Late-winter U.S. agriculture faces rapid swings: intermittent rain/snow, brisk post-frontal winds, and patchy frost from the Southeast to western valleys. Fieldwork windows are short and regional. Watch West Coast storm-track pulses, Gulf-front showers/storms, and Southern High Plains fire weather. Protect blooming crops and livestock; consult local NWS forecasts.
On-the-go soil sensors mounted on planters map soils in real time, calibrated with lab cores to guide variable-rate seeding, nitrogen, lime, and planter downforce. Fusing EC/EMI, vis–NIR, gamma, and compaction data improves input efficiency, yield stability, and sustainability, with payback in 1–3 seasons despite moisture, residue, and calibration challenges.
U.S. farm policy this week centers on securing funding, negotiating farm-nutrition packages, and clarifying environmental, water, and trade rules. Expect congressional oversight, draft text, USDA and EPA updates, and trade signals. Producers watch crop insurance, conservation enrollments, compliance guidance, biofuels incentives, and export data shaping risk management and planting decisions.
U.S. wheat prices rose 1.3% amid strong export demand and competitive pricing. USDA forecasts slightly lower production but increased exports and reduced ending stocks. Over the next week, prices may remain firm, supported by global supply concerns and weather risks in key regions.
U.S. soybean prices rose slightly to $10.32/bushel, supported by strong domestic crush demand. USDA forecasts record yields but lower acreage, with stable production and exports. Weather remains a key factor, and prices are expected to stay firm over the next week amid cautious market sentiment.
U.S. cotton prices rose slightly as futures gained on tightening domestic supplies. USDA forecasts lower production and exports due to reduced acreage and drought in the Southwest. Despite weak global demand, supply constraints may support prices over the next week, with a mildly bullish outlook prevailing.
U.S. corn prices rose slightly amid lower yield estimates, but USDA forecasts record production. Market faces short-term pressure from oversupply, with stable demand expected to support prices over the next week.
U.S. corn futures were mixed over the last 24 hours, with September contracts closing at $3.83/bu and December slightly higher at $4.06½/bu. Prices remain under pressure from record projected production of 16.7 billion bushels, though hot, dry Midwest weather could limit yield gains. Export demand is steady but faces competition from Brazil’s large crop. Market sentiment is cautious, with funds holding significant short positions. Over the next week, weather will be the key driver; continued dryness could support prices, while improved rainfall may push futures lower.
Late-August U.S. vegetable supplies are seasonally plentiful, led by California’s Central Coast and the Midwest/East. New-crop Northwest onions and early WA/ID potatoes are ramping, easing markets, while tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, sweet corn, and green beans remain promotable. Leafy greens are steady, though heat can trim quality; tropical systems could disrupt Southeast harvests and freight. Reefer capacity is adequate but may tighten ahead of Labor Day as ads pull volume late week. Buyers: lean into promos on onions and summer veg, manage heat-sensitive items, pre-book capacity, and dual-source near storm zones.
On August 21, 1856, Townsend Harris, America’s first consul to Japan, arrived in Shimoda, initiating formal U.S.-Japan trade relations. This pivotal moment opened the door for agricultural exchange, introducing American crops like corn and wheat to Japan while bringing Japanese silk and tea to U.S. markets. The agreement fostered modernization in Japanese farming and expanded global agricultural trade, laying the groundwork for the interconnected food systems we know today.
Wholesale vegetable prices remain elevated after July’s sharp surge of nearly 39% year-over-year, driven by tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and seasonal weather challenges. Leafy greens like romaine and iceberg lettuce saw the biggest gains, while onions and cucumbers also trended higher. Potatoes and mushrooms held steady, and celery eased slightly. Over the next week, prices are expected to stay above seasonal norms, with volatility likely for lettuce, cucumbers, and peppers, while potatoes and mushrooms remain stable.