African Swine Fever has been largely in the forefront these past months, and rightly so. It is a very real threat that we are dealing with. However, the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) joined with the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and Iowa State University to renew the call for USDA to quickly set up a vaccine bank for Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). The 2018 Farm Bill established funds to begin setting up an FMD vaccine bank, and some steps have been made. There is still some distance to go.
Farmer Pessimism Increasing Over Current Conditions
A monthly measure of farmer sentiment shows producers are more pessimistic about current conditions. The monthly Purdue/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer slipped to 121, down three points from August. However, the Index of Current Conditions, a sub-index of the barometer, dropped 22 points to a reading of 100. The barometer is based on a mid-month survey of 400 agricultural producers across the United States. A reading of 100 is considered neutral, with anything below negative, and anything above, positive.
“Plans Are Good, Planning Is Better”
Iowa Department of Agriculture officials believe, “Plans are good, planning is better,” especially when it comes to preparing for a potential African Swine Fever outbreak.
Two Hundred Million Bushels Shaved Off Corn Ending Stocks
The Chicago Board of Trade displayed green across the board, after the release of the September Quarterly Grain Stocks report.
Fitbits For Dairy Cows?
Technology is making farming easier in some respects. It is also giving producers access to more data. This data helps them make decisions on any possible changes in their production. Now, a technology meant to measure the health and activity of humans is being adapted to help dairy producers. You guessed it. The cows are wearing Fitbits.
Gov. Reynolds Allows Weight Limit Changes For Fall Harvest
Statewide Iowa — On Monday, Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation allowing the transportation of oversize and overweight loads of grain for 60 days during the harvest season.