groups are urging Congress to move quickly on a new Farm Bill, warning that continued delays could increase uncertainty for producers heading into the 2026 growing season. Commodity organizations say programs covering crop insurance, conservation, nutrition assistance and farm safety nets need long-term stability. Congressional hearings are underway, but farm leaders say producers need clarity well before planting and financing decisions are finalized. 

Agricultural economists note that high input costs, volatile weather and global competition have increased reliance on federal support programs. Farm groups warn that a delayed bill could complicate lending decisions and participation in conservation initiatives. Congressional leaders say negotiations are ongoing but acknowledge challenges in reaching a bipartisan agreement. Farm organizations say timely passage is critical to maintaining confidence in the U.S. farm economy.

Farm groups urge Congress to move quickly on 2026 farm bill

U.S. meat exporters are facing increased pressure overseas as global production rises and price-sensitive buyers look for lower-cost supplies. USDA data show beef and pork exports remain strong by historical standards, but shipments have softened in several key Asian markets. Industry groups say a strong U.S. dollar, higher production costs and growing competition from South America are affecting price competitiveness. 

Export markets are critical to U.S. livestock prices, particularly for cuts less favored by American consumers. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says trade access plays a major role in supporting farm-level returns. Trade officials say ongoing negotiations and market development efforts are focused on maintaining access and expanding demand. Industry leaders warn that continued competition could pressure producer margins if exports slow further.

U.S. meat exports face growing global competition

March corn closed up 1/4 cent and May corn was down 1 3/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 5 1/4 cents and May soybeans were up 5 1/2 cents. March KC wheat closed down 5 3/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 2 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 2 3/4 cents.

There was very little impactful news for Tuesday to drive prices. Soybean futures appear to have found a comfortable range of liquidity with an early attempt lower rejected by buyers who are still finding optimism in a firm soybean oil market. Meanwhile, corn futures remain sluggish and confined to their February price range with profit-taking in wheat through the week thus far a source of spillover weakness. Outside markets for Tuesday saw recovery in equities after an ugly start to the week on Monday. Energy markets remain generally elevated relative to their 2026 range thus far but are treading this week with the next round of U.S.-Iran negotiations upcoming on Thursday. In other outside market news, President Trump's State of the Union address is Tuesday evening at 8 p.m. CST, and investors will undoubtedly be tuned in to hear comments regarding the U.S. economy, tariff situation, and more.

The live cattle complex continued to trade mixed as it's unclear whether or not an agreement was reached at the JBS packing plant in Greeley, Colorado, to avoid a union plant strike. This uncertainty had the nearby contracts trading slightly lower, while the deferred contracts were trading mildly higher. Still no cash cattle trade has developed, and it's unlikely any trade will surface ahead of Thursday or Friday. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $6.65 ($375.87) and select up $1.79 ($366.10) with a movement of 58 loads (39.59 loads of choice, 4.96 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 13.79 loads of ground beef).

The live cattle complex may have traded mixed, but the feeder cattle contracts found a little more support and were softly to fully higher moving into Tuesday's closing bell. More than anything it seems the market is no longer up against immediate resistance pressure, which is why traders are comfortable to now allow the contracts to push slightly higher.

The lean hog complex maintained with its recent trend and traded solidly higher into Tuesday's close. This morning's pork cutout values were down slightly, but prices were stronger Monday and the market remains far enough away from technical resistance pressure that traders are comfortable advancing the contracts at this point in time.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/24140930/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

🎥President Trump updates timeline of Iran campaign 

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City, Missouri woman pleaded guilty to attempted bank fraud last week for altering and depositing stolen checks into her bank account. At the time of the fraud, she was employed by the United States Postal Service, according to the United State's Attorney.

Shawneasha L. Watson, 30, participated in a scheme to defraud a credit union by allowing the use of her account to deposit stolen checks. She provided both her debit card and her PIN to another individual to facilitate the deposit. In June 2023, the individual deposited checks that had been altered to show her name in the payee line and were endorsed with a signature bearing her name. The credit union flagged the deposits as fraudulent and froze the account before any withdrawals or transfers could be made. The victims all stated they had placed these checks into United States Postal Service blue collection boxes for mailing. The checks were originally intended to pay various bills including one intended for medical expenses and another for a monthly mortgage payment.

Investigators also discovered that Watson obtained a Pandemic Paycheck Protection loan under false pretenses in 2021 in the amount of $20,832.50. The loan application stated she was the sole proprietor of a men’s clothing business, and she needed the money to cover her payroll expenses. She later admitted that was false and she spent the money on herself. That loan was ultimately forgiven by the Small Business Administration.

