syngenta

Mexico Approves ChemChina Acquisition of Syngenta

Dan Industry News Release

Mexico has signed-off on ChemChina’s acquisition of Swiss-based Syngenta. The Federal Economic Competition Commission of Mexico recently announced approval the $43 billion takeover of Syngenta by the state-owned Company, ChemChina. The two companies call the move a step towards closing the transaction, which is expected to take place in the second quarter of this year. The approval by Mexico follows …

food

Wheat Growers: Prospective Plantings Report Alarming

Dan Industry News Release, Wheat

National Association of Wheat Growers finds wheat plantings included in the Department of Agriculture’s Prospective Plantings report alarming. The recent report anticipates that all wheat plantings will be at 46.1 million acres, which is down eight percent from 2016. For winter wheat specifically, the planted area is estimated at 32.7 million acres, which is down nine percent from last year, …

Proposition 12

Hog Prices Expected to Increase in 2017, Despite Challenges

Dan Industry News Release, Pork

Hog prices are expected to increase this year, even as pork production is expected to increase by three percent, according to a Purdue University agricultural economist. Christ Hurt writes that stronger demand will support prices because of a growing U.S. economy, and by a robust eight percent growth in exports as projected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Hurt says …

fuel

Alabama Farmers Federation Welcomes Kay Ivey

Dan Alabama, Industry News Release

by Jeff Helms, Alabama Farmers Federation The Alabama Farmers Federation today welcomed Kay Ivey as Alabama’s 54th governor, noting her rural background and appreciation of farmers is good news for Alabama agriculture. Federation President Jimmy Parnell expressed confidence in Ivey’s leadership. “Gov. Ivey has always been a friend to farmers,” Parnell said. “She understands the importance of agriculture and forestry …

red meat production

China Lifts Barricade Against U.S. Beef

Dan Beef, Industry News Release

China has agreed to lift a barricade against U.S. beef exports, ending a ban on U.S. beef that’s been in place since 2003. The agreement was struck between President Donald Trump and China President Xi (she) Jinping over the weekend. Meat industry publication Meatingplace reports the opportunity for U.S. beef exporters could be significant. The greater China region, which includes …

Making Products More Biodegradable With Starch

Dan Industry News Release

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientists have developed a starch-based coating that improves biodegradability and water resistance in products like paper and plastic films. While 100 percent biodegradable, starch lacks the flexibility necessary for many plastic and coating applications. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), a synthetic polymer, is usually used in films and coatings to provide flexibility. However, it has limited biodegradability. …

USDA Seeks Nominees for the Popcorn Research and Promotions Board

Dan Corn, Industry News Release

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking nominations to fill two seats on the Popcorn Research and Promotion Board that will come open Dec. 31, 2017. Members are appointed to serve a three-year term. Deadline for nominations is May 1, 2017. Producers that process more than four million pounds of popcorn are eligible to submit up to two nominations …

planting

South Florida Farm Tour-April 27th

Dan Industry News Release

USTED ESTÁ INVITADO A UNA DEMOSTRACIÓN DE FINCA – 27 DE ABRIL 4PM  A Farm Tour highlighting the benefits of USDA and Natural Resources Conservation Service Programs for Hispanic Farmers. The South Florida Farm Tour takes place Thursday evening, April 27, at 4:00 p.m., Loxahatchee Groves, West Palm Beach. All those considering seeking assistance to improve and expand their business, or …