Category: Agriculture

DELMARVA — An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect across the Delmarva Peninsula through 8 PM Wednesday, the highest-level alert issued by the National Weather Service for dangerous heat conditions. Farmers and agricultural workers are urged to keep workers hydrated and limit field exposure during peak afternoon hours.

Forecast

Tuesday will bring sunny skies with a high of 92°F and light southwest winds. Wednesday temperatures will climb to a scorching 100°F under full sun. No rainfall is expected until Friday night, when there is a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Producers should plan pesticide and fertilizer applications accordingly.

Crop Management

Uneven crop development is complicating fungicide timing for many corn growers this season. Adam Byrne, a technical service manager with FMC, says an unusually wide spread of planting dates has left crops at very different growth stages across the region. Fields at tassel or just past tassel with disease pressure may require separate treatment windows, adding both time and cost to operations. Byrne recommends scouting each field individually before spraying.

Community

Volunteers near Laurel gleaned leftover potatoes from a field at Lakeside Farms, collecting dozens of pounds for local food banks. The Society of Saint Andrew organized the effort. Farmer Travis Hastings said crops going to waste has always bothered him and that he was glad to help facilitate the donation.

Markets

Monday’s closing futures showed September corn at $4.41¼/bu, August soybeans at $11.96¾/bu, and September Chicago wheat at $6.35¼/bu. At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn cash bids are at $4.81/bu.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 14, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

A federal agriculture agency is seeking to update and extend the paperwork requirements tied to rules governing the importation of live pigs, pork, and pork products into the United States.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced its intention to request a revision to and extension of approval of an information collection connected to regulations designed to keep imported swine and pork products free of classical swine fever.

The effort is specifically focused on imports coming from Brazil, Chile, and Mexico.

The request is being made in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, which requires federal agencies to seek approval before collecting certain types of information from the public.

A federal agency that oversees animal and plant health has announced its intention to update and extend an existing data collection program related to animal disease tracking across the country.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, known as APHIS, is seeking a revision to and an extension of approval for an information collection connected to its National Animal Health Reporting System, which is part of the agency’s National List of Reportable Animal Diseases program.

The announcement was made in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, a federal law that requires government agencies to justify and receive approval for collecting information from the public.

The U.S. House of Representatives’ Democratic Women’s Caucus is pressing the U.S. Department of Agriculture to restore four women to the United Soybean Board after the agency blocked their reappointment — a decision the caucus says is taking the organization and American farmers “in the wrong direction.”

The 96-member caucus sent a formal letter on July 13 to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and USDA Agriculture Marketing Specialist Sarah Aswegan, demanding the agency reverse course on a move first brought to light by Reuters back in April.

Earlier this year, the Trump administration rejected all four women — along with one man — who had been selected by fellow farmers to represent them on the United Soybean Board. The USDA’s involvement was described as an unusual step, as the agency has historically approved state-level selections with little pushback. No explanation has been offered by the USDA for the rejections.

In the letter, the caucus wrote: “Your decision is not only disrespectful to the qualified women who were nominated, it sends a message to women farmers that their voices do not matter.”

The group added: “We strongly urge USDA to reverse its decision and allow these nominees to serve their rightful terms.”

The removal of those women left the United Soybean Board — which manages more than $121 million in farmer-contributed funds aimed at growing markets for U.S. soybeans — with only five women among its 77 board members. That represents the lowest female representation on the board in at least ten years. Women account for more than a third of all U.S. farmers, though they have traditionally held fewer leadership positions within commodity organizations.

The USDA’s action fits into a broader pattern under the current administration, which has reversed equal pay measures put in place by the previous administration and scaled back federal programs designed to address historical disadvantages faced by women and minority groups. The White House has argued those types of programs violate anti-discrimination laws and undermine advancement based on merit.

Democratic Representative Angie Craig of Minnesota, who serves as the ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee, responded sharply to the situation. “This is the type of targeted discrimination I have come to expect from this administration. These women were nominated by their peers and deserve to be reinstated to do the work that they are capable and qualified to do,” she said.

DELMARVA — Soybean prices closed higher Monday as China resumed purchases of American soybeans, with additional support coming from a hot, dry weather pattern building across the country. The USDA’s latest crop conditions report rates soybeans at 65% good to excellent nationally, up 1 point from last week.

Maryland grain farmers should note that a referendum on the state’s Grain Checkoff Program is scheduled for July 23, running from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Queen Anne’s County 4-H Park in Chester during the Maryland Commodity Classic. Producers unable to attend in person may request an absentee ballot by calling 443-262-8491 or visiting marylandgrain.com. If approved, the 35-year-old program continues through October 1.

Markets

August soybeans closed at $11.96¾ per bushel, up 5 cents. September corn settled at $4.41, up 1½ cents. September Chicago wheat finished at $6.35¼, down 5 cents.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bringing $4.86 per bushel and November soybeans are at $11.45.

Forecast

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch through Tuesday evening. Monday afternoon will remain sunny with a high near 84°F and southeast winds around 10 mph. Tuesday brings dangerous heat with sunny skies and highs near 91°F. Producers are advised to limit field time during peak afternoon hours and keep both livestock and workers hydrated.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 13, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, known as NASS, has released its latest Crop Progress and Condition estimates.

These weekly reports are closely watched by farmers, commodity traders, and agricultural analysts as a key indicator of how the nation’s crops are faring throughout the growing season.

The report covers crop development stages and overall condition ratings, offering a snapshot of agricultural activity across the country.

The latest turkey hatchery figures show steady growth in production compared to one year ago, with several key indicators each climbing 4 percent.

According to the report, the number of eggs sitting in incubators as of July 1 was up 4 percent from the same point last year. The number of poults — young turkeys — that hatched during the month of June also rose 4 percent compared to June of the prior year.

Additionally, net poults placed during June came in 4 percent higher than the year-ago figure, rounding out a consistent picture of modest but steady growth across the turkey hatchery industry.

What started with rows of lavender growing in open fields has grown into something much bigger for Sweet Haven. The farm’s story is one of hard work, dedication, and a passion for turning a simple crop into products that customers keep coming back for.

Sweet Haven’s journey from the field to the marketplace is being highlighted in a new video profile, which traces the farm’s path from its early days cultivating lavender to developing a line of products that have become bestsellers.

The story of Sweet Haven serves as an example of how small-scale agriculture can evolve into a successful business venture, with lavender at the heart of everything they do.

The pesticide industry has been on a winning streak, securing a string of legal and regulatory victories that have drawn sharp criticism from environmental and public health organizations.

The biggest win came on June 25, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 in favor of German agrichemical and pharmaceutical company Bayer. The justices determined that plaintiffs cannot sue the company under state law for failing to include a cancer warning on the label of its Roundup weedkiller, whose active ingredient is glyphosate.

Following the ruling, Bayer’s stock surged to its largest single-day gain in 23 years. The company had been facing tens of thousands of lawsuits from Roundup users who claimed the product caused their cancer.

On Thursday, Bayer moved to persuade a federal judge to dissolve a consolidated federal lawsuit that combines nearly 4,000 additional cancer-related claims. The company has previously warned that the financial weight of that litigation could force it to stop making the weedkiller altogether.

Bayer, which purchased U.S.-based Roundup manufacturer Monsanto in 2018, has since reorganized its Roundup operations into a separate business unit and filed for duties on glyphosate imported from China.

The Trump administration backed Bayer’s position in the Supreme Court case — a stance that put it at odds with pesticide opponents aligned with the “Make America Healthy Again” movement led by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who had supported Trump in the 2024 presidential race.

Ken Cook, CEO of the Environmental Working Group, a non-profit that pushes for tighter pesticide regulations, said the administration appears to have concluded that “our constituency is these big farmers and pesticide companies.”

Cook said his organization and others fighting for pesticide limits have long been frustrated with the EPA’s pesticide oversight program. He noted that under former President Joe Biden, “it was at least more cautious,” adding, “There’s a big shift.”

The EPA, however, defended its decisions, saying they often include new application restrictions and that “the impact for farmers and the environment is straightforward. Growers get modern, more precise chemistries that do more with less.”

Bayer called the Supreme Court ruling “good for science, farmers, and industries that depend on regulatory clarity for innovation.”

Dicamba Gets Two-Season Green Light

Another herbicide at the center of controversy, dicamba — made by both Bayer and Syngenta — has also seen a favorable regulatory outcome. The chemical is applied to cotton and soybean crops that have been genetically modified to withstand it.

Critics have long argued that dicamba can drift away from where it is applied, damaging nearby plants and crops. In 2024, a U.S. District Court found that the EPA had previously failed to follow proper public input procedures when approving three dicamba products, and it threw out those approvals. That left farmers unable to use dicamba on their crops in 2025.

Then, in February 2026, the EPA announced it was re-approving dicamba products for the next two growing seasons under stricter rules, including a lower maximum application rate and limits on use during hot weather.

The non-profit Center for Biological Diversity, which opposes dicamba use, responded that those new measures would be ineffective and hard to enforce.

The EPA said in an email that the approval was “deliberately temporary” and featured “the strictest guardrails EPA has ever placed on this herbicide.”

Federal Agency Says Atrazine Not an Extinction Threat

The herbicide atrazine, widely produced by Syngenta and commonly used on crops such as corn and sugarcane, has also received a more favorable regulatory assessment.

In May, as part of an ongoing EPA registration review, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a biological opinion concluding that atrazine does not pose an extinction risk to the threatened or endangered species it examined. “We anticipate that the registration of atrazine is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of these species,” the agency wrote.

That finding marks a significant departure from a 2021 EPA biological evaluation, which determined that atrazine was likely to negatively affect more than 1,000 protected species.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted that some scientific studies have suggested a possible connection between atrazine exposure and elevated rates of certain cancers, as well as premature births.

In 2025, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classified atrazine as “probably carcinogenic to humans.”

