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Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
On location at the 2026 American South Site Selection Summit in Arlington, Texas, host Ray Methvin of Insyteful sits down for a series of one-on-one interviews highlighting regional product development, infrastructure alignment, and competitive business attraction. The opening interview features Hunter Boyd, Executive Director of the Northeast Kentucky Economic Development Authority, who discusses the strategic development of shovel-ready sites and multi-modal logistics hubs. Boyd shares insights on how regional partnerships and utility preparation are transforming acreage to attract major new industrial and commercial investment.The focus then shifts to the High Plains region of Texas. Chris Rankin of the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance details localized strategies for workforce development, industrial expansion, and corporate recruitment. Rankin outlines how a strong regional talent pipeline and proactive community marketing allow a mid-sized market to successfully secure high-impact projects. Together, these conversations demonstrate the targeted, infrastructure-first approaches used throughout the Southern Economic Development Council network to foster resilient economies and win capital investments.The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
The week of May 25, 2026 delivered one for the record books — and not just one record. Valentine Livestock in Valentine, NE set the highest daily weighted average for 7-weight steers in U.S. history: $407.28/cwt on 2,582 head. Five of the top 10 all-time 7-wt steer sales nationally now belong to Valentine — all set on the same day. Meanwhile, packers bid $253 live all week while yards held at $260. Only 1,559 head traded through Thursday morning. The $7 standoff held. Chains ramp back to 530–540K next week — that's the pressure point. Slaughter for the Memorial Day week came in at 448,000 head — the smallest Memorial Day week cattle kill in modern history. YTD kill is running 9.2% below last year's pace. Heavier cattle (avg live weight 1,469 lbs, up 45 lbs year-over-year) are backstopping beef output, but YTD beef production is still 6.6% below the prior year. Boxed beef ribs ran +$18.50/cwt in a single week. Choice cutout closed at $391.47 — net up $1.20 on the week despite two down days Friday. Screwworm is 60 miles from the U.S. border. All southern ports of entry remain closed to livestock imports. No timeline on reopening. Mexican cattle are not coming. That feeder supply hole stays open heading into summer. Strait of Hormuz: U.S. and Iran agreed to a 60-day ceasefire extension. Shipping stays unrestricted — for now. WTI crude sold off on the news, erasing an earlier 3% gain. First crack in 14 straight weeks of fertilizer price increases showed up this week — potash and UAN32 eased. High Plains drought is expanding. Kansas Poor-to-Very Poor winter wheat: 55%. National Good/Excellent: 26%. Nevada and Great Basin fire outlook: above normal through summer. Fallon Livestock Special Feeder Sale — Tuesday, June 9, 2026. burnindaylight.substack.com · burnin-daylight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
Free mental health services are available for those involved in Texas agriculture.The High Plains has finally received some rain. There are three steps that sellers of rural land should take before they attempt to market or sell their property. This time of year, busy performance horses by need anti-inflammatories for sore joints. The world's largest ammonia plant, which is expected to help strengthen the U.S.' fertilizer supply chain, is one-step closer to opening its doors.Broomsedge is an indicator plant that tells you if there's a problem in your pasture or hay meadow.
It's The Ranch It Up Radio Show! Join Jeff Tigger Erhardt, Rebecca Wanner AKA BEC and their crew as they hear tips and tricks to manage drought, grass, flies and cows. Plus updates on beef exports and imports, retail beef prices, market recaps and lots more wrapped into this all-new episode of the Ranch It Up Radio Show. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. Managing Cattle & Grass In A Drought It is that time of year that many producers are moving cattle to summer grazing. But drought is plaguing many and it continues to worsen. According to drought.gov, as of May 5th, 60.92% of the country is experiencing moderate to exceptional drought, largely concentrated in the Southeast, High Plains, and West. There are strategies for managing drought, or I should say how we manage grass and forage uptake in the cowherd to get through drought. Trevor Burian from Killdeer North Dakota joins us today. Trevor has been a student of grazing, plant management, regenerative ag, and cattle efficiency and profitability his entire life. Cattle Industry News China & U.S. Beef Trade According to Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist, the role of China in global beef markets has changed rapidly in the last two decades. China, including Hong Kong, was not a player at all in global beef markets as little as 15 years ago but has risen rapidly to become the largest beef importer in the last decade. For many years, China was a large beef producing and consuming country but had almost no presence in global beef markets. Starting about 2013, rising beef consumption in China began to exceed domestic beef production, leading for the first time to significant beef imports. Although per capita beef consumption in China remains relatively low — roughly 13 pounds compared to 59 pounds in the U.S. — the large population means that small increases in beef consumption represent large amounts of beef in total. According to the U.S. Meat Export Federation President CEO Dan Halstrom, China's reentry into the market for U.S. beef exports will have a significant and rapid price feedback to the American industry from other markets. He called it a “hidden benefit” from China's renewal of registrations for U.S. beef facilities as well as hoped-for resolution of suspensions of a significant number of plants. Most of the registrations were abruptly declared expired in March 2025 before being listed as renewed last week following a meeting in Beijing between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. REFERENCES: https://meatingplace.com/peel-the-importance-of-china-in-global-and-us-beef-markets/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260518017&utm_date=20260519-0300 https://meatingplace.com/usmef-chinese-importers-clamoring-for-us-beef/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260518017&utm_date=20260519-0300 https://www.nationalbeefwire.com/peel-the-importance-of-china-in-global-and-u-s-beef-markets Texas Joins DOJ Beef Packing Antitrust Probe An announcement came late last week that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into the beef industry over potential anticompetitive conduct among the nation's largest meatpackers. Paxton said the investigation would be conducted alongside a separate antitrust probe announced by the U.S. Department of Justice under President Donald Trump's administration. The investigation is focused on the highly concentrated beef packing sector, where four companies — JBS S.A., Tyson Fresh Meats, Cargill and National Beef Packing Co. — collectively control more than 85% of U.S. beef processing capacity, according to Paxton's office. The attorney general cited reports alleging the companies may have used their market power to suppress cattle prices paid to ranchers while increasing beef prices for consumers. REFERENCE: https://meatingplace.com/texas-joins-doj-beef-packing-antitrust-probe/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260517014&utm_date=20260518-0300 New World Screwworm Surveillance Update The number of New World screwworm cases reported in Mexico continues to grow, prompting USDA officials to intensify surveillance and carefully manage the limited supply of sterile flies used to contain the pest's spread. USDA says sterile fly dispersal efforts are currently concentrated along the Gulf coast of northern Mexico, with additional drops occurring within roughly 50 miles of the Texas border. Officials say the agency is relying heavily on predictive modeling and real-time surveillance data to determine where those flies are deployed. USDA says those decisions are being made in coordination with the agency's Agricultural Research Service, using predictive analytics designed to anticipate where the pest could spread next, not simply where cases are currently confirmed. REFERENCE: https://www.rfdtv.com/usda-expands-new-world-screwworm-surveillance-as-cases-rise-in-mexico-and-sterile-fly-supply-stays-limited U.S. Beef Imports Projected To Top 6 Billion Pounds U.S. Beef Imports are projected to top 6 billion pounds for the first time in history — Up 166% Since 2010. Last week's USDA WASDE report projected 2026 U.S. beef imports at 6.1 billion pounds, the highest level in history and the first time beef imports have ever exceeded 6 billion pounds. The projection would mark an increase of 638 million pounds, or 11.7%, from 2025 levels and continue a trend that has seen beef imports increase every year since 2017. Since 2010, U.S. beef imports have climbed from 2.3 billion pounds to more than 6.1 billion pounds, an increase of roughly 3.8 billion pounds, or nearly 166%. The sharp rise in imports has coincided with declining U.S. cattle inventories and historically tight domestic beef supplies. Retail Beef Prices Rocket Higher Retail beef prices continued their sharp climb in April as all 12 major beef categories increased from March levels, with 9 of the 12 cuts establishing new all-time record highs. The Retail Beef Price Composite increased from $8.93/lb in March to a record $9.28/lb in April, rising $0.35/lb in just one month. Ground beef prices continued pushing higher across every category. Ground Chuck increased from $6.68 to a record $6.92/lb, while Ground Beef climbed from $6.70 to $6.90/lb. Lean & Extra Lean Ground Beef jumped $0.31 to a record $8.51/lb, and All Uncooked Ground Beef increased to a record $7.06/lb. Roast values posted some of the largest monthly increases. Chuck Roast, USDA Choice Boneless surged $0.66 to a record $9.50/lb, while Round Roast, Choice Boneless climbed $0.51 to a record $8.98/lb. Only three categories failed to establish new all-time highs during April. Round Steak, USDA Choice increased from $9.61 to $9.83/lb but remained below its February 2026 record high of $10.09/lb. Beef for Stew, Boneless rose from $8.41 to $8.65/lb but stayed below its November 2025 record of $9.172/lb. All Uncooked Other Beef increased from $7.68 to $7.92/lb, still below its November 2025 record high of $8.20/lb. Featured Experts in the Cattle Industry Trevor Burian - Burian Rangeland Services, LLC Follow On Facebook: @trevor.burian Shaye Wanner – Host of Casual Cattle Conversation https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Follow on Facebook: @cattleconvos Contact Us with Questions or Concerns Have questions or feedback? Feel free to reach out via: Call/Text: 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Email: RanchItUpShow@gmail.com Follow us: Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow YouTube: Subscribe to Ranch It Up Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RanchItUp Catch all episodes of the Ranch It Up Podcast available on all major podcasting platforms. Discover the Heart of Rural America with Tigger & BEC Ranching, farming, and the Western lifestyle are at the heart of everything we do. Tigger & BEC bring you exclusive insights from the world of working ranches, cattle farming, and sustainable beef production. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner (BEC) and their mission to promote the Western way of life at Tigger and BEC. https://tiggerandbec.com/ Industry References, Partners and Resources For additional information on industry trends, products, and services, check out these trusted resources: American Gelbvieh Association: https://gelbvieh.org/ EquineMarket.Com: https://www.equinemarket.com/ Imogene Ingredients: https://www.imogeneingredients.com/ Jorgensen Land & Cattle: https://jorgensenfarms.com/#/?ranchchannel=view LivestockMarket.Com: https://www.livestockmarket.com/ RanchChannel.Com: https://ranchchannel.com/ RFD-TV: https://www.rfdtv.com/ Rural Radio Network: https://www.ruralradio147.com/ Sire Buyer: https://www.sirebuyer.com/ Westway Feed Products: https://westwayfeed.com/ Wrangler: https://www.wrangler.com/
