An equipment company is taking a different approach to meeting its workforce needs. Mario Kratsch, vice president of the German-American Chamber of Commerce, says more companies are adapting to meet an increased demand from students. “There is a sweet spot in between when people say they’re not ready for college so what kind of career…… Continue Reading
Broiler hatchery data mixed on week, above a year ago
U.S. broiler hatchery numbers were mixed on the week, even as the 2025 pace stays ahead of 2024. The USDA says 249.498 million broiler-type eggs were set into incubators last week, a decrease of 539,000 on the week, but a modest increase on the year. Average hatchability was 78.9%. 191.773 million broiler-type chicks were placed…… Continue Reading
USDA falling short on climate program details
Most climate-smart program grant holders are still waiting for the USDA to provide details on how to resubmit projects under the new Advancing Markets for Producers initiative. Pasa Sustainable Agriculture’s Hannah Smith-Brubaker tells Brownfield, “We haven’t received any information about options.” The USDA rebranded the Climate Smart Commodities in mid-April as the Advancing Markets for Producers…… Continue Reading
Tar spot expected early; measured approach advised
An extension specialist with the University of Missouri says corn farmers should take a measured approach to combatting tar spot. Mandy Bish says the disease continues to spread. “The last two years we have seen tar spot show up earlier in Missouri and in different regions of the state.” She says, “Earlier to me, meaning the…… Continue Reading
March USDA ag price indices mixed
Farmers made less in March than February, while paying slightly more. The USDA’s index of ag prices received was down 3.1% on the month as lower prices for milk, market eggs, oranges, and strawberries canceled out higher moves in calves, turkeys, broilers, and lettuce. The USDA’s dairy index for March 2025 was down 6.7% from…… Continue Reading
Alternative drinks for those who are lactose intolerant
For some consumers, dairy products, like milk, can be difficult to drink. But that doesn’t mean they have to go without it. Karen Nielsen with the Sheep Dairy Association of Wisconsin says that sheep and goat milk can be easier for some to digest. AUDIO: Heathy Living on sheep and goat milk The post Alternative…… Continue Reading
Tar spot not much of a concern for South Dakota farmer
A farmer in southeastern South Dakota says tar spot is on his mind but it’s not a big concern. Brian Hefty tells Brownfield the disease hasn’t been prevalent in his area. “Here where we farm right by Sioux Falls it’s not that big of a deal,” he said. “Did it get here last year? Yes.…… Continue Reading
Beef exports to China face hurdles beyond tariffs
China’s failure to renew registrations for 400 U.S. beef facilities creates additional complications for U.S. exports. Ethan Lane says this is a non-tariff trade barrier the President is trying to address. “By setting residue levels for things like ractopamine and others, which is part of their commitment under the Phase One deal and failing to…… Continue Reading
Rose Acre Farms files lawsuit against New Jersey company for defective packaging
Indiana-based Rose Acre Farms has filed a lawsuit against a packing company for lost product due to defective packaging. According to a report from The Indiana Lawyer, Rose Acre Farms says a Tri-Cor Flexible Packaging order from January 2024 was defective. According to court documents, Rose Acre Farms made the purchase to package their dried egg yolk powder.…… Continue Reading
Butter & blocks up, barrels continue falling Wednesday at CME
Cash dairy prices were mixed again Wednesday on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Dry whey was down $0.0075 at $0.4975. One sale was recorded at that price. Forty-pound cheese blocks were up $0.01 at $1.73. Five sales were recorded, ranging from $1.7150 to $1.7325. Cheese barrels were down $0.0025 at $1.70. Seven sales were recorded, ranging…… Continue Reading
