Corn and soybean futures closed sharply lower, pressured by the lack of progress on US/China trade as well as corn’s bearish USDA crop report. Cattle futures found support today after two days of sharp losses. The very strong beef market has pushed packer margins to record high levels. Lean hog futures closed strongly higher as the August LH contract expired.

CBOT futures closed mixed with corn futures closing sharply lower for the second day due to the very bearish USDA crop production report (traders still question the math). Cattle futures closed sharply lower (and made new Contract Lows) for the second day in reaction to reduced harvest capacity after a fire closed a large Kansas plant. Lean Hog futures traded to the upside but eventually closed lower under pressure from cheaper pork values and the sharp losses in the cattle futures market.

By the time Kentucky Farm Bureau was founded as an organization in 1919, the Kentucky State Fair was already celebrating its 17^th birthday, officially. But the fair has roots that date back to 1816, making it one of the oldest fair celebrations in the country.

CBOT futures closed higher and near the day’s highs on short-covering in the soy complex and trader positioning ahead of Monday’s midday crop reports. Cattle futures closed slightly higher but generally within yesterday’s trading ranges.  Beyond the August LH contract, lean hog futures closed higher to sharply higher as additional short-covering took place.

Listen here

Kentucky Farm Bureau Executive Vice-President Drew Graham says the connection with county farm bureaus and their leaders is what makes the grassroots organization strong.  Graham talks about sharing the message of agriculture and how proud he is to lead Kentucky Farm Bureau as the organization celebrates 100 years.

Listen here

A Hodgenville farmer will lead the Kentucky Soybean Promotion Board during the next year.  First generation farmer Ryan Bivens talks about the importance of giving back to the industry he is a part of, how soybean checkoff dollars are being used, the importance of farmers seeing a return on their investment and how the board manages the funds. 

Listen here

Not only does the Kentucky State offer a variety of food, rides and shows, it also bridges the gap to connect rural and urban Kentucky.  Kentucky Venues President David Beck talks about the connection, the importance of Agland and the opportunity for farmers to share their stories with those who attend the fair this year.

Listen here