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The May 20, 2026, Closing Market Report covered agricultural commodities, local infrastructure legislation, global energy supply chain disruptions, and international weather impacts. Market analysts noted that commodity prices initially rallied on potential Chinese agricultural purchases following a diplomatic meeting, but recently declined due to falling crude oil prices and profit-taking. In local news, the Logan County, Illinois Board bypassed a proposed 90-day freeze and instead approved a 12-month moratorium on a new data center project. On the energy front, the ongoing 80-day closure of the Strait of Hormuz has severely disrupted global supplies of crude oil, gasoline, and engine lubricants, with analysts warning that a full recovery to pre-war inventory levels could extend into late 2027. Finally, meteorologists highlighted ongoing drought and freeze stress on U.S. winter wheat, alongside unseasonably wet conditions in Brazil and the Canadian Prairies, though warmer, more favorable planting weather is expected soon for the U.S. Corn Belt.- Ag Markets with Greg Johnson, TotalGrainMarketing.com- Logan County IL Board Imposes 12 Month Data Center Moratorium- Strait of Hormuz Closure May Trigger Years-Long Recovery- Ag Weather with Drew Lerner, WorldWeather.cc ★ Support this podcast ★

This May 19, 2026, Closing Market Report covers a range of agricultural, economic, and weather updates. In the commodity markets, speculation regarding potential US-China trade deals caused a brief market rally, though prices quickly pulled back due to a lack of specific purchasing details. Significant agricultural industry news includes John Deere's preliminary $19.9 million settlement in a "right to repair" class-action lawsuit, as well as growing concerns from scientists over a USDA proposal to relocate vital soybean and maize seed banks out of Illinois. On the legislative front, Illinois lawmakers are considering a ban on the use of eminent domain for CO2 pipelines, while federal efforts face headwinds regarding nationwide year-round E15 fuel access and a newly proposed annual road-funding tax for electric vehicle owners. Meanwhile, agricultural energy markets remain volatile and captive to Middle East tensions, prompting advisors to recommend cautious, hand-to-mouth fuel purchasing strategies for farmers. Finally, the weather outlook highlights beneficial, albeit sometimes severe, recent rainfall across the Corn Belt and late-season snow in the West, with an active weather pattern expected to resume in the coming week.- Ag Markets with Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarketing.com- Right to Repair, Seedbanks, CO2 Pipelines, Year-Round E15, EV Tax- Ag Energies with Dave Chatterton, SFarmMarketing.com- Ag Weather with Don Day, DayWeather.com ★ Support this podcast ★

