CBOT futures closed mixed with little new information to drive the market.  Cattle futures rallied throughout the day and closed sharply higher and near the day’s highs. Prices were supported by a stronger boxed beef market and technical buying as futures moved above last week’s highs.

CBOT futures closed mostly higher, led by corn and wheat futures.  With US corn harvest at only 38%, or 21% behind average, will traders be willing to follow-through and buy more tomorrow.  Live Cattle futures opened sharply lower on Friday’s negative Cattle on Feed Report, but moved to the positive side by mid-morning.  Lean Hog futures were crushed by lower cash hog prices. 

“Kids need fresh, nutritious foods to grow up healthy and strong,” Commissioner Quarles said. “When schools buy local, farmers and food businesses benefit by finding new markets for their products. During Farm to School Month, I urge everyone in the farm-to-school food chain to look for ways we can build on our success.”

Robert W. Finch announced that approximately 32,787 Kentucky farms that enrolled in safety-net programs established by the 2014 Farm Bill will receive financial assistance for the 2016 crop year

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Feldhaus visits with UK ag engineer Sam McNeil, who along with UK’s Mark Purschwitz, have helped in an update of a regional manual on setting up and properly operating “alternative” methods of grain storage.  McNeil says that’s especially important in these times of ample harvests and low prices. Interested farmers can obtain order information by doing an on-line search for the publication which is named: MWPS-13.

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A feature report with Kate Werle a co-owner and operator of W W Veterinary Services in Madison County.  She and husband, Nick, also a veterinarian recently qualified for a Kentucky Ag Finance Corporation “beginning farmer” loan wit which to buy a small farm and start their own cattle operation.  Kate describes the process which was surprisingly uncomplicated and made possible the purchase of their “starter farm.”

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The Franklin County farmers’ market recently qualified for a $200,000 USDA grant to help local farmers increase sales while improving community access to fresh food. Project coordinator, Connie Lemley, explains they’ll be hiring a full-time community engagement coordinator.  They’ll also be considering development of pilot projects for “farm to workplace deliveries,” and for a “mobile farmers’ market.” 

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