TopSoil

Built For This isn't just the theme of the 2026 TopSoil Summit—it's the story of Continuum Ag.In this keynote, CEO & Founder Mitchell Hora shares how years of building soil health tools, helping farmers improve profitability, and preparing for the future have led to this moment. As a seventh-generation farmer, Mitchell has always believed in creating solutions for his own farm that can help farmers everywhere.What began as a platform focused on soil sampling and soil health has evolved into a complete system for Carbon Intensity, CI Scores, CI Certification, and the opportunities created by the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit—all while staying true to Continuum Ag's mission of driving profitability via improved soil health.If you're wondering where agriculture is headed next, this keynote explains why we were Built For This.

The future of the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit depends on more than just policy—it depends on understanding how verification, compliance, tax incentives, and risk management all work together.In this expert panel from the 2026 TopSoil Summit, Continuum Ag Vice President of Operations Carolyn King moderates a discussion featuring four industry leaders who break down the critical pieces of the 45Z program and what they mean for farmers, ethanol producers, grain elevators, and agribusinesses.Featured Panelists:

What does the future hold for the biofuels industry, and what role will farmers play in building it?In this keynote from the 2026 TopSoil Summit, Renewable Fuels Association President & CEO Geoff Cooper shares his presentation, "Building the Industry. Building the Opportunity."Geoff discusses the momentum behind renewable fuels, the importance of Carbon Intensity (CI), the opportunities created by the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, and why collaboration between farmers, ethanol producers, and the broader agriculture industry is essential for long-term success.Whether you're a farmer looking to participate in low-carbon markets, an ethanol producer navigating 45Z, or an agribusiness leader following the future of renewable fuels, this keynote provides valuable perspective on where the industry is headed and how we can build new opportunities together.

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig opened the 2026 TopSoil Summit by welcoming attendees and sharing an update on Iowa agriculture, emerging opportunities for farmers, and the latest developments shaping the industry's future.As conversations around Carbon Intensity (CI), renewable fuels, and the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit continue to evolve, Secretary Naig provides valuable insight into Iowa's leadership in conservation, biofuels, and agricultural innovation.Raised on a family farm near Cylinder, Iowa, Secretary Naig remains actively involved in the operation today. Since being elected as Iowa's 15th Secretary of Agriculture in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, he has focused on expanding trade opportunities, growing markets for Iowa agriculture, protecting natural resources, and strengthening rural communities across the state.

Hear directly from the farmers who are living the changes happening across agriculture.In this featured panel from the 2026 TopSoil Summit, three innovative producers share how they're approaching Carbon Intensity (CI), regenerative agriculture, profitability, and the emerging opportunities created by the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit.From conservation practices and low-carbon grain markets to global farming, farm profitability, and the future of agriculture, this discussion offers practical insights from producers who are making real-world decisions every day.Featured Panelists:

In this keynote from the 2026 TopSoil Summit, former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack discusses why 45Z represents both a challenge and an opportunity for agriculture. He shares why creating a connection between on-farm conservation practices and low-carbon fuel markets is important, the hurdles that still remain, and what farmers, ethanol producers, and industry leaders must do to build a lasting framework for the future of the biofuels industry.If you're involved in agriculture, ethanol, or biofuels, you won't want to miss this 30-minute keynote. Secretary Vilsack explains why the groundwork for 45Z was created, what's at stake for rural America, and what needs to happen next for farmers and the renewable fuels industry to fully realize the opportunity ahead.

