soybeans

Large grain trading firms are cutting spending as a result of low commodity prices. Industry groups federal agencies give in too easily and ‘settle’ when sued by environmental groups. Sam Clovis is no longer under consideration for a USDA undersecretary position

Market prices are down steeply from the commodity boom that ended in 2013. Buying U.S. farm commodities, making countries like Brazil and Argentina much more attractive to Mexican importers if the NAFTA talks fail, which would see higher cost. Fraudulent labeling continues to be a problem with organic imports.

Bankers are expecting an increase in farm loan foreclosures. Arkansas Ag officials are being sued due to a proposed ban on a weed killer linked to widespread crop damage. an increase in farm loan foreclosures is expected by some bankers. Cargill is expanding, signed an agreement to buy Diamond V.

Citrus growers facing losses estimated to exceed $1 billion hurricane Irma. Farmers are planting more cover crops. $45-million research project that promises to boost crop yields 20% by improving photosynthetic efficiency.

Negotiations on a new NAFTA agreement are moving quickly. Soybean export started the new marketing year on a bullish pace. The Senate has unanimously passed legislation to assist farmers who have fallen on hard times financially.

Small meat processors had to adjust to realities imposed from outside the industry and U.S. Department of Agriculture in order to improve customer service and maximize efficiency.

Texas refineries getting back on line after Hurricane Harvey and using modern tech. to label GMO foods.

More NAFTA talks going on. Hurricane Harvey putting delays in wheat exports.

The new Dow Chemical Company to split into three division. Sonny Perdue goes on the road to talk with farmers. Taking another look at 2017 corn production lookout.

**Democrats voiced strong objections to funding levels and legislative riders in the Interior/Environment spending bill, but saved amendments for this week when the full House Appropriations Committee will mark up the fiscal 2018 bill. At last week’s hearing, the bill was cleared for consideration by the full committee despite expressions of disappointment from some Democrats...