April 2026 Choice

General Manager Update – Djamel Khali 

The Iranian conflict continues to dominate and control the fertilizer market. Oil prices directly correlate to nitrogen price as LNG is used in making the products. All nitrogen sources have taken significant increases since the start with Urea rising the most. Most recently, a few countries have called Force Majeure, meaning that they cannot guarantee delivery on current contracts. This will funnel back to all of us in terms of product shortages and not being able to guarantee product that is not in current inventory. FCA/Vision Ag has been bringing in available product to cover our needs, but I expect certain outages affecting everyone at some point. If you haven’t covered your fertility needs, you may find product unavailable from any retailer. We are watching current events and taking measures to manage risk for both you and the co-op. Any escalation in fighting will most definitely move product prices higher. Thank you for your continued support and rest assured that we are working through these events on your behalf.  

Propane Department Update – Nathan Nelson 

Winter is officially in our rearview mirror. As we move into spring, the propane department is assigned a large task! We’ve begun updating our LP tank records to ensure all information is accurate and up to date. This includes tank location, address, size, serial numbers, and regulator dates. If you happen to see us out inspecting tanks and regulators, that’s what we’re working on! Our Budget Billing Program will begin in June. This 11-month program is a convenient way to spread your propane costs into smaller, more manageable payments throughout the year. If you’re interested in enrolling, just let us know – it's quick and easy to get started! We highly recommend this! Propane markets have experienced an increase in pricing, nothing compared to refined fuels, but still worth noting. On a positive note, current inventories are at a record high coming out of the winter season, which is helping to stabilize pricing despite ongoing global events in the middle east. Thank you for your continued trust in us for all things propane. Have a safe and enjoyable spring!  

West Region Update – Steve Brooks 

As we enter Spring, I would like to reflect on the past planting season. This past year has brought a mix of challenges and opportunities. Weather variability can test our resilience, but our teams adapt quickly and continue to deliver strong support to our growers. Our partnerships with local producers remain the cornerstone of our success. The trust built through consistent service, agronomic expertise, and timely communication has strengthened our position in the region. One lesson learned this past season is that weather extremes reinforce the importance of flexibility in planning. As we move into the coming season, our focus will remain on enhancing agronomic support customized solutions for growers, strengthening our workforce through training and development and continuing to build strong, long-term relationships with our customers. If you’re still on the fence with treating soybeans with fungicide and insecticide, remember phytophther root rot/dampening off can still occur through warm wet soils (roughly 80 degrees). Our team looks forward to serving you this upcoming crop season. 

Keota Feed Department Update – Jeff Sprouse 

Thank you to everyone who took advantage of our mineral booking program. We had an outstanding response that provided great savings for your operations. For anyone that missed out, we will still have an excellent supply of Wind & Rain mineral options for you. On April 1st, 2026, we will kick off our Calf Creep booking program with excellent early savings available. We are featuring Purina Calf Creep 14% R80 in bulk or bag. FCA is proud to offer John Deere Financing with 0% interest on Purina qualifying products. Also available will be CFA Financing through FCA. The booking will continue through June 1st, 2026. For more information, please contact your nearest office, Jeff Bulechek or Jeff Sprouse. Creep feeding PAYS!!!!! We have all your favorite Honor Show Chow Feeds on hand to start your show season off with a bang! We also have the ability to source Show-Rite Show Feeds and Supplements for your needs. Thank you for your business.  

Broadway Service Center Update – Dave Hyman 

Hey Farmers, Spring is finally here and Firestone AG’s annual Spring into Savings Rebate is back! When you purchase any two or more eligible Firestone AG tires, you receive an instant rebate of up to $200 off each tire. This promotion ends April 30, 2026. Broadway Service Center would be more than happy to come to your farm and look at your tires with you and answer any questions you may have. Call us at 641-636-3438 and set up a time at your convenience. We will be open again on Saturday mornings from 7am-12pm starting April 11th through May 23rd to help serve our community through a smooth planting season.  

Grain Department Update – Sarah Hora 

Spring has arrived – an encouraging sign as we head into a busy season! Grain markets experienced continued volatility throughout March. Soybeans saw notable price movement following news that President Trump and Xi Jinping have a scheduled meeting in May. Corn prices have found recent support in E15 summer sales after the EPA issued a waiver, strengthening domestic demand. As we look ahead, planting intentions may see a shift this year. Expectations suggest a reduction in corn acres, driven in part by rising input costs, particularly fertilizer and diesel. Ongoing global tensions have also contributed to market uncertainty and increased production expenses. As planting approaches, we encourage producers to review remaining inventory from last year’s crop. For current bids or to discuss marketing opportunities, please contact Sarah at 319-657-2911! 

Ainsworth Update – Brian Wood 

Hello to everyone from Ainsworth! Spring is here and things are moving along smoothly. Dry fertilizer applications have started winding down while anhydrous application has been going strong. Seed has been coming in steady and small seed has been going out. We have oats, hay mixes, and alfalfa small seed all on hand for your needs. Whether calving season may be in full swing for some or just beginning for others, we have your milk replacer and colostrum needs covered. Please let us know if you have any fields changes are being made or if any chemical changes are needing to be made before our busy season really starts getting underway. We hope everyone has a safe spring and a Happy Easter spent with your loved ones. Thanks for your continued business and support.  

Thank you for your continued business and support!