Continuum Ag's CEO, Mitchell Hora, hosts the CI Chit Chat each week to discuss the future of Carbon Intensity, the impact of the 45Z tax credit, what's ahead in the coming months, updates on the 45Z Tax Credit & Rules, and answer your submitted questions.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL ➡️    / @continuumag8789  REGISTER FOR THE CI CHIT CHAT ➡️ https://continuum.ag/ci-chit-chat/ FIND YOUR CI SCORE AT ➡️ https://topsoil.ag

Continuum Ag's CEO, Mitchell Hora, hosts the CI Chit Chat each week to discuss the future of Carbon Intensity, the impact of the 45Z tax credit, what's ahead in the coming months, updates on the 45Z Tax Credit & Rules, and answer your submitted questions.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL ➡️    / @continuumag8789  REGISTER FOR THE CI CHIT CHAT ➡️ https://continuum.ag/ci-chit-chat/ FIND YOUR CI SCORE AT ➡️ https://topsoil.ag

What do USDA's new tillage classifications mean for your farm and your Carbon Intensity (CI) Score?In Episode 103 of the CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag Founder & CEO Mitchell Hora is joined by Sales Agronomist Dale Lyons as they take a closer look at USDA's new CI Calculator, including a discussion on tillage classifications and what they mean for your farm and your CI Score.During this episode, you'll learn:- How USDA classifies different tillage practices- How tillage can impact your CI Score- Common questions farmers are asking about the new CI Calculator- What these updates could mean for 45Z and future low-carbon grain opportunitiesThe CI Chit Chat is a weekly discussion where we cover Carbon Intensity, CI Scores, CI Certification®, the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, and the latest developments impacting farmers, ethanol producers, grain buyers, and the future of low-carbon agriculture.

Continuum Ag's CEO, Mitchell Hora, hosts the CI Chit Chat each week to discuss the future of Carbon Intensity, the impact of the 45Z tax credit, what's ahead in the coming months, updates on the 45Z Tax Credit & Rules, and answer your submitted questions.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL ➡️    / @continuumag8789  REGISTER FOR THE CI CHIT CHAT ➡️ https://continuum.ag/ci-chit-chat/ FIND YOUR CI SCORE AT ➡️ https://topsoil.ag

On June 26, the USDA released the long-awaited farmer guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit. In Episode 101 of the CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag CEO Mitchell Hora breaks down what the new rules mean for farmers, ethanol producers, grain elevators, and the future of low-carbon agriculture.Learn what changed, what opportunities are now available, and what steps you should be taking to prepare.In this episode:- USDA's new 45Z farmer guidance explained- What the rules mean for farmers and ethanol producers- Carbon Intensity (CI) updates- What's next for 45Z- Live Q&A and audience questionsAbout the CI Chit ChatHosted by Continuum Ag CEO Mitchell Hora, the CI Chit Chat is a weekly conversation covering Carbon Intensity, soil health, the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, and the latest policy and market developments. Join us each week for timely updates, practical insights, and answers to your questions.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL ➡️    / @continuumag8789  REGISTER FOR THE CI CHIT CHAT ➡️ https://continuum.ag/ci-chit-chat/ FIND YOUR CI SCORE AT ➡️ https://topsoil.ag

In this special 100th episode of CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag CEO & Founder Mitchell Hora was joined by Geoff Cooper, President & CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, for a discussion on the latest developments in 45Z, Carbon Intensity, renewable fuels, and the opportunities ahead for agriculture.For nearly two years, CI Chit Chat has provided weekly conversations on soil health, Carbon Intensity, and emerging opportunities for farmers, ethanol producers, and ag partners. In this milestone episode, Geoff shared insights on how policy decisions in Washington, D.C., are translating into real-world opportunities across the renewable fuels industry.

Join Continuum Ag CEO & Founder Mitch Hora for the first CI Chit Chat of 2026. Every Tuesday at 7:45 AM on the CI Chit Chat, Mitch breaks down what farmers need to know about CI, policy updates, and how to prepare for emerging opportunities tied to Low CI grain.Subscribe for weekly conversations focused on helping farmers stay informed and ready as 45Z rules continue to take shape.

Continuum Ag's CEO & Founder, Mitchell Hora, gives his weekly update on Carbon Intensity®.  The CI Chit Chat provides updates on 45Z, policy updates, and how to prepare for emerging opportunities tied to Low CI grain. Join us weekly on to hear updates on what's happening with 45Z.Subscribe for weekly conversations focused on helping farmers stay informed and ready as 45Z rules continue to take shape.