The May 18, 2026, Closing Market Report highlighted a strong rebound in commodity futures, fueled by optimism over a potential $17 billion increase in Chinese agricultural purchases facilitated by the Trump administration's proposed US-China Board of Trade. Discussing global competitiveness, agricultural economist Joana Colussi noted that while Brazil produces corn at a lower total cost—largely through its second-crop (safrinha) system—the United States remains competitive by achieving double the average yields despite higher overhead and land expenses. Finally, meteorologist Mark Russo reported that favorable weather continues to support rapid planting progress in the US Corn Belt and the safrinha crop in Brazil, though severe long-term dryness continues to plague the US hard red winter wheat regions.---Chapters- Ag Markets with Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Comparing Corn Production Costs in the United States and Brazil- US-China Ag Deliverables: Board of Trade, Soybean Sales, $17bln- Ag Weather with Mark Russo, EverStream.ai ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Mike Zuzolo- farmdoc Projects October ARC/PLC Payments- USTR Posts the Board of Trade will facilitate trade with China- Trump Supports Chinese Farm Ownership and University Students- Ag Weather with Eric SnodgrassThe May 15, 2026, Closing Market Report details recent developments in agricultural commodities, U.S.-China trade relations, and weather patterns. Market analyst Mike Zuzolo characterizes the recent commodity sell-off as a fund correction rather than a definitive market top, highlighting severe heat impacts on the Kansas wheat crop and noting that the recent Trump-Xi meetings resulted in renewed U.S. beef export licenses to China. On trade policy, the U.S. Trade Representative is developing a "Board of Trade" to manage bilateral commerce in non-sensitive goods, while President Trump publicly supported Chinese nationals purchasing U.S. farmland and attending American universities to support those respective domestic markets. Domestically, University of Illinois economists projected upcoming average ARC and PLC payments at $58 per acre for corn, $29 for soybeans, and $47 for wheat. Finally, meteorologist Eric Snodgrass reported on severe dust storms in the Northern Plains and expanding drought in Nebraska, warning that forecasting the upcoming summer weather remains highly uncertain despite a rapidly developing El Niño. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Matt Bennett- E15, SREs, the Farm Bill, the Senate, and Biofuels- Sen. Tillis Riffs on Ag Policy & China- Ag Weather with Mike TannuraThe May 14th Closing Market Report details declining agricultural commodity prices, legislative developments, and global crop weather. Grain markets closed significantly lower following the President's visit to China, which yielded no new trade agreement on soybean, a situation compounded by varying weather conditions affecting domestic crops. In Washington, the US House narrowly passed a bill permitting year-round E15 fuel sales, which now faces an uncertain future in the Senate alongside ongoing 2026 Farm Bill negotiations. Additionally, Senator Thom Tillis outlined national security concerns regarding Chinese investments in US farmland and meat processing facilities. Weather analysis indicates severe drought is threatening northern US spring wheat and varying precipitation is impacting the Corn Belt, while Europe receives beneficial rains and Brazil's second corn crop faces early dry season challenges. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Greg Johnson- Ragged Corn but a Good Start for IL Crops- Ag Weather with Drew LernerIn the May 13, 2026 edition of the Closing Market Report, host Todd Gleason discusses agricultural markets, planting progress, and weather conditions with three industry experts. Greg Johnson of TGM highlights a recent market rally driven by USDA significantly lowering yield and acreage estimates for hard red winter wheat, and he advises farmers to consider catching up on soybean crop sales while prices remain high. 'Next, University of Illinois agronomist Giovani Preza Fontes reports that Illinois corn and soybean planting is ahead of schedule, noting that the crops are off to a solid start despite some uneven emergence caused by fluctuating April temperatures. Finally, meteorologist Drew Lerner forecasts welcome warming across the Midwest corn belt, though he warns that impending heat and low humidity will further stress the already struggling hard red winter wheat crops in the High Plains. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Naomi Blohm- WILLAg News | Senate Farm Bill, Beef Imports, Trump v Xi- E15 Supports Hold Press Conference on the Capitol Steps- Ag Weather with Don DayThe May 12, 2026, Closing Market Report details a confluence of critical agricultural market data, legislative stalemates, and international trade developments. Market analyst Naomi Blohm noted that while the latest USDA WASDE report offered a surprising bump in soybean export and crush demand, markets remain hesitant ahead of a highly anticipated Beijing summit between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, where U.S. Senators are already heavily lobbying for increased agricultural exports. Domestically, agricultural policy faces significant friction; Senator Charles Grassley indicated the Senate farm bill is likely stalled over SNAP reform disputes, and the Trump administration's move to increase beef import flexibility has divided the domestic cattle industry. Conversely, bipartisan momentum is building in the House for permanent, year-round E15 fuel legislation, championed by Representative Nikki Budzinski as a crucial stabilizer for rural economies. Meteorologically, the U.S. Corn Belt is expected to transition from an unseasonably cool pattern to warmer, stormier conditions, while Brazil's safrinha corn region trends unfavorably dry. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Curt Kimmel- International Year of the Woman Farmer Commentary- Phosphorus Loads & StreambanksThe May 11, 2026, Closing Market Report hosted by Todd Gleason covers agricultural market trends, policy commentary, and soil research. Curt Kimmel of agmarket.net analyzes market dynamics, emphasizing the influence of upcoming USDA crop reports, planting progress, and commodity funds on corn and soybean prices. Gleason follows with a brief commentary questioning the Trump administration's unexplained decision to deny appointments to four women on the United Soybean Board. In the final segment, University of Illinois soil scientist Andrew Margenot details his research on streambank erosion, explaining it as a major non-point source of phosphorus pollution in waterways and outlining mitigation strategies such as buffering wetlands and reconsidering ditch channelization. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Mike Zuzolo- Power, Politics, and Pushback on Data Centers- Ag Weather with Eric SnodgrassThe May 8, 2026, Closing Market Report covers agricultural markets, local infrastructure debates, and weather forecasts. Market analyst Mike Zuzolo notes a sharp rise in soybean prices, driven by energy market fluctuations and anticipation of soybean orders from an upcoming Trump-Xi summit in China. Lincoln resident Allison Isley voices community opposition to a proposed 500-megawatt hyperscale data center in Logan County, citing concerns over its massive power consumption, environmental impact, and disruption to the rural quality of life. Finally, meteorologist Eric Snodgrass outlines a weather forecast featuring a transition from a cool, wet early May to warmer, drier conditions suitable for planting, while warning of an unprecedented upcoming El Niño event that could significantly impact global summer weather and South American crop yields. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Matt Bennett- WILLAg News Update | USDA, USB, Women, and SNAP- Applied Research Results from the University of Illinois- Ag Weather with Mike TannuraThe May 7, 2026, episode of the Closing Market Report features a variety of agricultural updates, beginning with analyst Matt Bennett discussing the sideways trade in corn futures, planting delays caused by wet Midwestern weather, and the impact of crude oil prices and international politics on oilseed markets. Additionally, the program covers agricultural news, noting the USDA's unexplained dismissal of several United Soybean Board members and the implementation of stricter nutritional stocking requirements for retailers in the SNAP program. University of Illinois entomologist Nick Seiter also joins the broadcast to highlight the newly published 2025 Applied Research Results guide, which offers farmers independent data on pest control and new findings concerning the northern corn rootworm. Finally, meteorologist Mike Tannura provides a global weather outlook, detailing severe drought concerns for the U.S. hard red winter wheat crop, favorable planting conditions in the Northwestern Corn Belt, the onset of the dry season for Brazil's safrinha corn, and beneficial rains expected across Europe and Russia. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Greg Johnson- Asking County Boards to Site Data Centers is an Unfair Thing- Pope Leo's Food Waste Petition and Prayer- Ag Weather with Drew LernerThe May 6, 2026, broadcast of the Closing Market Report, hosted by Todd Gleason from the Land-Grant university in Urbana-Champaign, covers commodity market trends, the agricultural impact of data centers, food waste, and regional weather forecasts. Analyst Greg Johnson reports that declining crude oil prices and anticipated average U.S. crop yields are pressuring corn and soybean markets. Agricultural policy specialist Jonathan Coppess criticizes the shifting of responsibility onto local county boards for siting large data centers, citing the facilities' immense and unsustainable consumption of farmland, water, and electricity. Additionally, Gleason highlights the ADM Institute for Post-Harvest Loss's efforts to reduce global grain waste, referencing a related public message by Pope Leo XIV. Concluding the report, meteorologist Drew Lerner predicts frost risks for winter wheat in Kansas and Colorado, ongoing drought conditions in Nebraska, and incoming rain that will benefit southern portions of Brazil's Safrinha corn crop. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Naomi Blohm- Data Center Discussion with Google's Liz Scwhab- Ag Weather with Don DayThe May 5, 2026, Closing Market Report covers agricultural commodities, tech infrastructure, and regional weather updates. Market analyst Naomi Blohm highlights recent multi-year highs in corn and soybean prices, advising farmers to capitalize on these prices ahead of upcoming USDA reports and potential market volatility. Next, Google infrastructure manager Liz Schwab addresses common community concerns regarding hyperscale data centers, detailing their operational noise levels, water usage, and the company's approach to funding local electrical grid and infrastructure upgrades. Finally, meteorologist Don Day provides a weather outlook for the Corn Belt and High Plains, noting a beneficial late-season snowstorm for western wheat areas, while highlighting persistent and concerning drought conditions across Nebraska and western Iowa. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Curt Kimmel- Pesticide Resistant Alfalfa Weevils- Search Google for cropCentral- Commodity Markets with Ed Usset- Ag Weather with Mark RussoThe May 4, 2026, Closing Market Report highlights a strong rally in agricultural commodities, with corn and soybeans experiencing significant gains driven by global events, high crude oil prices, and speculative fund buying. Market analysts Curt Kimmel and Ed Usset emphasize that farmers should immediately capitalize on these higher price levels—such as $5.00 for December corn and $12.00 for November soybeans—to lock in profitable new-crop sales. In agronomic updates, entomologist Nick Seiter reports increasing pyrethroid insecticide resistance in alfalfa weevils across the Midwest and encourages producers to participate in a regional management survey. Finally, agricultural meteorologist Mark Russo notes that while the U.S. Corn Belt has faced unseasonably cold and dry weather, planting continues at a steady pace, and Europe is forecasted to receive beneficial rainfall to relieve recent dry conditions. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Mike Zuzolo, GlobalCommResearch.com  - Ag Weather with Eric Snodgrass, NutrienAgSolutions.comThe May 1, 2026, Closing Market Report features agricultural insights from market analyst Mike Zuzolo and meteorologist Eric Snodgrass. Zuzolo highlights that corn and wheat prices are currently finding support from energy markets, delayed U.S. planting due to poor weather, and a historic drought threatening Brazil's second-crop safrinha corn. He also warns of a deteriorating U.S. hard red winter wheat crop and potential energy market disruptions stemming from ongoing tensions in the Middle East. On the weather front, Snodgrass recaps the recent severe storms and tornadoes across Illinois, forecasting a shift toward cooler, drier conditions for the first half of May that will bring regional frost risks. Looking ahead to the summer, Snodgrass notes that a developing El Niño and current Pacific Ocean temperatures suggest the Midwest may experience a stormier, cooler-than-average season rather than extreme, yield-threatening heat. