Agri-Pulse DriveTime

Weather data suggests crop damage from severe weather is running well ahead of the average. Weather patterns suggest the worst may not be over. Despite economic challenges for some Brazilian farmers, the country's overall production may not suffer as a result.

The Fed kept interest rates steady but markets fell after a number of officials favored one or more rate increases this year. The European Union has taken a major step toward approving new genetic breeding techniques. A report on Brazil's farm economy suggests debt is increasing and foreclosures are climbing.

A new study authored by S&P Global Energy suggest biofuels could be the catalyst to renewed profitability for farms across the nation. Research suggests crop productivity growth will exceed demand and further challenge farm income potential. Iowa Senator Charles Grassley says time is limited to approve E15 legislation this year.

Clean Fuels Alliance America applauds the Trump administration's decision on higher Renewable Volume Obligations. Add the Corn Refiners Association to the list of agriculture groups supporting a continuation of the USMCA the trade agreement.

The world is again attentive to an agreement between the U.S. and Iran that would open the Strait of Hormuz and end the military action in the Middle East. Renewable fuel groups appear pleased with the Energy Department's latest version of the 45Z-CF- Greet Model.

Members of the agriculture industry are sharing the advantages they see from the USMCA trade agreement. Many groups are encouraged to hear ag labor legislation my soon be introduced on Capitol Hill.

State and USDA officials continue to monitor and try to contain confirmed cases of New World screwworm in the country. Congressman Chip Roy says eradicating the pest hinges on the number of sterile flies available to release in impacted areas.  Dairy farmers are in Washington this week and hopeful for progress on an ag labor bill.

Members of the International Fresh Produce Association are in Washington this week. Leaders are calling on legislators to resolve labor issues, provide market access for crops and restore funding for fresh produce in government feeding programs.

The number of confirmed cases of New World screwworm continues to climb in Texas. Soybean condition declined while corn held steady last week. A new study illustrates the relationship between USMCA and consumer food prices.

Commodity prices lost ground all week under fundamental pressure. Financial markets had their worst day since last October following today's jobs report. A new study was released this week indicating areas where women in agriculture need support. Over 8 in 10 women surveyed say they are interested in leadership either now or in the future.