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Farmers report grim economic outlook
An overwhelming majority of corn growers from across the United States say that the nation’s farm economy is possibly already in a crisis or on the brink of one, according to a new survey released by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). “Farmers are in a lot of economic pain right now” said Illinois farmer and NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr. We need members of Congress to act fast to remove barriers to markets. Passing legislation for the year-round, nationwide sale of higher...
Farm capital expenditures increasing with farm income rise
In response to relatively stronger net farm incomes, U.S. farm sector capital expenditures have increased dramatically in the last three years, according to research by the University of Illinois. In 2019, farm sector capital expenditures were approximately $30.1...
ASA VP Daryl Cates talks about Cambodian trip
We have been highlighting the work that the USDA and other organizations have been doing to help grow our markets overseas. Without laying this groundwork and building upon it, there is no way we can build demand for our U.S. soybeans. While government trade missions,...
Despite drought and wild temperatures, fall has been fairly normal
Even though we have seen bits of precipitation around the state over the past few weeks, the U.S. Drought Monitor has remained status quo for the state of Iowa. Iowa State Climatologist Dr. Justin Glisan said snow doesn?t provide a lot of moisture, so the amount we...
Optimizing feed management plans for a more sustainable operation
Sustainable farming practices can be a win/win scenario for everyone involved in a livestock operation. Farming sustainably means farming efficiently and minimizing input costs. It also means optimizing feed conversion and maximizing animal health.Feed cost is a large...
Key opportunities for U.S. red meat in Africa
The African continent presents a tremendous opportunity for protein demand- particularly for variety meats- while post-COVID expansion of e-commerce, particularly in Kenya, opens up food retail to nearly every corner of the country. U.S. Meat Export Federation Africa...
Senate passes bill to avert catastrophic rail strike
The Senate passed a bill to avoid a potentially catastrophic U.S. railroad strike and sent the bill to President Biden?s desk for his signature. Crossroads Today says the vote came after mounting pressure on lawmakers to move swiftly. Without action, a strike could...
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County fairs rolling all around the state
It?s full steam ahead for our summer fairs and celebrations all around the state. It?s a great time to celebrate our local communities, the kids and their projects, and get together with people from all over our cities and counties. These all culminate with the Iowa...
Animal food manufacturers vital to U.S. economy
New research from the American Feed Industry Association shows the industry drives economic growth across the national and local economies. The organization's economic contribution study estimates that in 2023, the total animal food industry, including indirect and...
South American Weather and Crop Update (6-27-23)
Still looking dry in most of Brazil and Argentina. Brazil is still in the early stages of harvest, and Argentina wants to forget about harvest. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather patterns in South America.With the massive size...
Summer cookout prices down slightly from record high in 2022
The cost of an Independence Day cookout for a family of ten this year is $67.73, according to the 2023 American Farm Bureau Federation market basket survey. AFBF Chief Economist Roger Cryan said the latest survey shows inflation is still impacting food prices.?The...
Soy checkoff advances infrastructure improvements
The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture offers little change, as expected. Mac Marshall, United Soybean Board vice president of market intelligence, says the only major change was a reduction in old crop...
