COOL Deadline Looms: What’s Next?
Earlier this year, USDA released revised MCOOL rules in response to a WTO ruling that the initial version of the U.S. law discriminated against Mexican and Canadian beef. However, Mexico and Canada say the revised rules aren’t sufficient and are preparing to impose retaliatory tariffs.
Feeding Group Looks To Cattle Marketing Alternatives
Ever since it was created in 2000, Consolidated Beef Producers has used its market volume to leverage price for its members in the cash market. However, changes in market dynamics is causing the organization of independent cattle feeders to look at more innovative ways to create value for its members.
Will Genetically Engineered Food Feed A Hungry World?
Much has been said and written about the need for agriculture to feed 9 billion people by 2050 using the same land resources as today. Many point to biotechnology such as genetic engineering (GE) as a means to that end. However, a hostile political and regulatory environment is making approval of GE foods nearly impossible.
Drought Planning For Fun And Profit
The annual spring pastime of guessing how much grass you’ll have at turnout so you can plan stocking rates is underway. But those of you in the wide swath of real estate colored various shades of brown on the U.S. Drought Monitor map have more than the usual amount of mental gymnastics in store.
Active Hurricane Season Predicted For 2013
Last year was no treat when it came to storms in the Atlantic. And the forecast for this year is not much more encouraging, as hurricane forecasters are calling for an above-average year of tropical storm activity.
In A Drought, Water Woes Abound
In a drought, it seems that things cascade upon themselves to make matters worse. Take water, for instance. While quantity is one of the most immediate concerns, quality may be a limiting factor that can sneak up.
Late Planting Is A Distinct Possibility This Year
This time last year, farmers were already in the field, running planters full out to get the corn crop in the ground. Many of those early-planted fields were whacked with a double whammy of freezes and drought.
Top 6 Takeaways From National Beef Quality Audit
The 2011 National Beef Quality Audit was the latest in a long line of audits designed to look long and hard at how well the beef industry is satisfying all customers along the beef marketing chain. When buying bulls and marketing calves, keep these six points in mind.
Rural Economy Humming; Bankers Fear Bubble May Burst
The Federal Reserve’s cheap money policy continues to fuel the rural economic fire, bolstering farmland values, commodity prices and farm income. And given that the Fed shows no inclination to change its policy, recent rural economic trends will likely continue throughout 2013.