Continuum Ag's CEO & Founder, Mitchell Hora, talks CI, policy updates, and how to prepare for emerging opportunities tied to Low CI grain. Join us weekly on the CI Chit Chat to hear updates on what's happening with 45Z.Subscribe for weekly conversations focused on helping farmers stay informed and ready as 45Z rules continue to take shape

Join Continuum Ag CEO & Founder Mitch Hora on the CI Chit Chat where he breaks down what farmers need to know about CI, policy updates, and how to prepare for emerging opportunities tied to Low CI grain.Subscribe for weekly conversations focused on helping farmers stay informed and ready as 45Z rules continue to take shape.

Join Continuum Ag CEO & Founder Mitch Hora for this week's CI Chit Chat, where we dive into Carbon Intensity and the latest developments around the 45Z Tax Credit.Every Tuesday at 7:45 AM, Mitch breaks down what farmers need to know about CI, policy updates, and how to prepare for emerging opportunities tied to Low CI grain.Subscribe for weekly conversations focused on helping farmers stay informed and ready as 45Z rules continue to take shape.

Continuum Ag's CEO & Founder, Mitchell Hora, hosts our weekly CI Chit Chat every Tuesday morning from 7:45 – 8:15 AM CST.CI Chit Chat is a weekly morning talk show that will provide industry updates and allows you to ask questions about our Carbon Intensity Suite of Services, which includes CI Scores & CI Certification.

In this TopSoil Webinar, Continuum Ag CEO Mitchell Hora and farm tax expert Paul Neiffer, CPA, sat down for a practical conversation on preparing for year-end tax season. They discussed how R&D Tax Credits and the upcoming 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit could put more dollars back in farmers' pockets for the practices they're already doing. Paul also broke down the latest tax updates and shared strategies to help farmers make informed financial decisions before the year wraps up.Make sure to check it out!And, if you want to learn more about R&D Tax Credits, visit https://continuum.ag/calculator/

Your farm is more than land — it's your legacy.

In this quick update, Mitchell shares the latest news on the CI front — and his hopes that the government reopens soon, allowing us to keep things moving forward.In the meantime, make sure you're staying proactive:✅ Keep track of your data✅ Get your CI Score✅ Be prepared for new opportunities aheadStay tuned for more updates!

Continuum Ag's CEO Mitchell Hora explains Carbon Intensity, CI Scores and the 45Z Tax Credit. Currently sitting tight until we get more information from the government. Really hoping for rules yet in 2025.Listen in to learn more or register for the CI Chit Chat to join us live or submit questions you have about CI. https://continuum.ag/ci-chit-chat/

In this TopSoil Webinar, Continuum Ag CEO Mitchell Hora and farm tax expert Paul Neiffer, CPA, sat down for a practical conversation on preparing for year-end tax season. They discussed how R&D Tax Credits and the upcoming 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit could put more dollars back in farmers' pockets for the practices they're already doing. Paul also broke down the latest tax updates and shared strategies to help farmers make informed financial decisions before the year wraps up.Make sure to check it out!And, if you want to learn more about R&D Tax Credits, visit https://continuum.ag/calculator/

Each week, Continuum Ag CEO & Founder Mitchell Hora breaks down what's happening in the world of Carbon Intensity (CI).In this episode, Mitchell dives into Continuum Ag's MRV Protocol — what it means for measuring and verifying CI — and shares the story of how Continuum Ag got its start, evolved through soil health and data, and became a leader in the 45Z and low-carbon ag space.

The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit officially went into effect on January 1, 2025, and is locked in until 2029, but we're still waiting on the rules.In this episode of CI Chit Chat, Mitchell Hora breaks down what this means for farmers, how Carbon Intensity (CI) Scores tie in, and why understanding your CI Score now is key to preparing for low-CI grain opportunities. Topics covered:- 45Z updates and what we know so far- Why CI Scores matter- How Continuum Ag and TopSoil are helping farmers get paid for better practicesTABLE OF CONTENTS:0:00 45Z Update7:15 R&D Tax Credits13:03 Fall Prep for 2026Learn more and get your free CI Score: https://topsoil.ag/

On Episode 77 of CI Chit Chat (Sept. 30, 2025), we dug into how farmers and landowners have been unlocking hidden farm income through R&D Tax Credits.