Under federal statutes, Watson is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

Former KC postal worker admits to stolen checks fraud scheme 

The Kansas State Fair announced rising country music star Russell Dickerson as the latest addition to its 2026 grandstand concert lineup.

Dickerson is scheduled to perform Friday, Sept. 18, at the Kansas Star Casino Grandstand in Hutchinson. Fair officials said they are still working to secure an opening act.

Dickerson, known for hits including “Yours,” “Every Little Thing,” “Love You Like I Used To” and “God Gave Me a Girl,” has emerged as one of country music’s fast-rising performers. He is preparing to launch a European tour this spring, with stops in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz said the booking reflects an effort to blend established favorites with newer artists gaining national and international attention.

Tickets for the Sept. 18 concert range from $35 for general admission grandstand seating to $110 for VIP deck standing room, which includes two beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Reserved VIP tables for six are available for $835. Track seating is priced at $85, and reserved grandstand seats are $55.

Presale access begins Thursday for customers who have signed up for the fair’s email list. Tickets go on sale to the general public Friday morning at kansasstatefair.gov or through the fair’s ticket office at 2000 N. Poplar in Hutchinson.

Officials urged buyers to purchase tickets only through the fair’s official website or ticket office to avoid third-party resellers and potential scams. Gate admission is included in the ticket price.

Rising country music star to appear at Kansas State Fair

U.S. embassies in the Middle East updated security advisories for Americans traveling and residing in these regions to exercise caution amid the ongoing Iran conflict, according to the&nbsp;Department of State Consular Affairs.

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs provides detailed destination-specific travel and risk information to allow U.S. citizens to make informed international travel decisions. U.S. embassies and consulates across the globe provide services that support the welfare and protection of U.S. citizens abroad.

<a href="https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html">Click here</a> to get the latest updates and enroll to receive alerts directly at <a href="https://t.co/tn90vcSWRE" target="_blank">http://step.state.gov</a>. Americans who need consular help can reach help 24/7 by phone: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada).

3 countries designated with a ‘Do Not Travel For Any Reason’ warning

🎥Pentagon officials answer questions on Iran strikes

WASHINGTON. – As of 7:30 am ET, March 2, four U.S. service members have been killed in action, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

 The fourth service member, who was seriously wounded during Iran’s initial attacks, eventually succumbed to their injuries. 

Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing.

The identities of the fallen are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

Fourth US soldier dies in Operation Epic Fury

WASHINGTON —U.S. military officials are investigating a reported friendly fire incident in Operation Epic Fury.

At 11:03 p.m. ET, Sunday, three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles flying in support of Operation Epic Fury went down over Kuwait due to an apparent friendly fire incident, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

During active combat—that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones — the U.S. Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses.

All six aircrew ejected safely, have been safely recovered, and are in stable condition. Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defense forces and their support in this ongoing operation.The cause of the incident is under investigation.&nbsp;

The U.S. Central Command released no additional details early Monday.

US fighter jets shot down in friendly fire Incident in Kuwait

KANSAS CiTY—Law enforcement are investigating a weekend homicide in Kansas City.

Just after 10p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of E 76th street in Kansas City, Missouri on a sound of shots call, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

As officers arrived they located two adult male victims inside a vehicle at the intersection of 76th and Lydia. One man was suffering from gunshot wounds and officers immediately began performing life saving measures while ordering EMS. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased a short time later. The other male victim sustained non life threatening gun shot wounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the course of the initial investigation officers located a possible subject of interest in a nearby residence. Officers surrounded the house and an Operation 100, a police stand off, was initiated. Trained negotiators and tactical officers were called in to the scene to bring the situation to a peaceful resolution.&nbsp; Police ultimately determined the house was empty.

This is being investigated as a homicide, and no one is in custody at this point. Detectives are still working to determine what led to shots being fired and the victims being struck.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim.

Homicide: Police end standoff in search for KC shooting suspect

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 1a.m. Sunday in Wyandotte County.

The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department Traffic Division reported a vehicle traveling west on Quindaro Blvd. in the westbound lane was struck at 10th Street by an eastbound vehicle that was also traveling in the westbound lane. 

One adult was pronounced deceased on the scene. Five additional adults were transported to an area hospital with injuries ranging from serious to critical. One of those individuals has also died from their injuries.

This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477).

Police: 2 dead, 4 injured in wrong-way crash on Kansas road 

KANSAS CITY — Kansas City man who allegedly stole a bus and led police on a chase is facing multiple charges.

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