Nathan Donley, environmental health science director for the Center for Biological Diversity, was sharply critical of the outcome. “Instead of taking the environmental and health risks of atrazine seriously, the Trump administration has once again done the pesticide industry’s bidding, allowing this extraordinarily dangerous pesticide to continue poisoning our land and water for decades to come,” he said in a statement.

The EPA noted that the biological opinion was issued by a separate agency, and said it would factor in any new scientific findings as its own review of atrazine continues.

Syngenta, on a company website dedicated to atrazine, maintains that when the chemical is used as directed, it does not cause harmful effects to human health or the environment.

Farmers in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region once only cracked open their barn windows on summer nights to give their cattle a bit of relief from the heat. Now, with temperatures climbing to record-breaking levels, those windows never close — day or night — as producers fight to protect their cows and safeguard the region’s prized Parmigiano Reggiano cheese industry.

“Extreme heat impacts milk’s quality and quantity,” said Nicola Bertinelli, president of the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium. Bertinelli also oversees the dairy farm his family established in 1895 near Parma.

When temperatures climb past 40 degrees Celsius — about 104 degrees Fahrenheit — cows rest more, eat less, and can produce as much as 10% less milk. Milk is one of only three ingredients in authentic Parmigiano Reggiano, alongside salt and rennet.

The cheese can only legally be produced in five specific provinces, most of which fall within the Emilia-Romagna region. Additionally, the cows must be fed exclusively on grass and hay grown within that same area.

“If it doesn’t rain, grass doesn’t grow, hay cannot be produced and it’s impossible to obtain the milk needed to make the cheese,” said Bertinelli, 54.

To combat the heat, farmers like Bertinelli have added fans and water-misting systems to their barns — but those solutions have come at a steep price, sending energy bills sharply higher.

Those rising costs are also being felt in the climate-controlled warehouses where Parmigiano Reggiano wheels are stored during the aging process, which lasts a minimum of 12 months and can stretch to three years or beyond.

Two warehouses operated by Magazzini Generali delle Tagliate — known as MGT, a unit of Credito Emiliano — hold more than 500,000 cheese wheels across the provinces of Reggio Emilia and Modena. Together, those wheels are valued at over €300 million.

“During this year’s peak heatwaves, our daily energy consumption rose by about 30%,” said MGT director Giancarlo Ravanetti. He noted that the company has worked to offset those costs by improving cooling systems, upgrading insulation, and expanding renewable energy production.

These warehouses have become iconic in the region, collectively referred to as the Bank of Parmigiano. Inside, tradition and modern technology work side by side. Each cheese wheel goes through rigorous quality checks — including X-ray scans — and is inspected weekly by specialists who tap the wheels with small hammers, listening for any signs of defects that may have developed during aging.

“The human factor remains key and is the real strength of the entire process,” Ravanetti said.

Paolo Ganzerli, international sales director at food group GranTerre — which reported consolidated revenue of €1.87 billion in 2025 — shared similar concerns about the financial pressures ahead.

“If extreme events become longer-lasting and more intense, they will certainly have an impact on both the quantity and quality of milk, but above all they will lead to higher costs,” he said.

The stakes are enormous. The Parmigiano Reggiano industry brings in an estimated €4.5 billion — roughly $5.15 billion — in revenue each year, supporting thousands of jobs and anchoring the regional economy.

In 2025, exports made up more than half of the cheese’s total global sales, with the United States standing as its largest international market.

Ganzerli noted that Parmigiano Reggiano “has existed for more than 800 years.”

“We don’t want to be the last generation to eat it,” he added.

DELMARVA — The National Weather Service out of Mount Holly has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for the Delmarva Peninsula running through Tuesday evening at 8 p.m., warning that conditions are favorable for a dangerous heat event to develop across the region.

Livestock producers are urged to ensure animals have shade, ample fresh water, and increased ventilation. Handling and transport of livestock should be limited to the coolest parts of the day. Field workers must be provided mandatory water and rest breaks.

Forecast

Monday’s forecast calls for sunny skies with a high of 83°F and light easterly winds. Tuesday climbs to 89°F, remaining sunny with southwest winds at 10 mph. By Wednesday, temperatures are expected to reach 96°F. Producers are advised to schedule the most strenuous fieldwork during early morning hours this week.

Markets

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, corn for September delivery is trading at $4.89/bu, while December corn stands at $4.81/bu. November soybeans are at $11.44/bu.

Agricultural lenders are closely monitoring how operations are managed through stress periods such as the current heat event. Experts note that aligning forage species and production practices with long-term goals remains critical to demonstrating financial stability to lenders.

Traffic

Del-DOT reports that Glenda Road remains closed at Case Ridge Road Monday due to a downed tree. Motorists should seek alternate routes.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 13, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — The Trump Administration’s 2026 regulatory agenda has marked 3 Biden-era poultry competition rules for rescission, placing the rollbacks squarely on the radar of Delmarva growers. Reaction within the industry is split, with groups representing both poultry producers and processors divided on whether the changes help or hurt the sector.

Policy

The potential elimination of the 3 rules represents a significant shift in federal oversight of the poultry industry. The debate over the rollbacks is expected to continue as the regulatory agenda moves forward.

Markets

The USDA has trimmed its 2026 beef and pork production forecasts. Beef output is now projected at 25.288 billion pounds, down 150 million pounds from the June estimate. The average steer price is expected at $251.10 per hundredweight. Pork production was cut to 27.955 billion pounds, down 40 million pounds. The agency did raise its poultry production outlook, a positive development for the Delmarva region.

Friday’s grain markets closed with solid gains across the board. September corn settled at $4.39¾ per bushel, up 8 cents. August soybeans closed at $11.91¾, up 14 cents. September Chicago wheat finished at $6.40¼, up 20½ cents.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bid at $4.85 per bushel. November soybeans are bid at $11.41.

Forecast

Showers and thunderstorms are continuing Saturday evening across Delmarva, with a high near 89°F. A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect through 11:00 p.m. for Kent County, inland Sussex County, and the Delaware Beaches. Up to 1 foot of water above ground level is possible in low-lying areas, and residents are urged to avoid flooded roadways. Sunday is expected to turn partly sunny with a high of 82°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 11, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Deer damage has emerged as the top agricultural story on the Eastern Shore this week, with farmers in Dorchester County, Maryland reporting devastating soybean losses. Some fields have been stripped nearly clean by white-tailed deer and sika deer, with the sika identified as the primary culprit.

Wendell Meekins, who manages 17 farm properties south of Cambridge, described the sika deer’s feeding behavior as particularly destructive. “It’s like a goat, it will stand there and eat totally all the way around and then move on,” Meekins said. A dry spring compounded the problem by stunting soybeans at the 1- to 2-inch stage — prime height for deer browse.

Mike Knauer, president of the Dorchester County Farm Bureau, lost 25 acres in roughly one week this past spring at a cost of approximately $250 per acre. The Dorchester and Wicomico county farm bureaus have scheduled a joint meeting on August 25 to discuss possible solutions.

Markets

Grain futures posted solid gains Friday. September corn settled at $4.39½ per bushel, August soybeans closed at $11.91¾, and September Chicago wheat finished at $6.40¼.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bidding $4.85 per bushel and November soybeans are at $11.41.

Forecast

Mostly cloudy skies are expected Saturday with a chance of showers and thunderstorms and a high near 86°F. Tonight brings additional showers and storms before clearing, with a low around 68°F. Coastal flooding is possible along Delaware’s shorelines through 11 p.m. Sunday is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high near 84°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 11, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Farmers saw a modest boost in peanut prices during the week ending July 4, according to the latest report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The average price received by farmers for all farmer stock peanuts came in at 24.1 cents per pound for that reporting week — an increase of 2.9 cents compared to the prior period.

A new federal agricultural report reveals mixed results for two major U.S. crops, with winter wheat coming in lower than expected while orange growers are seeing better-than-anticipated yields.

According to the report, winter wheat production has fallen 4 percent below the forecast issued in June. At the same time, orange production has risen 3 percent compared to projections made in April.

The figures were released by federal agriculture officials as part of a routine crop production update tracking how harvests are measuring up against earlier estimates.

The Pesticide Advisory Committee has announced it will hold a virtual meeting on July 22, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Those who wish to attend can join online through Google Meet at the following address: https://meet.google.com/gqv-tmwb-xrq. Participants who prefer to join by phone can call (US) +1 402-921-2196 and enter PIN: 693 591 915# when prompted.

Officials note that the session will be recorded. Members of the public who would like to address the committee will be given an opportunity to speak during the meeting.

The Pesticide Advisory Committee has announced it will hold a virtual meeting on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Those who wish to attend can join the session online through Google Meet at the following address: https://meet.google.com/gqv-tmwb-xrq. Participants who prefer to dial in by phone can call (US) +1 402-921-2196 and enter PIN: 693 591 915# when prompted.

Officials note that the meeting will be recorded. Members of the public who would like to address the committee will be given an opportunity to speak during the session.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Chicken Council is throwing its weight behind the Trump Administration’s 2026 Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions, expressing strong approval for the White House’s push to cut back on federal oversight of the poultry industry.

A key part of that support involves the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s plans to do away with three regulations that were put in place during the Biden administration under the Packers and Stockyards Act. The chicken industry group says those rules pose a serious risk to a business model it describes as both efficient and effective.

According to the council, the current industry structure benefits farmers financially while also helping to hold down the cost of chicken at grocery stores and restaurants across the country. The organization argues that the Biden-era rules, if left in place, would undermine that system.

By backing the administration’s deregulatory agenda, the National Chicken Council is aligning itself with broader efforts by the Trump White House to reduce the number of federal rules governing American industries.

