A feature report with Madison County young farmer, Derek Adams, who has successfully applied for and been accepted for a “beginning farmer loan,” through the Ky Ag Finance Corporation.  Adams describes that process which began with contacting a local lender for details, and which made possible the purchase of the young couple’s first farm.  

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The Kentucky Ag Department’s Junior Chef program will be used as a model for a regional competition by USDA.  KDA’s Junior Chef program coordinator, Tina Garland, says they’re very honored at the selection.  She also noted that district and regional competitions are underway this month and next for high school teams with an eye toward making it to state finals at the Kentucky State Fair.

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CBOT futures closed mixed with closing prices near unchanged. Futures were up and down twice today, testing the early highs and lows.   Cattle futures closed higher with the April LC contract leading the way – hitting new highs that are $30/cwt above the October lows.  April LC is chasing the cash market higher as some cattle traded $130-132 in S. Plains

CBOT corn and soybeans closed moderately lower under pressure from heavy spec fund selling – who are adding to their short positions. Wheat was able to separate itself from the corn/bean downdraft due to concerns for the spring wheat crop.  Cattle futures closed mixed with Live Cattle up and Feeders lower.

After the 3-day Easter weekend, CBOT futures closed steady to mostly lower with KC and Chicago wheat leading the way down. Wheat was pressured by improving soil moisture conditions.  Cattle futures opened a little higher and gained throughout the day to close in the upper end of the range. Today’s strength was based on Friday’s $2.00/cwt pop in cash cattle prices while the CME LC/FC futures were closed for Easter.

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Over the past five years Pikeville’s farmers’ market has made great strides as an economic and social resource for the local community and the region.  Local farmers’ market president, Joyce Pinson talks about their new pavilion, coming additions to it, and the impact that Ag Development Board grants have had in making it all happen.  

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