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May is Mental Health Month. Ben Jarboe finds out what the Farm Credit System is doing to make resources available for farmers and their families. Christy Seyfert, the President and CEO of the Farm Credit Council in Washington D.C. tells him they recognize the unique struggles that farmers and their families may be facing. Yes, there is a chance of rain in the forecast. Pretty good timing considering all the acres that have already been planted in Wisconsin. Stu Muck shares the outlook. Weather is an important issue everyday in Wisconsin. From what you wear, to where you plant - it's part of the conversation. Now Wisconsinites have access to a newly enhanced network of weather stations that dot the state. Pam Jahnke takes a trip to Arlington to find out about the expansion of the Wisconet with Chris Vagasky, UW Meteorologist that's helping assemble the network. Meanwhile eyes continue to focus on potential cuts to programs and personnel that farms may depend on. Stephanie Hoff gets the perspective of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. NASDA, advocates for state ag agencies in Washington D.C. One of the things it's pushing for in Congress is for states to get more support to tackle animal disease outbreaks and carry out prevention measures. A primary example is testing milk for highly pathogenic avian influenza, says Becky Garrison Warfel, director of public policy for NASDA. Markets have cooled since the announcement that China and U.S. were relaxing tariffs. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend talks with Pam Jahnke about where traders' attention is focused today. Monday gave us the first glimpse of what farmers will be planting in the World Ag Supply Demand Estimates (WASDE). Heinberg says that was the real driver on where corn and beans went Monday, and where cattle could be going this week!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Heinberg of Total Farm Marketing joins Mark Magnuson in today's midday market podcast.
At McFarland High School, students are getting a hands-on education that goes far beyond the classroom—transforming local trees into high-quality lumber for their woodworking projects. Under the leadership of Steve Pennekamp, Technology and Engineering Teacher, the school’s unique milling program allows students to experience the full process from log to finished product, gaining valuable skills along the way. Charitee Seebecker visits the class for a first hand perspective. Warm and dry. That describes Wisconsin weather this week. Stu Muck tells about the weather system surrounding us. The renewable fuels industry is pleased that there's been approval of E15 use during the summer, but is advocating for approval on year round use of the alternative fuel. Ben Jarboe gets an update from Paul Winter, director of public affairs for the Clean Fuels Alliance. He says that even petroleum industry leaders have agreed that E15 and biodiesel are two priorities that need federal support to keep growing. Foremost Farms USA has announced that Brenda Dehart is their new President and CEO. The dairy cooperative headquartered in Middleton, welcomed Dehart who's been with the dairy since 2024. Pam Jahnke shares her pedigree. The South American corn crop is growing and that's put pressure on our old crop corn prices. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says that's just one of the items traders are watching. Meanwhile cattle prices remain exceptionally strong and consumer buying is continuing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grain markets, lacking much of a fresh story, drifted their way lower to start the week on Monday. Could talk of a bigger South American crop, early positioning ahead of the May WASDE, fund action and weather be a downward driver on these markets this week? John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins us to discuss the grain and livestock trade to start the week. More at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. Also, we continue to see a lot of strength in the cattle market, mainly with cash driving the bus as we get into the month of May. Meantime, the grain trade started the week lower amid no fresh news and a wide open planting window ahead for many areas. Scott Varilek with Kooima Kooima Varilek joins us to discuss. Find more at https://www.kkvtrading.com. Fieldwork has definitely picked up the last few weeks, the question is will it be even more wide open this week? Also, what does the impact of potential cuts have when it comes to forecasting tools that folks like Eric Snodgrass use to forecast our weather? We discuss all that and more with him on our Weekly Weather Update. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Songbirds are in danger because of a threat you may not think of. Windows. Ben Jarboe visits with Lisa Gaumnitz from Save Our Songbirds. She says that every year approximately 3.5 billion birds die from running into windows. SOS is trying to raise awareness about the issue and educate consumers on what they can do to help. Severe weather cascaded across Wisconsin last night. Stu Muck says that things start improving today. Wisconsin farms may be unaware that labor trafficking in agriculture could be happening right in front of them. Stephanie Hoff gets familiar with this issue from Mariana Rodriguez, Director of UMOS Latina Resource Center in Milwaukee. She gives advice on what farms should be looking for when hiring contract labor to avoid legal implications. She starts us off by explaining what labor trafficking is: recruitment, harboring, and transporting of workers and using force, fraud, or coercion for labor services. Wisconsin farmers already have 6% of their soybeans in the ground, 4% of the corn is planted and 41% of the state's spuds are already in the ground. Although tillage is running behind at 26% complete, the winter wheat has improved by 6% points to 58% good to excellent. Pam Jahnke shares the stats. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend joins Pam Jahnke. Tariffs are still looming in the marketplace. Heinberg says consumer confidence is still supporting beef as the grilling season unfolds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Heinberg, Total Farm Marketing, says corn and soybeans see pressure from planting progress, first notice day positioning. Wheat tries to bounce. Cattle make new highs, while hogs see profit taking end of month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Soybeans and corn had a fairly mixed session, working off the lows from the morning trade while wheat was under pressure. Cattle also had a solid start to the week. John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins us to discuss the start of the trading week. Find more at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. We see a potential severe weather outbreak to start the week in the Midwest along with more active weather this past weekend and for the rest of the week ahead. Eric Snodgrass with Nutrien Ag Solutions joins us to discuss as we start the week on Monday. More at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Stocks, energies and the U.S. dollar were all under heavy pressure on Monday which ended up weighing on grain and livestock trade. John Heinberg with Total Farm Marketing joins us today to run through the trade action and share some market perspective coming off a holiday weekend. Find more at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. We saw a fairly active weekend of weather for the Easter holiday and it sounds like more is in store for the central U.S. this week. Eric Snodgrass joins us to discuss the weather outlook for the rest of April, potential drought risk this summer and more. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Senator Patrick Testin has taken the reins of the Wisconsin Senate Committee for Agriculture and Revenue. Although not from a farming background, Testin says he's always had a healthy appreciation for Wisconsin agriculture and rural life, and already has some priorities he wants addressed. He tells Pam Jahnke about his path to the position, and how he's already focused attention on seed potato production in the state and continuing a grazing pilot program that helps new farmers investigate that option. Wind continues to be the dominant element of Wisconsin weather today according to Stu Muck.More policy is being developed at the state capitol focused on rural Wisconsin. Stephanie Hoff catches up with Rep. Travis Tranel, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Agriculture. One item that's been getting a lot of attention is locating solar arrays on valuable farmland. Tranel says he's working to find some policy guidelines that will work to protect that farmland. Wisconsin's DNR is soliciting applications for their Wolf Advisory Committee. Pam Jahnke reports that the DNR is specifically filling spots from 5 different stakeholder groups, and expects members to attend all meetings, come prepared and be willing to collaborate. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing out of West Bend, joins Pam Jahnke. The U.S. corn market has remained resilient to all the global discussion of tariffs. Heinberg says China focusing all its buying power on places outside of the U.S. has actually driven other global buyers TO the U.S. market. He also notes that you can't ignore the progress that's been made on soybean harvest in South America and that the market is screaming "do not plant beans".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We saw good strength to start the week in cattle futures which also spilled over to lean hogs on Monday. Meanwhile, new crop soybeans were a little higher with old crop soybeans and corn slightly lower. Wheat found moderate pressure on the day as well. John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins us to discuss Monday's trade. More at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. Eric Snodgrass with Nutrien Ag Solutions joins us once again for our Weekly Weather Update as we discuss a more active weather pattern ahead of this holiday week. PLUS, what is the frost risk potential that still remains for the Midwest as we work into the heart of spring planting? Find more online at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Wisconsin's livestock market has been topsy turvy with incredible prices for any beef cattle. Curt Larson, President and CEO of the Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales Association, talks to Jill Welke about the marketing cycle they've witnessed at sale barns. He also projects what he's anticipating for livestock movement and prices going forward in 2025. Sunshine returns to the forecast today, according to Stu Muck. With high egg prices and limited supplies, many people have decided to try and grow their own. That's a great option, but you need to be aware of some of the regulations and laws that are in place to protect other farms and flocks. Stephanie Hoff talks to someone who's lived through a flock depopulation. Scott Schneider is an egg producer out of Lake Mills and he sits on the board of directors for the Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium. He knows firsthand how HPAI can damage a commercial flock. He dealt with it in 2015 when his flock was wiped out. This should motivate livestock owners to register and/or renew their premise ID through the Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium. For one, it's the law. Second, it's to protect livestock owners from disease outbreaks. The first crop progress report of the season was released on Monday. While there's not much to report for Wisconsin farmers, there's ample concern about weather patterns elsewhere. Matthew Bennett, co-founder of AgMarketing.net, says there's a 60% chance that drought could impact national production averages. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing, joins Pam Jahnke to discuss the latest trends in tariffs and the impact it's having on the marketplace. The U.S. remains the place international buyers are going for corn, while South America's harvest continues. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grain markets did their best to stabilize on Monday with some green in old crop corn, soybeans and wheat trade was a bit higher across the board. Obviously tariffs and headline risk continues to bring volatility to the stock market and more. We discuss the market picture to start the week in a conversation with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. Find more at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. We've seen large amounts of rain fall from Arkansas up through the Ohio River valley, causing widespread and devastating flooding. Not to mention, a ton of severe weather as well in recent days. We recap all of that, discuss frost/freeze potential for early this week and look at a new long term weather outlook with Eric Snodgrass from Nutrien Ag Solutions in our Weekly Weather Update. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com. Also, we start the show discussing the potential of increased soybean aphid pressure in the Midwest this year and talk about ways to minimize that pressure. Ron Geis, Market Development Specialist, Corteva Agriscience, joins us to discuss. Learn more at https://www.corteva.us/ridgeback.