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Matt Bennett, @AgMarket_Net- US House Passes Farm Bill Legislation- Illinois Farm Financials Reviewed- Ag Weather with Mike Tannura, @TstormWeatherThis April 30, 2026, Closing Market Report covers updates on agricultural markets, farm legislation, farm financials, and global weather. Analyst Matt Bennett noted that heavy rains have paused Midwest farming activities, while severe, persistent drought in the western plains has likely caused irreversible damage to the hard red winter wheat crop. On the legislative front, Jonathan Coppess reported that the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a modernized farm bill, though it faces an uncertain future and significant challenges in the Senate. Reviewing farm financials, Brad Zwilling explained that while average farm debt-to-asset ratios have remained stable at 18%, the debt per acre has climbed to nearly $900, which is driving up interest expenses for producers. Finally, meteorologist Mike Tannura confirmed the severe drought damage to southern winter wheat and observed that while the southeastern Corn Belt is experiencing cool, wet weather that may slow crop growth, the drier conditions in the northwest are currently providing an ideal environment for planting. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ag Markets with Greg Johnson, TGM- Kansas Hard Red Winter Wheat Abandonment- Ethanol, Carbon Markets, and Corn Prices- Ag Weather with Drew Lerner, @worldwxThe April 29, 2026, Closing Market Report covers updates on agricultural markets, crop conditions, and weather forecasts. Greg Johnson of TGM notes that while Midwest farmers are making steady planting progress, recent price rallies—driven by poor western wheat conditions and global factors—have prompted some opportunistic new crop sales. Dan O'Brien from Kansas State University highlights that poor weather may lead to the abandonment of some hard red winter wheat in Kansas, though current high prices might persuade producers to harvest what they can rather than destroy the crop. Finally, meteorologist Drew Lerner reports on recent and upcoming freezing temperatures threatening the Great Lakes region, a brief drying window for Midwestern planting, and potential moisture stress for Brazil's safrinha corn crop. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarketing.com- RFS Rule's Impact on BioMass Based Diesel RINs- Don Day, DayWeather.comThe April 28, 2026, Closing Market Report covers updates on agricultural markets, federal renewable fuel standards, and national weather forecasts. Naomi Blohm highlights a rapid planting pace for corn and soybeans across the Midwest, contrasted by stalled progress in Wisconsin due to heavy rains. She also notes that poor winter wheat conditions and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Black Sea are driving up wheat futures. Following the market update, agricultural economist Todd Hubbs explains that new Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) mandates will push domestic biomass-based diesel production to its limits. He details that a structural shortfall in D6 (corn ethanol) RINs requires a backfill using D4 (biomass diesel) RINs, which is expected to sharply increase demand for feedstocks like soybeans or other oilseeds over the next two years. Finally, meteorologist Don Day forecasts a weather shift that will bring beneficial rain to the drought-stricken Delta and Southeast regions, though severe dryness is expected to persist across the hard red winter wheat areas of the central and western Plains. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Middle East Ceasefire Fails to Ease Fertilizer Price Surge- farmdoc Webinar on Controlling Costs 11am Thursday- Chad Hart, Iowa State University- Mark Russo, EverStream.aiThis April 27, 2026, agricultural market report highlights upward price movements across corn, soybeans, and wheat futures. Market analyst Curt Kimmel attributes the soybean rally to the European Union rejecting Argentine soybean meal cargoes due to the presence of the drought-resistant HB4 gene, while corn prices were supported by dry conditions in Brazil. Domestically, ongoing conflict in the Middle East has kept nitrogen fertilizer prices high, adding an estimated $30 to $55 per acre to 2026 corn crop costs. Iowa State economist Chad Hart noted that commodity prices are currently benefiting from both war and weather premiums, pointing out the contrast between widespread U.S. drought and overly wet planting conditions in parts of Iowa and Illinois. Finally, meteorologist Mark Russo forecasted a normal, albeit slightly cooler, spring weather pattern for the U.S. Corn Belt, while noting continued dryness in the western Plains, snow-delayed planting in the Canadian prairies, and generally favorable late-season conditions for Brazil's safrinha corn crop. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Mike Zuzolo, GlobalCommResearch.com- WILLAg News | Data Center Moratorium & USDA's TOTAL- Eric Snodgrass, NutrienAgSolutions.comThe April 24, 2026, closing market report details agricultural commodity trends, local land-use policy, and seasonal weather forecasts. Market analyst Mike Zuzolo notes rapid planting progress across the central United States but warns that hard red winter wheat faces a critical 45-day window where drought and late-spring storms could severely diminish yields. He emphasizes that commodity volatility is currently driven by high-frequency trading, shifting USDA acreage estimates, rising crude oil prices, and international geopolitical tensions. In regional news, the Champaign County Board approved a 12-month moratorium on new data centers to evaluate local aquifer demands and establish comprehensive zoning standards. Additionally, a newly released USDA survey indicates that 340 million acres of U.S. agricultural land are rented out, highlighting a stark contrast in absentee landownership between the Plains and the Midwest. Concluding with the weather outlook, meteorologist Eric Snodgrass contrasts the ongoing severe thunderstorm and tornado risks in the Plains and Midwest with deep, persistent drought conditions in the Southeast and Ohio River Valley. Snodgrass anticipates a brief period of cooler temperatures dropping down from Canada and cautions that an early end to the monsoon season in Brazil's Cerrado threatens the finish of their second-crop corn. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Matt Bennett, AgMarket.net- County Governments Dealing with Data Centers- Mike Tannura, Tstorm.net ★ Support this podcast ★

