The “Margaritaville” legend may be gone, but that didn’t stop him from making one last surprise appearance at his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame tribute — thanks to a jacket pocket and a few loyal friends. Continue reading…… Continue Reading
Soybeans drift on China demand questions and favorable South American crop outlook
Soybeans were lower on profit taking and technical selling. There’s been more talk of China buying U.S. beans this week, but no confirmation from the USDA yet. While that might just mean purchases have fallen short of the 100,000-ton mark required for daily reporting, it’s still deflating for market psychology. Some U.S. vessels are reportedly…… Continue Reading
Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: December 3, 2025
Mar. corn $4.43 and 1/2, down 6 and 1/2 centsJan. soybeans $11.15 and 3/4, down 9 centsJan. soybean meal $311.30, down 30 centsJan soybean oil 51.67, down 101 pointsMar. Chicago wheat $5.38 and 1/4, down 2 and 3/4 centsFeb. live cattle $221.90, up $1.10Jan. feeder cattle $331.85, up $1.97Feb. lean hogs $81.00, up 82 centsJan.…… Continue Reading
Naig cautious, but optimistic about U.S.-China discussions
Iowa’s ag secretary says recent U.S.-China trade discussions have brought some cautious optimism to the ag industry. Mike Naig says a trade framework is good news, but more details are needed. “I want to be clear, trust but verify,” he said. “We certainly take it as good news at the highest levels. We’re talking about…… Continue Reading
USDA reports mixed broiler hatchery trends as egg sets rise on week, but slip on year
U.S. broiler hatchery numbers are continuing their recent mixed trend. Part of the week-to-week and year-to-year changes can be linked to the seasonal rise in reports of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, in addition to producers trying to adjust their flocks to meet demand. The USDA says 249.787 million broiler-type eggs were set into incubators last…… Continue Reading
More optimism in farm country drives boost in this month’s Ag Economy Barometer
An ag economist says more optimism in farm country helped boost producer sentiment in this month’s Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. Professor emeritus Jim Mintert says it rose to its highest level since June. “The trade announcement with China took place after the October survey was done,” he says. “Corn and soybean prices were up between 10 and…… Continue Reading
Climatologist: Winter weather patterns are not enough to relieve Eastern Corn Belt drought
The associate director of the Midwestern Regional Climate Center says drought could continue to be a challenge for farmers heading into 2026. Melissa Widhalm says despite recent winter weather patterns, much of the Eastern Corn Belt continues to face moderate to extreme drought conditions. “We’re down about 6 to 8 inches below normal,” she says. “That’s even…… Continue Reading
Some rootworms now resistant to pyrethroids
Researchers have discovered another crop pest that is resistant to the main treatment tool available to farmers. Dr. Emily Bick with the University of Wisconsin tells Brownfield some corn earworms have developed a resistance to pyrethroids and it’s time to start looking for alternative tools. “This corn earworm has actually gone through and hybridized with…… Continue Reading
Nebraska Ag Expo brings cutting-edge technology and global exhibitors
The marketing director with the Nebraska Ag Expo says this year’s show will feature new, innovative technology to help producers boost efficiency on their operations. Cindy Feldman says it will be the largest group of ag technology companies in the Midwest. “They’re trying to get their products and services to market the fastest because…… Continue Reading
Depressed ag economy resulting in increased farmer mental health concerns
A commercial agriculture educator with the University of Illinois says a depressed ag economy is weighing on farmers’ mental health. “Comparing these economic times that we’re in now to what happened back in the 80s, we’re not quite at that point, but everybody’s stressed right now.” Emily Hansen says the number of farm families seeking…… Continue Reading