Cover crops play a key role in building soil health, managing risk, and improving farm profitability. In this TopSoil Webinar, we bring together experts to share practical strategies and real-world insights you can apply on your farm.Featuring:

Join Continuum Ag's Mitchell Hora and Faith Larson of Mickelson & Co. for an in-depth discussion on the evolving world of federal tax credits, including 45Z tax credits. With new opportunities rapidly emerging, biofuel producers and farmers need to understand how to strategically position their operations to capture value.Mickelson & Co., a leading tax credit brokerage, shares insights on what's happening behind the scenes, what changes to watch for, and how producers can maximize the impact of their carbon-reduction efforts.

In this 75th episode of CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag CEO & Founder Mitchell Hora dives into the latest updates on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit and shares an exciting new opportunity for farmers to tap into R&D tax credits.Mitchell covers:✅ Where things stand with 45Z and what farmers & biofuel producers should be doing now✅ How tax credit brokerage works (and why it matters for biofuel plants & farmers)✅ The importance of knowing your CI Score and preparing farm data✅ Opportunities beyond 45Z, including R&D Credits and cost-share programs that can improve farm profitabilityWhether you're a farmer, biofuel producer, or industry stakeholder, this episode breaks down what you need to know to be ready when the final rules hit, and how to capture value from multiple programs today.

Stay up to date with everything related to Carbon Intensity (CI), 45Z tax credits, sustainable ag markets, and more on our weekly CI Chit Chat series!Whether you're a farmer, ag business, or just trying to make sense of where things are headed, this series helps you stay in the know.

Stay up to date with everything related to Carbon Intensity (CI), 45Z tax credits, sustainable ag markets, and more on our weekly CI Chit Chat series!In Episode 72, Continuum Ag's CEO & Founder Mitchell Hora shares the latest updates, answers farmer questions, and provides valuable insights into what's happening in the low CI grain and clean fuel space.Whether you're a farmer, ag business, or just trying to make sense of where things are headed, this series helps you stay in the know.

The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit isn't “coming”—it's here. In Episode 71 of CI Chit Chat, Mitchell breaks down what the finalized 45Z timeline means for ethanol producers and row‑crop farmers alike, why real‑world Carbon Intensity (CI) scores are suddenly non‑negotiable, and the exact data you'll need on hand to capture the new premiums.

In Episode 70 of CI Chit Chat, Mitchell Hora discusses the latest updates on the Big Beautiful Bill currently being worked on in D.C., with hopes that it will be signed by the end of the week. The bill includes 45Z — the Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit — which could be a game-changer for agriculture. Mitchell also shares exciting news: Continuum Ag was named Business of the Week by Senator Joni Ernst!

The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit isn't “coming”—it's here. In Episode 71 of CI Chit Chat, Mitchell breaks down what the finalized 45Z timeline means for ethanol producers and row‑crop farmers alike, why real‑world Carbon Intensity (CI) scores are suddenly non‑negotiable, and the exact data you'll need on hand to capture the new premiums.

In episode 69 of the CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag CEO & founder Mitchell Hora breaks down the latest updates on the 45Z tax credit for low-carbon liquid biofuels, including its path through Congress, bipartisan support, and what's next for the policy.

