A feature report on the “ugly cousin” of celery.  UK Horticulturist, John Strang, says traditional celery is difficult to grow in Kentucky soils and climate, but that its homely cousin, celeriac, is doing quite well here at the state arboretum, on campus.  He talks a little about growing this relatively “new” crop and how it’s used at the dinner table.

An update on the lending trends within the Kentucky Ag Finance Corporation, part of the overall ‘ag development effort,’ in this case, giving other regional lenders an additional source of funding to help local farmers move forward, taking advantage of current economic opportunities. KAFC chief, Bill McCloskey is featured.

A spotlight report with a northern Kentucky roadside market operation, McGlasson Farms of Boone County. Lon McGlasson talks about their evolution since opening in the 50’s, about traffic and population patterns and their impact, and about updating promotional efforts utilizing the internet.  McGlasson say their market has also recently qualified for and jointed Farm Bureau’s Certified Roadside Market Program. 

In a cooperative effort Eastern Kentucky University asked the Madison County farmers’ market to change the location for its weekly on-campus visit.  By moving to the parking lot of EKU’S Alumni Coliseum and right along a main traffic artery, both campus and local foot traffic has increased significantly. Tammy Cornett with EKU’s Human Resources office, comments.

From fine tuning best management practices on the farm to doing plantings around the home that attract bees, the pollinator protection plan being developed in Kentucky and across the nation is examining how to protect this important asset.  Dr. Tammy Horn Potter, state apiarist for the Ky Ag Department discusses the process. (Public Forum, July 13, 7-9 p.m., Warren County Extension office).

CBOT futures closed lower in the major commodities, pressured by favorable weather and forecasts that encouraged heavy long liquidation.  Live Cattle closed lower while Feeder Cattle were mixed, thanks to the lower corn futures market. Yesterday’s small gains were erased with today’s losses.

CBOT futures closed mixed in response to the midday reports from USDA. USDA surprised traders with about 1.2 million more corn acres than expected. On the other hand, soybean acres were just below the average trade guess, although still the largest on record. Cattle futures closed higher across the board, extending the rally into its fourth day. 

Listen here