A federal agricultural health agency is seeking to continue its authority to collect information tied to the tracking of plant pests and diseases across the country.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, known as APHIS, has announced its intention to request an extension of approval for an existing information collection program. The data in question is connected to the reporting of plant pests and diseases, as well as activities carried out under the APHIS Asian Longhorn Beetle Program.

The move is being made in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, a federal law that governs how government agencies gather and manage information from the public.

The Philippines has confirmed a new outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza affecting backyard poultry in its Oriental Mindoro province, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health, known as WOAH, which made the announcement on Friday.

The virus was identified in a small flock of 39 birds located in the town of Capalan. Philippine authorities reported the case to the Paris-based WOAH, which confirmed that all of the affected birds were destroyed as a precautionary measure to prevent the disease from spreading further.

The continued spread of avian influenza — widely known as bird flu — has put governments and the poultry industry on alert in recent years. The disease has devastated flocks across the globe, straining poultry supplies, pushing food prices higher, and heightening concerns about the potential for the virus to spread to humans.

DELMARVA — Weather is front and center for Delmarva crop farmers Friday, with implications that extend beyond harvest planning into integrated pest management decisions. According to Ag Proud, tracking weather patterns helps growers understand when insects are most active and vulnerable, allowing for more targeted pest control and potentially fewer broad pesticide applications. With summer heat building across the peninsula, farm advisors are urging producers to monitor field conditions closely before reaching for the sprayer.

Policy

Financially struggling crop farmers are watching for final rules on the 45Z tax credit. According to Agri-Pulse, those pending regulations could determine whether farm operators can break into the growing low-carbon fuel market — a potential new income stream at a critical time for farm finances.

For dairy producers, the FARM Program has opened a public comment period as it develops its 2028 version, giving stakeholders an opportunity to weigh in on its direction. High input costs continue to pressure dairy farm sentiment, according to Ag Proud.

Markets

Cattle futures fell sharply in Thursday’s session. August live cattle settled at $235.25, down $2.37. August feeder cattle dropped $5.90, closing at $356.15.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, corn for September delivery is bringing $4.74/bu. November soybeans are at $11.24.

Forecast

Friday’s high is expected to reach 90°F, mostly sunny with a slight chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Saturday brings a forecast high of 86°F with scattered storm chances continuing.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 10, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Australia has confirmed its first detection of the deadly H5N1 bird flu strain in a native seabird, signaling a new stage in the virus’s expansion across the country.

The infected bird — a greater crested tern — was found in the South Australian coastal town of Robe. Laboratory analysis conducted by Australia’s national science agency confirmed the positive result, Agriculture Minister Julie Collins announced.

Until now, every confirmed H5N1 case in Australia had involved migratory seabirds. This marks the first time the virus has been found in a bird species native to the country.

Friday’s announcement also included confirmation of two additional infections in South Australia and one in Western Australia, pushing the nation’s total number of confirmed detections to 12.

Collins described the situation as “concerning” but said it was not entirely unexpected. She noted that officials have found no evidence of widespread bird deaths or any spread of the virus into the poultry industry or broader agricultural sector.

“Our scientists are undertaking further work to establish the potential pathway that resulted in the Australian sea bird’s infection,” Collins said.

She added, “What we do know is that this is a coastal seabird that has been overlapping coastal range with migratory seabirds that have previously tested positive for H5.”

Australia made history in June as the last continent to record a mainland H5N1 case. The virus had previously been detected on Heard Island, a sub-Antarctic Australian territory located roughly 4,100 kilometers — about 2,600 miles — from the Australian mainland, in late 2025.

DELMARVA — Severe weather is the top story for Delmarva farmers Thursday evening, with a Flood Watch in effect through midnight and Flash Flood Warnings issued across the region. The National Weather Service out of Mount Holly is urging residents to avoid flooded roadways. Farmers with equipment or livestock in low-lying areas near streams or drainage ditches are advised to take immediate action.

Conservation

A Kent County, Maryland farm family has placed 29 acres west of Chestertown into permanent conservation protection. Lee and Joyce Davis worked with the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy to secure the easement, funded through Maryland’s Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program. The property includes working farmland, woodland, and grassland buffers protecting the East Fork of Langford Creek. The parcel connects directly to the Davis family’s 300-acre Bell Rose Farm, which is already under conservation easement. The Eastern Shore Land Conservancy now holds more than 14,713 conserved acres in Kent County.

Markets

Cattle futures closed sharply lower Thursday. August live cattle settled at $235.25, down $2.37. August feeder cattle dropped $5.90, settling at $356.15. At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is trading at $4.77 per bushel and November soybeans are at $11.32.

University of Missouri Extension economist Ben Brown says China demand and biofuels policy are combining to brighten profit potential for the 2026 soybean crop.

Forecast

Thursday night’s forecast calls for showers and thunderstorms to continue, with lows near 72°F. Friday brings patchy fog early, followed by a chance of storms returning, with highs near 91°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 9, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

BELGRADE — Officials in Serbia have started putting down 11,000 pigs at a farm in the country’s western region after an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) was confirmed there, according to a report Wednesday from the Tanjug news agency, which cited Agriculture Minister Dragan Glamocic.

The affected farm is located in the village of Hrtkovci, and the culling process is expected to take a number of days to complete. According to Tanjug, Minister Glamocic indicated that the farm’s owners will receive compensation from the government.

“The pigs are euthanised painlessly and then safely disposed of,” Glamocic was quoted as saying.

This latest outbreak is not an isolated incident — Serbia is currently dealing with several active cases of African swine fever across the country.

Over the past two months, thousands of pigs have already been destroyed in the western Macva region, an area that shares borders with both Bosnia and Croatia.

While African swine fever poses no health risk to people, it is highly contagious among domestic pigs and wild boar and can spread rapidly once an outbreak takes hold.

DOSWELL, Va. — Virginia’s biggest agricultural field day is heading back to Caroline County this summer, with cutting-edge farm technology, crop research, and live demonstrations all on the agenda.

The 2026 VA AG EXPO is scheduled for July 30 at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell, running from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is being organized in partnership with Engle Family Farms.

Billed as Virginia’s largest agricultural field day, the traveling trade show typically draws around 1,000 attendees, including farmers, researchers, agribusiness professionals, and students. This year’s lineup includes approximately 100 exhibitors showcasing agricultural technology, machinery, crops, products, and services.

Virginia Farm Bureau President Scott Sink described the event’s broader purpose: “The EXPO showcases what we do in agriculture. It’s a way for people to see how crops are doing, learn about nutrients, and a way for everyone to network and share their knowledge with each other.”

Each year, the EXPO partners with a different working farm to highlight the state’s agricultural diversity. This year, the Engle family — who farm land surrounding The Meadow — will share their multi-generational agricultural story with visitors. Attendees can learn about their production of corn, soybeans, wheat, barley, sorghum, and rapeseed.

Event organizer Jeff Whitaker noted that both large and small-scale farmers “will have the opportunity to explore precision agriculture tools, variable-rate fertility management, drone technology, weed identification displays and current crop research” throughout the day.

A key feature of the event is the Advanced Agronomy Education Area, co-hosted by the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, where Virginia agronomy and natural resource experts will lead hands-on learning sessions.

Among the educational exhibits, the Virginia Soil Health Coalition will conduct demonstrations including rainfall simulations, soil slake tests, and root box displays. Interactive exhibits will also cover soybean processing, cover crops, plant diagnostics, insect management, and farmer-led conservation practices.

Crop test plots and variety trials involving corn, soybeans, cotton, small grains, and biochar have also been planted. Whitaker said guests will be able to speak directly with specialists about research methods, findings, and ongoing studies aimed at improving agricultural productivity, profitability, and environmental stewardship.

One notable change from past years: most exhibits and programming will be held indoors at The Meadow’s Farm Bureau Center, which Sink said will create more networking opportunities for both exhibitors and attendees. Visitors can also learn about Farm Bureau programs, services, and upcoming events.

Food vendors will be on-site serving breakfast and lunch, and the Children’s Museum of Richmond will host a dedicated kids’ area to keep younger visitors engaged.

“They always provide a fun environment for our future farmers,” Whitaker said.

The annual event is sponsored by the Virginia Grain Producers Association and the Virginia Soybean Association, with cooperation from Extension and support from Virginia’s corn, soybean, and small grain checkoff boards.

Admission and parking are both free. For more information, exhibitor details, and event updates, visit vaagexpo.com.

INDEPENDENCE, Va. — Farmers and agricultural stakeholders from Southwest Virginia sat down with U.S. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., on June 30 at the Grayson Agriculture, Technology & Educational Center to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing rural producers today.

At the top of the agenda was the long-stalled Farm Bill. Warner pointed out that Congress has not passed a new five-year farm bill since 2018, leaving growers without the stability they need to plan ahead.

“We keep cobbling together short-term extensions that don’t give any of you predictability,” Warner told those gathered.

On the financial side, Warner noted that the federal government has committed roughly $66 billion in rural farm relief, calling that “the good news.” However, he cautioned that the legislation also slashes the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — commonly known as SNAP — by more than half, which he said threatens the chances of a new Farm Bill clearing Congress this year. SNAP is a federal program that provides monthly grocery assistance to low-income households. A revised version of the legislation is currently under consideration in the Senate.

The meeting also touched on the ongoing recovery from recent extreme weather events, including a damaging spring frost that hit Virginia orchard crops hard and the destruction left behind by Hurricane Helene in 2024. Agricultural leaders expressed gratitude to Virginia’s congressional delegation for backing disaster declarations that could open the door to low-interest loans and other forms of aid for affected producers.

Gene Copenhaver, a multigenerational farmer from Washington County and president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, reflected on how communities pulled together after the storm. He said neighbors helping neighbors was “the real story here,” highlighting the cooperation between counties, farmers, and elected officials.