It's The Ranch It Up Radio Show! Join Jeff Tigger Erhardt, Rebecca Wanner AKA BEC and their crew as they hear tips and tricks to manage drought and available summer grass. Plus updates on beef exports, Tyson's Multi Million Dollar Beef Settlement Update, market recaps and lots more wrapped into this all-new episode of the Ranch It Up Radio Show. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. Managing Cattle & Grass In A Drought It is that time of year that many producers are moving cattle to summer grazing. But drought is plaguing many and it continues to worsen. According to drought.gov, as of May 5th, 60.92% of the country is experiencing moderate to exceptional drought, largely concentrated in the Southeast, High Plains, and West. There are strategies for managing drought, or I should say how we manage grass and forage uptake in the cowherd to get through drought. Trevor Burian from Killdeer North Dakota joins us today. Trevor has been a student of grazing, plant management, regenerative ag, and cattle efficiency and profitability his entire life. Cattle Industry News Tyson's Multi-Million-Dollar Beef Settlement A federal judge granted preliminary approval to a proposed $47 million class action settlement between Tyson Foods and commercial and institutional indirect purchaser plaintiffs in the ongoing cattle and beef antitrust litigation. An order filed in the middle of last week approved preliminary certification of a settlement class covering entities in the United States that indirectly purchased certain raw beef products sold by defendants between Jan. 1, 2015, and May 6, 2026, for use in commercial food preparation. The settlement involves Tyson Foods Inc. and Tyson Fresh Meats Inc. Tyson did not oppose the motion for preliminary approval. The plaintiffs in the case include restaurants, catering companies and other foodservice operators alleging anticompetitive conduct in the fed cattle and beef markets. The approval comes on the heels of the DOJ's doubling down on an ongoing investigation into Tyson, JBS, National Beef and Cargill. The DOJ and USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins accused the “Big Four” of colluding to artificially raise beef prices. REFERENCE: https://meatingplace.com/tysons-multi-million-dollar-beef-settlement-gets-initial-approval/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260510014&utm_date=20260511-0300 Beef Exports U.S. beef exports declined in March as shipments to China remained largely stalled, though strong variety meat demand helped push export value for those products to a record high, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation. March beef exports were down 11% from a year ago, while export value fell 8%. Shipments increased year-over-year to Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Indonesia, while exports to South Korea and Taiwan were steady. However, exports to China remained minimal and shipments also trailed year-ago levels to Japan and the Middle East. Excluding China, March beef export volume increased 4% from a year ago while value climbed 8%. REFERENCE: https://meatingplace.com/beef-exports-pressured-by-china-absence-variety-meat-value-hits-record/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260506020&utm_date=20260507-0300 Market Restrictions Due To Pseudorabies Mexico is blocking certain US pork products due to pseudorabies concerns, the USDA said in an advisory note in the FSIS Export Library. The moves by Mexico, the largest market for US pork exports, come a week after the discovery of pseudorabies in a small commercial pig operation in Iowa and a farm in Texas where the infected animals originated, and other trade partners appear to be responding as well. The confirmation of pseudorabies at a small swine facility in Iowa was the first commercial outbreak since 2004, when the US deemed the virus eradicated from the commercial swine industry. The virus can, however, still be found in some feral swine populations, and there is occasional spillover of infection to outdoor herds where contact with feral swine is possible. USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service said initial traceback from the Iowa herd indicated that affected boars came from an outdoor facility in Texas. REFERENCE: https://meatingplace.com/pseudorabies-fallout-no-1-pork-export-market-restricts-some-us-products/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260510014&utm_date=20260511-0300 Featured Experts in the Cattle Industry Trevor Burian - Burian Rangeland Services, LLC Follow On Facebook: @trevor.burian Shaye Wanner – Host of Casual Cattle Conversation https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Follow on Facebook: @cattleconvos Contact Us with Questions or Concerns Have questions or feedback? Feel free to reach out via: Call/Text: 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Email: RanchItUpShow@gmail.com Follow us: Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow YouTube: Subscribe to Ranch It Up Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RanchItUp Catch all episodes of the Ranch It Up Podcast available on all major podcasting platforms. Discover the Heart of Rural America with Tigger & BEC Ranching, farming, and the Western lifestyle are at the heart of everything we do. Tigger & BEC bring you exclusive insights from the world of working ranches, cattle farming, and sustainable beef production. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner (BEC) and their mission to promote the Western way of life at Tigger and BEC. https://tiggerandbec.com/ Industry References, Partners and Resources For additional information on industry trends, products, and services, check out these trusted resources: American Gelbvieh Association: https://gelbvieh.org/ EquineMarket.Com: https://www.equinemarket.com/ Imogene Ingredients: https://www.imogeneingredients.com/ Jorgensen Land & Cattle: https://jorgensenfarms.com/#/?ranchchannel=view LivestockMarket.Com: https://www.livestockmarket.com/ RanchChannel.Com: https://ranchchannel.com/ RFD-TV: https://www.rfdtv.com/ Rural Radio Network: https://www.ruralradio147.com/ Sire Buyer: https://www.sirebuyer.com/ Westway Feed Products: https://westwayfeed.com/ Wrangler: https://www.wrangler.com/
- 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 ★
The death of David Wilcock proved two things; there is a reason you do not engage with crazy people, and those same people will exploit anything and claim they have a central role in the story. But if every channeler says something different, they all cant be right. However, they can all be wrong. *The is the FREE archive, which includes advertisements. If you want an ad-free experience, you can subscribe below underneath the show description.
This is report of the first episode of our new series "Rocked". This repost includes an extended introduction that sets the stage for the series and little bit more about our host, Larah Nimoi. In every small town, there's a disappearance people still whisper about — a name that lingers, a moment that changed everything. Rocked follows one woman's relentless journey to uncover the truth behind those who vanished under unsettling, often overlooked circumstances. Each episode digs into a different case: the people who went missing, the secrets left behind, and the communities forever shaken by their absence. Through interviews, investigation, and a deeply personal search for answers, Rocked explores how these mysteries ripple through families, friendships, and entire towns long after the headlines fade. This podcast series is about the stories that refuse to stay buried — and the determination to finally bring them into the light. EPISODE 1 — “Whatever Happened to the High Plains Hottie?” A young woman vanished from a bar outside St. Paul in 1982 — and her case has haunted me for years. In our debut episode, I return to the disappearance that started it all, reopening the mystery of who she was, what happened that night, and why her story never let me go.
*Winter wheat fields are abandoned across the High Plains. *USDA has designated 34 Texas as natural disaster areas. *There are multiple diseases affecting wheat in the Texas High Plains this year. *A commitment to cotton innovation continues. *House ag leaders say they would like to see the U.S. Mexico Canada trade agreement renewed. *Weed control is an important part of pasture management. *Recent rains in parts of Texas could cause some horses to develop laminitis.
Tom and DJ quickly catch up on the happenings at High Plains raceway during One Lap of America 2026Discord LinkYoutube LinkShow your lizard brains on the outside with Merch!CLICK HERE FOR THE MERCHSpicy Cat Racing Store
- 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 ★
In every small town, there's a disappearance people still whisper about — a name that lingers, a moment that changed everything. Rocked follows one woman's relentless journey to uncover the truth behind those who vanished under unsettling, often overlooked circumstances. Each episode digs into a different case: the people who went missing, the secrets left behind, and the communities forever shaken by their absence. Through interviews, investigation, and a deeply personal search for answers, Rocked explores how these mysteries ripple through families, friendships, and entire towns long after the headlines fade. This podcast series is about the stories that refuse to stay buried — and the determination to finally bring them into the light. EPISODE 1 — “Whatever Happened to the High Plains Hottie?” A young woman vanished from a bar outside St. Paul in 1982 — and her case has haunted me for years. In our debut episode, I return to the disappearance that started it all, reopening the mystery of who she was, what happened that night, and why her story never let me go.