The March 31st Prospective Plantings and Quarterly Grain Stocks reports came out from USDA on Monday and left us with one main theme: corn is apparently king for 2025 (at least as of now). We discuss the numbers and a fairly quiet market reaction overall in our USDA Roundtable with John Heinberg of Total Farm Marketing and Kristi Van Ahn-Kjeseth of Van Ahn & Company on today's show. Find more for John online by visiting https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com and for Kristi by visiting https://www.vanahnco.com. As we flip the calendar to April and gear up for more spring fieldwork activity, some areas of the U.S. are set to get more precipitation in the form of rain or even snow this week. Eric Snodgrass with Nutrien Ag Solutions joins us to share details on the weather setup for this week and more. Find more online as well at https://www.ag-wx.com.
A Wisconsin beef producer has been named secretary/treasurer of the Cattlemen's Beef Board. Terry Quam from Marda Angus in Lodi was named to the position in January. Bob Bosold visits with Quam about the direction of the industry, challenges identified by CBB, and how they're working to invest checkoff dollars wisely to get answers. Today will be fine weatherwise, but Wednesday gets interesting. Stu Muck is reminding rainfall reporters that they're "on deck" for precipitation updates starting tonight. Mud is one reason why people with livestock might still be keeping animals indoors. Diet is another. Stephanie Hoff finds out about some of the items all animal owners, especially horse owners, need to think through before they open the pasture gate from equine veterinarian, Dr. Howard Ketover. Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of the US Meat Export Federation, says that China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) has not recertified U.S. pork and beef processors for shipment into China. That's a big deal - just as big he says - as tariffs. Market eyes are focused on the wheat market according to John Heinberg, from Total Farm Marketing in West Bend. Dry weather's threatening the crops in the central plains. Plus a beef plant in South Dakota closed yesterday because of poor margins. Heinberg says that may be a storyline to follow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wheat, cattle and hogs enjoyed the green for St. Patrick's Day on Monday as we saw solid strength in those markets to start the week. Corn and soybeans meanwhile were mostly mixed around unchanged, seemingly lacking direction on the day. John Heinberg with Total Farm Marketing joins us to take a look at the early week market action on Monday. More online at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. We recap the severe weather outbreak this past weekend and look ahead to what could be another active weather week ahead with Eric Snodgrass from Nutrien Ag Solutions in our Weekly Weather Update. Plus, we get an update on South American weather and a look at the latest weather in the Black Sea region as well. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
John Heinberg of Total Farm Marketing joins Mark Magnuson in today's midday market podcast.
The freeze on federal funding is hitting a group just as they enter their busiest season. FairShare CSA coalition recently was informed that their grant meant to promote and expand CSA programs—has been canceled. Tess Romanski, FairShare CSA Communications & Development Manager says With the funding loss and uncertainty around conservation programs, it’s a tough time for farmers. But she emphasizes that now is the perfect time to support your local farmers. If you’re looking for fresh, local food and a way to directly support agriculture, joining a CSA could be a great option. Whether you're excited to try new seasonal produce or prefer customizing your weekly box, there’s likely a CSA that fits your needs. Charitee Seebecker checks in on funding progress. Wonderful weather on Monday jumpstarted Wisconsinites outdoor activities yesterday. Will it hold? Stu Muck says we'll see sun again today, but not quite as warm. Today the Governor's Tourism Conference draws to a close in LaCrosse. Wisconsin's agricultural tourism is on display and up for some recognition during the event. Sheila Everhart, executive director of Wisconsin's Agricultural Tourism Association explains the value that Wisconsin sees through ag tourism, and also explains the background of the 4 nominees they've advanced for state honors. Tomorrow thousands of dairy producers and agribusinesses will be together for the Professional Dairy Producers annual business conference. Shelly Mayer, executive director, says they've invited some dairy producers from the European Union to share their insights and current experiences .Commodities are holding firm for now in Chicago. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says it's part of unraveling tariffs that are on, and tariffs that are paused.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We started the week with heavy pressure in soybean oil which bled into soybeans while wheat was strong and we had mixed action in corn and livestock markets. Stocks were down hard to start the week as well. We discuss continued market volatility with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. Find more at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. After a busy weather week last week, things are much warmer and have many farmers thinking spring and planting season to start this week. But, we could see another volatile weather weekend coming up. We discuss it all in our Weekly Weather Update with Eric Snodgrass from Nutrien Ag Solutions. Learn more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
With a major winter storm approaching the state, it's important to know why those systems now play a role in spring weather later. Pam Jahnke talks with Eric Snodgrass, Principal Atmospheric Scientist for Conduit. Snodgrass admits he's a "nerd" for weather, and has been his whole life. He explains to Jahnke why the fires in California and the snow in Florida signal a need to push "reset" with some big storms in the Midwest if we'd like to see a normal spring. Wisconsin will see some measurable snow arriving by some time on Wednesday. Stu Muck breaks down its advance. School districts may have good intentions when it comes to serving locally sourced foods, but finding it is another issue. Stephanie Hoff talks to a farmer from Oconto county who's been appointed to the Dept. of Public Instructions Farm-to-School board. David Lee Schneider is a diversified farmer from Oconto who says Wisconsin got a federal grant to build a database of farms and schools to help connect these two entities. Now it's ready to use! He explains how the program works. Pam Jahnke recognizes three young people that were presented scholarships from the WI Pork Association. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, says the market's watching the new round of tariff threats. The president's advancing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum that's got agriculture wondering how it will be impacted. Meanwhile winter wheat is getting some support because of dry winter weather in the plains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We saw a fairly quiet day overall on Monday with some strength in corn and weakness in soy and wheat. Cattle futures had a solid rebound after a rough week last week and outside markets, including gold, continued to find some good money flow. John Heinberg with Total Farm Marketing joins us for analysis and perspective on today's show. Find more online by visiting https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. It sounds like it could be a messy week of weather for many in the U.S. Midwest and Plains this week. Snow, ice, rain and more could be on tap with bitter cold hanging on in the Northern Plains. Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins us to run through the weather outlook for the U.S. and South America in the week ahead. More at https://www.ag-wx.com.
