Farms.com Home   News

Western Crop Innovations looking for producer input

Western Crop Innovations (WCI), a newly established non-profit organization in Lacombe, is reaching out to producers for their valuable input on its research priorities. Emerging from the 50-year legacy of the Field Crop Development Centre, WCI is transitioning to an independent model with renewed focus on advancing agricultural research and development.

Currently, WCI specializes in developing barley and triticale varieties tailored for the prairies. As part of its mission to serve Canadian crop and livestock producers effectively, WCI is evaluating its research directions and is keen to align its efforts with the needs and concerns of the farming community.

To ensure their research addresses real-world needs, WCI is inviting producers from across the West to participate in a brief survey. This survey aims to gather insights on the most pressing areas of research and development, including expansion into new crops, the generation of local agronomic data, and potential areas of research extension. Responses will help shape the organization’s business plan and research focus.

The deadline to participate is September 27.


Trending Video

RECORD National Corn Yield??

Video: RECORD National Corn Yield??

Agricultural and Economic Briefing: USDA Reports, Global Tensions, and Market Reactions

Welcome back to our channel for a detailed update on key developments affecting the agricultural sector and broader economic landscape. Here's what's on the agenda today:

USDA Crop Production and WASDE Reports The USDA is set to release its monthly Crop Production and WASDE reports today at 11:00am CST. These reports will reflect the updated new crop US corn and soybean balance sheets, incorporating data from the June Planted Acreage report which showed a significant increase in corn acreage. While no major adjustments to US corn and soybean yield projections are expected, the focus will be on potential changes to global supply and demand. The reports are anticipated to bear a mostly bearish tone, especially concerning corn prices.

Geopolitical Developments in Ukraine Ukraine's recent detention of a foreign cargo ship on the Danube River, suspected of carrying stolen Ukrainian grain from Russian-occupied Crimea, has escalated tensions. This incident has stirred concerns about potential Russian retaliatory actions during Ukraine's crucial grain export season. Wheat futures saw a sharp rise following the news, highlighting the sensitive interplay between geopolitical events and commodity markets.

US Drought Conditions and Agricultural Impact Recent USDA drought monitor data indicates mixed conditions across the US Corn Belt and High Plains, with many areas receiving beneficial rainfall and experiencing cooler-than-average temperatures. However, conditions have worsened in parts of western Illinois and northeast Missouri. These evolving weather patterns are critical for crop development stages and will continue to influence market dynamics.

US Crop Export Sales Corn export sales showed an increase last week, with Colombia being the largest buyer. However, soybean sales were relatively weak, with the Netherlands as the primary buyer. The varied performance in crop export sales reflects shifting global demand and market conditions, which traders closely monitor for strategic insights.

Economic Indicators and Market Reactions In a surprising economic update, consumer prices declined for the first time in four years last month, with the CPI falling 0.1% in June. This decline, coupled with the slowest annual inflation increase since March 2021, has significantly influenced market expectations, with the probability of the Federal Reserve beginning rate cuts in September now standing at 89%.

Stay Updated: For ongoing insights into these issues affecting agriculture, trade, and economic policies, make sure to subscribe to our channel. We bring you the latest information to help you understand the complexities of agricultural economics and global geopolitical shifts.

Join the Conversation: How do you think the upcoming USDA reports will impact market prices? What are your views on the ongoing geopolitical tensions and their potential effects on agricultural exports? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your input is vital as we navigate these complex global scenarios.