In this high-velocity Thursday edition, Scott Hennen is joined by a powerhouse lineup to break down the policies and scandals shaping the spring of 2026. From the "groundbreaking" Working Families Tax Cuts to the "Wild West" of unregulated vaping and a multi-billion dollar Medicaid fraud scheme in Minnesota, this episode explores the tension between government oversight and personal freedom. Special guest Senator Katie Britt (AL) joins Senator Kevin Cramer (ND) to unveil the "secret weapon" of the upcoming midterms: a suite of family-friendly tax provisions including the innovative "Trump Accounts" for newborns. Later, experts dive into the cyber-front of identity theft and the geopolitical "Economic Fury" currently squeezing the Iranian regime. Standout Moments [00:01:10] – The Vaping Ban Debate Jen Fowl (Fargo-Cass Public Health) and Tony Burke (American Heart Association) join the program to discuss a proposed flavor restriction on tobacco and nicotine products, citing a "gamification" of devices intended to addict the next generation of youth. [00:13:00] – The "Nanny State" vs. Personal Freedom A local caller sparks a fiery debate on whether banning legal adult products is the right way to handle a youth usage problem, while Scott suggests "stiffer fines" for retailers instead of a total ban. [00:23:45] – The "Trump Accounts" for Newborns Senator Katie Britt explains a "genius" provision in the Working Families Tax Cuts: a government-seeded $1,000 investment account for every child born through 2028, designed to grow into a nest egg for trade school, college, or a first home. [00:28:45] – Medicaid Fraud & Cyber-Professor Insights Dr. David Myman, an expert in cybercrime, breaks down how "nimble" fraudsters used stolen identities to rip off taxpayers in Minnesota and why the government is currently "behind" in the technological arms race. [00:32:15] – Economic Fury & $100 Oil As oil prices seesaw due to conflict in Iran, economic advisers Kevin Hassett and Scott Besant outline "Operation Economic Fury," a strategy to freeze Iranian bank accounts and seize offshore crypto assets. [00:35:45] – Pete Hegseth Takes on Congress A look at the tense budget hearings where Secretary of War Pete Hegseth claps back at "Trump Derangement" inquiries from House Democrats, shifting the focus back to military readiness and tactical proficiency. [00:37:30] – Grain Markets & The China Meeting David Spickler from Lighthouse Commodities reports on a 25% rally in wheat prices due to a historic High Plains drought and looks…
Friday, May 1, 2026 — two days folded into one. We didn't get a Thursday tape out, but the news sure as hell didn't slow down for us. Here's what moved while you were doctoring calves and fixing fence: Farm Bill H.R. 7567 PASSES the House 224–200, and the pesticide preemption “Luna 28” amendment gets STRUCK on the floor 280–142. The chemical lobby took a bipartisan ass‑kicking, and producer right‑to‑sue stays alive at the state level. E15 year‑round gets pulled out of the Farm Bill and bumped to a standalone vote on May 13. Corn and ethanol boys have to win it on its own merits now. Cash cattle blow the doors off: five‑area weekly average hits 254.58 on 24,289 head Thursday, with late clean‑up at 256 live and 405 dressed — a new record, up 6.20 over last week's 248.38. Board took a breather, cash did the heavy lifting. June live cattle settles 252.75 Friday, down 2.50 over the two‑day stretch. May feeders hang around 372.50 and the CME Feeder Index prints 372.47. Lean hogs June get worked, off 2.47 across the fold. UAE officially walks out of OPEC and OPEC‑plus — first time a top‑3 exporter has left — and WTI still drops 4.89 in 48 hours as the Strait of Hormuz stays effectively closed and sea‑mine risk keeps a choke collar on exports. USDA confirms New World Screwworm in Nuevo León, Mexico, now just 62 miles from the Texas border — about 20 miles closer than the April 10 detection we've been tracking. APHIS shifts sterile fly dispersal into a 50‑mile polygon inside Texas along the Tamaulipas line. This is the closest the parasite's been to U.S. cattle since eradication in 1966. SDRP deadline gets pushed: Thursday was supposed to be last call, but USDA extends Stage 1 and Stage 2 out to August 12, 2026 after paying 6.7 billion of the 16‑billion‑dollar pot and bumping Stage 2 to 70 percent. The money's moving, but you still have to file. Sale barn tape: Superior's 23,000‑head video sale runs with final tallies due early next week, Torrington sets 21 steer barn records across 5–8 weights, OKC West cranks out 6,500 head with 11 record prints, and light calves look like the new currency in Bassett, Joplin and beyond. Horse side: Billings moves 711 head, top horse at 30,000 with a dozen over 20k, Garfield hammers 350,000 at Premier, and EHV‑1 quarantines in Virginia and New Jersey mean you'd better check the board before you haul into Mid‑Atlantic barns. Drought monitor bleeds across the High Plains, Kansas State's model pegs Kansas wheat down 31 percent to 240 million bushels at 39.4 bushels per acre, Texas and Oklahoma wheat ratings are ugly, and Sandhills fire damage keeps Nebraska pushing FEMA for a 30‑day extension. Rural business: 417 rural hospitals flagged as vulnerable, UnitedHealthcare follows through on exempting roughly 1,500 from prior auth by fall, livestock theft trends up with high prices and tight herds, and a federal court re‑opens the spigot on wind and solar permitting on federal land while BLM's 2026 grazing fee lands at 1.69 per AUM. Packer watch: Cargill's Milwaukee ground‑beef plant still marked for a May 31 shutdown, 221 jobs gone, while DOJ's criminal probe into the Big Four grinds on and HedgersEdge has packer margins running roughly negative 231 a head with cash at 256 and cutout under 390. Somebody either pushes cutout or slows the chains. Plus: quick hits on the Trump‑Xi Beijing summit, the Fed handoff from Powell to Warsh, a White House Correspondents' Dinner shooter update, bird‑flu testing rules on dairy cows, listener mailbag, and “On This Day” to close it out. Move your ass — we're burnin' daylight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today's brief covers the published Presidential major disaster declaration for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the FEMA Alaska recovery update on Typhoon Halong, and CISA's addition of two actively exploited vulnerabilities (ConnectWise ScreenConnect and Microsoft Windows Shell) to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog. Wildfire activity in southern Georgia and northern Florida continues to drive Southern Area resourcing at PL 4, and critical fire weather is in place across eastern New Mexico, far western Texas, and the southern High Plains. Tornado damage assessments continue in Tennessee and Illinois, Michigan expanded its flooding state of emergency to 41 counties, and a M4.4 earthquake near Alamo, Nevada produced felt reports into Las Vegas. EM Morning Brief is your concise daily update on national and state-by-state emergency management news. Produced by Sitch Radio, an EOC Voices podcast.Key Takeaways• CNMI major disaster declared: FEMA-4910-DR for Super Typhoon Sinlaku was published in the Federal Register yesterday; covers incident period April 11 to April 18, 2026.• CISA KEV update: Two actively exploited vulnerabilities added: ConnectWise ScreenConnect (CVE-2024-1708) and Microsoft Windows Shell spoofing (CVE-2026-32202). Federal remediation deadline May 12, 2026.• Southern wildfires: Brantley Highway 82 Fire in Georgia at 32 percent containment with 80 plus homes destroyed; Clinch and Echols fire at 23 percent containment over 50 plus square miles; Florida Gun Range and Sand Drain fires under continued USFS warning.• Critical fire weather: Red Flag and Critical Fire Weather conditions today for eastern New Mexico, far western Texas, southern High Plains, and portions of eastern Colorado.• Texas disaster declaration: Governor Abbott declared disaster for Lamar, Parker, and Wise counties; TDEM mobilized swiftwater rescue and debris teams; Mineral Wells continues recovery from Tuesday's EF3 tornado.• Michigan emergency expanded: Whitmer added Tuscola County and the Village of Holly to the existing flooding state of emergency; 41 counties and three municipalities now covered.SponsorsThe NIMS Store - https://thenimsstore.com/SourcesCISA• CISA KEV catalog (April 29, 2026), ConnectWise ScreenConnect and Windows flaws added: https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog?utm_source=em-morning-brief• Security Affairs, CISA adds Microsoft Windows Shell and ConnectWise ScreenConnect flaws to KEV: https://securityaffairs.com/191442/security/u-s-cisa-adds-microsoft-windows-shell-and-connectwise-screenconnect-flaws-to-its-known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog.html?utm_source=em-morning-brief• Cybersecurity Dive, CISA adds Microsoft and ConnectWise vulnerabilities to active exploitation catalog: https://www.cybersecuritydive.com/news/cisa-microsoft-connectwise-kev-update/818817/?utm_source=em-morning-briefNIFC and InciWeb• NIFC IMSR (April 29, 2026, 0730 MDT), national fire situation report: https://www.nifc.gov/nicc-files/sitreprt.pdf?utm_source=em-morning-brief• InciWeb, Gun Range Fire (Florida), incident page: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/flfnf-gun-range?utm_source=em-morning-brief• InciWeb, Sand Drain Fire (Florida), incident page: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/flfnf-sand-drain?utm_source=em-morning-briefFEMA• Federal Register, Presidential major disaster declaration for CNMI (DR-4910), Super Typhoon Sinlaku, published April 29, 2026: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/29/2026-08343/presidential-declaration-of-a-major-disaster-for-the-commonwealth-of-the-northern-mariana-islands?utm_source=em-morning-brief• FEMA disaster page (DR-4910), Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4910?utm_source=em-morning-brief• FEMA press release (April 29, 2026), Alaska Typhoon Halong recovery, FEMA Is Still Here so Stay in Touch: