Tag

Crop Production

All articles tagged with #crop production

agriculture2 years ago

"USDA Reports Record Corn and Soy Yields, Sending Grain Prices Plummeting"

The USDA released its latest reports, showing a record national average corn yield of 177.3 bushels per acre and a production of 15.34 billion bushels, along with an increase in soybean production to 4.17 billion bushels. The reports also indicated higher ending stocks for corn and soybeans, with bearish estimates for corn and neutral estimates for soybeans and wheat in the world ending stocks. Additionally, the reports revealed decreased farmgate prices for corn and soybeans, and a decrease in winter wheat seedings by 6%. The January WASDE report also highlighted increased beef and pork production levels for 2024, impacting future prices and domestic demand growth.

science2 years ago

"Uncovering the Secrets of Root Hair Growth and Nitrate Foraging in Grasses"

Scientists have discovered a plant gene called "BUZZ" that plays a crucial role in driving the growth of root hairs, which help plants find water and nutrients in the soil. This gene also influences how plants find and use nitrates, an essential source of nitrogen for plant growth. Understanding the genetic mechanisms behind nitrate uptake and signaling could have significant implications for sustainable agriculture and the nitrogen cycle. The discovery of the BUZZ gene in a model grass plant suggests its conservation across important crops like wheat, rice, maize, and barley, potentially boosting their ability to find and utilize nitrates.

agriculture2 years ago

"Retail Giants Walmart and Kroger Place Risky Bets on Struggling Indoor Farming Industry"

Walmart and Kroger are investing in the indoor farming industry, despite concerns about its sustainability. Indoor farming companies like Eden Green Technology are aiming to produce fresh produce year-round while using less water and land. However, some indoor farming companies have faced financial difficulties and filed for bankruptcy. Skeptics question the profitability of indoor farming due to high energy costs associated with artificial lighting. Critics argue that investment should be directed towards practical solutions for outdoor farmers. Indoor farming can also create new pest problems that require aggressive management. Despite the challenges, some companies believe they are on the right track and emphasize their use of natural light and soil-based growing methods. However, experts remain skeptical about the profitability of indoor farming operations.

agriculture2 years ago

Crisis looms for olive oil industry amid extreme heat and drought

The olive oil industry is facing a crisis as extreme heat and drought caused by climate change threaten olive trees and lead to potential shortages and skyrocketing prices. Last year's bad olive harvest, combined with scorching temperatures this summer, could result in a 30% drop in European olive oil production compared to the five-year average. Bulk prices have already doubled, and the International Olive Council predicts a 20% global drop in olive oil production. This problem extends beyond olive oil, as extreme heat and climate change disrupt crop production worldwide, leading to concerns about food security in the future.

agriculture2 years ago

USDA predicts reduced yields for corn, soy, and wheat crops

The USDA has released its latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, which forecasts smaller corn, soybean, and wheat crops for 2023. The estimates for corn, soybean, and wheat production and yield have all been reduced. The report also provides information on ending stocks for the current and upcoming crop years, with some adjustments made to reflect changes in supply and demand. The trade reaction to the report has been mixed, with some noting the expected yield reductions and others highlighting the need for significant changes in production or exports to impact market prices.

agriculture2 years ago

Sudan's Farmers Battle Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Farmers in Sudan are struggling to plant staple crops due to a war between military factions, which is causing delays in obtaining credit from banks and high prices of key inputs such as fertilizers, seeds, and fuel. This threatens to deepen hunger and poverty in the country, with the number of people going hungry estimated to rise to 19.1 million by August. Shortages of key staples, exacerbated by looting of warehouses, could worsen the hunger crisis and cripple livelihoods. The situation is also depriving Sudan of foreign currency needed for importing basic commodities. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization has started emergency distribution of seeds to cover the needs of millions of people, but farmers fear it may be too late to plant.

agriculture2 years ago

Corn and Soybean Markets Face Oversupply Challenges Amidst China's Shift to Cheaper Imports

The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report by the USDA shows that corn and soy production in the US will outpace demand in the coming year, leading to higher ending stocks. The report also indicates that world ending stocks for corn, soybeans, and wheat will increase in the 2023/2024 marketing year. The projections for soybean ending stocks for the 2023/2024 marketing year were larger than expected, while wheat numbers were positive.