The agriculture industry continues to grapple with ongoing uncertainty over the future of farm labor. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen says, “We have a problem that’s been going on for 50 years and you can’t solve it overnight.” He says farmers and ranchers are in desperate need of a solution as the USDA estimates 40 percent…… Continue Reading
Cattle futures mostly higher ahead of widespread direct business
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live cattle were mostly higher, and feeders were up, waiting for direct business to develop. August live cattle closed $.20 lower at $219.77 and October live cattle closed $.52 higher at $217.35. August feeder cattle closed $1.35 higher at $320.47 and September feeder cattle closed $.85 higher at $320.02. Direct…… Continue Reading
Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: July 9, 2025
Sep. corn closed at $3.99 and 1/4, up 1 and 1/4 centsAug. soybeans closed at $10.09, down 12 and 1/4 centsAug. soybean meal closed at $269.40, down $1.30Aug. soybean oil closed at 53.29, down 82 pointsSep. wheat closed at $5.47, down 3/4 centAug. live cattle closed at $219.77, down 20 centsAug. feeder cattle closed at…… Continue Reading
Corn up modestly on pre-report short covering
Soybeans were lower on fund and technical selling. Development conditions generally look favorable, even if there are crop rating concerns in some states. Despite those concerns, a number of analysts seem to be set on maintaining large if not record yield projections, at least for now. Domestic crush demand is solid, canceling out some of…… Continue Reading
Farmers Edge showcases importance of soil testing
Photo of Farmers Edge soil testing laboratory equipment taken by Brent Barnett/Brownfield An ag technology and soil science company is asking farmers to prioritize soil testing. Eileen Bernard, director of farm and retail growth for Farmers Edge, says soil tests can provide a detailed analysis of nutrient levels in crop fields, including essential elements like…… Continue Reading
Tariff extension fueling economic uncertainty for farmers
A pair of Iowa farmers say the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the current trade landscape is impacting the long-term growth of the ag economy. Aaron Lehman, Iowa Farmers Union president, says the Trump administration’s recent decision to extend the retaliatory tariff deadline to August 1st continues to fuel economic uncertainty for farmers. “It stifles innovation, and farmers…… Continue Reading
Bucky Heard Comes Full Circle in Inspiring ‘My Best Days’ Video
The powerful video takes fans on his musical journey. Continue reading…… Continue Reading
Oak Ridge Boys Tribute Joe Bonsall One Year After His Death
The group posted an emotional tribute. Continue reading…… Continue Reading
2025 broiler placements stay 1% ahead of 2024
Broiler hatchery data continues to imply higher production this year than last year. The USDA says 251.463 million broiler type eggs were set into incubators, 918,000 less than the previous week, but up 1% from a year ago, with average hatchability at 79.2%. 195.213 million broiler type chicks entered meat production, down 841,000 on the…… Continue Reading
Corn leaf aphids on the mind
A pair of agronomists say some Illinois farmers have corn leaf aphids on their minds. Chad Kalaher, with Beck’s Hybrids, says some areas of the state were hit hard by the pest last year. “Looking back in history, higher populations are associated with a 2-year cycle, so that’s a little bit worrisome.” He says, “I’d…… Continue Reading
