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 practices

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
0:00 45Z Update
7:15 R&D Tax Credits
13:03 Fall Prep for 2026

Learn 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. 🚜

Did you know many operations could turn $3 into $10–$11/acre with this overlooked program? Thanks to a 3-year lookback (2022–2025), the opportunity is real...and it’s helping farmers capture value for work they’re already doing.

SE Iowa Farmer Brian Hora and Continuum Ag Sales Agronomist Dale Lyons shared how farmers are taking advantage of this program and why it matters right now.

Learn more: https://continuum.ag/rd-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:
🌱 Mitchell Hora – 7th-generation farmer & CEO of Continuum Ag
🌱 Theresa Pedretti – Sales Agronomist & Certified Crop Adviser, Albert Lea Seed
🌱 Carolyn King – VP of Operations, Continuum Ag

In this podcast, you’ll learn:
- How to match the right cover crop seed to your field conditions
- Strategies to strengthen soil health and resilience
- Practical tips for integrating cover crops into your farm management plan
- How regenerative practices can open new opportunities in agriculture

👉 Learn more about Continuum Ag and get your free CI Score at: https://topsoil.ag/

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.

📌 Topics Covered:
- Latest updates on 45Z and federal incentives
- How tax credit brokerage works for agriculture and biofuels
- Ways to prepare your operation for success
- Opportunities to profit from sustainability practices

➡️ Get your free CI Score at https://topsoil.ag/

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 profitability

Whether 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.

👉 Get your FREE CI Score at: https://topsoil.ag

👉 Learn more about Continuum Ag: https://continuum.ag

Don’t forget to subscribe to stay up to date on the latest CI and ag tax credit opportunities!

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.

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.

🔑 What you’ll learn:
- How 45Z got locked in through 2029
- Questions from farmers about CI scoring
- What ethanol companies must sort out before harvest
- Quick checklist to get your field data “audit‑ready”
- Free tools to calculate your CI Score on TopSoil.ag

⚡ Action step: Start entering your 2024‑25 field data today so you’re ready to claim low‑CI premiums when the market flips on.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss a CI Chit Chat update!

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.

👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more CI Chit Chat content!

🌾 Learn more and get your CI Score: https://www.topsoil.ag
📧 Reach our team: sales@continuum.ag

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:
🌾 Josh Nelson – A conservation-first Iowa farmer using no-till, cover crops, and alternative rotations.
🌍 John Carroll – A global ag entrepreneur building a legacy from Iowa to Brazil.
👷‍♂️ Matt Danner – A diversified operator blending corn, popcorn, soybeans, and concrete in West Central Iowa.

In this session, they dive into:
✅ The evolution and future of regenerative agriculture
✅ Opportunities in emerging carbon markets
✅ Diversifying revenue streams on the farm
✅ How Continuum Ag tools help make data-driven, profitable decisions

Whether you’re a grower, ag business, or just curious about the next wave in agriculture—this panel delivers real-world insights straight from the field.

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 & Company
Walks 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 columnist
Covers tax strategy, estate planning, and how ag businesses can financially prepare for 45Z and beyond.

Jack Sodak – Lead Verifier at EcoEngineers
Explains 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

👉 Watch now to stay ahead in the low-CI grain market.

Get your CI Score at https://topsoil.ag/

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 demand

With 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

👉 Watch now to stay ahead in the low-CI grain market.

Get your CI Score at https://topsoil.ag/

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.

🌾 What you'll hear in this webinar:
Honest stories from inside top ag companies
Actionable leadership advice for today’s ag professionals
The importance of values in building a lasting career
Personal mentorship insights shared between Russ and Mitchell

Whether you're a young professional starting in agriculture or a seasoned leader, this conversation offers timeless wisdom and practical takeaways.

Hit play and get inspired by one of agriculture’s most respected voices.

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:
🔹 Biofuels policy and market trends
🔹 Climate-smart agriculture tax incentives
🔹 New farmer opportunities through Continuum Ag
🔹 Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) developments
🔹 TopSoil Summit success stories

Mitch emphasizes the critical need for farmers to organize their data, prepare for audits, and position themselves for upcoming opportunities in the low-CI grain and tax credit markets.

If you're a farmer, industry stakeholder, or just interested in climate-smart ag policy—don’t miss this update.

Subscribe for more CI Chit Chats and farmer-focused insights.

Learn more at continuum.ag

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.

🌱 From improving soil health to generating new revenue streams, Carter shares how their operation is seeing real benefits by focusing on sustainable practices and leveraging farm data.

🎙 Mitchell and Carter also talk about planting progress, weather challenges, and the critical role of data in the evolving food and fuel supply chain. They dive into:
- The carbon intensity (CI) of grains like corn and soybeans
- Financial incentives for regenerative practices
- The impact of Section 45Z tax credits
- Why farmer-generated data is key to mapping carbon footprints

👉 Don’t miss this conversation about what’s working on the ground and how farmers can get rewarded for their efforts.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
0:00: Welcome
1:40: Bill Introduced to Extend 45Z 
3:50: Carter Lantz Intro
9:45: Carter’s Approach With CI
18:10: Mitchell’s Take on 45Z
31:40: TopSoil Summit

Follow 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 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 CONTENTS
0:00 Welcome 
1:10 IRS 45Z Public Comment Period Close
4:10: Changes in DC 
8:05: Extending 45Z to 2034 ?
11:10: Farm Data
17:10: TopSoil Summit

Follow 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 CONTENTS
0:00 Introduction
1:00 David Hora Intro
5:07 TopSoil Connect Launch
12:35 IRS Public Comment Period
21:09 RightWay Soil Sampling
21:40 TopSoil Summit 
26:00 For Farmers, By Farmers

Follow 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 CONTENTS
0:00 Introduction
0:30 Carbon Intensity (CI) and 45Z
1:15 45Z Awareness
4:35 Current News of 45Z
8:05 Greet Feedstock Calculator 
8:50 45Z Overview 
9:25 IRS Public Comment Section 
11:47 IRS Draft doesn’t speak to Feedstocks or CI Calculators
17:15 Science Based Target Initiatives (SBTI) efforts and guidance for progress
21:40 Webinar with EcoEngineers
22:20 World moving with CI scoring for easier quantification of carbon footprint
23:10 Typical process for tax credit to pass 
23:40 45Z process with public support and communication with ideas and regulations
25:30 Topsoil Summit - June 3rd in Riverside, Iowa 
25:50 Haney Soil Health Test
26:45 Conclusion