One of the most talked-about sessions at the 2025 TopSoil Summit—this Farmer Panel brings together three powerhouse producers from across the ag spectrum for a raw, insightful discussion on the future of farming.Continuum Ag's VP of Operations, Carolyn King, moderates a dynamic conversation featuring:

This must-watch panel from Continuum Ag'sTopSoil Summit unpacks 45Z. The 45Z Connections Panel helps explain how 45Z could shape the future of agriculture and renewable fuels.Moderated by Continuum Ag's COO Brad McDonald, this panel featured experts who break down the legal, financial, and compliance angles of this new federal incentive:Molly Stevens – Analyst at Mickelson & CompanyWalks through monetizing 45Z, how ethanol producers can benefit, and how farmers can tap into new opportunities.Paul Neiffer, CPA – Author of the FarmCPA blog & Top Producer columnistCovers tax strategy, estate planning, and how ag businesses can financially prepare for 45Z and beyond.Jack Sodak – Lead Verifier at EcoEngineersExplains carbon intensity (CI) scoring, compliance requirements, and how farmer data plays into participation in low-carbon fuel markets.

The Big Beautiful Bill is signed — 45Z is officially LOCKED IN through 2029! This emergency press conference breaks down what this means for farmers, biofuel producers, and ag companies.✅ How 45Z helps you earn premiums on low-CI grain✅ Key takeaways from the Big Beautiful Bill when it comes to 45Z✅ Next steps to profit from low-carbon agriculture

Geoff Cooper, President & CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, kicked off Continuum Ag's TopSoil Summit with a powerful keynote: “Farmers & BioFuels: A Time-Tested Connection.”In his presentation, Geoff explored the longstanding partnership between agriculture and the biofuels industry, sharing timely insights on:✅ The current state of renewable fuels✅ Updates from Washington, D.C., including the latest on Section 45Z✅ Market trends in the Renewable Fuel Standard, trade opportunities, and global biofuel demandWith decades of experience and policy leadership, Geoff offered a compelling look at where the biofuels industry stands today and where it's headed next.

At the 2025 TopSoil Summit, Zach Johnson, better known to his 1 M+ followers as the Millennial Farmer, delivered a powerful and personal keynote. Zach shared stories from his life on the farm, explained why he's passionate about agriculture, and emphasized the importance of helping the public understand what farmers do and why.A 6th-generation farmer, Zach blends old-school work ethic with a love for modern ag tech. His wit, honesty, and passion for bridging the gap between farmers and consumers made this one of the most memorable keynotes of the Summit.

At the TopSoil Summit, Dan Uppena from Corteva shared insights on the importance of matching the Right Biological to the Right Acre. He emphasized how tailored biological solutions can help farmers maximize productivity and sustainability on every field.

Dive into this powerful panel from the TopSoil Summit as industry leaders discuss the future of biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Learn how agriculture is positioned to play a pivotal role in transforming clean fuels for aviation and beyond.✨ Featured Speakers:Meg Whitty — Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Marketing at LanzaJet, a global leader in SAF development. Meg shares insights from her 17+ years in biofuels, spanning USDA, United Airlines, and cutting-edge SAF supply chain initiatives. She explores the evolving clean fuel landscape and agriculture's growing role in aviation sustainability.Kyle Ross — Head of Process Development at BioVeritas and chemical engineer specializing in scaling bio-based technologies. Kyle highlights how corn—including low-carbon corn—is being transformed into jet fuel while reducing carbon intensity, and what this means for agriculture and the renewable fuels industry.

The Big Beautiful Bill is signed — 45Z is officially LOCKED IN through 2029! This emergency press conference breaks down what this means for farmers, biofuel producers, and ag companies.✅ How 45Z helps you earn premiums on low-CI grain✅ Key takeaways from the Big Beautiful Bill when it comes to 45Z✅ Next steps to profit from low-carbon agriculture

Listen to the replay of this special TopSoil Webinar featuring Russ Green — a seasoned leader with over 45 years of experience in the agri-food value chain. Recognized as one of Farm Industry News' “10 Fascinating People in Agriculture,” Russ has held leadership roles at global companies like AGCO, Claas of America, and Case New Holland.In this insightful conversation hosted by Continuum Ag CEO Mitchell Hora, Russ reflects on his journey from Midwest roots to corporate leadership and now mentoring and consulting through his firm, MACKAYBEN.

