Farm real estate values remain near record levels set in 2015, despite a significant drop in farm income and a weak farm economy. The Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service says the value of U.S. farm real estate is a critical barometer of farm financial performance, that’s because farm real estate, including land and the structures on the land, generally …
Most Americans Confused About GMOs
A new survey by GMO Answers shows many Americans remain confused over genetically modified organisms, and that this lack of knowledge may be driving overall uncertainty and discomfort. However, the organization says concern and confusion do not equate to rejection, as the survey finds that nearly the same number of Americans want to learn more about GMOs. The survey’s key …
Putnam Says Trade Deal Falls Short for Florida Farmers
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam would like the renegotiated and rebranded North American Free Trade Agreement to do more to help the state’s farmers. And he’s not alone, as U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., also expressed concerns about the absence of relief for Florida agriculture in the revamped trade pact announced late Sunday. Putnam, who has long been a critic …
NCF Accepting Applications for CME Beef Industry Scholarships
The National Cattlemen’s Foundation (NCF) is now accepting applications for 2019-2020 beef industry scholarships sponsored by CME Group. Ten scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded to outstanding students pursuing careers in the beef industry. “The CME Beef Industry Scholarship is an investment in the next generation of cattle producers. CME Group is pleased to support the brightest talent of …
Ag Economy Index Sharply Lower on Farm Income Concerns
Concerns over weak farm income forced a sharp decline in the monthly Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The index dropped to a reading of 114, 15 points below its August reading of 129 and its lowest reading since October 2016. Organizers say the barometer, a sentiment index based upon a nationwide monthly survey of 400 U.S. agricultural producers, has …
Benefits of the Annual Peanut Butter Challenge
by Dr. Nick Place We hear a lot about hunger. You’ve no doubt seen public service announcements on television, asking you to give to charitable organizations to help feed people. You’ve probably even seen crowdfunding efforts on digital media. It’s a fact of life: Some people around the world are starving – and not just in third-world nations. Some hungry …
Trade Deal Adds to Momentum
Canada’s last-minute agreement to join a new NAFTA with the U.S. and Mexico, resolves major trade and legislative hurdles for U.S. agriculture. The trilateral deal, seen as a big trade win for President Trump amid a protracted tariff fight with China, will also make it easier for U.S. dairy to compete in Canada, which strongly resisted changes to its supply …
USMCA Trade Deal Sets Stage for Addressing China Trade
With the North American Free Trade Agreement renegotiation effort complete, the Trump administration is expected to turn its trade attention to China and its neighbors. The U.S. and China are in the midst of a tit-for-tat trade war started by President Trump. The Wall Street Journal says the U.S. should “follow this template” from the NAFTA talks to engage with …
Canada Dairy Industry: New NAFTA a Bad Outcome
Dairy farmers in Canada “paid the price” to conclude an international trade agreement, according to Dairy Farmers of Canada. The recently announced U.S.-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement that will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) includes allowing the U.S. expanded dairy market access. Canada’s dairy industry says the concessions show Canada is “willing to sacrifice our domestic dairy production …
USMCA: No Pathway Forward for Beef Labeling
The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association expressed disappoint a new trade deal between the U.S., Mexico and Canada does not include a viable pathway forward for country-of-origin labeling on U.S. beef products. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement, or USMCA, will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Kenny Graner says the organization is “disappointed that the Administration turned …