https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260429/fema-still-here-so-stay-touch?utm_source=em-morning-brief• FEMA disaster page (DR-4893), Alaska severe storms, flooding, and Typhoon Halong remnants: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4893?utm_source=em-morning-briefUSGS• USGS HVO volcano notice (April 29, 2026), Kilauea ADVISORY and Aviation Color Code YELLOW: https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hans-public/notice/DOI-USGS-HVO-2026-04-29T14:07:09+00:00?utm_source=em-morning-brief• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program, M4.4 near Alamo, Nevada (April 29, 2026): https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/map/?utm_source=em-morning-briefNOAA and NWS• NWS Storm Prediction Center, Day 1 Convective Outlook (April 29, 2026), severe weather guidance: https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day1otlk.html?utm_source=em-morning-brief• NWS Albuquerque, Red Flag Warning summary, fire weather alerts for New Mexico and adjacent areas: https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=Red+Flag+Warning&utm_source=em-morning-brief• NOAA WPC, Excessive rainfall outlook for central Texas, April 29 to May 1: https://www.noaa.gov/weather-prediction-center?utm_source=em-morning-briefTravel advisories• U.S. Department of State, Travel Advisories, active list with current levels: https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html?utm_source=em-morning-briefAlaska• FEMA, Typhoon Halong six-month recovery update, April 10, 2026 release: https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260410/typhoon-halong-six-month-recovery-update?utm_source=em-morning-briefCalifornia• CAL FIRE incidents, current fire activity and evacuations: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents?utm_source=em-morning-briefColorado• 9News, Colorado doubles Red Flag Warnings days so far in 2026: https://www.9news.com/article/weather/weather-colorado/colorado-doubles-red-flag-warnings-days-2026/73-dddb29f1-4980-4343-8f2b-c51aa2789f8a?utm_source=em-morning-briefFlorida• WCJB, U.S. Forest Service issues warning for Gun Range, Sand Drain fires (April 29, 2026): https://www.wcjb.com/2026/04/29/us-forest-service-issues-warning-gun-range-sand-drain-fires/?utm_source=em-morning-briefGeorgia• Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, April 2026 Wildfires page: https://gema.georgia.gov/april-2026-wildfires?utm_source=em-morning-brief• News4JAX, Brantley County shifts to recovery, danger not over (April 29, 2026): https://www.news4jax.com/news/georgia/2026/04/29/the-latest-brantley-county-shifts-to-recovery-but-wildfire-danger-not-over-yet-officials-warn/?utm_source=em-morning-briefHawaii• USGS Kilauea volcano updates, current eruption status and forecast: https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/volcano-updates?utm_source=em-morning-briefIllinois• KSDK, St. Louis meteorologists confirm three tornado touchdowns in Illinois: https://www.ksdk.com/article/weather/weather-impact/st-louis-tornadoes-confirmed-touchdown-monday-storms-missouri-april-28-2026/63-3e1403e0-0127-41f9-a6fd-33e6154bf3c9?utm_source=em-morning-briefKentucky• 14News, EF-0 tornado confirmed in Ohio County, Kentucky: https://www.14news.com/2026/04/29/ef-0-tornado-confirmed-by-weather-experts-ohio-county/?utm_source=em-morning-brief• NWS Louisville, another severe weather threat through tonight: https://www.weather.gov/lmk/Severe_Weather_Expected_Tonight?utm_source=em-morning-briefMichigan• State of Michigan, Executive Order 2026-10, declaration of state of emergency: https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/state-orders-and-directives/2026/04/28/executive-order-no-2026-10-declaration-of-state-of-emergency?utm_source=em-morning-brief• State of Michigan press release, Whitmer expands previous state of emergency declaration: https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases/2026/04/28/whitmer-further-expands-previous-state-of-emergency-declaration?utm_source=em-morning-briefMississippi• WTOK, City of Meridian issues a boil water notice (April 29, 2026): https://www.wtok.com/2026/04/29/city-meridian-issues-boil-water-notice/?utm_source=em-morning-brief• WDAM, Boil-water notice lifted in Taylorsville (April 29, 2026): https://www.wdam.com/2026/04/29/boil-water-notice-lifted-taylorsville/?utm_source=em-morning-brief• Action News 5, Severe storms pummel Mid-South including unconfirmed tornado: https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/04/29/severe-storms-pummel-mid-south-including-least-1-unconfirmed-tornado/?utm_source=em-morning-briefMissouri• Missourinet, Storms damage Central Missouri state prisons: https://www.missourinet.com/2026/04/27/storms-cause-damage-at-state-prisons-and-across-central-missouri/?utm_source=em-morning-brief• Springfield Citizen, Hail storm causes damage and 10,000 power outages in Springfield: https://sgfcitizen.org/weather/springfield-power-outages-hail-storm/?utm_source=em-morning-briefNevada• Fox Weather, Magnitude 4.4 latest in series of earthquakes to hit Nevada: https://www.foxweather.com/weather-news/magnitude-4-7-earthquake-shakes-las-vegas?utm_source=em-morning-briefNew Mexico• The Watchers, Critical fire weather conditions forecast across eastern New Mexico and western Texas: https://watchers.news/2026/04/28/critical-fire-weather-conditions-forecast-across-eastern-new-mexico-and-western-texas/?utm_source=em-morning-briefOklahoma• AccuWeather, EF4 tornado devastates Enid, Oklahoma: https://www.accuweather.com/en/severe-weather/ef4-tornado-devastates-enid-oklahoma-amid-thursdays-severe-weather/1885149?utm_source=em-morning-brief• News9, Cleanup efforts continue following EF-4 tornado in Enid: https://www.news9.com/oklahoma-city-news/cleanup-efforts-continue-following-ef-4-tornado-in-enid-dozens-of-volunteer-helping?utm_source=em-morning-briefPennsylvania• WCCS Radio, Tornado warning for Indiana County cancelled (April 29, 2026): https://www.wccsradio.com/2026/04/29/tornado-warning-for-indiana-county-cancelled/?utm_source=em-morning-briefTennessee• WSMV, EF1 tornado leaves swirl markings in field north of Nashville: https://www.wsmv.com/2026/04/29/ef1-tornado-leaves-swirl-markings-field-north-nashville-during-early-week-severe-storms/?utm_source=em-morning-brief• WSMV, Damaging microburst confirmed in Lawrence County: https://www.wsmv.com/2026/04/29/damaging-microburst-confirmed-lawrence-county-storms-early-tuesday/?utm_source=em-morning-briefTexas• Office of the Texas Governor, Governor Abbott issues disaster declaration for North Texas storms: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-issues-disaster-declaration-for-north-texas-storms?utm_source=em-morning-brief• TDEM press release, Governor Abbott issues disaster declaration for North Texas storms: https://www.tdem.texas.gov/press-release/4-28-26?utm_source=em-morning-brief• CNN, Tornado devastates Mineral Wells, Texas, on sixth straight day of severe storms: https://www.cnn.com/2026/04/28/weather/severe-storm-outbreak-tornadoes-hail-south-climate?utm_source=em-morning-briefNorthern Mariana Islands• FEMA disaster page (DR-4910), Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Super Typhoon Sinlaku: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4910?utm_source=em-morning-brief• Stars and Stripes, Many in Northern Marianas still without power nearly two weeks after super typhoon: https://www.stripes.com/theaters/asia_pacific/2026-04-27/super-typhoon-sinlaku-recovery-21499079.html?utm_source=em-morning-brief This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
On today's EM Morning Brief, CISA adds eight actively exploited vulnerabilities to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog with a May 11 federal remediation deadline. FEMA major disaster declarations for Montana, Idaho, and Oregon tied to December 2025 storms were published in the Federal Register, opening Public Assistance funding. Super Typhoon Sinlaku recovery continues across Guam and the CNMI under active federal emergency and public-health emergency determinations. Red Flag Warnings span the Plains, Southwest, and High Plains with critical fire weather peaking midweek, and the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory revises its Kilauea Episode 45 forecast window to April 21 through 26. State updates cover Texas flash flooding, Wisconsin tornado recovery, Oklahoma wildfire containment, and the ongoing response to the Minidoka Memorial Hospital cyber incident in Idaho. EM Morning Brief is your concise daily update on national and state-by-state emergency management news. Produced by Sitch Radio, an EOC Voices podcast.Key Takeaways• CISA KEV update: Eight new actively exploited CVEs added April 20 (PaperCut, JetBrains TeamCity, Kentico, Quest KACE, Zimbra, three Cisco SD-WAN Manager). Federal patch deadline May 11.• FEMA declarations published: Major Disaster Declarations for Montana (DR-4901), Idaho (DR-4905), and Oregon formally appear in the Federal Register, opening Public Assistance for December 2025 storm damage.• Sinlaku recovery: Federal emergency declarations and HHS public-health emergency remain in effect for Guam and the CNMI. Power and water restoration on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota may take weeks.• Kilauea Episode 45: HVO revises the lava-fountaining forecast window to Tuesday, April 21 through Sunday, April 26. Summit remains paused but inflating.• Fire weather: Red Flag Warnings active across Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming. Wednesday expected to be most dangerous day of the week.• Texas flash flooding: Flash Flood Warning along San Antonio to New Braunfels corridor; SAFD reports nine water rescues. Houston metro sees localized urban flooding with rainfall rates up to three inches per hour.• Wisconsin storm response: SEOC Update 4 reports 28 resource requests and continued coordination with county and tribal emergency managers following confirmed April 14 tornadoes and flood damage.