Business
Farmdoc economist estimates 2024 colony stock losses at roughly $175 million, with rebuilding and renovation costs near $161 million.
Federal officials are signaling a more aggressive push on beef packer concentration, but any direct market impact will depend on what the investigation actually finds.
The court’s decision to deny the defendant’s motion to exclude the expert’s testimony serves as a sharp reminder of the high burden required to exclude expert testimony, particularly in the agricultural context, where “experience” is often the currency of reliability.
The USDA’s annual report leaves dairy producers with a mixed picture. Output and herd size expanded, but weaker prices kept income from rising with production.
Total cash receipts from marketings of cattle, calves, hogs, and pigs climbed by 18% in 2025 to $165 billion.
March crush data showed stronger soybean and canola processing, but softer animal fat production.
Higher freight rates and potential service disruptions are key concerns for agriculture, which relies heavily on rail to move commodities.
Pseudorabies case confirmed in Iowa herd prompts heightened biosecurity measures as U.S. swine producers work to prevent spread and protect herd health.
The goal is to start conversations and connect farmers with help when they need it.
DOJ and USDA investigate beef industry concentration, with Big Four packers under scrutiny and a major settlement announcement expected later this week.
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor joins us to discuss the uncertain path for year-round E15 sales and the next steps as the issue heads toward a standalone House vote after it was stripped from the Farm Bill.
The new county maps show farm program payments are widespread, but payment design still produces very different outcomes across regions and crops. AgriSompo’s Brooks York joins us to discuss the role of crop insurance in supporting mental health.
Dr. Ernie Goss joined us to break down the latest Rural Main Street Index, discuss pressures on farm finances and equipment sales, and share expectations for the ag economy ahead.
The spending bill keeps animal health and traceability funding in place while trimming several other USDA accounts.
The question of whether a traditional, multi-year Farm Bill is a constitutional necessity or merely an outdated artifact of legislative compromise — as opposed to a model of targeted reconciliation and ad hoc assistance — is one of the most critical debates in current agricultural policy.
New farm payment rules allow LLC members to have separate limits, but some local FSA offices are still applying outdated policies, creating confusion for producers.
Markets
Canadian industry leaders argue the tax policies cited by U.S. officials are similar to exemptions already used by American growers.
Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty joined us to share guidance on preventing land fraud, identifying scams, and protecting farm and rural property owners.
Despite tighter supplies, U.S. wheat exports continue trending higher as international buyers seek consistent quality and reliable service.
Trade
Industry leaders say restored access is a major step forward, though exports remain well below previous levels.
Texas A&M economist John Robinson says speculative buying helped push ICE cotton futures sharply higher.
Smaller exporter crops and lower global stocks could keep wheat markets sensitive to weather, trade, and shifts in demand.