CBOT futures closed mixed as traders anticipate how weather will impact planting progress and the acreage mix.  Commodity futures were impacted today by a stronger US Dollar that resulted from the release of the FOMC meeting minutes which suggests the FED could raise key interest rates in June if economic signals remain positive. Lean Hog futures closed lower with a 2 percent loss in the nearby June LH contract.

Many homeowners impacted by the series of strong storms that have swept through Kentucky this month are now in need of contractors to repair damaged homes or clean up fallen debris.

CBOT futures closed higher with a big jump in soybean and soymeal futures. Strong commercial demand for soybean meal along with aggressive buying from the speculative funds is fueling this rally.  Cattle futures closed higher like yesterday with the best gains coming in Feeder Cattle futures.

Trading at the CBOT was uneventful with closing prices little changed from Friday. Except for the nearby June Live Cattle contract, cattle futures closed higher with Feeder Cattle leading the way higher.  Lean Hog futures closed higher in the summer contracts and lower in the deferred ones (lost it in last 5 minutes of trading).

CBOT futures closed mixed from sharply higher prices for corn and wheat to lower prices for soybeans and soybean oil.  Cattle futures closed lower with severe losses in the Feeder Cattle. Cattle rallied in the morning on a strong cash cattle market – up $5-7/cwt from last week.  Lean Hog futures closed little changed after trading higher early on stronger cash hog and pork values.

Across Kentucky - Promo May 16, 2016-May 20, 2016

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For one Meade County farmer, Fred L. Sipes, who in addition to farming is talking the talk, walking the walk, and “burning the bean.”  He utilizes B-20 a 20% soy diesel fuel blend in all of his farm equipment.  He’s also involved in the Ky Soybean Association’s efforts to reach out to technical schools with an education program for diesel technicians.

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Feldhaus introduces, Dr. David Williams, the newly appointed director of RCARS, UK’s Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability, in Breathitt County. Williams is looking into a closer connection between the center’s Wood Utilization Center and regional community and technical college offerings.

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