The National Peanut Buying Point Association held their annual meeting recently in Louisville, Kentucky. They were discussing not only peanut grading but also how to sell more peanuts during the coming year. There’s about 350 peanut buying points across America. They bring the peanuts from the farm and bring them to the buying points for measuring and for weighing and also grading to get …
Lean Hog Futures Rebound as Smithfield Plans $1.3B South Dakota Plant
Lean hog futures faced sustained pressure last week, closing lower every trading day in a holiday-shortened stretch. This week has delivered a recovery, but market signals suggest the rebound is not yet fully convincing. Here’s a complete breakdown of the latest hog market activity, fund positioning, cash index strength, and major pork industry expansion news shaping the outlook. Lean Hog …
Missouri’s Early Agricultural Roots: River Commerce and Opportunity
Missouri’s agricultural story runs deep, tracing back to the late 1700s and early 1800s when fertile land and river access laid the groundwork for a thriving farm economy. In this edition of the American Agriculture History Minute, Mark Oppold highlights how geography, migration, and commerce shaped Missouri’s early agricultural identity. Agriculture in Late 18th and Early 19th Century Missouri During …
The Missouri River: The Longest River in America and Its Agricultural Legacy
When most Americans think of the longest river in the United States, they immediately name the Mississippi. But that distinction actually belongs to the Missouri River — a powerful and historic waterway that has played a significant role in American agriculture. The True Longest River in the United States The Missouri River rises in the Rocky Mountains of southwestern Montana. …
Farm Credit System Supports Farmers Through Challenging Economic Times
The Farm Credit System continues to provide financial stability to farmers and ranchers nationwide, even as parts of the agricultural economy face mounting pressure. Kevin Kuper, Chief Credit Officer with Farm Credit Mid-America, recently shared how the cooperative lending network is helping producers navigate today’s environment. “So, Farm Credit System, obviously we’re in business to serve farmers and ranchers. We …
Applications Open for The Alabama Specialty Crop Block Grant program
Alabama Department of Agriculture Opens 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has announced that the application period is now open for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, providing critical specialty crop funding in Alabama. The program supports projects that strengthen the competitiveness of specialty crops across both domestic and international markets. This …
US Peanut Stocks and Processing Report Review
U.S. Peanut Stocks Report Shows Surplus and Declining Demand The latest U.S. peanut stocks and processing report brings concerning news for peanut farmers heading into the new marketing year. Rising inventories and declining consumer demand are creating pressure on peanut prices and limiting contract opportunities for growers. According to the report from the United States Department of Agriculture, total peanut …
Florida Ag Commissioner Opens Nominations for 2026 Agriculture Awards
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson has announced that the nomination period is now open for two prestigious statewide honors: the Florida Woman of the Year in Agriculture Award and the Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, “The Woman of the Year in Agriculture Award annually recognizes the achievements of women who have …
Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Signs Proclamation Recognizing February as “Georgia Black Farmers Month”
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper has officially signed a proclamation recognizing February 2026 as “Georgia Black Farmers Month,” honoring the vital role Black farmers play in the state’s top industry. The proclamation signing ceremony took place at the Georgia State Capitol and included several state leaders and agricultural advocates. Joining Commissioner Harper were Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, House Agriculture and …
Michigan’s Rise: Mining, Farming & Autos (1855–1908)
From 1855 to 1900, the state of Michigan experienced a remarkable period of growth and transformation. Natural resource discoveries, infrastructure development, and industrial innovation reshaped the state’s economy and positioned Michigan as a national leader in both agriculture and manufacturing. Mining Discoveries Spark Economic Growth The mid-to-late 19th century marked a turning point for Michigan, particularly in the Upper Peninsula. …