- Greg Johnson, TGM TotalGrainMarketing.com- WILLAg News | Farm Bill, Farm Workers, and Earth Day- Drew Lerner, WorldWeather.cc ★ Support this podcast ★

- Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarketing.com- WILLAg News Update | Gummies and Data-Centers- Dave Chatterton, SFarmMarketing.com Ag Energies- Don Day, DayWeather.com ★ Support this podcast ★

- Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Use 10oz of Metribuzin on Waterhemp- FAPRI Cautions RVO Soybean Push- Mark Russo, EverStream.aiThe April 20, 2026, Closing Market Report covers several key agricultural updates, beginning with analyst Curt Kimmel noting fluctuating grain markets influenced by adverse weather in the wheat belt and ongoing spring planting progress. Ben Brown from the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) discusses their 10-year agricultural outlook, highlighting a persistent financial gap between the crop and livestock sectors. He also warns that subtle biofuel policy details regarding international feedstocks could unexpectedly weaken domestic soybean oil demand before 2028. Meteorologist Mark Russo reports that recent cold snaps likely caused minimal widespread damage to winter wheat and forecasts a drier, warming trend favorable for Midwest planting, though he notes growing concerns over dry conditions for Brazil's safrinha corn crop. Finally, the broadcast briefly highlights research recommending a specific 10-ounce application rate of Metribuzin to control herbicide-resistant waterhemp. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Mike Zuzolo, GlobalCommResearch.com- Eric Snodgrass, NutrienAgSolutions.comOn the April 17, 2026, edition of the Closing Market Report, host Todd Gleason covers agricultural markets and regional weather forecasts. Meteorologist Andrew Pritchard provides a severe weather update, warning that thunderstorms with potential 70 mph winds and isolated tornadoes are expected to move through central Illinois between 8:00 PM and midnight. In the market analysis segment, Mike Zuzolo notes that the upcoming Cattle on Feed report carries added significance due to falling energy prices and high retail ground beef costs, which threaten to dampen consumer demand during the summer grilling season. Zuzolo also suggests that grain markets are building a base, supported by weather risks, a weakened dollar, and recent geopolitical developments. Finally, meteorologist Eric Snodgrass explains that an expanding Bermuda High and a developing El Niño are driving the Midwest's recent wave of severe storms and anomalous precipitation. Looking ahead, he notes that while summer weather models remain mixed, historical analogs for strong El Niño years do not automatically point to disastrous crop yields in the Midwest. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Matt Bennett, AgMarket.net- WILLAg News | SAF Market Development & Year-Round E15- Using Metribuzin to Manage Group 15 Resistant Waterhemp- Mike Tannura, Tstorm.netThe April 16, 2026, broadcast of the Closing Market Report covers updates on agricultural markets, biofuels, weed management, and national weather impacts. Market analyst Matt Bennett explains that corn and soybean markets are consolidating as wet and cold weather temporarily pauses planting across the Midwest, warning that high energy and fertilizer costs pose long-term profitability risks for growers. In policy news, industry leaders are advocating for federal support to expand the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) market, while lawmakers simultaneously push for year-round E15 to combat inflation and assist farmers facing negative margins. On the agronomy front, weed scientist Aaron Hager advises that with waterhemp populations in Illinois showing resistance to group 15 herbicides, farmers should consider utilizing metribuzin, an older asymmetrical triazine that remains effective against the weed. Finally, meteorologist Mike Tannura details severe, ongoing drought conditions and an impending freeze threatening winter wheat in the western plains and southern United States, a situation that contrasts sharply with record wet conditions delaying fieldwork in northern states like Michigan. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Greg Johnson, TGM Total Grain Marketing- How Delayed Fertilizer Shipments Threaten 2027 Yields- Drew Lerner, World Weather IncThe April 15, 2026, commodity markets closed with marginal gains in corn, soybeans, and wheat futures amidst widespread U.S. planting delays. Frequent precipitation across the Midwest has stalled fieldwork, though regions such as southern Illinois have advanced, planting up to half of their soybean crop. Market behavior remains subdued; producers are deferring new crop sales due to stagnant mid-range prices, relying heavily on domestic crush capacity while waiting for necessary improvements in global export and domestic livestock demand.Simultaneously, severe logistical bottlenecks in the Persian Gulf threaten the global fertilizer supply chain following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The region, responsible for 18% of global fertilizer exports, currently holds over 40 laden vessels unable to exit. This blockage has triggered an immediate spike in nitrogen and phosphate prices and forced major global producers, including Morocco, China, and Russia, to limit their own exports to protect domestic markets. The resulting scarcity is expected to constrain global agricultural yields through the 2027 harvest.Global weather conditions further complicate the agricultural production outlook. In the U.S., the Hard Red Winter Wheat crop in the High Plains faces detrimental impacts from persistent drought and extreme temperature volatility, including impending freezes, while the Corn Belt remains oversaturated by ongoing storms. Conversely, favorable spring conditions are reported across Europe and the Black Sea regions. In Asia, India's winter harvest benefits from dry weather, with the upcoming monsoon expected to start strong despite a developing El Niño, while China's rapeseed crop faces severe quality degradation from excessive moisture. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarketing.com- The Changing Climate of Western Water Rights- Don Day, DayWeather.comThe April 14, 2026, closing market report details immediate commodity market pressures, long-term hydrological challenges, and polarized domestic weather patterns.In the agricultural markets segment, Naomi Blohm reports that U.S. planting progress is slightly ahead of the five-year average, with corn at 5% and soybeans at 6%. Downward pressure on domestic grain prices is currently driven by increased Brazilian crop estimates from CONAB, placing corn at 139.57 million metric tons and soybeans at 179.15 million metric tons. This is compounded by a sharp $7 to $7.50 drop in crude oil prices tied to anticipated U.S.-Iran diplomatic talks, which reduced geopolitical risk premiums. Additionally, high fertilizer costs may incentivize a shift from corn to soybean acreage among U.S. producers.Addressing western water rights, Eric Hunt highlights the precarious state of the Ogallala Aquifer, the primary irrigation source for the High Plains. While central Nebraska saw some moisture relief in 2024, western and southern regions continue to face strict water allocation limits due to severe groundwater declines. The situation is acute in Kansas and Texas, where aquifer depletion could force a transition away from irrigated commodity crops within a decade. Hunt notes that a quarter-century of western drought, exacerbated by rising baseline temperatures, will increasingly define agricultural viability and regional water politics.Meteorologist Don Day confirms a stagnant weather pattern heavily favoring the eastern half of the United States. A persistent moisture pipeline is expected to deliver one to three inches of rain from Texas through the eastern corn belt over the next week, sustaining moisture in already saturated areas. Conversely, the western plains, particularly the Dakotas and western Nebraska, remain unseasonably dry. Day notes that the primary wet season for the High Plains typically arrives in late May and June, suggesting an ongoing El Niño pattern may eventually deliver necessary precipitation to currently parched western regions. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Risk Premium & N Supply Chain Issues- Mark Russo, EverStream.aiThe April 13, 2026, closing market report highlighted the impact of international geopolitical tensions on agricultural commodities. Analysts noted that recent blockades involving the United States and Iran injected volatility and risk premiums into the markets, initially pushing corn and wheat prices higher while temporarily weakening soybeans. Given these built-in risk premiums, market experts recommend that producers begin executing their old and new crop marketing strategies, aiming to price at least twenty percent of their grain to capitalize on the current environment.Domestic planting progress is advancing at a strong pace, particularly in the central and southern Midwest, with expectations of average or slightly above-average planting progress overall. However, the global conflict has raised significant long-term concerns regarding nitrogen and urea supply chains. While the vast majority of fertilizer for the current spring season was priced before the conflict escalated, analysts warn that sustained high fertilizer prices will likely limit fall applications and significantly impact acreage and crop rotation decisions for the 2027 growing season.Weather patterns continue to present varying challenges across key agricultural regions. The western hard red winter wheat belt continues to suffer from a lack of meaningful rainfall, pushing crop conditions closer to dire levels. In the broader Midwest, the southern belt is experiencing drier conditions conducive to rapid planting, while central and northern areas remain slightly wetter. Internationally, incoming rains in Argentina are expected to slow the corn and soybean harvests, whereas the Safrinha crop areas in southern Brazil are entering a drier pattern that will soon require moisture to maintain adequate soil conditions. ★ Support this podcast ★