Warner also took aim at broad tariff increases, arguing that unpredictable trade policy makes it difficult for farmers and agricultural businesses to map out their futures. While he acknowledged that targeted tariffs can be a reasonable tool when trading partners engage in unfair practices, he cautioned that sweeping changes can hurt Virginia growers who depend on international export markets.

Looking further down the road, Warner raised alarms about the potential workforce disruption that artificial intelligence could bring — and suggested that agriculture could be part of the solution by offering workers stable, long-term careers.

“I think over the next five years, we are going to see massive job dislocation come from AI,” Warner said. “We’re at 9% recent college graduate unemployment. I think it’s going to go to 30% in two years. I hope I’m wrong.”

Grayson County Farm Bureau member John Fant echoed concerns about the rural workforce, pointing to a shortage of diesel mechanics and other skilled tradespeople. He suggested that building stronger career pathways for students who choose not to pursue a traditional four-year college degree could help keep young people in rural communities while also supporting local farms and businesses.

Consumers across the country are increasingly focused on how the animals that end up on their dinner plates are treated during their lifetimes. Those who raise chickens for food say they share that concern — and now the industry’s leading trade group is taking steps to back that up.

The National Chicken Council, which first created its broiler chicken welfare guidelines back in 1999, has announced an update to those standards. Along with the revisions, the organization has earned certification from a prominent animal welfare auditing authority.

The NCC’s guidelines were originally put in place to give chicken producers and processors a framework for ensuring the humane treatment of birds throughout the production process. The newly updated standards and the accompanying certification are intended to strengthen that commitment and give consumers greater confidence in how their food is raised.

DELMARVA — A Flood Watch is in effect for the Delmarva Peninsula through midnight tonight, issued by the National Weather Service out of Mount Holly. Conditions are favorable for flooding to develop, and residents are urged to avoid flooded roadways and stay clear of streams and low-lying areas. Officials warn that very little moving water can sweep a vehicle off the road.

Markets

Grain prices were under pressure at Tuesday’s close. September corn settled at $4.35/bu, down 8¾ cents, while September Chicago wheat fell to $6.07¾, off nearly 11 cents. August soybeans held near unchanged at $11.93¼. Livestock markets were mixed, with August live cattle at $237.62 and lean hogs gaining $2.72 to close at $99.65.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bidding $4.75/bu and November soybeans at $11.37.

Policy

A preliminary settlement has been announced in an antitrust lawsuit against John Deere over repair access. If finalized, farmers and independent mechanics would be able to service their own equipment without being required to go through authorized dealerships.

A Westover, Maryland farm lost an estimated $50,000 after 700 straw bales caught fire Tuesday evening on George Riggins Road. 30 firefighters worked to contain the blaze. The Maryland State Fire Marshal is investigating the cause.

Forecast

Thursday’s high is expected to reach 86°F with showers and thunderstorms likely. Tonight will remain wet with a low of 72°F. Friday’s high climbs to 90°F with afternoon storm chances returning. Farmers are advised to monitor field conditions closely with the ongoing Flood Watch in place.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 9, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

John Deere equipment owners are about to gain a significant new freedom — the ability to repair their own machines without being forced to go through an authorized dealer.

The Federal Trade Commission, along with attorneys general from Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, announced a right-to-repair settlement Wednesday with agriculture equipment giant Deere & Co., the company widely known as John Deere. The agreement requires the Illinois-based manufacturer to give farmers and independent repair shops access to the tools they need to service their own equipment.

The company had faced years of complaints for keeping its repair software locked away from customers and independent mechanics, essentially forcing equipment owners to rely on Deere’s network of authorized dealers for repairs.

This is actually the second right-to-repair agreement Deere has struck in 2025. Back in April, the company reached a separate $99 million class-action settlement with farmers that compensated consumers financially. The new FTC settlement takes a different approach — rather than paying money to customers, it mandates that Deere open up its repair services to equipment owners and independent shops going forward.

The antitrust lawsuit was originally filed in January 2025, with the FTC and state attorneys general arguing that Deere had illegally blocked farmers and independent mechanics from repairing farm equipment, including tractors. The company also manufactures engines and equipment used in forestry, landscaping, and construction.

Under the court order filed in Illinois, Deere must now make its diagnostic and repair tools available not just to its own authorized dealer network, but to equipment owners and independent repair shops as well. The order also prohibits Deere dealers from taking any retaliatory action against customers or shops that choose to fix equipment on their own rather than paying for Deere’s services. The order still needs approval from Judge Iain D. Johnston.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes spoke out strongly in favor of the settlement. “For too long, Arizona farmers and independent mechanics have been at the mercy of Deere’s monopoly over repair tools, forced to wait — and pay — for authorized dealers just to fix broken tractors and other equipment,” Mayes said in a statement Wednesday.

As part of the agreement, Deere will pay a combined $1 million to the five participating states to cover antitrust enforcement costs. The company will also be subject to strict compliance monitoring for the next 10 years.

In the original complaint, the FTC alleged that while Deere provided a full version of its service software to authorized dealers, it withheld that complete tool from equipment owners and independent shops. Deere had previously denied the allegations, calling the lawsuit baseless and arguing that its distribution of service tools was not anticompetitive.

On Wednesday, Deere issued a statement expressing support for the outcome. Denver Caldwell, the company’s vice president of aftermarket and customer support, said, “This is good news for our customers and for the future of how Deere equipment is supported.”

The right-to-repair movement has gained momentum in recent years, particularly in the technology sector, where consumers have long complained that even minor fixes can only legally be performed by manufacturer-approved service providers.

DELMARVA — China made its largest single-day purchase of U.S. soybeans since January on Wednesday, a signal that demand is strengthening as trade relations between Washington and Beijing appear to be improving. The move is considered a meaningful boost for Delmarva soybean growers heading into summer.

Policy

Livestock producers are also watching the fallout from a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that stripped Temporary Protected Status from hundreds of thousands of Haitian immigrants. Immigrant advocacy groups say the decision is expected to hit the agriculture and food industries hard, with ripple effects across sectors that rely heavily on immigrant labor.

The Delaware Department of Agriculture is tracking New World Screwworm after the USDA confirmed a detection in Texas on June 3. No cases have been found in Delaware or anywhere in the mid-Atlantic region, and officials say the national food supply is not at risk. Producers are advised to monitor livestock for open wounds and report anything unusual to authorities.

Markets

September corn settled at $4.35¾/bu, down $0.08¾. August soybeans closed at $11.93¼, off just a fraction. September Chicago wheat fell $0.10¾ to $6.07¾/bu.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bidding $4.80/bu and November soybeans are at $11.43/bu.

Forecast

Wednesday evening is expected to stay mostly clear with patchy fog developing overnight and a low near 70°F. Thursday brings a chance of showers and thunderstorms with a high of 86°F. Producers should plan field work accordingly.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 8, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Veterinarians and humane societies issued warnings Wednesday after more than 30 confirmed cases of the New World screwworm were identified in Texas and New Mexico — two of them involving dogs — urging pet owners to stay alert and take steps to protect their animals.

The parasite made its return to the United States in June, more than half a century after it had been largely wiped out. Unlike most fly larvae that feed on dead tissue, the New World screwworm fly’s larvae consume living flesh and bodily fluids, making it especially dangerous to any mammal it infects.

The fly began moving north from Panama in 2024 and crossed into Mexico in 2025. While agriculture officials have focused on the threat it poses to the $113 billion U.S. cattle industry, the larvae can take hold in any mammal — including wildlife, dogs, cats, and occasionally humans.

The infestation begins when a female fly deposits eggs in open wounds or mucous membranes. Once hatched, the larvae feed for roughly a week before maturing, dropping to the ground, and eventually developing into adult flies.

The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that newborns and animals with open wounds or those who have recently had surgery or medical procedures face the highest risk. Even a tick bite can become a site for infestation, according to Aaron Grady, executive director of the Houston Humane Society shelter, who spoke during a webinar on the screwworm.

Animal health experts advise pet owners in affected areas — currently southern and southwestern Texas and southeastern New Mexico — to inspect their animals frequently for any wounds, cuts, or bites.

Signs of a possible infestation include visible maggots or movement within a wound, a foul odor, and unusual restlessness or anxiety in the animal. Melissa Stansell, a veterinarian at the shelter Austin Pets Alive!, also noted that an animal “hyper-fixating on looking or chewing in a certain area of the body” is a warning sign worth taking seriously.

Any of these symptoms should prompt an immediate call to a veterinarian. Infected animals are likely experiencing severe pain, which can lead to death from shock. The larvae can also be fatal if they migrate into vital organs or trigger life-threatening infections.

Shelters across Texas are working to prevent infestations by administering prescription flea and tick medications to animals in their care, and veterinarians recommend that pet owners do the same.

“It will kill the larvae as they ingest the blood and tissue,” Stansell explained. “The chemical compositions of those products are what kill the actual larval stages of these flies.”

Veterinarians can treat infestations, and animals can recover if care is sought promptly. Stansell said treatment may involve antibiotics, adding a reassuring note: “It is only fatal if left untreated.”

As a tropical species, the New World screwworm fly historically died off each year when cooler fall and winter temperatures arrived. However, state and federal agriculture officials aren’t counting on the weather to solve the problem.

Authorities have revived an eradication strategy that proved successful decades ago: breeding sterile male flies and releasing them into the wild. Since the female New World screwworm fly mates only once during her months-long life, pairing with a sterile male means her eggs will never hatch — gradually reducing and eventually eliminating the local population.

For years, the only facility in the Western Hemisphere breeding sterile flies was located in Panama. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has since invested $21 million to convert a site in southern Mexico — previously used to breed fruit flies — into a screwworm fly breeding operation. The agency also plans to spend $750 million on a new facility in Texas, expected to open next year.

The latest broiler hatchery figures from federal agriculture officials show a modest uptick in poultry production activity across the United States.

According to the report, the number of broiler-type eggs set nationally rose by 3 percent compared to the previous period. At the same time, the number of broiler-type chicks placed across the country climbed by 1 percent.