• Idaho hospital cyber incident: Minidoka Memorial Hospital restores imaging services April 19. Blackwater ransomware group claims April 17 and threatens data publication after April 24.• April 17 tornado cleanup: NWS confirms a high-end EF-2 in Lena, Illinois; EF-1 tornadoes in Jo Daviess County, Illinois and Washington County, Iowa; and an EF-2 in Rochester, Minnesota with two injuries.SponsorsThe NIMS Store - https://thenimsstore.com/SourcesCISA• CISA Alert — Eight new KEV entries (April 20, 2026) — PaperCut, JetBrains TeamCity, Kentico Xperience, Quest KACE SMA, Zimbra, and three Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Manager CVEs; federal patch deadline May 11, 2026• CISA — Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog — Authoritative catalog of actively exploited CVEsFEMA• Federal Register — Montana Major Disaster Declaration (DR-4901-DR) — Public Assistance Only for December 9-11, 2025 severe storms and flooding• Federal Register — Idaho Major Disaster Declaration (DR-4905-DR) — Public Assistance Only for December 16-18, 2025 straight-line winds• Federal Register — Oregon Major Disaster Declaration — Public Assistance Only for December 15-21, 2025 storms and landslides• FEMA — DR-4901-MT page — Montana disaster assistance details and deadlines• FEMA — Emergency Declaration for Guam — April 17, 2026 press release on Super Typhoon Sinlaku supportNIFC and wildland fire• NIFC — National Fire News — April 20, 2026 daily national fire activity summary• NICC — Incident Management Situation Report — Daily SITREP from the National Interagency Coordination Center• InciWeb — Incident Information System — Active wildland-fire and incident recordsUSGS and volcano• USGS — Kīlauea Volcano Updates — HVO summit eruption status and Episode 45 forecast window• HVO Volcano Notice — April 19, 2026 — Revised Episode 45 timing: April 21 to April 26 window• USGS — Significant Earthquakes 2026 — Catalog of significant events including the April 20 M7.4 near Miyako, JapanNOAA/NWS• NOAA Storm Prediction Center — Day 1 Convective Outlook — National severe-weather risk areas• NOAA SPC — Fire Weather Outlook — Red Flag / critical fire-weather areasHHS/CDC• HHS ASPR — Public Health Emergency: CNMI and Guam / Typhoon Sinlaku — April 17, 2026 determination by the Secretary• CDC HAN — Medetomidine Advisory — Prior HAN on illicit-drug-supply risk (context)DHS• DHS — National Terrorism Advisory System — NTAS bulletin page (no new bulletin in the last 24 hours)FAA• FAA — Daily Air Traffic Report — Weather-related delays and advisories• FAA — National Airspace System Status — Real-time airport and NAS statusAlabama• NWS Birmingham — Regional fire-weather and forecastAlaska• Alaska Earthquake Center — Adak M4.7 — April 20, 2026 Aleutian event, no tsunamiArizona• NWS SPC — Fire Weather Outlook — Red Flag conditions across the SouthwestArkansas• Arkansas Division of Emergency Management — State-level EM updatesCalifornia• Cal Fire — Incidents — Active incident list and evacuation informationColorado• BoulderCAST — This Week in Colorado Weather (April 20, 2026) — Red Flag timing and wind outlookFlorida• Florida State Watch Office — Florida Division of Emergency Management situation reports• NWS Miami — Hazardous Weather Outlook — South Florida severe and marine hazardsHawaii• Hawai‘i County — Emergency Proclamation (April 2026) — Severe weather and concurrent hazards proclamation• HVO — Kīlauea Notice April 19, 2026 — Episode 45 revised windowIdaho• DataBreaches.net — Minidoka Memorial Hospital update (April 20, 2026) — Imaging services restored; Blackwater leak deadline April 24• Comparitech — Blackwater claim and hospital impact — Ransomware claim and hospital response• Idaho Office of Emergency Management — State-level disaster and mitigation updatesIllinois• NWS Quad Cities — April 17, 2026 event summary (updated April 20) — Confirmed EF-2 and EF-1 tornadoes across western Illinois• WQAD — April 17 tornado outbreak recap — Damage assessments and local impactIndiana• NWS Indianapolis — Freeze Warning — East-central and southeast IndianaIowa• NWS Quad Cities — April 17 event summary (updated April 20) — Washington County EF-1 detailsKansas• NWS SPC — Fire Weather Outlook — Red Flag areas across southern PlainsMinnesota• NWS — April 17 Tornadoes (updated April 20) — Rochester EF-2 and regional damageMississippi• WLOX — April showers? More like April drought — Dry-pattern context and rainfall totalsMontana• FEMA — DR-4901 designated areas — County eligibility for Public AssistanceNebraska• KGFW — Red Flag Warning for central Nebraska — Noon to 9 p.m. Monday critical fire weatherNevada• NWS SPC — Fire Weather Outlook — Southwest wind and fire-weather detailsNew Mexico• KRTN — Schwachheim Fire Update, April 20, 2026 — Local fire-line assessmentOhio• NWS Wilmington — Freeze Warning (April 20, 2026) — Southern Ohio overnight freezeOklahoma• Oklahoma Department of Agriculture — Fire Situation Report (April 20, 2026) — Lightning Roll and Sunny Fire containmentOregon• Federal Register — Oregon Major Disaster Declaration — Public Assistance Only for December 2025 storms and landslidesSouth Dakota• Men's Journal — Red Flag Warnings across the High Plains — South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas zones through Monday eveningTexas• NWS San Antonio / Texas Storm Chasers — Flash Flood Warning along the San Antonio to New Braunfels corridor• Click2Houston — Houston severe threat, April 20, 2026 — Two to three inches per hour and heightened crash riskUtah• Snoflo — Utah snowpack status — Statewide snowpack near 32 percent of normalWashington• FEMA — Disasters and Other Declarations — Washington December 2025 winter-storm declarationWest Virginia• WCHS — Freeze Warning remains in effect for most of West Virginia — Monday night through Tuesday morningWisconsin• Wisconsin Emergency Management — SEOC Update 4 (April severe storms and flooding) — Resource requests and ongoing state coordination• WTMJ — Governor Evers state of emergency — April 15, 2026 declarationWyoming• NWS SPC — Fire Weather Outlook — High Plains critical fire-weather patternGuam• FEMA — Emergency Declaration for Guam — April 17, 2026 press release• Stars and Stripes — DoD schools to reopen, port operations (April 20, 2026) — Recovery status update from GuamCommonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands• Isla Public — FEMA damage assessment after Sinlaku landfall — Published April 19, 2026• HHS ASPR — Public Health Emergency: CNMI and Guam — Secretary's April 17 determination This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
- 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 ★
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.Oil prices exploded Thursday with WTI crude jumping 11% to $111.54/barrel—the biggest single-day gain in 6 YEARS!
Recorded in Amarillo at the High Plains Dairy Conference, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Matt Wolf and Jake Kingsley as they share their farm backgrounds—Matt from a Texas dairy family and Jake from Kansas, where his grandparents once had a small family dairy—plus unique experiences like dairy cattle and collegiate wool judging. Matt explains building a beef-on-dairy risk management program spanning day-old calves through finishing cattle and cull cows, including new LRP opportunities, and how producers can protect value at record-high calf and cow prices. Jake outlines Ever.Ag's feed risk management approach as it combines futures, basis, and cash-feed analysis with regular producer check-ins. They discuss High Plains consolidation, processing capacity growth, water constraints, ongoing volatility, export needs, and the rise of high-protein products, then close with quick personal Q&A and country music picks.Ever.Ag partners with dairy producers to build customized risk management plans that help protect margins in any market environment. With dedicated advisors, industry leading technology, and proven tools like Dairy Revenue Protection, we help farms reduce uncertainty and secure long‑term financial strength. Learn more at https://ever.ag/00:00 High Plains Kickoff01:53 Why Amarillo Matters02:27 Matt Wolf's Story04:45 Jake Kingsley's Story06:29 Wool and Cattle Judging08:15 Beef on Dairy Growth13:10 Feed Risk Playbook15:53 High Plains Game Changers21:29 Future Outlook and Trends29:08 Rapid Fire Fun33:34 Wrap Up and Thanks
Listen to the SF Daily podcast for today, March 19, 2026, with host Lorrie Boyer. These quick and informative episodes cover the commodity markets, weather, and the big things happening in agriculture each morning. Soybean crush margins are at a two-and-a-half-year high, and ethanol margins have surpassed last summer's levels. Ethanol production declined by 33,000 barrels per day to 1.093 million barrels, with significant drops in the Midwest. Livestock markets faced pressure, with money managers pulling capital from the complex. Fire risk is high in the central and northern High Plains, and a wintry mix is expected in the upper Midwest. The Federal Reserve keeping interest rates steady at 3.5-3.75% due to geopolitical uncertainty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
A significant High Wind Event will continue to impact sections of the Rockies and High Plains through Saturday. Snow and much colder temperatures will also be bring expanding road weather impacts to the region! Stay ahead of hazardous winter weather with our regional road and interstate forecast covering I-80, I-70, I-90, and I-25 across Wyoming, Nebraska, Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico. This daily 3 PM Mountain Time update (Monday through Friday, with weekend editions as needed) delivers the latest information on snow, ice, high winds, reduced visibility, and dangerous travel conditions. Designed for both the general public and commercial drivers, including long-haul truckers, our forecast highlights critical impacts to major freight corridors and holiday travel routes. If you depend on safe and efficient travel across the central and northern Rockies, this winter-weather road report helps you plan ahead, avoid delays, and stay informed.