The Value of FarmlandBruce Sherrick, DirectorTIAA Center for Farmland ResearchUniversity of Illinois ★ Support this podcast ★

- Matt Bennett, AgMarket.net- Resistant Waterhemp, maybe Metribuzin- Mike Tannura, Tstorm.netThe April 9, 2026 closing market report covers agricultural commodity markets, weed control strategies, and Midwestern weather forecasts. Analyst Matt Bennett characterized the day's USDA WASDE report as largely uneventful, noting ample global corn supplies and continuing competitive pressure from South American soybean exports. University of Illinois weed scientist Aaron Hager then detailed the increasing resistance of waterhemp to Group 15 and PPO-inhibiting herbicides across the state, advising producers to consider metribuzin as a viable and cost-effective alternative for residual control. Finally, meteorologist Mike Tannura highlighted severe drought conditions currently impacting over half of the U.S. hard red winter wheat crop. He forecast upcoming rain systems that will primarily benefit eastern, lower-elevation areas of the Plains while leaving western regions dry, alongside additional precipitation expected to move into the Corn Belt during the planting season. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Greg Johnson, TGM TotalFarmMarketing.com- Higher Fuel and Fertilizer Prices & Farmer Sentiment- Drew Lerner, WorldWeather.ccThe April 8, 2026, Closing Market Report highlights that corn and soybean prices have decoupled from sharply lower crude oil prices following a temporary ceasefire in the Iran conflict. Analysts advise farmers to lock in current commodity prices, as large carryouts are expected unless a summer drought occurs. Concurrently, economists warn that elevated fuel and fertilizer costs driven by the Middle East conflict will likely persist into the fall, although recent bridge payments and minor commodity rallies have temporarily improved overall farmer sentiment. On the weather front, the Western United States faces long-term water supply concerns due to low snowpack, which could lead to a dry summer in the Plains, while immediate heavy rains in the Midwest threaten to delay spring planting. Internationally, agricultural weather is improving, with Argentina receiving a beneficial dry period and Brazil's safrinha corn utilizing an extended monsoon season. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarketing.com- John Deere Updates Right to Report & DEF- Gerald Mashange, University of Illinois- Don Day, DayWeather.comThe April 7, 2026 Closing Market Report highlights significant concerns regarding geopolitical tensions with Iran and their impact on agricultural commodities. Total Farm Marketing's Naomi Blohm notes that traders are squaring positions ahead of an impending deadline with Iran, closely watching crude oil resistance levels. University of Illinois agricultural economist Gerald Mashange elaborates on this "escalation trap" in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that damage to energy and fertilizer infrastructure could cause prolonged supply chain disruptions and price spikes akin to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.In agricultural news, John Deere announced software updates complying with new Environmental Protection Agency guidelines to allow farmers temporary overrides on emissions and diesel exhaust fluid equipment during critical operational windows. On the weather front, Don Day from DayWeather forecasts much-needed rain for the drought-stricken winter wheat regions in the Southern Plains. This precipitation is expected to move northeast across the Corn Belt, though central and western parts of Nebraska and the Dakotas may remain largely dry. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Ed Usset, University of Minnesota- Mark Russo, EverStream.aiTrading on April 6, 2026, was quiet, reflecting slight price gains in corn and soybeans alongside a dip in wheat futures. Market analysts expect the upcoming USDA WASDE report to indicate tighter corn stocks driven by strong demand, offset by a potential slight increase in soybean carryout. Geopolitical tensions continue to support commodity prices through war premiums; however, analysts warn of significant downside risks once the crop is successfully planted.Elevated fertilizer costs, with anhydrous ammonia projected at $860 per ton for the 2027 crop, combined with record board soybean crush margins at $2.43 per bushel, strongly favor a continued shift toward soybean acreage. Despite expanding domestic crushing capacity and bullish price scenarios, weak cash basis levels act as a red flag regarding the longevity of current futures rallies. Agricultural economists advise producers to proactively hedge or secure forward contracts to lock in profitable new-crop prices—such as November soybeans at $11.50 to $11.60 and December corn near $4.80—warning that historical trends frequently show prices deteriorating before harvest.In the U.S. Corn Belt, widespread weekend rainfall successfully replenished soil moisture, creating favorable conditions and steady soil temperatures for the upcoming planting season. Conversely, prolonged dryness remains a major concern for the Hard Red Winter Wheat regions of the Plains, with upcoming forecasts offering only scattered and localized precipitation. In South America, an active late-season weather pattern is causing minor harvest delays for corn and soybeans across Brazil and Argentina. However, the added moisture is exceptionally beneficial for the critical growth stages of Brazil's safrinha, or second crop, corn. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Matt Bennett, AgMarket.net- I had A.I. write a song about Corn- PCM Date Shows Farmer Production Practice Consistency- Mike Tannura, Tstorm.net ★ Support this podcast ★