These figures track the early stages of commercial chicken production, from egg incubation through the placement of young chicks at grow-out facilities. Increases in both categories can indicate growing demand for broiler chickens in the marketplace.

BROOKSVILLE, Ky. — Even as the sun began to dip toward the horizon, the heat of the day still hung heavy in the air as Annie Woods headed back out to gather squash and zucchini from her 50-acre farm.

Prolonged, intense heat — part of a broader pattern of climate change-driven weather extremes that also includes severe flooding and extended drought — is creating real challenges for farmers. Shorter planting windows and the risk of crop loss from early-season heat followed by a sudden freeze are becoming more common concerns.

“I think it’s pretty safe to assume these kind of heat waves aren’t going away or they’re not freak occurrences,” Woods said.

A recent heat dome — a high-pressure weather system that traps heat and humidity over a large area — took a toll on specialty farmers who grow fruits and vegetables. Scientists link these increasingly intense heat events to human-driven climate change.

Many specialty farmers have found ways to cope, largely by rescheduling their work to avoid the most dangerous parts of the day. However, experts point out that these growers don’t have access to the same financial safety nets available to farmers who grow traditional commodity crops like corn and soybeans.

The combination of heat and humidity that accompanies a heat dome is dangerous for farmworkers and represents a “serious threat to human health,” according to Melissa Widhalm, the associate director at the Midwest Regional Climate Center in West Lafayette, Indiana.

Woods now limits her fieldwork to the cooler morning and evening hours, taking frequent water breaks throughout. She plants and harvests everything by hand — unlike larger operations that depend on machinery. When the heat forces her to work in the fields during peak temperatures, she sets up the same tent she uses at farmer’s markets to create a patch of shade.

Extreme heat combined with rain and high humidity can also invite crop diseases and pests that devastate harvests. Her current focus is getting the most vulnerable crops — like delicate salad greens — out of the fields quickly. Woods supplies vegetables and culinary herbs to area restaurants and runs a community supported agriculture program. She noted that harvesting in excessive heat can damage the quality of the produce.

She’s also worried about the health of seedlings that will eventually become her fall crops. To protect them, she currently keeps the seedlings inside an enclosed cabinet in a barn where temperatures stay cooler. Once they sprout, she moves them to a greenhouse equipped with fans to keep conditions manageable.

“We have to do a lot checking on the greenhouse and watering frequently to keep those teeny tiny plants alive,” Woods said.

For some growers, the recent heat has dramatically shrunk the window for harvesting certain specialty crops.

Paul Rasch, who owns and runs several fruit orchards in central Iowa, said the heat has pushed his crew of eight to rush through the raspberry harvest. Under normal conditions, they’d have roughly three weeks to pick the perishable fruit, but “we’re scrambling to pick as many as we can,” he said.

His team has been starting as early as 6 a.m. some days to wrap up before noon, when temperatures become too dangerous to keep working. Rasch has also added air conditioning inside his farm buildings and is planting trees and installing covered pavilions outdoors so customers who come to pick their own fruit have somewhere cool to rest. He’s also experimenting with high tunnels to better control growing conditions for select crops.

Rasch said these extreme heat events seem to be growing more frequent, more intense, and longer-lasting. Combined with flooding, drought, and late-spring frosts, these weather patterns can cause damage throughout the entire growing season.

“We don’t ever seem to have a typical year anymore,” he said.

Smaller operations like those run by Woods and Rasch typically grow a wide variety of crops year-round. That’s partly a business strategy — but it also serves as a buffer, so that a loss in one crop doesn’t wipe out the whole farm.

“You’re always gonna have something that will thrive while other things might be more challenged,” Woods said.

Rasch also pointed out that crop insurance for specialty farmers works very differently than it does for commodity farmers. Specialty growers face greater exposure to extreme weather but have far less protection, he said. Woods, who also works with the Organic Association of Kentucky, agrees — and said she knows farmers in similar situations who struggle to get coverage because they grow so many different crops across small acreage.

The reason, according to Duncan Orlander, a policy specialist with the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, is that federal crop insurance programs are built around single crops with a single growing season — like corn, soybeans, and wheat.

For smaller specialty growers, the paperwork required to insure a wide range of crops on limited acreage can be overwhelming, and coverage for certain specialty crops may not even be offered in some areas. Insurance companies are also discouraged from selling policies with small premiums and limited potential payouts, Orlander added.

While some federal programs cover a farm’s overall revenue rather than individual crops, Orlander said those policies are complex and rarely used.

“We’re not keeping up with the losses and the extreme weather that we’re seeing,” he said. “And we have to think a little bit differently about how we are going to mitigate risk and cover losses into the future when these things occur.”

For Woods, the community supported agriculture program she operates provides a financial cushion if a crop fails — her customers commit to supporting the farm for the whole season, no matter what ends up in their weekly boxes. That program, combined with the variety of crops she grows, is how she “hedges our bets” against heat, flooding, and drought.

“It’s something you have to be aware of and plan for and have a plan to be resilient in the face of these kind of events,” Woods said.

DELMARVA — Slow-moving storms rolled through Sussex County overnight, striking Bridgeville and Greenwood with dangerous flooding conditions. Officials issued a flash flood warning covering the Milford area and extending north into Kent County. Farmers heading out Wednesday morning are advised to watch for ponding on low-lying farm roads.

Markets

Tuesday’s closing futures posted broad gains across major commodities. September corn settled at $4.43¾/bu, up 5½ cents. August soybeans closed at $11.93¾/bu, up 9¾ cents. September Chicago wheat finished at $6.18½/bu, up 4½ cents. August live cattle closed at $238.42, and August lean hogs settled at $96.92.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, corn for September delivery is bringing $4.90/bu, and November soybeans are at $11.52/bu.

Policy

The National Corn Growers Association reports that U.S. farmers are paying considerably more for seeds and pesticides than their Brazilian competitors, raising serious concerns for corn producers competing in global markets.

With tight margins squeezing operations, grain storage specialists are urging growers not to overlook post-harvest pest management. John Mays with Central Life Sciences warns that insects and other pests can devastate stored grain supplies if left unchecked.

Forecast

Wednesday’s high is expected to reach 82°F, with patchy fog clearing to mostly sunny skies and light easterly winds. Showers and thunderstorms are forecast to move in Thursday afternoon, with a high of 86°F. Farmers are encouraged to complete field work Wednesday morning ahead of the incoming weather.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 8, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Weather concerns drove grain prices higher Tuesday, with traders citing stress on crops at critical development stages. Short covering and technical buying pushed soybeans up sharply, and a midday forecast update added fuel to the rally.

Growing trade chatter about China purchasing roughly 300,000 tons of U.S. soybeans also circulated through markets, though the U.S. Department of Agriculture had not confirmed any deal as of Tuesday.

Markets

September corn closed up 5.5 cents at $4.43¾. August soybeans finished at $11.93¾, up 9¾ cents. September Chicago wheat settled at $6.18½, up 4.5 cents. August live cattle slipped 67 cents to $238.42.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bidding $4.89/bu and November soybeans are at $11.48.

Policy

Virginia Eastern Shore farmers can sign up beginning July 15 for cover crop cost-share funding through the Eastern Shore Soil and Water Conservation District. Appointments run through August 21 on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested producers can contact District Manager Carmie Ross at 757-302-4431 to schedule.

Forecast

Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible across Delmarva through Tuesday night, with a low near 69°F. Wednesday brings mostly sunny skies and a high of 82°F, offering good drying conditions.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 7, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Farmers are pushing back against workforce reductions at a federal agency that has played a central role in helping them care for their soil for nearly a century.

The agency, which has been supporting agricultural land conservation efforts since the 1930s, is now facing job cuts that have left many in the farming community concerned about the future of those services.

Growers who have relied on the agency’s guidance and resources say the reductions could have serious consequences for their operations and for the health of farmland across the country.

A tug-of-war has emerged over control of the United States’ long-standing international food aid initiative known as Food for Peace, following a dramatic shakeup that left the program’s future uncertain.

The Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, effectively gutted US international food aid operations, prompting lawmakers from agricultural states to step in and fight for the program’s survival. Their efforts resulted in Food for Peace being moved under the authority of the US Department of Agriculture.

But the move has not satisfied everyone. Specialists who focus on global hunger and food security are raising serious concerns, arguing that the USDA is steering the program away from its original purpose as a humanitarian tool and toward priorities that don’t align with the needs of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

The debate highlights a fundamental tension between agricultural and trade interests on one side, and the urgent need to deliver food aid to people facing starvation on the other. Critics worry that placing the program under an agency focused largely on domestic farming and trade could reshape how — and to whom — aid is delivered.

The outcome of this dispute could have significant consequences for millions of people around the world who depend on US food assistance programs.

Hundreds of teenagers from across the country converge on Oklahoma each year for a national competition with an unusual focus — judging soil.

The contest gives young participants a chance to demonstrate their ability to assess dirt, a skill that plays a critical role in growing crops, constructing buildings, and managing land effectively.

ARLINGTON, Va. — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) announced on July 7, 2026, that Evan Dean will be joining the organization as its new vice president of government and legislative affairs, with his start date set for July 13. In this position, Dean will take the lead on NGFA’s federal advocacy work and push forward the association’s policy goals on behalf of the grain, feed, processing, and export industries.

Dean comes to NGFA from the office of U.S. Representative Mike Flood (R-Neb.), where he held the position of legislative director. In that capacity, he guided Congressman Flood on legislative strategy and policy questions, managing a wide-ranging portfolio that included agriculture, trade, energy, transportation, and telecommunications. He also oversaw the congressman’s legislative team and built working relationships with congressional offices, federal agencies, industry groups, and agricultural organizations.

