This edition of Farm New includes the annual Progress agriculture section. It provides a comprehensive look at how a wide array of developments in our region are shaping the agricultural tomorrow.

While every issue of this newspaper is filled with articles, features and advertisements that readers find informative and useful, the special section we call Progress provides a perspective that goes far beyond simply reporting the latest happenings. Our goal is to look at the big picture, capture trends and explore more fully events that may lead to headlines down the road.

Agriculture has shaped the economy not only of north central Iowa, but also of the entire Hawkeye State for more than a century and a half. It obviously remains a huge factor in 2024 and is the focus of the Progress section included with this issue of the newspaper. The Progress articles will help readers understand the agricultural industry more fully, but also included are stories touching on many other aspects of farm life and the farm economy.

Perusing Farm News this week may take a bit longer than usual. We hope, however, that you will regard the time spent reading this hefty issue to be a worthwhile investment in learning more about agriculture in Iowa.

The 21st century can be a prosperous time for the rural Iowa economy and an era of exciting renewal for many north central Iowa communities. The days ahead are full of promise.