1. Ukraine and Russia sign highly anticipated grain deal
A deal to allow Ukraine to resume grain exports was signed Friday in Istanbul. It allows roughly 20 million tons of grain, which have been blocked by Russia, to be exported from Ukraine. It is considered a breakthrough that could ease a global food crisis.
Leaders are calling it a diplomatic victory in the war, which has entered its sixth month. The UN says the first shipments could begin in months.
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2. Trucker protest causes Port of Oakland to shut down
Port of Oakland is one of the busiest U.S. seaports. Hundreds of truckers have been picketing gates, blocking drivers from hauling cargo in and out of terminals. They are protesting a labor law that makes it harder for companies to classify workers as independent contractors.
If the law goes into effect, truckers could see costs that will slash their earnings.
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3. Oklahoma and Central Plains hit with dangerous heat
Oklahoma recorded 115 degrees Tuesday for only the second time in history, and the triple-digits are expected to continue for the next several days, possibly longer. The heat and drought will likely reduce yields in many places in the Southwest and Central Plains, and farmers say most of their crops will not make it.
The Northern and East Corn Belt had some bright spots, though.
4. Lawmakers are backing the Rural Content Resolution
As supply chain issues, weather extremes, and inflation take a toll on farming and ranching, they have become front and center on Capitol Hill.
Lawmakers are discussing how to support farmers while informing urbanites about what is happening in rural America. It is one of the reasons Senator Jerry Moran signed on as a co-sponsor of the Rural Content Resolution. The measure was introduced last week. If passed it would recognize the need for greater access to rural and agricultural media programming.
“It is hugely important certainly for those that live in rural America, those of us involved in agriculture, the people I represent to see and hear and have the news and information that rural content provides. It is also important for the rest of the nation to know our culture, our way of life,” said Moran.
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5. Ukrainian farmers continue harvest; prepping for fall planting
Latifundist Media gives us an update on all things grain in Ukraine, from harvest to heartbreak. The Ministry of Agriculture projects this season’s wheat harvest in Ukraine at 700 million bushels, which is 40 percent less than last season. This fall, farmers will plant much less acreage of winter wheat and barley. With record low prices for grain, the area for planting these crops will be reduced to a minimum. Today, less than $100 per 37 bushels of wheat is offered.
At the moment, the important question is whether to plant winter wheat in the Fall. This is a strategic crop in Ukraine, no one wants to lose money. One farmer said if he were to plant winter wheat, then he would not plant much, just to settle accounts with landowners and to have something for himself.
Click HERE to read the full story.