His familiarity with the grain and feed industry was developed in part through his work on behalf of Nebraska’s First Congressional District. According to NGFA’s Harvest Economy report, the industry supports more than 15,000 jobs and generates nearly $5.5 billion in economic activity across that district.

NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert spoke highly of the new hire. “Evan Dean brings valuable Capitol Hill experience and a strong understanding of the policy issues that matter most to NGFA members,” Seyfert said. “Having represented a district where our industry has a significant economic impact, Evan understands firsthand the important role grain and feed businesses play in local economies and throughout the agricultural supply chain. His work on agriculture, trade, renewable fuels, and appropriations issues, combined with his ability to build relationships across government and industry, will strengthen NGFA’s advocacy efforts as we continue advancing policies that support the grain, feed, and processing industry.”

Before becoming legislative director, Dean worked as a legislative assistant in Congressman Flood’s office, where he handled agriculture, trade, appropriations, energy, telecommunications, and natural resources policy. During that time, he helped move sustainable aviation fuel initiatives forward, secured federal backing for agricultural research, and engaged broadly with agricultural stakeholders throughout Nebraska. He also worked on local transportation priorities, focusing on improving access and reducing barriers to moving goods across the country — an area of significant concern for NGFA members.

Earlier in his career, Dean served as a legislative correspondent for Congressman Greg Pence (R-Ind.) and also worked in the office of Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).

Dean holds a bachelor’s degree in public policy leadership from the University of Mississippi, where he graduated magna cum laude.

Livestock owners are being advised to familiarize themselves with a serious animal health threat known as the New World Screwworm, a parasitic fly whose larvae can burrow into the living tissue of warm-blooded animals and cause severe, potentially fatal wounds.

The New World Screwworm, caused by the fly species Cochliomyia hominivorax, gets its name from the way its larvae screw themselves into open wounds on livestock and other animals. Unlike ordinary flies, these larvae do not feed on dead tissue — they feed on living flesh, which makes infestations especially dangerous and fast-moving.

Animals most at risk include cattle, sheep, goats, deer, and other warm-blooded creatures. Even small cuts, insect bites, or birthing wounds can serve as entry points for the fly to lay eggs. Once hatched, the larvae can rapidly enlarge a wound and cause serious damage within days if left untreated.

Livestock owners are encouraged to regularly inspect their animals for any signs of unusual wounds, foul odors coming from an animal, or behavioral changes that might indicate pain or distress. Early detection is considered critical to preventing the spread of an infestation and saving an affected animal.

The New World Screwworm was previously eradicated from the United States through a decades-long sterile insect program, but concerns have grown in recent years due to outbreaks in parts of Central America and the Caribbean. Animal health officials have warned that any reintroduction into the U.S. could pose a significant threat to the livestock industry.

Farmers who suspect they may have found a case are urged to contact their local veterinarian or state animal health officials immediately. Prompt reporting is considered essential to containing any potential spread.

Producers are also reminded to maintain good wound management practices, keep animals clean and monitored, and work closely with their veterinarians on prevention strategies during high-risk periods.

DELMARVA — Farmers across the Delmarva Peninsula are watching the sky closely Tuesday, hoping a forecast chance of showers and thunderstorms delivers meaningful moisture to crops that have suffered through weeks of scorching, dry conditions. While some rain has fallen in recent days, producers say it has not been nearly enough to offset the toll dry weather has taken on regional fields.

Markets

Grain futures posted solid gains across the board at Monday’s close. September corn futures settled at $4.40¾/bu, up $0.15¾. August soybeans surged to $11.84/bu, gaining $0.47¾. September Chicago wheat closed at $6.14/bu, up $0.14¼.

Locally, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bidding $4.84/bu for September corn and $11.46/bu for November soybeans.

Policy

On the national trade front, the United States has rejected renewal of the USMCA trade agreement in its current form, a development that carries potential implications for agricultural exports. Separately, the latest national crop report shows corn planted acreage down 3% this season, while soybean acreage is up 5%.

Forecast

Tuesday’s forecast calls for a high of 83°F with a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Northeast winds are expected at 5 mph. Wednesday looks partly sunny with a high of 82°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 7, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Federal officials have formally announced an upcoming gathering of the General Conference Committee, which oversees the National Poultry Improvement Plan, along with the plan’s 47th Biennial Conference.

The notice was issued in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by the Department of Agriculture, as well as the requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, commonly known as FACA.

DELMARVA — A Flash Flood Warning remains in effect across Delmarva Monday evening, issued by the National Weather Service out of Mount Holly, New Jersey, and active until 8:15 p.m. Motorists are urged not to attempt driving through flooded roadways.

Crop Conditions

The USDA’s latest weekly crop report shows 67% of the nation’s corn rated good to excellent, unchanged from the previous week. Soybeans dipped slightly to 64% good to excellent. 16% of corn has reached the silking stage. Last week’s heat and flooding may not fully reflect in the data until next week’s report.

Corn growers are advised to monitor overnight conditions closely for tar spot pressure. According to BASF technical representative Katie Stratham, tar spot thrives in moderate 60-70°F temperatures with increased leaf wetness. While hot days may slow the disease, warm humid nights still create conditions favorable for its spread. Scouting fields is recommended.

Markets

Grain markets posted strong gains at Monday’s close. September corn settled at $4.40¾/bu, up 15¾ cents. August soybeans closed at $11.84/bu, up 47¾ cents. September Chicago wheat finished at $6.14/bu.

Livestock markets eased. August live cattle settled at $239.10/cwt, with feeders at $360.50/cwt. At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bringing $4.83/bu.

Forecast

Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue Monday night with a low near 70°F. Tuesday brings a chance of rain showers with a high of 83°F. Producers are advised to delay fieldwork on saturated ground.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 6, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, known as NASS, has released its latest Crop Progress and Condition estimates.

The report offers a snapshot of how crops are faring across the nation, providing data that farmers, analysts, and agricultural businesses use to monitor the status of the current growing season.

NASS publishes these crop progress updates on a regular basis during the growing season, giving a week-by-week look at planting, emergence, and overall crop conditions throughout the country.

Technology is reshaping the way cattle farmers do their jobs, with virtual fencing emerging as one of the most talked-about innovations in modern livestock management.

Rather than relying on traditional wire and post fencing, this new approach allows farmers to set boundaries and guide cattle movement directly from a phone or other digital device. The system represents a significant shift in how ranchers think about controlling and monitoring their herds.

Virtual fencing technology gives producers the ability to manage grazing patterns, move animals between areas, and monitor herd behavior — all without ever setting foot in the field to string a wire or pound a post.

Proponents of the technology say it can save time, reduce labor costs, and offer greater flexibility in rotational grazing practices, which can benefit both the land and the animals.

As farming operations look for ways to become more efficient and sustainable, tools like virtual fencing are drawing growing interest from producers looking to modernize their cattle management practices.

Community Supported Agriculture — commonly known as CSA — is creating stronger bonds between Virginia farms and the families who depend on locally grown food, according to the Virginia Farm Bureau.

Through CSA programs, consumers can purchase a share of a farm’s seasonal harvest in advance, providing farmers with upfront financial support while giving families regular access to fresh produce and other farm goods throughout the growing season.

The Virginia Farm Bureau recently highlighted how these programs work and the benefits they offer to both farmers and consumers. The arrangement is seen as a way to strengthen local food systems and build lasting relationships between the people who grow food and the communities that eat it.

CSA programs have grown in popularity as more families seek out fresh, locally sourced food and as farmers look for more direct ways to connect with their customers.

Spring has arrived on Virginia farms, bringing with it colorful tulip festivals and cherished seasonal traditions that draw visitors from across the region.

Farms throughout Virginia are opening their fields to the public, showcasing vibrant tulip displays as part of springtime celebrations that have become a beloved annual tradition in the agricultural community.

These festivals highlight the intersection of farming and community, giving visitors a firsthand look at the beauty that comes with the spring growing season while supporting local agricultural operations.

DELMARVA — New research points to probiotics as a promising tool for helping dairy cows manage heat stress, findings that carry particular relevance for Delmarva dairies as summer temperatures climb.

Scientists have found that high temperatures do not simply make cows uncomfortable — they disrupt digestion at a fundamental level. Agricultural researchers are now exploring nutritional strategies to support gut health in cattle, with probiotics leading that conversation. Producers are encouraged to raise the topic with their herd nutritionist.

In other livestock news, range experts are weighing in on wildfire recovery strategies for ranchers across the country. When fire moves through pastureland, fences come down, structures are damaged, and grazing land is stripped bare. Experts note, however, that rangeland carries a natural ability to bounce back, and ranchers who approach recovery with a clear, organized plan stand a strong chance of rebuilding their operations over time.

Markets

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, corn for September delivery is trading at $4.78/bu. December corn is at $4.67/bu. November soybeans are at $11.26/bu.

Forecast

Conditions on Monday present significant challenges for fieldwork. The National Weather Service has a Flood Watch in effect through 8 PM, with showers and thunderstorms expected throughout the day. The high will be near 84°F, with light winds out of the east. Monday night remains unsettled, with storms likely and a low near 70°F.

Tuesday brings a chance of early rain showers that are expected to taper off through the day, with a high near 82°F. Producers should keep equipment out of low-lying fields and monitor drainage areas closely.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 6, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

New South Wales has become the third Australian state to record a confirmed case of H5N1 bird flu, after a migratory seabird discovered near a coastal town tested positive for the highly pathogenic virus.

Australia made history last month as the last continent to confirm a mainland H5N1 case. The virus had previously been detected in late 2025 on the sub-Antarctic territory of Heard Island, which sits roughly 4,100 kilometers — about 2,600 miles — from the Australian mainland.

The latest confirmation brings the total number of infections across the country to six cases spanning three states. The infected bird, a giant petrel, was found near the seaside community of Hawks Nest in New South Wales, which is Australia’s most populated state.

