As we move forward in our advocacy efforts related to water resource issues, I want to point out that the revised Waters of the US (WOTUS) rule has been posted on the Federal Register. I can’t tell you how important it is to have our voices heard regarding this matter, and how vital it has been for our farmers and ranchers to get this revised rule.

CBOT futures closed mixed with narrow gains in corn and soybeans and sharp losses in wheat futures.  Cattle futures closed steady to slightly higher in narrow trading ranges. LC was supported by winter storms impacting feedlots and weighed down by weaker boxed beef.  Lean Hog futures dropped sharply. 

Coming out of the 3-day weekend, traders were in no mood to buy futures. Futures headed lower as soon as the 830 am bell rung; the selling continued into the close except for soybeans and meal.  Cattle futures closed higher, supported by higher midday beef values and reduced slaughter last week. Lean Hog futures closed lower with $3.00/cwt limit-down losses in the first 5 contracts. 

CBOT futures closed sharply lower and near the day’s lows. Futures were pressured by news reports indicating the US/China negotiators are far apart on key issues and that President Trump may extend the negotiations through May. Cattle futures rebounded from early morning losses to close slightly higher near the day’s highs.

Mark Twain once said, “If you don’t like the weather in New England, just wait a minute, it’ll change.” Since he first spoke those words, many other regions and states across the country have adopted that saying, including Kentucky, where it seems to be truer during this winter season than ever before.  

For some reason the changing of the seasons has always fascinated me. Watching the colors of the earth change from summer to fall to winter and on to spring, is such an amazing gift the good Lord has given us.