An Extreme Wind Event and Winter Road Weather Impacts to affect the High Plains and Rock Mountians! Stay ahead of hazardous winter weather with our regional road and interstate forecast covering I-80, I-70, I-90, and I-25 across Wyoming, Nebraska, Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico. This daily 3 PM Mountain Time update (Monday through Friday, with weekend editions as needed) delivers the latest information on snow, ice, high winds, reduced visibility, and dangerous travel conditions. Designed for both the general public and commercial drivers, including long-haul truckers, our forecast highlights critical impacts to major freight corridors and holiday travel routes. If you depend on safe and efficient travel across the central and northern Rockies, this winter-weather road report helps you plan ahead, avoid delays, and stay informed.
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
The primary focus of today's EM Morning Brief is the juxtaposition of hazardous winter travel conditions in parts of the Great Lakes and Northeast against an elevated wildfire risk across the High Plains and South Central states. We commence our discussion by highlighting the National Weather Service's acknowledgment of gusty winds and exceedingly low humidity, which significantly heighten the potential for rapid grass fire spread. Concurrently, we address the implications of ongoing winter weather, particularly in the Northeast, where light snowfall and refreezing have engendered treacherous road conditions and black ice. Furthermore, we examine the severe wildfire activity within Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida, which has necessitated area closures due to smoke impacts. Additionally, we note the operational constraints faced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency amidst a funding shutdown, which limits its capacity to respond effectively to these unfolding crises.Takeaways:* The current hazardous winter travel conditions are primarily affecting the Great Lakes and Northeast regions.* Elevated wildfire risks persist in the High Plains and South Central states due to low humidity and strong winds.* The ongoing winter storm recovery efforts in California involve coordination for sheltering and essential services.* Florida's Big Cypress National Preserve is experiencing significant wildfire activity impacting air quality and local access.* The National Weather Service has issued multiple red flag warnings highlighting the potential for rapid wildfire spread.* The overall travel conditions across various states are complicated by winter weather and the risk of black ice.Sources[Cal OES | https://www.wildfirerecovery.caloes.ca.gov/][NWS | https://www.weather.gov/][AP | https://apnews.com/article/bd0e342070154e27dff32d805ab2ba46][NPS | https://www.nps.gov/bicy/learn/news/wildfire-update-big-cypress-national-preserve.htm][NPS Alerts & Conditions | https://www.nps.gov/bicy/planyourvisit/conditions.htm][Big Rapids News | https://www.bigrapidsnews.com/news/article/michigan-clipper-snow-tonight-february-24-21938701.php][KOKH/OKC Fox | https://okcfox.com/news/local/oklahoma-emergency-operations-center-remains-active-as-wildfires-impact-the-state-statewide-burn-ban-relief-donations-charity-damages-ranchers][NWS Fire Weather | https://www.weather.gov/fire/][Texas A&M Forest Service | https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/wildfire-and-other-disasters/current-wildfire-status/][NWS Red Flag Warning Summary | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=red+flag+warning][MySA | https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/austin/article/i35-grass-fire-21939119.php] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
fWotD Episode 3217: Kent Haruf Welcome to featured Wiki of the Day, your daily dose of knowledge from Wikipedia's finest articles.The featured article for Tuesday, 24 February 2026, is Kent Haruf.Alan Kent Haruf (, rhymes with sheriff; February 24, 1943 – November 30, 2014) was an American writer born and raised in Colorado. He wrote six novels and several short stories set on the High Plains, mostly in the fictional town of Holt.After completing his undergraduate degree in English at Nebraska Wesleyan, Haruf enrolled in the Peace Corps and performed work in lieu of military service before receiving a master's degree from the University of Iowa. He initially struggled to establish a career as a writer; in addition to stints as a janitor, construction worker and farmhand, Haruf spent years teaching English at a high school in Wisconsin and at universities in Nebraska and Illinois. His writing was first published in 1984 when he was 41. Although Haruf's first two novels received critical praise, commercial success eluded him until the publication of Plainsong in 1999, which became a bestseller. He followed it up with Eventide (2005), a direct sequel to Plainsong, and Benediction (2013).Throughout Haruf's career, critics praised his spare and elegant prose, authentic portrayals of rural life, and attention to the beauty found in ordinary things, although he was occasionally criticized for redundancy. In early 2014, Haruf was diagnosed with an incurable lung disease. He wrote his final book, Our Souls At Night, while ill and died that November. The book was published posthumously and adapted into a film of the same name. A Colorado magazine, 5280, wrote that Haruf is "widely considered Colorado's finest novelist", and the Dublin Review of Books called his work "both uniquely American and profoundly universal".This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 00:44 UTC on Tuesday, 24 February 2026.For the full current version of the article, see Kent Haruf on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm generative Amy.
What happens to a place when its stories aren't told? This week on Hey Amarillo!, I sit down with local poet Seth Wieck, whose work captures the beauty, tension, and quiet power of life in the Texas Panhandle. Seth grew up on his family's farm in Umbarger — land his family worked for three generations. He shares what it meant to be shaped by that place and why he ultimately chose not to continue farming as the changing economics of agriculture reshaped life on the High Plains. For Seth, poetry isn't just art — it's preservation. It's a way to hold onto memory, to honor legacy, and to make sense of change. We talk about belonging, about the evolution of rural life, and about how words can keep a way of life alive long after it begins to shift. It's a thoughtful and deeply grounded conversation about land, identity, and the stories that define us.
This episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast features Dr. Robert Hagevoort of New Mexico State University, previewing the 2026 High Plains Dairy Conference, March 3–4 in Amarillo, Texas, plus a middle manager workshop on March 5. He outlines the producer-driven program focused on practical topics like workforce development, markets, beef-on-dairy, water, feeding strategies, and biosecurity.He also shares updates on the Dairy Consortium's six-week hands-on training program in Clovis, New Mexico, which has prepared hundreds of students for careers in dairy and allied industries.The episode wraps with his work in Indonesia, where dairy nutrition initiatives and targeted producer training are helping improve management and milk production.Register for the High Plains Dairy Conference: http://highplainsdairy.org/Register for the Middle Managers Training Workshop: http://highplainsdairy.org/middle-managers-training-workshop/Learn more about the U.S. Dairy Consortium: https://usdetc.tamu.edu/00:00 2026 High Plains Dairy Conference: Why This Event Matters01:54 What Is the High Plains Dairy Conference? 20 Years of Producer-Driven Growth03:14 How the Agenda Gets Built: ‘What's on Your Mind?' + Pre-Conference Tracks05:34 Must-See Sessions: Labor & Workforce Development Panel (What Actually Works)07:22 Big Picture Forecasts: Dairy Outlook Series + DC & Trade Perspectives08:49 Beef-on-Dairy & Heifer Inventory: Where the Markets Go Next10:51 Registering + More Hot Topics: Water, Sorghum Silage, Byproducts & Biosecurity14:00 March 5 Middle Manager Workshop: Communication & Conflict Resolution (EN/ES)17:50 Beyond the Conference: The Dairy Consortium & Pipelines Conference18:51 6-Week Dairy Immersion for Students: Hands-On Training, Careers & Enrollment27:59 Taking Training Global: Building Dairy Skills in Indonesia with USDEC34:23 Wrap-Up: See You in Amarillo + Final Thanks
*Wildfires are devastating the High Plains.*Fed cattle sales have declined in the Texas Panhandle. *Beef got a big boost in the new government dietary guidelines. *Congressional leaders are weighing in on the US Mexico Canada trade agreement. *The latest farm bankruptcy data serves as another indicator of a struggling farm economy. *Vaccinating spring calving beef cows is very important.
The episode elucidates the prevailing national risk landscape characterized by a rapidly advancing multi-hazard storm on February 18, 2026. We delve into the severe winter storm and blizzard conditions affecting the upper Midwest and Great Lakes, juxtaposed with critical fire weather conditions across the High Plains. The National Weather Service has issued multiple warnings for blizzard and winter storm conditions, particularly around western Lake Superior, where hazardous travel is imminent. Furthermore, we examine the dire situation in Northern California, with significant travel disruptions and ongoing search and rescue operations following an avalanche incident. Our analysis extends to various states, detailing the complex interplay of winter weather and fire hazards, underscoring the necessity for vigilance and preparedness amidst these perilous conditions.Takeaways:* The podcast emphasizes the severity of the multi-hazard storm impacting various regions across the nation.* Blizzard and winter storm warnings are active in the upper Midwest, affecting travel and safety.* Critical fire weather conditions are prevalent in the High Plains, particularly impacting states like Colorado and Nebraska.* Winter storm warnings in Northern California have led to significant travel disruptions and highway closures.* Local authorities report ongoing rescue operations following an avalanche incident in the Sierra region.* Oklahoma is facing a serious wildfire situation with coordinated emergency response efforts underway.Sources[NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=blizzard+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?zoneid=CAZ069][NWS | https://www.weather.gov/sto/][ABC7 / AP | https://abc7news.com/post/rescue-underway-missing-skiers-reported-avalanche-castle-peak-area-sierra-nevada-sheriffs-office-says/18612994/][ABC10 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/california-winter-storm-interstate-80-traffic-sierra-avalanche-warning-outage/103-d82bfe99-61b2-425c-a4ce-e25e71521343][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=bou&wwa=red+flag+warning][Colorado Sun | https://coloradosun.com/2026/02/17/fires-evaucations-eastern-plains/][CBS Colorado | https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/video/fire-that-burned-over-5000-acres-on-colorados-eastern-plains-is-now-contained/][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=red+flag+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=NEZ080&lat=40.2347&local_place1=2+Miles+W+Culbertson+NE&lon=-100.8782&product1=Fire+Weather+Watch&warncounty=NEC087&warnzone=NEZ080][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MIZ003&lat=47&local_place1=Toivola+MI&lon=-88.74&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=MIC061&warnzone=MIZ003][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MIZ016&lat=45.9706&local_place1=3+Miles+N+Rapid+River+MI&lon=-86.972&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=MIC041&warnzone=MIZ013][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=blizzard+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=dlh&wwa=winter+storm+warning][NWS | https://www.weather.gov/ggw/][NWS | https://www.weather.gov/byz/montana_statewide_information][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=NEZ080&lat=40.2347&local_place1=2+Miles+W+Culbertson+NE&lon=-100.8782&product1=Fire+Weather+Watch&warncounty=NEC087&warnzone=NEZ080][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=red+flag+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MNZ008&lat=48.3003&local_place1=10+Miles+E+Holt+MN&lon=-95.9822&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=MNC089&warnzone=MNZ008][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=NDZ010&lat=48.3124&local_place1=Stanley+ND&lon=-102.3928&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=NDC061&warnzone=NDZ010][OK OEM | https://oklahoma.gov/oem/news/newsroom/wildfire-situation-update-1---february-17--2026.html][KOCO | https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-wildfire-woodward-evacuations-forgan-fire-beaver-county/70397791][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=red+flag+warning][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory][NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=WIZ002&lat=46.7163&local_place1=6+Miles+SSE+Cornucopia+WI&lon=-91.0496&product1=Winter+Storm+Warning&warncounty=WIC007&warnzone=WIZ002] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
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Tumbleweeds have taken over the High Plains. The plant thrives so well in the western part of Kansas that sometimes they can shut down entire neighborhoods or highways. Plus: An inconspicuous insect is changing what survival looks like as climate change remains a threat.