The H5 strain of bird flu has resulted in the slaughter of hundreds of millions of birds around the world over the past several years, straining food supplies and pushing prices higher. Infections in humans remain uncommon.

State Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty confirmed the significance of the find, stating, “The positive test is the first confirmed detection of H5 in New South Wales.”

Moriarty also moved to reassure the public, saying there is “no evidence of spread to local wildlife and H5 bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks, captive birds or any other birds in New South Wales.” She added, “There is no impact on the supply of chicken meat or eggs and I would encourage everyone to purchase these products as they normally would.”

The state government has activated a response plan that includes expanded monitoring efforts and the deployment of additional personnel to assist the agricultural industry, Moriarty said.

Since avian flu reached the Australian mainland, officials nationwide have stepped up surveillance and testing of both wildlife and livestock. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged that his Labor government will take every available measure to prevent the virus from spreading further.

DELMARVA — Agronomic research is reinforcing a critical message for Delmarva growers this holiday weekend: planting date has a dramatically larger effect on double crop soybeans than on full-season varieties. Because double crop beans go in after wheat harvest, the growing window is already compressed, and every day of delay translates directly into measurable yield losses at harvest. Agronomists say prioritizing speed after wheat comes off is essential, particularly in years when harvest runs late.

Markets

The USDA’s acreage report released earlier this week showed increases in planted acres for corn, soybeans, and cotton nationally, while rice and wheat acres came in below the agency’s March projections. University of Arkansas Extension economist Hunter Biram identified soybean profitability as a key driver behind planting decisions this season, a trend that aligns closely with what many Delmarva producers are seeing in their own operations.

On local cash markets, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is trading at $4.57/bu on the December contract. Soybeans at Laurel are at $10.98/bu on the November contract.

Forecast

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the Delmarva region through 11 PM tonight. Damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rain are all possible. Producers with equipment or livestock exposed are urged to take protective action immediately. Sunday’s forecast calls for a high of 92°F with afternoon storm chances continuing.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 4, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

A grain market report for June 2026 has been published, providing agricultural producers with an overview of market conditions and price trends during the month.

The report, which covers key grain commodities, is intended to help farmers and others in the agricultural industry better understand the current marketing environment and make informed decisions about their crops.

No additional details from the report were available in the source material provided.

Farmers and growers are being advised to keep a close watch on their fields for signs of fall armyworm, a damaging insect pest that can devastate crops if left unchecked.

Agricultural experts are raising the alarm about the potential for fall armyworm activity, urging producers to regularly inspect their crops for early signs of infestation. Catching the pest early is considered critical to limiting crop losses.

Fall armyworm is known for its ability to spread rapidly and cause significant damage to a wide range of crops. Growers who spot signs of the pest are encouraged to take action promptly and consult with their local agricultural extension office for guidance on management options.

When it comes to growing soybeans, timing matters — but not equally for every type of crop. New agronomic research indicates that the date a farmer puts seeds in the ground has a much more noticeable effect on double crop soybeans than it does on full season soybeans.

Double crop soybeans are typically planted after a winter grain, such as wheat, is harvested. Because the growing season is already shortened by the time those seeds go in, any delay in planting can have a significant impact on how much the crop ultimately produces.

Full season soybeans, by contrast, appear to be less dramatically affected by shifts in planting date, according to the research. While timing still plays a role, the yield differences seen in full season varieties are not as pronounced as those observed in double crop production.

The findings serve as a practical reminder for growers to prioritize getting double crop soybeans in the ground as quickly as possible after the preceding crop is harvested. Every day of delay during that critical window can translate into measurable losses at harvest time.

Agronomists say understanding these differences can help farmers make better decisions about how they manage their fields and plan their growing seasons, particularly in years when wheat harvest runs later than expected.

DELMARVA — An Extreme Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly is in effect Saturday, covering the region through 8 p.m. Temperatures are reaching 100°F across Delmarva under mostly sunny skies, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms developing by evening. Producers are urged to keep workers and livestock out of direct sun during peak hours, monitor water intake closely, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

Saturday night will drop to 74°F with continued storm chances. Sunday brings a high of 90°F with additional afternoon storm potential, limiting the outlook for any clear fieldwork window.

Markets

Thursday’s closing futures marked the last full trading session before the Independence Day holiday. September corn settled at $4.23/bu, up $0.0025. August soybeans closed at $11.3625/bu, gaining $0.03. September Chicago wheat slipped $0.0025 to close at $5.9975/bu.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn bids are at $4.68/bu. November soybeans at Laurel are bringing $10.98/bu.

Cattle futures finished Thursday’s holiday-shortened session lower. August live cattle dropped $2.60 to settle at $239.22. August feeder cattle fell $3.52 to $360.62. Lean hogs bucked the slide, gaining $1.70 to close at $98.75.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 4, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — The USDA’s acreage report, released earlier this week, shows farmers shifting toward corn, soybeans, and cotton this season. Planted acres rose for all 3 crops, while rice and wheat fell short of March projections. Agricultural economist Hunter Biram with the University of Arkansas Extension says soybean profitability has been a key driver of planting decisions this year.

Policy

New federal legislation could reshape farm staffing across the region. The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act was introduced in the U.S. House on Tuesday, led by House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania. The bill would expand the H-2A visa program beyond seasonal workers, potentially allowing agricultural employers to bring in foreign labor year-round.

Markets

In Thursday’s closing futures, September corn settled at $4.23/bu, up $0.0025. August soybeans closed at $11.3625/bu, up 3 cents. September Chicago wheat slipped a quarter cent to $5.9975/bu. August lean hogs bucked a down session in livestock, rising $1.70 to $98.75.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bidding $4.68/bu.

Forecast

An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through 8 p.m. Saturday. Highs on Friday reached 102°F. Saturday — Independence Day — temperatures are expected to reach 100°F with a chance of afternoon storms. Producers are urged to limit outdoor work and livestock exposure during peak heat hours.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 3, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

At Ashawaug Farm in southwest Rhode Island, Dawn and Cassius Spears are doing more than growing food — they’re keeping centuries of Indigenous agricultural knowledge alive. The couple cultivates three Narragansett heritage crops: white corn, succotash beans and crookneck squash.

While they want to grow their farm’s reach beyond their roadside stand, doing so has proven difficult. Like countless small-scale food producers, the Spears have turned to federal assistance programs for support — only to watch some of those programs get slashed or dramatically reduced under the Trump administration, including U.S. Department of Agriculture initiatives that specifically helped tribal farmers.

Native tribes had been counting on those programs to grow and share culturally meaningful foods within their communities.

“When we go into these federal programs, we’re hoping that they’ll last long enough,” Cassius Spears said. “They usually start out with a good song and dance. And they’re going to last a long time. And then something happens where they get cut.”

During the pandemic, the Biden administration launched two programs designed to help states and tribes buy locally grown food for food banks and schools: the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS). These initiatives gave farmers — including those from tribal communities — dependable buyers for their goods. Tribal governments also received funding to purchase food from nearby producers and distribute it to their members.

The arrangement allowed tribes to direct federal money straight to small producers, said Carly Griffith Hotvedt, executive director of the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative and a member of Cherokee Nation. The Spears’ farm supplied food to a tribal farm in neighboring Connecticut that was drawing on LFPA funds, following an agreement reached in August 2022.

In some cases, tribes used that funding to source culturally important items like bison meat, specific varieties of berries and wild rice, which were distributed in food boxes to tribal members. For lower-income individuals within those communities, it was often the only realistic way to access those foods, Hotvedt said.

“It wasn’t just commodity foods in that box. It was highly local, traditionally relevant, culturally relevant foods that were included,” Hotvedt said.

In March 2025, the Trump administration’s Agriculture Department shut down both programs, which had together provided more than $1 billion for schools and food banks. Officials said the programs no longer fit the agency’s priorities.

U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, a Rhode Island Democrat, and Sen. Jim Justice, a West Virginia Republican, have since introduced legislation they say takes the strongest elements of those two programs and builds a lasting grant structure. The bill would let state and tribal governments purchase locally sourced food from nearby producers and channel it to hunger relief organizations and schools in their areas.

Reed expressed concern that the USDA cuts would leave families across the country struggling to put food on the table — and that what food they could access would be less fresh and nutritious.

Reed is pushing to attach the legislation to the Farm Bill, the sweeping multi-year federal law that shapes agricultural and food policy across the country. The House passed its version of the Farm Bill in April, and a Senate committee released a draft in late June. The House version also contains a bipartisan proposal for a permanent program modeled after the Local Food Purchase Assistance program, which would allow states to work through the USDA to build cooperative agreements linking local farmers with food distribution organizations.

Both proposals would reserve 10% of program funding specifically for tribes.

For any new program to truly work, Congress must include mandatory funding so that farmers can plan ahead, buy supplies and hire workers with confidence, said Hannah Quigley, a policy specialist with the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. The House version, she noted, would require Congress to approve funding on a yearly basis.

Reed said he’s pushing hard for mandatory funding in the Senate version, arguing that without it, very little actually gets funded — and that farms are already under enormous financial strain. A program that’s only optional, he said, won’t provide the stability farmers need.

“We really want to punch through the existing obstacles for small farmers and Native American farmers,” he said.

Dawn and Cassius Spears want to see Indigenous producers given priority when tribal entities are purchasing food. They also believe that creating dedicated programs accessible directly to Indigenous producers — outside of tribal government channels — would open doors for more Native farmers.

On an early morning at the start of this year’s planting season, Dawn Spears worked beneath the canopy of one of her farm’s high tunnels, carefully separating tiny tomato plants before moving them to an outdoor field. The farm’s name honors the Narragansett word for the river running through town. What began as a small community garden and food sovereignty effort has grown into a 6-acre operation.

Her 9-year-old grandson, Giizhig, wandered in to offer a hand.

“Only if you want to,” Spears told him. “It’s always good to know how to do it, right?”

