CBOT futures closed mixed and well off the day’s highs.  Cattle futures were mostly lower, although a few contracts posted small gains. Lean hog futures closed sharply higher on soaring pork values as hog slaughter is restricted due to plant closures.

Feeding Kentucky has purchased 3,408 pounds of Kentucky ground beef with funds from Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance’s historic half-million dollar donation as part of Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Ryan Quarles’ Kentucky Hunger Initiative.

Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance CEO John Sparrow discusses how the organization is giving back during the COVID-19 crisis.

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CBOT futures closed mixed as the market continues to deal with sharply lower energy futures and less feed demand as livestock slaughter is hindered by COVID labor issues.  Live cattle closed moderately lower while feeder cattle had small losses.  Lean Hog futures closed widely mixed with May and June LH higher.

We are thankful for USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue’s announcement of a $19 billion assistance package for our nation’s farm families in response to the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to the agriculture community. 

CBOT futures closed widely mixed with wheat futures on the winning side. U.S. corn is 7% planted compared to 9% average. U.S. soybean planted is 2% done versus 1% average. Cattle futures closed moderately lower, and close to the day’s lows. Lean hog futures closed strongly higher with the nearer contracts leading the way.

Rip’s Farm Center Owner Jim Meadows talks about changes his business in making to keep customers safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Deborah Reed talks about rural mental health during the COVID-19 crisis.

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