Spotlight on excellence - County Farm Bureaus shine at AFBF event

Jan 08, 2024

The 105th American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Convention in Salt Lake City was a platform for celebrating the extraordinary efforts of 24 county Farm Bureaus in agricultural community engagement. These bureaus were recognized for their unique and impactful programs across various states, from Illinois to Wisconsin.

Illinois showcased innovative approaches like Touch-A-Truck & Tractor and Sow and Tell, focusing on agricultural education for children. Kentucky's Farm Bureau Market Night promoted local farm produce, while Michigan's Farmer for a Day educated students about food production. Minnesota's, I Love Strawberries event and Missouri's Choo Choo Choose Agriculture! exemplified creative ways to engage communities in farming.

Nevada hosted a Small Agriculture Conference for urban farmers, and Ohio introduced the Books and Barns Ag Literacy Project to boost youth agricultural literacy. Fayette's Farm to Fork Goes to Town and Clinton's youth program involving hog raising highlighted the diverse approaches to agricultural education and community involvement.

These programs, featured at the AFBF Convention trade show, illustrate the various methods county Farm Bureaus employ to bridge the gap between agriculture and the public.

From hands-on learning experiences for children to initiatives that bring the farm closer to urban areas, these programs represent the commitment of county Farm Bureaus to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of agriculture in their communities.

Source : wisconsinagconnection

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Agricultural and Economic Briefing: USDA Reports, Global Tensions, and Market Reactions

Welcome back to our channel for a detailed update on key developments affecting the agricultural sector and broader economic landscape. Here's what's on the agenda today:

USDA Crop Production and WASDE Reports The USDA is set to release its monthly Crop Production and WASDE reports today at 11:00am CST. These reports will reflect the updated new crop US corn and soybean balance sheets, incorporating data from the June Planted Acreage report which showed a significant increase in corn acreage. While no major adjustments to US corn and soybean yield projections are expected, the focus will be on potential changes to global supply and demand. The reports are anticipated to bear a mostly bearish tone, especially concerning corn prices.

Geopolitical Developments in Ukraine Ukraine's recent detention of a foreign cargo ship on the Danube River, suspected of carrying stolen Ukrainian grain from Russian-occupied Crimea, has escalated tensions. This incident has stirred concerns about potential Russian retaliatory actions during Ukraine's crucial grain export season. Wheat futures saw a sharp rise following the news, highlighting the sensitive interplay between geopolitical events and commodity markets.

US Drought Conditions and Agricultural Impact Recent USDA drought monitor data indicates mixed conditions across the US Corn Belt and High Plains, with many areas receiving beneficial rainfall and experiencing cooler-than-average temperatures. However, conditions have worsened in parts of western Illinois and northeast Missouri. These evolving weather patterns are critical for crop development stages and will continue to influence market dynamics.

US Crop Export Sales Corn export sales showed an increase last week, with Colombia being the largest buyer. However, soybean sales were relatively weak, with the Netherlands as the primary buyer. The varied performance in crop export sales reflects shifting global demand and market conditions, which traders closely monitor for strategic insights.

Economic Indicators and Market Reactions In a surprising economic update, consumer prices declined for the first time in four years last month, with the CPI falling 0.1% in June. This decline, coupled with the slowest annual inflation increase since March 2021, has significantly influenced market expectations, with the probability of the Federal Reserve beginning rate cuts in September now standing at 89%.

Stay Updated: For ongoing insights into these issues affecting agriculture, trade, and economic policies, make sure to subscribe to our channel. We bring you the latest information to help you understand the complexities of agricultural economics and global geopolitical shifts.

Join the Conversation: How do you think the upcoming USDA reports will impact market prices? What are your views on the ongoing geopolitical tensions and their potential effects on agricultural exports? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your input is vital as we navigate these complex global scenarios.