Planting green into cover crops is cutting input costs for central Illinois farmer
A central Illinois farmer says adopting the practice of “planting green” is reducing his expenditures on inputs. Derek Martin, who grows corn and soybeans, in Logan County, says over a […]
Cattle futures lower ahead of USDA’s Cattle on Feed report
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live and feeder cattle were sharply lower ahead of widespread direct business and Friday’s On Feed report from the USDA. June live cattle closed $3.45 […]
Direct-to-consumer beef sales becoming more difficult, Minnesota producer says
A southwest Minnesota beef producer says direct-to-consumer sales are becoming more challenging. Mark Enninga raises a cow/calf herd and operates a feedlot where he finishes calves raised on the farm. […]
Indiana farmer adjusts inputs as higher fertilizer prices squeeze margins
A southwest Indiana farmer says the current spike in input prices is having a mixed impact on his farm. John Richer raises corn, soybeans, wheat, produce, and operates cow/calf and […]
Spring showers help ease Midwest moisture deficit
An ag meteorologist says recent moisture is welcome after a dry winter across much of the Midwest. Don Keeney is with Vaisala Xweather. “Specifically the Central and Southern Plains, Midwest […]
Petersen calls for action on RFA and farmer-lender mediation
The commissioner of agriculture in Minnesota is urging state lawmakers to support legislation that can help farmers through difficult financial times. Thom Petersen says the Rural Finance Authority allows the […]
Wheat sees more support from U.S. weather concerns
Soybeans were mixed, with spread adjustments pulling nearby contracts lower. Export sales were a marketing year low, but domestic crush demand remains solid, as reflected in Wednesday’s NOPA numbers. Last […]
Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: April 16, 2026
May corn $4.48 and 1/2, down 2 and 3/4 centsMay soybeans $11.63 and 3/4, down 3 and 1/4 centsMay soybean meal $332.70, down $1.70May soybean oil 69.33, up 173 pointsMay […]
USDA calls on farmers to share fertilizer and input cost concerns
The USDA says it wants help from farmers as the department investigates soaring fertilizer prices. Deputy Undersecretary Stephen Vaden tells Brownfield an online portal is being developed so farmers can […]
Strong demand supports higher basis for corn, soybeans in Eastern Corn Belt states
A graduate research assistant at Purdue University says strong demand is creating more basis opportunities for some corn and soybean farmers. Josh Strine says regional variations are driving local pricing. “We’ve […]