Missouri’s state climatologist says the above average snowfall this winter recharged some soil moisture, but it hasn’t completely fixed deficit caused by previous drought in the state. Zach Leasor says the three years of drought is showing up in subsoil and some areas have up to 20 inches of water deficit. “While we might not…… Continue Reading
A slow cattle herd rebuild
A cattle producer in western Missouri says he’s been slowly rebuilding his cattle herd following several years of drought. Mark Smith tells Brownfield he sold about 25% of his herd in the last two years. “I personally save my own breeding stock and retain my own heifers, but I intend to continue to grow my…… Continue Reading
How renewable energy can benefit rural communities
A coalition of farmers and ranchers says renewable energy can provide economic benefits in a challenging ag economy. Sam Roberts is Ohio’s director for Farm to Power. “Renewables offer a stable income to farms to help offset those uncertainties and most importantly, many times provides a way for farmers to stay in operation and be passed…… Continue Reading
Food labeling bill gets attention in MO Legislature
The Missouri State Legislature is considering a food labeling bill that the executive director of the Missouri Pork Association says could have similar impact to California’s Prop 12 law. “Missouri consumers want transparency. I don’t know if they’re willing to pay the price.” Scott Hays says “we’re certainly in favor of consumers knowing their food,…… Continue Reading
Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: February 27, 2025
Mar. corn closed at $4.64 and 3/4, down 13 and 1/2 centsMar. soybeans closed at $10.22 and 3/4, down 1 and 3/4 centsMar. soybean meal closed at $290.90, down $2.50Mar. soybean oil closed at 44.75, down 22 pointsMar. wheat closed at $5.46 and 3/4, down 19 and 1/4 centsApr. live cattle closed at $196.12, up…… Continue Reading
Wildlife’s role in carrying HPAI
A biologist says he expects the threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza to continue as spring migration season approaches. Eli Fleace is with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. “It’s typically a cold weather virus,” he says. “Part of that is their migration patterns. A lot of these birds are migrating in the winter, and…… Continue Reading
Real ID Deadline Is Real This Time — Everything You Should Know
Everything you need to know about Real ID, including the deadline. Continue reading…… Continue Reading
Corn, wheat pressured by USDA expectations
Soybeans were lower on fund and technical selling. The USDA is projecting lower planted area this year and improved demand next marketing year at the annual Ag Outlook Forum. Contracts were up early but wilted due to confirmation of new tariffs against key trading partners starting next week, which could cut into demand. Near-term weather…… Continue Reading
Farmers and ranchers need a farm bill
The president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says farmers and ranchers need the certainty of a five-year farm bill. Buck Wehrbein of Nebraska told the U.S. Senate Ag Committee during a hearing this week he’d liked to see it passed sooner rather than later. “There are too many people that are up in the…… Continue Reading
Carrie Underwood Shares Journal Entry From Her ‘Idol’ Run
“It’s something I’ve wanted since I was a little girl.” Continue reading…… Continue Reading