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.Farm Economy Under PressureHeadlines this week focused squarely on the deteriorating US farm economy. The Wall Street Journal published an article detailing the challenges facing US soybean farmers, including high input costs, weak commodity prices, rising competition from Brazil, and sluggish export demand. The piece also referenced USDA's $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program, noting that while helpful in the short term, it does not address deeper structural issues.Reuters published similar coverage, emphasizing tighter bank lending standards, increasing financial stress, and a rise in farm bankruptcies. Together, the articles underscore mounting pressure on farmers and the broader ripple effects across rural America. Soybean Oil & BiofuelsSoybean oil futures surged on Thursday, gaining as much as 3.8% on expectations that the Trump administration will finalize US biofuel-blending quotas by March. Last June, the EPA proposed a sizable increase in biomass-based diesel targets, which would significantly boost soybean oil demand. There is optimism that stronger biofuel demand could help offset weak soybean export performance.NOPA Crush UpdateThe National Oilseed Processors Association released its December crush report, showing US soybean crush at its second-highest level on record. NOPA members processed 224.99 million bushels, up 4.1% from November and 8.9% from December 2024, slightly above trade expectations.For full-year 2025, crush totaled nearly 2.4 billion bushels—an 8% increase from 2024. End-of-month soybean oil stocks rose to 1.64 billion pounds, the highest level since May 2024, up sharply from both last month and last year, though just below average trade estimates.Brazil Soybean CropBrazil's soybean crop is shaping up to be record large. Agroconsult raised its estimate to 182.2 mmt, citing strong field conditions and limited widespread issues. Meanwhile, Conab trimmed its estimate slightly to 176.1 mmt due to marginally lower yield expectations. Even so, the crop remains record large and would exceed last season's production. Export SalesUS corn export sales impressed last week, with net sales of 1.1 mmt. While down from the prior four-week average, the number was a strong rebound from the previous week. Mexico was the top buyer.Soybean sales exceeded expectations at 2.1 mmt, up sharply week-over-week and well above the recent average. China was the largest buyer. Wheat sales came in near the low end of expectations at 156,300 mt, with unknown destinations leading purchases.USDA Flash SalesUSDA reported multiple flash sales on Thursday:Soybeans sold to China and unknown destinations for 2025/26 deliveryAdditional soybean sales for 2026/27 deliveryCorn sales to Japan and unknown destinations for 2025/26 deliveryDrought Monitor UpdateUSDA's latest drought data showed mixed but generally improving conditions across parts of the Corn Belt and High Plains. Above-normal precipitation helped reduce drought intensity in portions of Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan, Nebraska, and Kansas, while conditions worsened slightly in southern Missouri.US Areas Experiencing DroughtCorn: 28%Soybeans: 34%Winter Wheat: 41%Spring Wheat: 10%Cattle: 34%
You inherited a debt you never agreed to pay. I want you to consider that statement before you dismiss it. Not a financial debt, not a mortgage or a student loan with your signature on the paperwork. Something older. Something that attached itself to your bloodline before you were born, before your parents were born, before anyone now living had any say in the matter. This is not metaphor. This is how land works in America. The house you grew up in, the town where you learned to read, the state whose history you memorized in school, all of it sits on ground that belonged to someone else first. The transfer was not clean. The transfer was never clean. And the people who were displaced did not disappear. Their descendants are still here, still remembering, still holding ledgers that no one on the other side wants to examine.
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.
The primary focus of today's briefing is the impending G1 geomagnetic storm watch issued by NOAA, which may grant observers in the northern United States the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. As we delve into the meteorological landscape, we will address the winter hazards currently affecting the central Rockies and southern High Plains, with specific attention to a winter storm warning in effect for the Colorado Front Range, predicting significant snowfall and adverse conditions. Additionally, we will highlight accumulating snow chances in the northwest Texas Panhandle and the subsequent colder, breezy weather anticipated across various regions. Furthermore, updates from Alaska's FEMA Bethel Assistance Hub will be provided, emphasizing ongoing support for storm and flood survivors. We encourage our audience to remain vigilant and informed as these weather systems evolve, particularly if conditions permit a glimpse of the aurora tonight.Takeaways:* The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has issued a G1 geomagnetic storm watch effective tonight, suggesting a potential view of the Northern Lights.* A winter storm warning has been declared for the Colorado Front Range, predicting heavy snowfall and hazardous blowing snow conditions.* Residents in western Alaska are encouraged to utilize the Bethel Assistance Hub, which has reopened to support survivors from previous storms and floods.* In Texas, particularly the northwest Panhandle, accumulating snow is anticipated, alongside colder and breezy weather following a passing cold front.* California currently faces no urgent weather alerts, yet a recovery update from last winter's fires has been published by CAL OES, highlighting ongoing efforts and lessons learned.* Monitoring updates from the National Weather Service is recommended, as evolving weather systems may impact the Rockies and Plains regions significantly.Companies mentioned in this episode:* NOAA* National Weather Service* FEMA* CAL OESSources[FEMA | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260107/bethel-assistance-hub-reopens-jan-8-support-alaskans][Cal OES | https://news.caloes.ca.gov/a-year-after-the-la-fires-pacific-palisades-and-altadena-communities-recover/][NWS Pueblo | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=PUB&product=WSW&site=pub][NWS Duluth | https://forecast.weather.gov/zipcity.php?inputstring=duluth%2CMN][NWS Amarillo | https://www.weather.gov/ama/winter][NWS Seattle | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=SEW&product=CFW&site=SEW] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.Corn futures moved higher for a second straight session on Thursday. The Mar26 contract settled near $4.45, supported by strong export demand.Accumulated US corn sales through the end of November are running well ahead of last year.Wheat futures finished higher on short covering but remain near two-month lows.Soybean futures continued to slide, pressured by uncertainty around Chinese buying.There was chatter of possible Chinese purchases of US corn out of the PNW (several cargoes). A USDA flash sale today or Monday would confirm the business.