- Greg Johnson, TGM TotalGrainMarketing.com- How Much Soybean Demand will the RVO Create- Drew Lerner, WorldWeather.ccAg Markets with Greg JohnsonThe recent USDA prospective plantings and grain stocks reports were largely neutral for corn and slightly friendly for soybeans. Currently, the market is being driven by geopolitical headlines, with money flowing out of commodities and into equities due to expectations that Middle East tensions may ease. Significant damage to Middle Eastern infrastructure for crude oil and natural gas, a key fertilizer input, will take years to repair. This damage is expected to keep transportation and input costs elevated, contributing to inflation and likely delaying any interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Because planted acreage is high enough to meet demand under normal yield conditions, future market movement will heavily depend on actual yields and the actions of investment funds, which are currently holding near-record long positions. Farmers are advised to consider pricing new crop soybeans in the mid-$11 range.How Much Soybean Demand will the RVO Create | farmdocThe EPA recently announced new Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) that will increase biomass-based diesel mandates by roughly 60% for 2026 and 2027. Meeting these new mandates will require between 50 and 60 billion pounds of feedstock, consuming approximately half of the world's total supply of fats and oils. This massive increase in domestic demand for soybean oil is expected to push US crush capacity to its absolute limit. Consequently, the US soybean market is pivoting away from exports, which are facing stiff competition from cheaper Brazilian supplies, toward domestic consumption. This transition is highly bullish for domestic pricing, supporting the farmdoc team's projection of an $11 season average cash price.Ag Weather with Drew LernerIn Brazil, the safrinha, or second crop corn, in the north is well-established but will rely heavily on existing soil moisture as the monsoonal rains wind down. Southern safrinha areas are currently dry but still have opportunities to catch rain from passing frontal systems. Meanwhile, in Argentina, a shift in weather patterns has brought heavy rain to previously dry areas. Parts of the country, particularly central Buenos Aires, are now too wet, stalling the sunseed harvest and creating potential quality issues. In the United States, the lower Midwest and northern Delta are expecting multiple waves of significant rain and cooler temperatures, which will likely delay early spring fieldwork. Conversely, dryland crop areas from Texas to Nebraska will see a break from extreme heat but are forecast to remain critically dry for at least another week to 10 days. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarketing.com- WILLAg News Update- March USDA Hogs & Pigs Report Analysis- Don Day, DayWeather.comProgram OverviewProgram Name: Closing Market ReportDate of Broadcast: March 31, 2026Host: Todd Gleason from the University of Illinois ExtensionNetwork: Illinois Public Media (available online at willag.org)Focus: The show provides comprehensive coverage of agricultural markets, industry news, livestock updates, and weather forecasts tailored for the farming community.Program ElementsAg Markets Analysis: The core of the episode focuses on the release of the USDA's Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks reports. Host Todd Gleason details the survey results, noting a 3% decrease in intended corn acres and a 4% increase in intended soybean acres compared to the previous year. Guest Naomi Blohm from totalfarmmarketing.com provides expert analysis, explaining that the reports fell mostly within expectations and failed to trigger any dramatic market shifts, leaving corn and soybean prices relatively range-bound.WILLAg News Update: This segment covers several key agricultural news items:The EPA's release of the final renewable fuel standard volume obligations for 2026 and 2027, which was well-received by major agricultural groups for creating demand for biofuels.The EPA's action to remove problematic sensor requirements for diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) systems, aimed at preventing equipment downtime during spring planting.A report by Mike Davis featuring Blaine Nelson from Farmer Mac, discussing how AI and digital technology are making farm loan underwriting faster, more transparent, and less costly.USDA March Hogs and Pigs Report Analysis: The program reviews the latest livestock data, highlighting a slight year-over-year increase in total hog inventory despite a drop in the breeding herd. University of Missouri agricultural economist Jason Franken provides commentary, noting that producers are relying on increased efficiency (record pigs per litter) to manage supply as they financially recover from 2023 losses.Honoring WWII Flying ACE "Bud" Anderson: A unique segment featuring audio from General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, honoring Colonel Clarence Emil "Bud" Anderson, a highly decorated World War II fighter pilot who recently passed away at age 102. Gleason uses the moment to encourage listeners to support and thank veterans.Ag Weather Forecast: The show concludes with a weather outlook from Don Day of Day Weather. Day forecasts a wet start to April with significant rainfall expected across much of the Corn Belt, heavy spring snows in the northern states, and beneficial moisture for the western U.S., though some areas in the central plains will remain dry. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Drought & Workers Strike May Reconfigure Beef Processing- Mark Russo, EverStream.ai WeatherThe March 30, 2026, Closing Market Report details agricultural commodity performance, processing challenges, and global weather conditions.Market PerformanceCorn and hard red winter wheat futures closed lower, while soybean futures experienced mixed results.Live cattle, feeder cattle, and crude oil prices finished higher, contrasting with downward movements in the S&P 500 and NASDAQ indices.Commodity OutlookMarket participants are positioning for the March 31 USDA prospective plantings and grain stocks reports, which will establish benchmarks for acreage and demand estimates.Ongoing geopolitical conflicts, specifically involving Iran, are anticipated to sustain elevated energy prices and inject broader economic volatility.Livestock markets currently remain supported by the approaching summer grilling season.Beef Processing and Supply ChainA worker strike at the JBS processing plant in Greeley, Colorado, is forcing the reallocation of fed cattle to alternative facilities, primarily in Texas and Nebraska.The strike is exerting short-term pressure on fed cattle markets, with the potential to negatively impact feeder cattle prices if the disruption is prolonged.The broader beef industry continues to contend with packing overcapacity relative to shrinking cattle inventory, alongside long-term drought concerns in the western United States.Global Agricultural WeatherU.S. Plains: The hard red winter wheat crop is facing critical stress from extreme soil moisture deficits and record-high temperatures.U.S. Midwest: Conditions are highly favorable for summer crop planting, driven by an active weather pattern that is actively replenishing soil moisture without introducing unseasonable cold.Black Sea Region: Winter crop development in Eastern Europe and Russia is progressing well with improved topsoil moisture, though subsoil moisture deficits from previous dry spells remain an area to monitor. ★ Support this podcast ★

