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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A unique week-long camp experience is available June 6-9^th through the UK forestry department.  It’s designed for incoming high school juniors and seniors who may be thinking about “natural resources” as a major or a career path for their future.  UK forestry’s Laurie Thomas talks about this unique opportunity.  

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Construction progress on the new Bluegrass Stockyard in Lexington continues and Feldhaus provides an update with facility COO, Jim Akers.  He says great attention is being paid to systems dealing with environmental concerns; everything from animal waste handling to rain water recovery. Akers says the project is moving forward, on schedule to open this September.

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