The USDA's fifth crop report of 2024 indicates 24% of the corn crop is silking across the top 18 growing states. This is 14% ahead of the five-year average.

Bryan-College Station AgriLife Extension economist and professor David Anderson explained that consumer demand for dairy products remains strong with national per capita consumption of all dairy products growing from 538 pounds per person in 2022 to 655 pounds in 2023.

The USDA reports that U.S. beef exports topped $900 million in May at 110,133 metric tons. This is the highest since June 2023.

The USDA announced an investment of $5.2 million in 17 new grants that support urban agriculture and innovative production.

The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service shared that the U.S. is on track to produce 222,000,000 pounds of cherries this year.

While flooding continued along overflowing rivers, including the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, estimates for the potential crop damage are beginning to emerge.

Select Iowans affected by recent flooding may soon be eligible for assistance from the USDA, according to a July 3 press release.

The USDA Crop Progress reports continue to show a deterioration in the corn crop condition. A major contributor has been consistent heat waves, especially in the eastern Corn Belt.

Last week fed steers came in near $200 per cwt in the Northern Plains market. The weekly average fed steer price was $198.09 per cwt. This was a negotiated, live, weighted average price across quality grades.

The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Farmer sentiment indicated an erosion of farmer sentiment in June.