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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The third quarter “Marketbasket survey” taken on forty staple food items in Kentucky shows that check-out tab at $115.63, up only 17 cents from the second quarter total.  Farm group communications director B. Todd Bright is featured providing some of the ups and down among the general food categories in the price tally.

A report on the development of a new mobile app that can assist farmers in making “real time” sales decision right from their field.  The Ky Soybean Board funded the research and UK ag economics professor, Jordan Shockley, helped in its development. The device is available on either the Apple or Android platform and can calculate considerations from transportation expenses to elevator fee schedules. 

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The Kentucky Farm Bureau Outstanding Young Farm Family competition annually recognizes an individual or couple ages 18-35 who has exhibited the strongest farm management skills, most consistent financial growth and highest level of involvement in both Farm Bureau and their community.

CBOT futures closed mixed following today’s USDA crop production and supply-demand reports. The reports were bearish corn and wheat, but friendly to the soybean market.  ive cattle futures opened lower, tested this week’s highs and then sold off to close near the day’s lows. Lean Hog futures opened slightly higher but soon headed south for the rest of the day.

The latest Marketbasket Survey indicates food prices have remained steady since the beginning of the year.