At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live cattle were sharply lower with weaker demand and external market pressure from the economy. October Live Cattle closed $3.42 lower at $175.60. September Feeder Cattle were down $4.77 at $234.50. In the direct cash cattle trade, a large string in Nebraska sold at mostly $295 dressed, $3 lower than last…… Continue Reading
American Soybean Association disappointed in final ESA herbicide strategy
The president of the American Soybean Association says the EPA’s final Endangered Species Act Herbicide Strategy could have long-term impacts on the ag industry. Josh Gackle of North Dakota says there were some improvements from the original proposal. “We know that they understand some of the difficulties for farmers in meeting these requirements,” he says. …… Continue Reading
MSU develops low-cost irrigation system
Researchers at Michigan State University are developing cost-effective technology to help farmers better manage irrigation needs. The Low-Cost Monitoring System (LOCOMOS) uses in-field sensors that measure soil moisture, leaf wetness, and other factors which are then analyzed to create precise irrigation recommendations. Researchers say the simpler system could prevent over-irrigation, reduce disease development, and lower…… Continue Reading
Farm Credit Illinois CEO says members are feeling ag downturn
The CEO of Farm Credit Illinois (FCI) says the cooperative’s members are already feeling the impact of the ag economy slowdown. Aaron Johnson tells Brownfield… “I believe the squeeze is going to show up more in 2025.” He says, “You know, commodity prices aren’t what they were, and it seems like input costs for next…… Continue Reading
Lessons learned in the livestock barn
Youth livestock exhibitors participating in the Missouri State Fair’s Sale of Champions say life lessons are learned in the livestock barn. Beau Ann Graves from Livingston County in northern Missouri exhibited the grand champion steer. She tells Brownfield she set a goal to participate in the Sale of Champions years ago. “People always tell me…… Continue Reading
Autonomous machines bring new safety concerns
The leader of a farm safety organization says autonomous machinery presents a whole new challenge for keeping farm families safe. Brian Kuhl with Progressive Agriculture tells Brownfield autonomous machine use is growing, whether it’s tractors, automatic feeders, feed pushers, or milking machines. “We’re seeing them being implemented for efficiency. We want to reduce costs, buit…… Continue Reading
Michigan Sugar Company pre-pile starts strong
Sugarbeet pre-pile harvest started for the Michigan Sugar Company this week and a grower says the early tonnage of the crop has been excellent. Rick Gerstenberger tells Brownfield some growers are harvesting 27 to 30 tons per acre and the quality is good. “We’ve had ample rainfall throughout the year, which will likely help with…… Continue Reading
Target Stops Accepting Popular Payment Method
They’re not the first store to ban this payment type. Continue reading…… Continue Reading
Global Dairy Trade index up significantly Tuesday
The Global Dairy Index was up considerably in Tuesday’s trading session. The average price was $3,920 per ton. Every commodity except Cheddar cheese gained value. Whole milk powder and Mozzarella cheese had the biggest gains. Cheddar cheese was down 0.2% at $4,274 per metric ton or $1.93 per pound. Mozzarella cheese was up 5% at…… Continue Reading
Darryl Worley’s Wife Undergoes Surgery After Side-By-Side Crash
“Kimberly’s arm was messed up pretty bad and I’m writing this while she’s still under the knife,” he says. Continue reading…… Continue Reading
