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Bigger US corn stocks fuel doubts about USDA livestock feeding data

Bigger US corn stocks fuel doubts about USDA livestock feeding data

By Tom Polansek CHICAGO, Oct 9 (Reuters) - The US Department of Agriculture on Friday is expected to lower its estimate of how much of last year's corn harvest was fed to livestock after it reported a bigger-than-anticipated jump in grain stocks last week, analysts said. 
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U.S. Meat Exports to Japan Drive Demand for Illinois Corn, Farmer John Klemm Reports

U.S. Meat Exports to Japan Drive Demand for Illinois Corn, Farmer John Klemm Reports

U.S. Meat Exports to Japan Drive Demand for Illinois Corn, Farmer John Klemm Reports
ReutersReuters
New Trump rules will make it harder for farmers to access US funds for energy projects

New Trump rules will make it harder for farmers to access US funds for energy projects

By Leah Douglas and Nichola Groom WASHINGTON, Oct 9 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's looming changes to a rural energy program that has distributed billions of dollars in recent years will make it harder for many farmers to access funds for such things as solar arrays and energy efficiency
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USDA and FTC Review Farmer Complaints on Agricultural Equipment Sales and Repairs

USDA and FTC Review Farmer Complaints on Agricultural Equipment Sales and Repairs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is intensifying its examination of agricultural equipment sales and repair practices, prompted by numerous complaints from farmers regarding restrictions imposed by manufacturers. The USDA is collaborating with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate barriers that farmers report encountering when purchasing new equipment or attempting to get their machinery repaired in a timely manner. This inquiry will delve into various aspects, including repair restrictions, contract terms, penalties, and allegations of retaliation against farmers. The primary objective is to determine whether these practices are contributing to increased costs for agricultural producers. Farmers and other stakeholders have until December 7 to submit their comments to the agencies, providing crucial input for the ongoing review. This joint effort highlights a concerted governmental focus on ensuring fair competition and addressing anti-competitive practices within the agricultural mach...
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U.S. Cotton Crop Shrinks, Driving Prices Higher Amid Supply Losses

U.S. Cotton Crop Shrinks, Driving Prices Higher Amid Supply Losses

The U.S. cotton crop is experiencing a significant contraction, leading to an 18-month high in cotton prices. This is primarily due to record heat in West Texas, which has raised concerns about cotton yields and abandonment. Declining crop conditions indicate that the Texas crop may underperform, with only 18% rated good-to-excellent and 49% rated poor-to-very-poor. The USDA forecasts a 5% year-over-year decline in the U.S. cotton crop to 13.2 million 480-pound bales, with yields dropping 9% year-over-year to 776 pounds per acre. Similar supply losses are affecting other agricultural commodities, with U.S. rice acreage falling 25% year-over-year, leading to the smallest harvest since 1990. Sugar prices are also climbing due to tightening production prospects, including the lowest sugar beet plantings since 1950 and pest infestations affecting sugarcane growers in Florida.
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Exceptional Drought Persists in Pennsylvania

Exceptional Drought Persists in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is currently experiencing significant drought conditions, with some areas classified as 'Exceptional Drought' (D4) based on the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) of -2.0 or less. This classification indicates the most severe level of drought, with conditions drier than 70% to 80% of historical records since 1979. The U.S. Drought Monitor, which integrates multiple drought indices, highlights that these conditions are impacting water resources and agricultural activities across the state. The drought map, produced by NOAA, USDA, NASA, and the National Drought Mitigation Center, is used to inform disaster declarations and water management strategies.
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U.S. Wheat Associates Commends USDA's $825 Million 'America First' International Food Assistance Awards

U.S. Wheat Associates Commends USDA's $825 Million 'America First' International Food Assistance Awards

U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) has expressed commendation for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) following the announcement of $825 million in 'America First' international food assistance investments. These investments are channeled through three key programs: Food for Progress, Food for Peace, and the McGovern-Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program. Gary Millershaski, USW chairman and a wheat farmer from Lakin, KS, highlighted the long-standing support of U.S. wheat farmers for these programs, emphasizing their role in providing critical assistance globally. The Food for Progress program involves monetizing in-kind donations of U.S. food commodities, such as wheat, by selling them to local processors or traders in recipient countries. The proceeds from these sales are then used for developmental projects managed by non-governmental organizations. Wheat frequently constitutes the largest commodity in Food for Progress initiatives. The Food for Peace program, also known as Public Law 480, ...
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USDA Releases Updated Livestock and Meat International Trade Data

USDA Releases Updated Livestock and Meat International Trade Data

USDA Releases Updated Livestock and Meat International Trade Data
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Global Cotton Stocks Projected to Reach Lowest Level Since 2011, Driving Price Increases

Global Cotton Stocks Projected to Reach Lowest Level Since 2011, Driving Price Increases

Global Cotton Stocks Projected to Reach Lowest Level Since 2011, Driving Price Increases
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USDA Approves Sale of Lab-Grown Chicken Products from Upside Foods and Good Meat

USDA Approves Sale of Lab-Grown Chicken Products from Upside Foods and Good Meat

USDA Approves Sale of Lab-Grown Chicken Products from Upside Foods and Good Meat
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USDA Initiatives Boost Local Food Procurement in Child Nutrition Programs

USDA Initiatives Boost Local Food Procurement in Child Nutrition Programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced new initiatives aimed at strengthening child nutrition programs through increased local food procurement. One key initiative is 'Harvest to Hallways,' which will invest up to $70 million in school cafeteria infrastructure and allocate an additional $25 million in Farm to School Grants for Fiscal Year 2026. This effort seeks to connect American farmers with local schools, expanding the use of locally sourced foods in school meals. Furthermore, the USDA has released a final rule on 'Simplified Geographic Preference Procurement' in Child Nutrition Programs, effective November 8, 2026. This rule clarifies existing requirements for geographic preference, making it easier for federal child nutrition programs to prioritize local food purchases. The USDA also updated the cash in lieu value of USDA Foods for July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, increasing it to 32.00 cents per meal.
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FTC and USDA Launch Joint Inquiry into Agricultural Equipment Market Practices

FTC and USDA Launch Joint Inquiry into Agricultural Equipment Market Practices

FTC and USDA Launch Joint Inquiry into Agricultural Equipment Market Practices