- Mike Zuzolo, GlobalCommResearch.com- High Priced NH3 Likely to Persist into the Fall- Eric Snodgrass, NutrienAgSolutions.com ★ Support this podcast ★

- Matt Bennett, AgMarket.net- Fuel & Fertilizer | YouTube.com/@farmdoc- The Nebraska Wildfires in Context- Mike Tannura, Tstorm.net ★ Support this podcast ★

- Greg Johnson, TotalGrainMarketing.com- Fall Anhydrous Price Predictions and a farmdoc Webinar- PRE Herbicide Injury on Early Planted Soybean- Drew Lerner, WorldWeather.cc ★ Support this podcast ★

- Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarket.com- ForgeBee Leverages EnterpriseWorks for Pollinators- Don Day, DayWeather.com ★ Support this podcast ★

- Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Celebrating 100 Years of USDA Radio- Mark Russo, EverStream.ai Weather ★ Support this podcast ★

- Mike Zuzolo, GlobalCommResearch.com- The Iran Conflict, Fuel, and Fertilizers  ★ Support this podcast ★

- Matt Bennett, AgMarket.net- The Iran Conflict & U.S. Row Crop Returns- A Day in the Life of Bomber Crews- Mike Tannura, Tstorm.net ★ Support this podcast ★

- Greg Johnson, TGM TotalGrainMarket.com- WILLAg.org News Update- Drew Lerner, WorldWeather.cc ★ Support this podcast ★

- Dave Chatterton, SFarmMarketing.com- The Passing of Orion Samuelson- Brazil's Soybean Expansion may Slow- Don Day, DayWeather.com ★ Support this podcast ★

- Ben Brown, University of Missouri- WILLAg News Update- Mark Russo, EverStream.ai ★ Support this podcast ★

- Eric Snodgrass, Nutrien Ag Solutions- WILLAg News Update- ADAO Corn Panel Discussion ★ Support this podcast ★

- Matt Bennett, AgMarket.net- Connor Sible, University of Illinois- Mike Tannura, Tstorm.net ★ Support this podcast ★

- Greg Johnson, TGM TotalGrainMarketing.com- Drew Lerner, WorldWeather.cc ★ Support this podcast ★

- Naomi Blohm, TotalFarmMarketing.com- Brian Lutz, Corteva VP Ag Solutions- Don Day, DayWeather.com ★ Support this podcast ★