The movie Green and Gold opened nationwide on Friday. It's the story of a Wisconsin dairy farmers struggling to hang on to the farm, when he's offered a chance to bet it all on the Green Bay Packers winning a championship. He takes the bet. Pam Jahnke visits with one of the Upper Michigan brothers that produced and directed the film. Davin Lindwall tells Pam about their commitment to shooting the film in Wisconsin, and how community members turned out to make it a success. Craig Culver, who helped to financially support the movie, said the story resonated with him since he and his father were struggling at the same time in launching their restaurant. Craig T. Nelson says the project was a labor of love and appreciation for farming - and that it's actually a part of his heritage. Icy weather on the way for Wisconsin starting Wednesday. That's the word from Stu Muck.The lack of snow, and milder weather Wisconsin's been experiencing - wildlife has had it pretty easy. Ben Jarboe finds out about the upland bird population hunters look for, and how they're doing with DNR game bird ecologist, Taylor Finger.Brooke Rollins was confirmed by the Senate Agriculture Committee to continue the approval process toward being USDA's next Secretary. She made comment during her review that the president is aware of the potential impact tariffs could have on farmers and agribusiness. Rollins said that they've already discussed previous programs, like market facilitation payments, to help defer the injury caused. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, breaks down the latest reaction to the tariff announcements and the new measures that might go into effect against the European Union.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From 2010 Today Allan Heinberg is back to talk about avengrs the childrens crusade. The 9 part bi-monthly series begins this week, and re-unites the young avengers creative team of Heinberg and artist Jim Cheung. The story is a self contained event the crosses the Avengers and -X-men worlds, as Young Avenger Wiccan searches for the women he believes is his mother , Wanda the Scarlet Witch . The longtime Avenger's mind seemed to shatter as she killed Avenger teamates and Mutants in the mid 2000 events Avengers Disassembled and House Of M .Allan talks about writing a story that will stand the test of time, while trying not to conflict with the current monthto month continuity.We also discuss his 4 years of work on the popular tv series Grey's Anatomy comming to a close and the similarities and differences of the TV writers room, compared to the Marvel creative summits .
John Heinberg of Total Farm Marketing joins Mark Magnuson in today's midday market podcast.
Finding volunteers has become like finding a needle in a haystack for many groups. Ian Hill knows all about it. Community events are something we hold near and dear in rural Wisconsin. Whether it's your town’s summer festival, a dairy breakfast, or a county fair. Those events can’t happen without people willing to give up their time, money, and energy to volunteer, but how do you recruit those people? This morning we’re talking to Ian Hill. He is the CEO of The Changing Point. He works with 500 fair boards across the country, including here in Wisconsin to help them build their volunteer team. Stephanie Hoff gets some details.Warmer weather's building over Wisconsin. That's the forecast with Stu Muck. Today, it's all about making sure that producers are on the same page with carbon marketers as far as jargon. Both agriculture and the carbon market world use a lot of unique phrases. Understanding what those phrases mean and how they can influence an agreement are critical for today's farmers looking at the financial opportunity the carbon market may present. Pam Jahnke talks to Cassandra Strupp, program manager for Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin about the program, and how the carbon market opportunities are advancing. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend joins Pam Jahnke. Have you seen the price of a steak lately? Heinberg says the latest cattle numbers available, and the fact that the U.S. is not allowing Mexican cattle to cross the border (screw worm) is compounding the issue. He also says it will take time for the much-talked-about egg market to rebound.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grain and oilseed markets were broadly lower on Monday while cattle futures set more new highs before backing off some to end the day. We discuss the recent rallies, managing your risk at these levels and get general market perspective to start the week with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. More at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. Things have been dry in many areas of the Plains and Midwest for several months now. Is there any meaningful pattern change ahead that could help us break drought concerns ahead of 2025 spring planting? What is the latest on South American weather and soybean harvest in Brazil? Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins us for our Weekly Weather Update to share details. Find more online by visiting https://www.ag-wx.com. Also, in Segment Four, we discuss navigating your input costs in 2025 and what to watch out for when thinking about cutting certain inputs. Ryan Hunt, technical service manager in North Dakota for FMC, joins us for a conversation.