A powerful coast-to-coast storm continues to traverse the eastern United States, bringing with it a myriad of severe weather conditions. The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and river flood warnings for western Washington and northwest Oregon, while high winds affect the Northern Rockies and High Plains. As we delve into the specifics of this storm's impact, we will also discuss the emergence of lake effect snow and the potential for flash freeze slick spots downwind of the Great Lakes. Furthermore, wind advisories are in effect for parts of the Mid Atlantic as the cold front advances offshore. We will also address seismic activity, noting several small to moderate earthquakes recorded off the coast of Alaska without significant damage reported. Join us as we explore these weather phenomena and their implications for various states across the nation. The latest briefing commences with a comprehensive overview of the meteorological conditions affecting the United States on December 19th, 2025. A formidable coast-to-coast storm is currently traversing the nation, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue flood watches and river flood warnings across western Washington and northwest Oregon. In addition, high winds are impacting the Northern Rockies and the High Plains, creating perilous travel conditions and potential hazards for local populations. Furthermore, the Great Lakes region is experiencing lake effect snow and flash freeze conditions, leading to dangerous slick spots that may exacerbate the challenges faced by commuters.Takeaways:* Today, a powerful coast to coast storm continues to move eastward across the nation, bringing severe weather.* The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and river flood warnings for western Washington and northwest Oregon.* High wind warnings have been issued for the Pribilof Islands with gusts reaching 75-80 mph, creating hazardous conditions.* Dense fog is present in California's Central Valley, reducing visibility significantly and causing travel delays.* In Michigan, winter weather advisories remain in effect, predicting additional lake effect snow along the Lake Michigan shore.* Oregon faces ongoing flood warnings as an atmospheric river approaches, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding.Sources[NWS Anchorage overview & warnings | https://www.weather.gov/afc][NWS AFC High Wind pages | https://www.weather.gov/afc/HighWindWarningPribilofs , https://www.weather.gov/afc/HighWindBeringStormReview][NWS Hanford — Dense Fog Advisory & hazards | https://www.weather.gov/hnx/][Caltrans QuickMap travel info | https://quickmap.dot.ca.gov][NWS Baltimore/Washington — Wind Advisory & HWO | https://www.weather.gov/lwx/ https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=MDZ013&product1=Wind+Advisory][Washington Post Capital Weather Gang live updates | https://www.washingtonpost.com/weather/2025/12/19/dc-weather-live-updates-stormy-windy/][NWS Grand Rapids advisory summary | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=grr&wwa=all][NWS Detroit/Pontiac HWO & gales | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=DTX&product=HWO&site=NWS , https://www.weather.gov/dtx/][FEMA—Branch County flood maps meeting | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/branch-county-residents-invited-review-flood-maps][NWS Billings hazards | https://www.weather.gov/byz/][NWS statewide wind hazards page | https://www.weather.gov/byz/montana_statewide_information][NWS Buffalo advisories & marine gales | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=PAZ001&product1=Lake+Effect+Snow+Warning, https://www.weather.gov/buf/BUFHWOBUF][WBEN/Audacy local briefing | https://www.audacy.com/wben/news/weather/strong-winds-falling-temps-and-rain-transitions-to-snow][NWS Portland—flood warnings & watches | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?product1=Flood+Warning&warnzone=ORZ111 https://www.weather.gov/pqr/][OPB regional forecast update | https://www.opb.org/article/2025/12/18/atmospheric-river-flooding-oregon-washington-weather-forecast/][NWS Seattle—Flood Warnings/Watch text | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=sew&wwa=all][NWS Seattle office dashboard | https://www.weather.gov/sew/][NWS Cheyenne—High Wind Warning text & local page | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=cys&wwa=high+wind+warning , https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?textField1=41.1454&textField2=-104.792][Cowboy State Daily regional brief | https://cowboystatedaily.com/2025/12/18/don-days-wyoming-weather-forecast-friday-december-19-2025/] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
The salient point of our discussion today centers on the impending severe weather conditions forecasted to affect multiple regions, particularly as a formidable Pacific storm approaches from the Northwest. This meteorological event is anticipated to bring damaging winds, mountain snow, and localized blizzard conditions across the Northern Rockies and Plains. Furthermore, we delve into the ongoing flood response in Western Washington, where the region grapples with the aftermath of excessive rainfall, compounded by river warnings and landslide risks as additional weather fronts approach. We also highlight the potential for hazardous travel conditions due to high winds and snow in various states, including North Dakota and Montana, as well as the growing concerns over winter storm watches and blizzard conditions in the northern plains. As we progress through our analysis, we will remain vigilant in tracking river stages, wind advisories, and the timing of forthcoming storms, ensuring that our audience is well-informed and prepared for the evolving weather scenarios.A thorough examination of the current meteorological landscape reveals the intricate dynamics of a formidable Pacific storm traversing the United States, particularly as it approaches the Northern Rockies and Plains. This storm is characterized by its capacity to generate damaging winds ranging from 50 to 70 mph, coupled with significant snowfall and the potential for localized blizzard conditions. The podcast meticulously unpacks the repercussions of this weather event, particularly for Western Washington, which is currently in a state of flood response following an extensive period of heavy precipitation. The discussion focuses on the heightened risks of river flooding and landslides, a situation exacerbated by the saturated soils resulting from recent rainfall. As the storm progresses, listeners are informed of the potential for additional fronts to exacerbate these conditions, emphasizing the ongoing vulnerability of the region.The narrative further extends to the specific weather advisories across various states, detailing the high wind advisories and renewed flood threats that are expected to emerge in Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington. The podcast dissects the implications of these advisories, particularly for transportation and infrastructure, as well as the efforts of local and national weather services to keep the public informed. The dangers posed by high winds and blizzard conditions in the High Plains are highlighted, illustrating the widespread impact of the storm across state lines. The podcast adeptly conveys the seriousness of the situation, advocating for public awareness and action in response to the impending weather challenges.As the episode draws to a close, the discussion encapsulates the necessity for vigilance and preparedness in the face of such formidable weather phenomena. It calls upon listeners to remain abreast of the evolving circumstances, emphasizing the importance of heeding warnings and taking precautionary measures to ensure safety. Ultimately, the podcast serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the complexities of severe weather and underscores the imperative of community resilience in the face of natural adversities.Takeaways:* The Pacific storm is expected to bring significant damaging winds and snow across various regions today. * Western Washington continues to face serious flooding issues following an extended period of heavy rainfall. * High wind warnings and advisories are in effect across numerous states, indicating hazardous conditions. * Travel disruptions are anticipated due to heavy winds and potential blizzard conditions in the northern regions. * Forecasters predict a powerful atmospheric river to impact the area with heavy rain and rising rivers soon. * Weather advisories highlight the risk of downed trees and utility outages due to saturated soils. Sources[WPC | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov][NWS Seattle | https://www.weather.gov/sew/][USGS Latest Earthquakes (map) | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/map/?extent=16.8,-137.2&extent=55.0,-52.8&listOnlyShown=true][NOAA SWPC | https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/forecast-discussion][NWS Seattle — AFD/hazards | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=SEW&product=AFD&site=sew][NWS Seattle homepage | https://www.weather.gov/sew/][AP recap of state impacts | https://apnews.com/article/5a5d085e96e98d24c96a889b4d7d8e6c][WSDOT | https://wsdot.wa.gov/][NWS Portland hazards | https://www.weather.gov/pqr/][NWS Pendleton alert (media relay) | https://ktvz.com/weather/alerts-weather/2025/12/17/high-wind-warning-issued-december-17-at-134am-pst-until-december-17-at-400pm-pst-by-nws-pendleton-or/][ODOT TripCheck closures | https://www.tripcheck.com/DynamicReports/Report/RoadConditions][NWS Bay Area AFD — key messages | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=MTR&product=AFD&site=mtr][WPC Excessive Rainfall Outlook overview | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov][NWS Boise AFD/advisories | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=BOI&product=AFD&site=BOI][NWS Pocatello High Wind Warning | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=IDZ073&product1=High+Wind+Warning][Boise hazards | https://www.weather.gov/boi/][NWS Great Falls/TFX warnings | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=byz&wwa=all][East Glacier hazard page | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=48.4438&lon=-113.2255][NWS Cheyenne warnings text | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=cys&wwa=all][NWS Denver/Boulder — point forecast showing High Wind Warning | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=40.56&lon=-105.07][WPC national hazards note | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov][NWS Bismarck state forecast product | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=ND&product=SFP&site=AKQ][NWS Grand Forks DSS/Blizzard potential PDF | https://www.weather.gov/media/fgf/DssPacket.pdf][NWS Rapid City AFD | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=UNR&product=AFD&site=UNR][NWS Rapid City High Wind Warning text | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=SDZ076&product1=High+Wind+Warning][NWS North Platte HWO | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=LBF&product=HWO&site=NWS][WFO North Platte hazards map | https://www.weather.gov/lbf/][NWS Salt Lake City homepage advisory | https://www.weather.gov/slc/][SLC point forecast showing Wind Advisory | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=40.7585&lon=-111.8881][NWS Duluth hazards | https://www.weather.gov/dlh/][NWS Grand Forks web brief | https://www.weather.gov/fgf/] This is a public episode. 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In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, meet Michaela Bethard, the feed manager at High Plains Ponderosa Dairy in Kansas. Despite originally vowing never to work on a dairy, Michaela found her true passion in feed management. She shares her journey from interning in New Zealand to thriving in one of the most pivotal roles at a large-scale dairy operation. The conversation touches on her early aspirations, challenges faced, valuable lessons learned, and the importance of continued learning and human touch in agriculture. Additionally, Michaela talks about her leadership style and how her introverted nature has grown through managing a team. As she prepares for new personal milestones, Michaela reflects on the ever-evolving landscape of feed management and the potential future impacts of AI in the industry.00:00 Introduction to Michaela Bethard's Journey01:10 High Plains Ponderosa Dairy: A Family Affair02:22 From Vet Aspirations to Feed Management03:46 Discovering a Passion for Feed Management06:56 The Importance of Reading Bunks10:12 Challenges and Growth in Feed Management12:27 Managing People and Building a Team17:20 Key Lessons and Future Insights19:16 Influential Mentors and Supportive Parents20:21 Career Choices and Grad School Decisions21:51 Future Aspirations in Dairy Management23:46 The Role of AI in Feed Management29:13 Advice for Young Dairy Professionals32:01 Personal Growth and New Beginnings35:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Texas wine is more than just a drink, it's a thriving part of agriculture and a driving force in the Texas economy, especially in the High Plains. This week, we're joined by two incredible women who dedicate their careers to growing and promoting the industry: Katy Jane Seaton, co-owner of Farmhouse Vineyards, and January Wiese, executive director of Texas Hill Country Wineries. Together, they share their passion for Texas wine, the role it plays in agriculture, and the stories behind the bottles.https://texashillcountrywineries.org/https://www.farmhousevineyards.com/
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links-Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.✅ Welcome back — today we're breaking down China's long-term soybean commitment and what it really means for US farmers.
Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links-Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.