CBOT futures closed steady to lower after trading both sides of unchanged.  Chicago/KC wheat closed well off the day’s lows, supported by a big rally in the MGEX wheat contract.  Both Live Cattle and Feeder Cattle futures closed sharply higher with some contracts locked up the daily trade limit.  Prices were supported by sharply higher gains in the cash market where $4-5/cwt gains were seen.

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An update on the UK MarketReady project which can provide extensive training for Kentucky farmers considering who are considering marketing their own crops and value added products.  UK extension associate, Alex Butler, talks about some of the significant challenges that face these farmers, but he says his agency stands ready to help.    

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A feature report on a brand new farmers’ market that’s just opened this season in Nicholasville.  Local market board member, Charlie Workman, says community members in Jessamine County are excited about the new resource and local citizens are joining in with full support. 

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An update report on an Adair County farmer who’s been working with local extension agent Nick Roy in a program of large round bale feeding of cattle through the winter months.  So far, the effort is proving successful, already resulting in fertilizer application expenses for the local farmer who’s trying it.

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The state ag development board has just approved a major, $127,000 grant for Beef Solutions, LLC which by this fall plans to provide one-pound packages of Kentucky-grown ground beef in stores across the state.  Dave Maples with the Kentucky Cattlemens Association discusses the complexities of the project.

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This Thursday in Lexington a UK Equine Farm and Facilities Expo will be held on the Mereworth Farm.  Fayette County extension agent, Nick Carter, says for veteran farmers with existing facilities or those interested in getting into new horse handling operations, this afternoon open house can provide hands-on solutions to practical challenges. 

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CBOT futures closed 1-2 percent lower with corn and soybean futures settling near the day’s lows. Traders credited drier weather for the weakness.  Beyond the nearby June Live Cattle contract, cattle futures closed higher with big gains in Feeders.