In episode 68 of the CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag CEO & founder Mitchell Hora breaks down the latest updates on the 45Z tax credit for low-carbon liquid biofuels, including its path through Congress, bipartisan support, and what's next for the policy.The CI Chit Chat also dives into:

In this episode of CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag CEO Mitchell Hora is joined by Carter Lantz, a fourth-generation farmer from south-central Minnesota. Over the past few years, Carter has been leading his family's transition to regenerative agriculture, adopting strip-till practices, and participating in Continuum Ag's carbon inset projects—and the results are in.

In the 62nd episode of CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag's CEO, Mitchell Hora, gave an update on where things are with the 45Z guidelines and a reminder to take the extra time this spring and keep good records. He also highlighted the TopSoil Summit on Tuesday, June 3rd, at the Riverside Casino & Golf Resort in Riverside, Iowa. Check out the Table of Contents below for details of what you can find in this episode.TABLE OF CONTENTS0:00 Welcome 1:10 IRS 45Z Public Comment Period Close4:10: Changes in DC 8:05: Extending 45Z to 2034 ?11:10: Farm Data17:10: TopSoil SummitFollow us on social media! • https://www.facebook.com/continuumag • https://www.instagram.com/continuumag • https://www.tiktok.com/@continuumag • https://twitter.com/Continuum_Ag • https://www.linkedin.com/company/continuumag

In the 61st episode of CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag's CEO Mitchell Hora was joined by Sales Agronomist David Hora, to unveil the newest product offering from Continuum Ag, TopSoil Connect.   They also discussed the importance of farmer involvement in the 45Z program, ongoing efforts to establish rules, and the upcoming public comment period for the IRS on April 10th.  They also highlighted the TopSoil Summit happening on Tuesday, June 3rd, at the Riverside Casino & Golf Resort in Riverside, Iowa. Check out the Table of Contents below for details of what you can find in this episode.TABLE OF CONTENTS0:00 Introduction1:00 David Hora Intro5:07 TopSoil Connect Launch12:35 IRS Public Comment Period21:09 RightWay Soil Sampling21:40 TopSoil Summit 26:00 For Farmers, By FarmersFollow us on social media! • https://www.facebook.com/continuumag • https://www.instagram.com/continuumag • https://www.tiktok.com/@continuumag • https://twitter.com/Continuum_Ag • https://www.linkedin.com/company/continuumag

In the 60th episode of CI Chit Chat, Continuum Ag's CEO Mitchell Hora recaps the recent event he went to in Washington, D.C., The Agri-Pulse Agriculture and Food Policy Summit, and talks about the importance of RightWay Soil Sampling and where he believes things are heading with 45Z. Check out the Table of Contents below for details of what you can find in this episode.TABLE OF CONTENTS0:00 Introduction0:30 Carbon Intensity (CI) and 45Z1:15 45Z Awareness4:35 Current News of 45Z8:05 Greet Feedstock Calculator 8:50 45Z Overview 9:25 IRS Public Comment Section 11:47 IRS Draft doesn't speak to Feedstocks or CI Calculators17:15 Science Based Target Initiatives (SBTI) efforts and guidance for progress21:40 Webinar with EcoEngineers22:20 World moving with CI scoring for easier quantification of carbon footprint23:10 Typical process for tax credit to pass 23:40 45Z process with public support and communication with ideas and regulations25:30 Topsoil Summit - June 3rd in Riverside, Iowa 25:50 Haney Soil Health Test26:45 Conclusion 

Learn how verified low-carbon grain can create new revenue streams for farmers.Continuum Ag has officially issued the first-ever verified Carbon Intensity (CI) Certificates to farmers who successfully completed the inaugural CI Certification audit. These certificates represent low-carbon bushels of corn, unlocking new market opportunities—from potential 45Z tax credit incentives to private sector premiums.Join Mitchell Hora, CEO of Continuum Ag, and Jim Ramm, PE, Vice President of U.S. Biofuels at EcoEngineers, as they break down this historic milestone and what it means for farmers and the future of CI Certification.Here is what you will learn: