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, …
Hog Prices Expected to Increase in 2017, Despite Challenges
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 …
Pence, Ross, to Talk Trade with Japan
Vice President Mike Pence and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross will travel to Japan to discuss trade later this month. The duo is scheduled to travel to Tokyo on April 18th. The U.S. officials will meet with Japan’s finance, foreign and industry Ministers. Japan is the top export market for the U.S. pork industry, and the National Pork Producers Council has …
Alabama Farmers Federation Welcomes Kay Ivey
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 …
Commissioner John McMillan’s Statement on Governor Kay Ivey Being Sworn In
“I have already offered my full support to Governor Kay Ivey and I pledge to assist her in any way moving forward. Alabamians deserve elected leaders who put the people of Alabama first.“ Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsNovember 1, 2025Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Funded Research Impactful for the Future of the Florida Cattle IndustryOctober 31, 2025Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Offers …
China Lifts Barricade Against U.S. Beef
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
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
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 …
South Florida Farm Tour-April 27th
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 …
Ag Confidence Grows as Latest DTN/PF Survey Suggests Strong Future
Farmers, ranchers remain concerned on current conditions; optimistic about future Despite continued flat commodity prices, attitudes of U.S. farmers took a solid leap into positive territory, according to the most recent DTN/The Progressive Farmer (DTN/PF) Agricultural Confidence Index (ACI). The survey, which tracks farmer opinions of their current and future conditions, had an overall score of 130, a significant improvement …