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News & Podcasts

Public sources, reviewed and organized. Editorial interviews live separately.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 15, 2026

How Are Farmers Using Drones for Fungicide Applications?

As wet weather raises concerns about crop diseases, farmers are turning to innovative solutions like drones for fungicide applications. In central Illinois, one farmer has already utilized a drone to treat early-planted corn, highlighting...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Farmers are using drones for fungicide applications due to wet weather conditions.
  • ▸Timely fungicide application is crucial for preventing crop diseases.
  • ▸Drones enhance efficiency in applying crop protection products.
  • ▸The trend reflects a broader shift towards precision agriculture.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland owners and operators, the adoption of drone technology for fungicide application could represent a significant advancement in crop management. As weather patterns become more unpredictable, timely interventions are essential for protecting yields. Understanding these innovations can help landowners make informed decisions about integrating technology into their farming practices. Additionally, this trend may influence the demand for precision agriculture services in the region, potentially impacting land values and investment opportunities.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 15, 2026

Is Time Running Out for the Farm Bill Before August?

With the August recess approaching, the pressure is mounting for timely action on the farm bill. Missouri Corn Growers Association CEO Bradley Schad highlights the need for broad support in agriculture, urging stakeholders to...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Senate Ag Committee Chairman John Boozman aims to mark up the farm bill soon.
  • ▸Bradley Schad stresses the need for agricultural support before the August recess.
  • ▸Mandatory base acre updates are a key focus for the Missouri Corn Growers Association.
  • ▸The urgency reflects broader concerns within the agricultural community about legislative delays.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, the urgency surrounding the farm bill could directly impact funding and support programs vital for corn and other crops. Delays in legislative action may lead to uncertainty in market conditions, affecting planting and operational decisions. Understanding these dynamics is essential for landowners and operators as they prepare for the upcoming growing season and navigate potential financial implications.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 15, 2026

Ethanol Demand Slumps: What Does It Mean for Stocks?

What happens when ethanol demand takes a hit? Recent data shows a significant slowdown in ethanol demand, influenced by gasoline prices and production levels. As a result, ethanol stocks have risen to 24.391 million...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Ethanol demand decreased last week due to gasoline price fluctuations.
  • ▸Ethanol stocks increased to 24.391 million barrels, up from recent lows.
  • ▸The rise in stocks is 463,000 barrels higher than the previous week.
  • ▸Current levels are 756,000 barrels above the same time last year.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, the slowdown in ethanol demand could signal changes in production strategies and market pricing. Increased stocks may lead to price adjustments that affect profitability for local producers. Understanding these trends is essential for making informed decisions in the agricultural sector, especially for those involved in corn production, which is closely tied to ethanol production.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 15, 2026

Is Tar Spot in Michigan Corn a Growing Concern?

With the recent confirmation of tar spot in Michigan corn, farmers are urged to scout their fields and consider fungicide applications. Michigan State University's plant pathologist, Marty Chilvers, emphasizes the importance of timely scouting,...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Tar spot confirmed in Michigan corn fields.
  • ▸Farmers advised to scout for symptoms promptly.
  • ▸Optimal fungicide application timing is between VT-R1 stages.
  • ▸Timely management is essential to protect yields.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, the emergence of tar spot in Michigan corn serves as a reminder of the importance of disease management in crop production. Landowners and operators should be vigilant in monitoring their crops for similar issues, as early detection can significantly impact yield outcomes. Fungicide planning and timely applications can help mitigate potential losses, making it essential for farmers to stay informed about disease pressures in their regions.

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Podcast · AgriTalk · Jul 15, 2026✓ transcribed

Wheat Futures Surge Amid Disruptions in Grain Flows

What’s driving the recent surge in wheat futures? Disruptions in grain flows from Russia and Ukraine are pushing wheat prices higher, with nearby HRW futures gaining over 30 cents. This upward trend is also...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Wheat futures are surging due to disruptions in grain flows from Russia and Ukraine.
  • ▸Corn and soybean futures are also benefiting from the rise in wheat prices.
  • ▸Bayer's hybrid wheat initiative aims to improve crop resilience but faces hybridization challenges.
  • ▸Labor market issues persist in agriculture, particularly in California's melon harvest.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland owners and operators, the surge in wheat prices could signal a shift in market dynamics that may affect crop planning and pricing strategies. The potential for improved hybrid wheat varieties could lead to better yields in the future, impacting long-term investment decisions. Additionally, ongoing labor market challenges highlight the importance of workforce management in agriculture, which could influence operational costs and productivity. Understanding these trends is crucial for making informed decisions in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 15, 2026

How Will the New 45Z Guidance Impact Corn Farmers?

Could the new 45Z clean fuel tax credit guidance change the game for corn farmers? The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is optimistic about the USDA's Regenerative Agricultural Feedstock Rule, which provides a clear...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸The 45Z clean fuel tax credit guidance is favorable for corn farmers.
  • ▸USDA's Regenerative Agricultural Feedstock Rule clarifies participation for farmers.
  • ▸NCGA views this development as a positive step for the corn industry.
  • ▸Farmers may benefit economically from renewable fuel incentives.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, the new guidance on the 45Z clean fuel tax credit could open up new revenue streams through renewable fuel production. This could enhance the economic sustainability of corn farming in the region. As farmers adapt to these changes, understanding the implications of this guidance will be crucial for making informed operational decisions.

