Fall 2023- Where are the opportunities?
It seems as if this year has been full of opportunities and challenges. Being a farmer, I must admit the challenges seem to carry the heaviest weight in 2023. This spring provided the most perfect planting weather that I have ever experienced. Nearly all our crops were planted without the interruption of rain. […]
When will the Drought End?
An ideal spring turned dry quickly this year. Nearly all producers across the state of Missouri saw themselves in D3 drought conditions at one point during the summer. While we did see a wet August, it appears that the dry conditions from summer are going to linger into fall. According to NOAA Climate […]
Fall Wheat
The last day to make wheat policy changes or to obtain a wheat policy is September 30th. While current wheat prices are relatively low there is considerable upside to this market. The continued unrest in Ukraine and the possibility of export restrictions has the potential to be a driver of the wheat market. […]
Harvest Time Reminders
As combines begin to roll into the fields there are a few important items to keep in mind while harvesting production. From reporting production, to letting us know of a potential loss, all must be done in a timely manner to not jeopardize any losses being paid. Losses If you suspect a loss […]
Drought Stressed Corn
For the second year in a row, drought has affected much of the corn crop in Missouri. Drought stress in corn not only affects yield, but can also cause quality issues. Along with low test weight, elevated mycotoxin levels may be present in this year’s crop, most notably: aflatoxin and fumonisin. Your crop insurance […]
Crop Insurance Decisions
The following is an excerpt from The Brock Report printed with permission. With the recent downturn in the commodity markets, this is a good time to review crop insurance risk protection that was purchased prior to March 15 for 2023. This year, in particular the past 60 days, has provided extreme market volatility […]
Summertime Reminders
2023 planting came early this year and left many of us nearly finished by mid-May. While it was convenient to have several days in a row of nice planting weather, many places are now facing drought conditions. As we move into summer below are some important reminders. Call our office before you replant. If […]
Marketing Class Opportunity
The previous article from The Brock Report is a great broad overview of how crop insurance can be used in conjunction with a good marketing plan. This article though, is not Missouri specific. As we talked about in our March newsletter, we have developed a great relationship with Ben Brown, economist at the University […]
New Livestock Antibiotic Regulations
Beginning June 11, 2023 many antibiotic medications that were previously available over the counter will now require a veterinary prescription. This change comes as an extension of the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) from the FDA Guidance #263. Examples of some medications that will be affected are oxytetracyclines, penicillin, and sulfa-based antibiotics. The biggest […]
LRP Changes for Second Half of Year
Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) usage has been off to a strong start in 2023 and will likely remain solid as we continue to see high cattle prices. Currently, the spread between the futures prices and the actual cash market is roughly $30 giving producers a good opportunity to cover profit margins. As we move […]