Simple things can play big roles in keeping livestock comfortable and healthy. Dairy farmers are constantly looking for ways to improve cow comfort, cleanliness, and overall farm efficiency. Charitee Seebecker talks withRenee Schrift, Global Director of Sales for Agricultural Systems at McLanahan Corporation, and shares valuable insights on how sand bedding plays a critical role in achieving these goals. From choosing the right sand to ingmaximiz the benefits of reclamation, Schrift explains how farmers can enhance their operations while keeping cows happy and healthy.Schools remain closed in light of the subzero weather Wisconsin's dealing with. Stu Muck holds out hope that the temperatures will moderate beginning Wednesday. Monday marked the end of another tenure of service for USDA Ag Secretary, Tom Vilsack. At 74, he makes comments about how he hopes he's influenced the agency and its impression in the community. Rod Bain with USDA chats with the secretary. Markets are robust on a post-inauguration Tuesday. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend joins Pam Jahnke to explain what areas of optimism are spilling over into trading.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Again this year, Wisconsin's missing out on snow. Weather forecasters are paying attention, but so are winter tourism locations. Pam Jahnke visits with Natalie Chin and Austin Holland, two researchers from UW-Stevens Point, that have been interviewing ski lift operators in the state about how their business models and practices have changed with the lack of snow. Wisconsin's getting a little snow this morning, but still expecting temperatures in the 40's by the end of the week. Stu Muck gives us weather expectations. Not much green to see in the state at this time of the year, so beekeepers are working overtime to keep their hives healthy. Ben Jarboe visits with a Wisconsin native that's now working at USDA forging ahead bee research. Meet Dr. Liz Walsh. Friday's World Ag Supply Demand report surprised the market with cuts to domestic corn and soybean production while leaving South American expectations unchanged. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing, joins Pam Jahnke to explain where the market's likely to go from here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Heinberg of Total Farm Marketing joins Mark Magnuson in today's midday market podcast.
Grain markets continued to rally on Monday as it appeared more spillover support from the USDA reports from Friday was at play. Soybeans in particular found some impressive strength and have rallied over 40 cents in the last two sessions. Is this a gift that won't last in for producers? Should you be rewarding this rally? John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing stops by to share price perspective and thoughts on the grain market moves post report and a look at the livestock sector as well. Find more online by visiting their website at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. Weather issues in the U.S. and South America are top of mind as we start a new week. We have the devastating wildfires in California, more arctic cold potential in the U.S. along with continuing drought concerns into spring and more developing concern in Argentina and southern Brazil. Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins us for our Weekly Weather Update. Find more online by visiting https://www.ag-wx.com.
Wheat led the grain and oilseed markets to a mostly higher day on Monday, although we did finish off of session highs in corn and soybeans. Cattle futures also found some good buying strength to start the first full week of trading for 2025. The question is, after Friday's selloff, was Monday's market action a bit of a head fake so to speak? We discuss with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. More at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. We started off 2025 with a bang across the U.S. with a large winter storm system bring snow, ice and thunderstorms across a wide area. Cold arctic air is following in behind the system this week as well. Plus, are we seeing expanding dryness concerns in South America? Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins us for our weekly weather update. More at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Pam Jahnke reflects on the past four years with Wisconsin's Farm Service Agency Director Gene Schreifer. COVID forced USDA agencies to adapt quickly to meet the needs of farmers. Snow is falling in southern Wisconsin, but it won't stick around, says ag meteorologist Stu Muck. There won't be snow cover for fields when the colder-than-average temperatures come this week. Watching the ball drop at New York Times Square is a popular tradition. In Plymouth, Wisconsin, they drop a wedge of award-winning cheese! The Steffes Group is ready for 2025 with a list of upcoming equipment auctions. Big investments are supporting research to keep honeybees healthy and productive. Ben Jarboe has the story. Port labor contract disputes are already disrupting red meat exports, says U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Market advisor John Heinberg with Total Farm Marketing says after the closing bell today, markets won't open again until 8:30 a.m. on Thursday. Corn and soybeans have seen support during the holiday stretch. Cattle remain a valuable asset in 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, internships are almost a requirement for most students aiming for a job right out of college. Dr. Tera Montgomery, director of the school of agriculture on the UW-Platteville campus, says that applying for internships is happening earlier and earlier in the school year. She says there's also more opportunity with remote work internships that can actually trail into the school year, and may turn into a full-time job. Charitee Seebecker gets the details. Snow is on the way. That's the forecast from Stu Muck. Angie Edge with Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin puts a holiday spin on the cheeses you're looking for during this entertainment season. Charitee Seebecker finds out about the varieties that Wisconsin's highlighting this year. Paid for by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. Tall Christmas trees might still be difficult to find this year. Greg Hann from the WI Christmas Tree Growers Association says they harvested every available tree during the pandemic surge in demand, now tall trees are in shorter supply. Hann, who also runs Hanns Christmas Tree Farm in Oregon, WI, also says supplies of all trees look good this year. John Heinberg, broker manager with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, joins Pam Jahnke to talk holiday cycles. Traders exited their livestock positions in a big way Monday, and corn export momentum is shifting too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Corn and wheat traded mixed on Monday while soybeans and livestock found pressure to start off the week. We take a look at some of the market factors at play and talk sentiment ahead of the holidays with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. Learn more online by visiting https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. How does that forecast look as we near the Christmas holiday? Could we get some more precipitation across the Plains and Midwest? Or would another warmup be on the way? Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins us to take a look at the forecast for the U.S. and an update on South American weather as well. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Rural citizens can't take for granted "meals on wheels". Funding levels are low and volunteers tough to find in rural Wisconsin. So says Ronda James, the nutrition program director at the Aging and Disability Resource Center in Central Wisconsin. They serve Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, and Wood counties with the Meals on Wheels program. Just last year, their small team and 350+ volunteers delivered 145,000 meals to more than 1,300 residents. Unfortunately, James says their costs have gone up about 30 percent as the demand for the program also grows. Weather is changing says Stu Muck, ag meteorologist. Pam Jahnke and Stu also discuss how consumers can find out exactly where their milk originated with a simple code on the container.Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group says they're as busy as they'll ever be in a calendar year, right now! He highlights an equipment auction happening today in the Lake Geneva area. Paid for by the Steffes Group. Over 200 delegates at the WI Farm Bureau Federations 105th annual business meeting tackled more than 30 agenda items according to Jason Mungniani, executive director of government relations for WFBF. Brad Olson from Polk County was re-elected president with Joe Braegger of Independence re-elected vice president. Coffee prices are catching attention this morning after blowing past highs not seen since the Carter Administration. That's the word from John Heinberg, market analyst with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend. He also previews areas to watch in this afternoon's World Ag Supply report (WASDE) from USDA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rumors in the trade are starting to show up that maybe we are getting some soybean cancellations. Is that the reason why beans fell off the highs on Monday? Plus, are farmers already looking at locking in some price levels in deferred contracts? Those are some of the questions we ponder today with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing as we saw a quiet, low volume trade on Monday across grains and livestock. More at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. There is definitely a long ways to go yet but with the lack of soil moisture heading into winter and more, there is reason to at least start bringing up the idea of Midwest drought in 2025. At least, that's what Eric Snodgrass from Conduit Ag says on our Weekly Weather Update. Listen in for more and sign up for his latest webinar Monday, December 9th at 5pm by visiting https://www.ag-wx.com.
Cover crops have found favor with a lot of acres in Wisconsin. Now grazing those cover crop acres for livestock is catching on. Charitee Seebecker finds out how the momentum's changing. Ron Schoepp Shoepp Farms in Lodi, has been a leader in sustainable farming practices for decades. With a focus on rotational grazing, no-till farming, and conservation efforts, the farm has worked tirelessly to protect the land and improve farming methods. Farm owner Ron Schoepp shares how his family's long-standing commitment to innovation and stewardship has not only benefited their farm but also inspired fellow farmers across the region. Chickens require some tender loving care in this Wisconsin weather. Stephanie Hoff gets pointers from UW-Extension Poultry Specialist, Ron Kean, on protecting those birds. Protection is what it's all about in the marketplace right now for corn and soybean growers. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Markets in West Bend says that finding "value" in the market should be a goal of growers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grains were mostly flat to lower as we started the week and the month off on a quiet note. Soybeans and soy products led lower on a quiet news and money flow day with the U.S. dollar spiking higher. We discuss the high dollar and South American weather impacts on the markets plus ask the question of if tariff threats are having an effect? Should we change our risk management stratgey ahead of possible tariffs? John Heinberg with Total Farm Marketing joins us to discuss. More at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. As we flip over to the month of December, we see an active weather pattern continue with clipper systems and cold weather on tap. What does the cold weather mean for drought conditions and soil moisture as we roll towards winter? Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins us to share the latest weather forecast. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Molly Van Lieu, vice president of the International Fresh Produce Association. She's working with policymakers and insurance agency leaders on prescription food -- getting a prescription for food to buy or to be given to improve your diet. The concept is: food as medicine.Out of refrigerator space already? The temperatures for Thanksgiving will be ideal for storing leftovers on the porch! Stu Muck gives us an overall mild forecast.Wisconsin FFA students have been selling fruit boxes as a fundraiser since the 1980s. MyFruitSale.com is one of the platforms for this school fundraiser. President Matt Johnson is packing these boxes now to fill 50 semis before the holidays. He says the dollars have been vital in sending students to places like the National FFA Convention and competitions.Slow news week in the marketplace... for now. Market advisor John Heinberg says markets are closed on Thursday, and will close early on Black Friday. December grain futures hit their first notice day on Friday - as producers meet those demands, it could create some chop in the marketplace. Other headlines - Brazil strikes 37 trade deals with China. Ethanol production is hot here domestically. Heinberg walks us through the ripple effect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We saw a mixed day in row crops to start our holiday week while wheat, soybean oil and crude oil saw pressure. Meantime, it was a busy day in cattle futures with sharply higher trade to start and more mixed action to close the day. John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins us to run through what we are seeing in the markets to kick off our Thanksgiving week of trade. Find more online at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. Plus, it looks like we are set for a cold snap through much of the country this week and potential for rain/snow chances impacting some holiday travel and late season fieldwork. Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins to discuss. More at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Thanksgiving is the culmination of a lot of work by turkey growers across the country, but primarily the midwest. Ben Jarboe finds out how avian influenza, changing consumer tastes, and overall economics are impacting the industry. Ashley Kohl with the MN turkey growers says there will be plenty of birds available this year. Wet and windy today according to Stu Muck, ag meteorologist. Two UW-Madison ag economists released some BIG numbers showing the strength and power of Wisconsin agriculture. Pam Jahnke visits with Steve Deller and Jeff Hadachek about the survey showing the state's ag and food processing industries are a $116.4 Billion sector for the state's bottom line.Wisconsin Ag Statistical Service confirms that the harvest is complete and 81% of fall tillage has already been completed.Saturday's the beginning of Wisconsin's gun-deer season. Jeff Pritzl, DNR deer program specialist says that this year's hunt is about as late as it's ever been. That, along with a completed harvest, will create both challenges and rewards for this year's hunters. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend joins Pam Jahnke to discuss how export sales are pacing. Good news corn - getting better for beans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The wheat markets saw double digit gains on Monday as traders seemingly reacted to the weekend news of the Biden administration giving the go-ahead for use of missiles into Russia. Corn and soybeans took advantage and found support as well along with livestock. Brazil has also announced that they will be sharing "agreements in agriculture" with China on Wednesday. We discuss all of these items and more with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. More online at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. We see a wide area of rain and even some snow impacting the Plains and Midwest to start this week. Also, could soil temps finally be reaching the point where we can have good fall application in some areas? Eric Snodgrass with Conduit joins us for more. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
There's a new requirement for farms that are organized as an LLC or corporation. Bridget Finke with Valley Crossing Law explains the details to Bob Bosold.Wisconsin's staying above average with temperatures for the next 48 hours according to Stu Muck, ag meteorologist.Cody Quam from Lodi has been recognized as the Outstanding Young Breeder by the American Angus Association. The honors were presented during their annual convention in Fort Worth. Ben Jarboe talks with Quam about how surprised and humbled he was to receive the honors.There's some new faces on the WI Farm Bureau's Young Farmers and Agriculturists committee. Representatives from Dane, Wood and Shawano county have just been appointed to three-year-terms according to Pam Jahnke. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, joins Pam Jahnke. The markets are still working through Friday's USDA World Ag Supply Estimates and factoring in potential Trump moves in 2025 that could impact international business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grain markets started the week mostly lower as wheat and soybeans turned into the downside leaders amid a higher U.S. dollar index and favorable South American weather. It was a mixed bag in livestock and outside markets as well with a quiet news day on Veterans Day. We walk through the early week trade action and talk markets with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. Learn more online by visiting their website at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. As we start the week, it's a mostly quiet and dry pattern after we saw some beneficial moisture last week/weekend in many areas. We discuss the upcoming pattern for the U.S. and South America with Eric Snodgrass in our Weekly Weather Update. Find more at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Transportation funding will be a critical issue for Wisconsin agriculture going forward. One successful project already seeing results is the Agriculture Road Improvement Program. Charitee Seebecker gets an update from DOT Deputy Secretary, Joel Nilsesteun. It's going to be a rainy and windy election day. Stu Muck, ag meteorologist gives us some rainfall totals so far. There's a lot of motivation for farmers, agribusiness owners, and rural citizens to show up at the polls. Jason Mungniani, executive director of government relations for the WI Farm Bureau Federation, gives Stephanie Hoff a rundown on hot topics at the state and federal scene to keep in mind. Darrin VonRuden, President of the Wisconsin Farmers Union, is reminding all votes to consider long term implications on food with their vote today. VonRuden says he's particularly concerned about finishing a Farm Bill. John Heinberg, market analyst with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, says it could be a wild ride with traders watching election results. The rollercoaster could continue for at least the rest of this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grains were mostly firm on Monday, with soybeans off their session highs once again. Meantime, livestock trade found a little bit of pressure across the board. It's a busy week ahead for the markets with Election Day, FOMC meeting, a WASDE report and more. John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins us on the show to discuss the charts, market moving factors to consider and whether or not some grain needs to move as harvest closes out and storage fills up. More at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. We've been finding some beneficial rains across portions of the Plains and Midwest the last several days and there is more on the way. What do we make of an apparent pattern shift moving into November? Does this mean drought relief all month long? Eric Snodgrass with Nutrien Ag Solutions joins us for our Weekly Weather Update. More can be found online at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Rick Adamski and Valerie Dantoin, the hardworking farmers at Full Circle Farm in Shawano County, have been named finalists for the Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award. Their family farm, which has been around for over a century, shows a strong commitment to sustainable farming through creative conservation practices. Rick and Valerie talk with Charitee Seebecker about how they manage grazing and diversify what they grow. They've effectively blended caring for the environment with their farming approach.The latest crop progress report shows just how dry Wisconsin is. Stu Muck, ag meteorologist says that there's a good chance of rain in the forecast beginning Wednesday afternoon. One of the best Jersey herds in the nation is going through a dispersal sale beginning this Friday. Randy Cath with Steffes Auction Group tells Pam Jahnke about the pedigrees and various options buyers have to see the animals and participate in the bidding. Paid for by Steffes Group.The markets are a little nervous in front of next week's election. John Heinberg, market analyst with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, joins Pam Jahnke to highlight some of the areas getting action. He says that international buyers are particularly keen to get ahead on any potential tariffs that could be reinstated in the Trump administration's heading back to the White House.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Crude oil saw a drop around 4% on Monday as traders took war premium out of that market. That drop seemed to weigh on grains and oilseeds to start the week, among other factors, as soybeans, soy products, wheat and corn were all in the red. Meanwhile, cattle and hogs found some mild support. We talk markets with John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing. Find more at https://www.totalfarmmarketing.com. It appears the weather pattern is setting up to finally bring some much needed moisture to the Midwest as we enter into November. However, it doesn't appear to be a major drought buster across the whole of the Plains and Corn Belt. Eric Snodgrass with Nutrien Ag Solutions joins us to discuss in our Weekly Weather Update. Find more online at https://www.ag-wx.com.
Bird migration continues over Wisconsin. Pam Jahnke talks with Ryan Brady, board member of Save Our Songbirds. Thousands of birds fly over Wisconsin heading south - and most of their travel happens overnight. Ashley Huhn with the Steffes Group says they've got at least 122 more auctions before the end of the calendar year. He updates Pam Jahnke. Paid for by Steffes Group. It's National Cheese Curd Day and Wisconsin celebrates it in a big way. Charitee Seebecker gets the details from the state's Cheese Curd Capitol - Ellsworth Coop Creamery's Cheese Marketing Specialist, John Freeman. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, joins Pam Jahnke. Markets continue to trend lower. Heinberg says the heavy crop reported last week in the World Ag Supply Demand Estimates continues to weigh on the market. Meanwhile cattle remain robust.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin has selected its four finalists for this year's Leopold Conservation award. Charitee Seebecker introduces us to one of them. Glacial Lake Cranberries, one of the oldest cranberry farms in Wisconsin, is celebrating its 151st year of commercial cranberry production. Owned and operated by Mary Brazeau Brown, this historic farm continues to thrive, thanks to its strong commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and conservation efforts. Mary shares more about the practices she uses and how they led her to be a finalist for the Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award. Stu Muck, ag meteorologist, explains some weather curves coming to Wisconsin that World Dairy Expo exhibitors will have to flex with.Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group talks to Pam Jahnke about the robust schedule they're amassing of fall/winter auctions. Their quarterly catalog comes out in a few weeks and Huhn says they've got more than 800 sales to feature this time. Paid for by Steffes Group.Canadian cattle that are part of World Dairy Expo this year - but it took a lot to get to Madison. Brian Carscadden, Canadian exhibitor, explains to Pam Jahnke what tests they had to manage and why testing will require Canadian cattle to stay in Wisconsin longer.John Heinberg, commodity broker with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, says the latest grain storage report continues to weigh heavy on the markets. He also addresses the 15 cent drop that happened in the cheese market Monday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Wisconsin Grocers Association recently welcomed Mike Semmann as its new President and CEO. With a long-standing background in trade associations and a deep connection to the grocery industry, Semmann brings a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the organization. Semmann visits with Charitee Seebecker about some of the initial goals he's got, and the importance of the grocery industry's relationship with the communities they serve.Next week dairy leaders and ag economists from across the country will be in Madison discussing the outcome of the Federal Milk Marketing Order hearings that took place. Stephanie Hoff gets some inside perspective with Dr. Chuck Nicholson, associate professor and ag economist at UW-Madison. He says the consensus seems to be keeping the orders in place versus throwing them out, is a better option.Wisconsin crops will capitalize on the warmer weather this week. Pam Jahnke recaps the latest crop progress report, plus outlines the state assembly and senate candidates that have been endorsed by the Volunteers for Agriculture group.John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, joins Pam Jahnke to take the temperature of traders going into Tuesday. Soybeans found some rally points on Monday only to give them up in overnight trade. Heinberg says crop ratings continue to reinforce that the U.S. will be harvesting a big crop with fewer international options for marketing. There's also new attention being paid to the Mississippi River and weather in South America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.