News
Article · Southern Ag Today · Jul 15, 2026

What Surprising Changes Are Coming in the July WASDE Report?

What if the July WASDE report holds more than just routine updates? This month, the report showed notable changes in acreage for key crops, with soybeans up 0.8%, wheat down 2.5%, and rice plummeting...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Soybean acreage increased by 0.8%, while wheat decreased by 2.5%.
  • ▸Rice acreage saw a dramatic drop of 12.9%, tightening supplies significantly.
  • ▸Corn carryout fell by 8.7%, indicating stronger old-crop use and a moderately bullish outlook.
  • ▸Total corn and soybean usage rose due to stronger export demand, while rice demand declined.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, the changes in acreage and supply dynamics highlighted in the July WASDE report are crucial for planning. The tightening of rice supplies could impact pricing and availability, while the shifts in corn and soybean usage suggest a need to monitor export trends closely. Understanding these adjustments helps landowners and operators make informed decisions about crop management and market strategies as they prepare for the upcoming season.

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Podcast · AgriTalk · Jul 14, 2026✓ transcribed

What Escalating Black Sea Tensions Mean for Wheat Exports

Could escalating tensions in the Black Sea reshape the wheat market? Recent attacks on Russian vessels have restricted traffic in the Strait of Kerch, a crucial export route for grain, leading to uncertainty about...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Wheat futures rose due to Black Sea tensions affecting exports.
  • ▸September SRW wheat increased by 9.75 cents to $6.45.
  • ▸Corn and soybean markets are under pressure from improved crop ratings.
  • ▸U.S. corn rated at 68% good to excellent, slightly up from last week.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, the rising wheat prices due to geopolitical tensions could present opportunities for profit in wheat production. Understanding the dynamics of the Black Sea region is crucial, as disruptions can lead to increased demand for U.S. wheat. Additionally, the pressure on corn and soybean prices may influence planting decisions and crop management strategies. Staying informed about these market signals can help landowners and operators make better decisions regarding crop selection and sales.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 14, 2026

How the STAR Program is Changing Farming Incentives for Key Crops

What if farmers could cut fertilizer costs while improving sustainability? The STAR program, now in its second year, is incentivizing wheat, dry bean, and food-grade soybean growers to adopt practices that lower input costs...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸The STAR program incentivizes sustainable practices for key crops.
  • ▸Farmers can reduce fertilizer use and lower input costs.
  • ▸The program supports wheat, dry beans, and food-grade soybeans.
  • ▸It is part of the Great Lakes Grain Initiative.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, the STAR program represents an opportunity to improve farming practices while managing costs. By adopting these incentivized practices, farmers can enhance their sustainability efforts, which may appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and markets. Additionally, reducing input costs can help maintain profitability in a challenging economic environment, making it a relevant consideration for all stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 14, 2026

What Does Improved USDA Rating Mean for Soybeans and Corn?

What happens when USDA ratings improve for crops like soybeans and corn? Recent reports indicate a decline in both soybean and corn prices due to better-than-expected USDA national crop ratings, which have shown improvement...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸USDA ratings for soybeans and corn have improved recently.
  • ▸Soybean and corn prices are experiencing declines due to this improvement.
  • ▸Overall crop development is ahead of average, but concerns remain in some areas.
  • ▸The market is currently adopting a cautious approach, waiting for further developments.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, the improved USDA ratings suggest a potential shift in market dynamics that could affect pricing and demand for soybeans and corn. Understanding these changes is crucial for making informed decisions about planting and selling strategies. As the market reacts to these ratings, landowners and operators should stay alert to how these developments may impact their operations and profitability.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 14, 2026

How Rising Fertilizer Prices Are Shaping Farmers' Strategies

As fertilizer prices remain high, many farmers are forced to rethink their application strategies. For instance, Tom Gillis, a corn and soybean grower in western Wisconsin, reported that recent price spikes led him to...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸Fertilizer prices are significantly impacting farmers' decisions.
  • ▸Tom Gillis switched to liquid starter fertilizers and anhydrous ammonia.
  • ▸High input costs are creating pressure on farming profitability.
  • ▸Farmers are adapting their strategies to manage rising expenses.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland stakeholders, understanding the impact of rising fertilizer prices is crucial. Farmers may need to adjust their input strategies, which could influence crop yields and profitability. Lenders and investors should be aware of how these changes might affect the financial health of farming operations. Additionally, brokers may find opportunities in advising farmers on cost-effective solutions amid these pressures.

News
Article · Brownfield Ag News · Jul 14, 2026

What’s Driving Mixed Signals in Grain and Livestock Futures?

What’s causing the mixed signals in grain and livestock futures? Recent market data reveals a decline in September corn and live cattle prices, while Chicago wheat and lean hogs have shown slight gains. Specifically,...

Key points pulled from the episode

  • ▸September corn decreased to $4.38 and 1/2, down 2.5 cents.
  • ▸August soybeans fell to $11.92 and 3/4, down 4 cents.
  • ▸Chicago wheat rose to $6.45, up 9.75 cents, indicating some strength in that market.
  • ▸August live cattle dropped to $231.42, down $3.30, reflecting pressure in livestock prices.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding these mixed signals in grain and livestock futures is crucial for making informed planting and marketing decisions. The decline in corn and cattle prices could impact profitability and cash flow, while the rise in wheat and hog prices may present new opportunities. Staying attuned to these market shifts can help farmers strategize effectively in a fluctuating economic environment.

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