A state climatologist says 2024 was the warmest year on record for the U.S. and across the globe. Jeff Andresen in Michigan tells Brownfield, “Some of it has to do with the fall conditions, also for the abnormally mild late winter.” He says the flash drought at the end of the fall was challenging for…… Continue Reading

The USDA has withdrawn its proposed “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets” rule.   Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says by withdrawing the rule ahead of the incoming Trump administration it will preserve the department’s ability to re-examine the issue in the future. “In addition to finalizing the rule, the incoming administration could also change…… Continue Reading

Across the Corn Belt, a high-pressure system centered over the middle Mississippi Valley is resulting in very cold conditions.  In fact, Wednesday’s low temperatures locally plunged below 0°F as far south as Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.  However, an extensive snow cover across the coldest Midwestern areas is providing insulation for winter wheat. On the Plains,…… Continue Reading