A feature story on the new State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency, Brian Lacefield.  The new director discusses some of his background in Kentucky ag and finance circles, and explains, in general, FSA’s role in connecting farmers with USDA and farm bill programs and services.

Listen here

A report on the Beef and Bacon livestock processing facility in McLean County which just a couple of years ago utilized ‘ag development’ grants and loans to open their shop. Just recently they were approved for a grant to help them qualify for USDA inspection which owner, Wesley Spurrier, explains will expand sale opportunities for many farmer/customers utilizing their services. 

Listen here

Last year the Kentucky “Hunters for the Hungry” program donated some 60,000 to 70,000 pounds of processed venison to feed hungry neighbors.  Ivan Schell, Executive Director of the group says that translates into some 560,000 meal, and he invites Kentucky hunters to increase their donations during the current hunting season. 

Listen here

CBOT futures closed mixed. Corn was pressured by wheat’s decline and weaker crude oil.  Soybeans edged higher, but a nickel off the highs, thanks to the rally in soybean meal futures.  Cattle futures closed strongly higher on technical buying.  Lean Hog futures closed higher, led by the nearby December LH contract. 

Listen here

A new research project is now underway at UK to upgrade “best management practices” on grain farms.  UK soils specialist Brad Lee says USDA and the Ky Soybean Promotion Board are co-sponsoring the 10-year project to get a better handle on the best way to make sure that soil nutrients stay on farm fields.

Listen here

The 2017 Census of Agriculture survey forms are now on their way to Kentucky farms.  Dave Knopf with the National Ag Statistics Service says the deadline for return of the information is February 5.  This census will have two new categories dealing specifically with veterans and with those who sell produce.

Listen here

Courtney Farms of Shelby County has been named 2017 Agribusiness of the Year by the Agribusiness Industry Network.  Mary says that she and husband, Shane, gave up full-time jobs in 2008, and started farming primarily with tobacco. Since then, on purchased and rented acres they produce grain, beef cattle, hogs and have become a regional producer of produce crops supplying Kroger, Jefferson County schools, and others.

Listen here