The ag markets are holding steady as lawmakers work to keep the government running. As farmers look ahead to next year, farm creditors say inputs may be cheaper but that relief is hiding a bigger problem.
“We’re seeing large declines in expenses for feed, fertilizer, and fuels, although there are still some increasing costs for things such as interest on debt or on labor costs. Now at an aggregate level, we can look at this and say that liquidity and profitability ratios for the sector have been largely stable. Ratios are improving, but these aggregate stories really are masking sub-sector strain,” said Greg Lyons.
Crop receipts are expected to be down $32 billion from last year. It is one reason multiple ag groups have been pushing lawmakers to get emergency aid to farmers.
Steven McBee Jr. of McBee Farm & Cattle Company joins us to discuss the family farm crisis, producer mental health, cattle industry challenges, farmland preservation, and the role of agriculture in popular media.
Oklahoma State University extension specialist Todd Hubbs joins us for an update on wheat harvest conditions in his state and the key factors shaping marketing decisions.
Laura Priest with the Center for Rural Affairs joins us to discuss solar development trends and opportunities for agriculture and renewable energy production to coexist.
Kansas farmer and friend of RFD-TV John Jenkinson joins us to discuss wheat crop conditions, regional variability, producer financial concerns, and the outlook for the growing season across Kansas.
South Texas ranchers and vets warn that labor pressures will make monitoring for New World screwworm difficult across large cattle operations.
Officials say the FDA-approved generic drug kills most screwworm larvae within hours of administration. The medication is available in two dosage strengths and is administered based on an animal’s weight.