Passing that knowledge to the next generation is central to her mission. But her culture extends beyond farming — it includes gathering wild foods and protecting the land where those foods naturally grow. She’s working to preserve land near the farm as surrounding development expands, with plans to introduce native plants that can be foraged for food. Federal programs, she said, can also play a role in helping communities secure access to that land.

“If you take a person away from the land that they come from, then it’s like they’re not whole,” she said. “We have to eat the food that’s naturally from that space that we come from.”

DELMARVA — An Extreme Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly is in effect through Saturday evening at 8 p.m., with today’s high forecast to reach 103°F under sunny skies and light northwest winds.

The dangerous heat poses serious risks for field workers and livestock. Producers are advised to limit outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, keep animals watered, and monitor herds for signs of heat stress.

Drought conditions are compounding the danger. As prolonged heat and dry stress cause pastures to stop producing new growth earlier than normal, forage supplies shrink faster than expected and water sources dwindle. Livestock producers face the challenge of balancing immediate animal needs against long-term land health.

Markets

At Thursday’s close, September corn settled at $4.23/bu, up $0.0025. August soybeans closed at $11.3625/bu, up $0.03. September Chicago wheat slipped $0.0025 to $5.9975/bu. August live cattle fell $2.60 to $239.22, while August lean hogs bucked the trend, rising $1.70 to $98.75.

Locally, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel is bidding $4.68/bu on September corn and $10.98/bu on November soybeans.

Policy

The European Union has lifted tariffs on American nuts, fruits, vegetables, and lobsters — a development that benefits Delmarva producers with export exposure.

Forecast

Saturday brings another scorcher with a high of 100°F and scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms possible.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 3, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

A farmer based in Reedley, California has been handing out free nectarines this week as he finds himself at the center of a legal battle with a food market and distributing company.

The company involved in the dispute is claiming it holds exclusive rights to the specific variety of white nectarine that the farmer has been growing on his land.

The situation has drawn attention, with Associated Press photo editors curating a gallery of images documenting the farmer’s unusual act of giving away his fruit amid the ongoing legal controversy.

Thousands of people have made their way to a farm in central California this week to pick up free nectarines — and the farmer giving them away says he would rather share his harvest than watch it spoil while he fights a legal battle over the right to sell it.

Cesar Mora, a third-generation farmer in the agricultural community of Reedley in California’s Central Valley, has been distributing his crop at no charge since Monday. By mid-week, he had already given away more than 100,000 pounds — roughly 45,359 kilograms — of the fruit.

“It was really just a thought of not wasting a perfectly good product,” Mora said. “It does make a grower feel good, being able to share my fruit with people and see their immediate reaction that they love it. It’s a little bit of good in this tough situation that I’ve been dealing with.”

At the center of the dispute is a legal fight Mora has been waging since 2023 against Giumarra Brothers Fruit Co. The company filed a lawsuit against him, claiming he violated a contract by selling a specific variety of white nectarine to other fruit packers — a variety the company says it holds exclusive rights to sublicense. A trial is scheduled for later this month.

Giumarra released a statement through one of its attorneys, saying: “At its heart, this is a disagreement involving two written agreements, and it is being resolved the right way — in court and on the facts.” Mora, for his part, has accused the company of unfair and fraudulent business practices.

The nectarine at the heart of the dispute is a variety called “Monalise,” known for its sweeter, less tart flavor. According to Giumarra’s court filings, all rights to the Monalise variety are owned by Star Fruits Diffusion, a French company involved in plant breeding programs, while Giumarra holds the right to sublicense the variety for testing, growing, and selling. Star Fruits Diffusion did not respond to a request for comment.

The case reflects a broader tension in American agriculture between farmers and the plant breeders or large food marketing companies that develop new crop varieties and secure exclusive rights over them. Bradley Rickard, a professor of food and agricultural economics at Cornell University, noted that fruit patents are becoming increasingly common, allowing breeders to collect royalties on the trees they sell, the fruit those trees produce, or both.

Plant breeding has a long history in the U.S. Washington State University developed the Rainier cherry in the 1950s, and the University of Minnesota introduced the Honeycrisp apple in the 1990s. Both varieties are now in the public domain and can be grown and sold freely. In 2010, more than a dozen apple growers sued the University of Minnesota after it awarded exclusive rights to its SweeTango apple to a single cooperative of orchards. That case was eventually settled, allowing additional Minnesota orchards to lease the trees.

California’s Central Valley, which spans roughly 20,000 square miles, is one of the most productive farming regions in the country, estimated to produce about 40% of the nation’s fruits, nuts, and other table foods — including the vast majority of its nectarines.

Court documents show Mora signed a sublicensing agreement with Giumarra in 2017 to grow and sell the Monalise nectarine, and then entered a separate marketing agreement in 2019 requiring the fruit to be packed and sold exclusively through Giumarra. He says the company recruited him to grow the variety in the first place.

Under the terms of those agreements, Mora was required to pay Giumarra a royalty of $2.50 per tree, a 4% production royalty based on gross sales of the fruit, and a sales commission.

“They sold me hope and a big dream that I thought I could participate in with them,” he said.

Mora claims that in 2020, up to half of the nectarines he delivered to Giumarra were discarded, cutting into his profits. The company disputes that claim, and the judge overseeing the case ruled that the deadline to pursue those allegations had already passed. Mora also alleges that in 2022, Giumarra sold his nectarines to buyers in Taiwan, which he says violated the contract’s requirement that the fruit be marketed and sold only in the U.S. and Canada. Giumarra denies that allegation as well.

After seeking to end his relationship with the company, Mora sold his nectarines to a different fruit packer in 2023. That decision prompted Giumarra to sue him for breach of contract, leaving him unable to sell his nectarine crop at all while the legal proceedings continue.

Mora’s legal team has argued that Giumarra failed to provide documentation proving it actually holds a license to the nectarine variety. The company stated in court filings that the Monalise is not covered by a U.S. plant patent. Mora’s attorneys counter that Giumarra represented the nectarine as an exclusive variety with patent protection and promised that exclusivity would allow the fruit to command premium prices.

Fresno County Superior Court Judge Jon Skiles ruled in May that Giumarra’s breach of contract claim can proceed, finding that the agreement between the two parties is valid regardless of whether a patent exists for the fruit. “The sublicense agreement does not expressly state that its validity is dependent on the existence or issuance of a patent for the fruit,” the judge wrote. He further noted that Giumarra “does not have to prove the existence of the underlying license agreement in order to prove that it has a valid contract with defendant regarding growing and selling the fruit.”

Mora said the years of legal fighting have left him feeling worn down and without recourse. While he also grows peaches and plums that are not tied to any agreement with Giumarra, he estimates he has lost a quarter of his income by being unable to sell his nectarine harvest. He says he hopes his case ultimately leads to stronger legal protections for farmers in similar situations.

“It’s been discouraging to even want to go out and farm,” he said.

On Wednesday, community members showed up wearing T-shirts that read “No Nectarines Wasted” as they bagged up the free fruit. Some stayed to help Mora manage the large crowds. He has also raised more than $17,000 through a GoFundMe campaign.

“The only saving grace through all this is being able to share it with the public,” Mora said, “and having everybody enjoy it.”

Brazil’s Agriculture Ministry has begun putting new inspection measures into place covering the production of meat and meat-based products, according to a report Thursday from Brazilian news outlet Globo Rural. The outlet cited a government document distributed to federal agriculture auditors as the source of the information.

The move is aimed at preventing the European Union from blocking imports of several Brazilian agricultural products — including beef, poultry, eggs, and live animals — a ban that could take effect as early as September.

The EU announced the potential import restrictions back in May. The decision is connected to European rules that limit the use of certain antimicrobial substances in animals raised for food production.

Brazil’s Agriculture Ministry had not responded to a request for comment at the time of the report.

DELMARVA — The National Weather Service out of Mount Holly has an Extreme Heat Warning in effect through 8 PM on July 4, covering the full Fourth of July weekend. The warning represents the highest level of heat alert issued by the service. Dangerously hot conditions are expected, with temperatures reaching 100°F Thursday afternoon and 101°F on Friday.

Farmers and farm managers are urged to keep workers hydrated, limit outdoor fieldwork to early morning hours, and ensure livestock have continuous access to fresh water.

Policy

The Delaware Farm Service Agency is reminding producers that July 15 is the deadline for reporting spring-planted acres. So far in 2026, only about 201,621 acres have been certified in Delaware — roughly half of what is expected. A significant number of producers still need to file. Farmers are encouraged to contact their local FSA county office to schedule an appointment or submit farm maps ahead of time.

On the federal level, new legislation introduced in the U.S. House on Tuesday would expand the H-2A visa program beyond seasonal agricultural workers, potentially giving agricultural employers year-round access to the program. House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania is leading the effort.

Markets

At Thursday’s close, September corn settled at $4.23/bu, August soybeans finished at $11.36¼/bu, and September Chicago wheat closed at $5.99¾/bu. At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bidding $4.68/bu.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 2, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

The latest federal agricultural report shows that total cheese production in the United States climbed to 1.28 billion pounds, marking a notable increase from recent months.

According to the data, output was up 2.0 percent compared to May 2025, and also rose 1.1 percent when measured against April 2026. The figures do not include cottage cheese in the overall total.

Farmers saw peanut prices slip during the most recent reporting period, according to newly released federal agricultural data.

For the week ending June 27, the average price paid to farmers for all farmer stock peanuts came in at 21.2 cents per pound. That figure represents a drop of 3.2 cents compared to the prior week’s average.

The data was released as part of a regular weekly price summary tracking what farmers are receiving for their peanut crops at the farm level.

DELMARVA — An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect through July 4th, with temperatures forecast to reach 100°F today and climb to 101°F Friday. Winds will be light with sunny skies, and no relief is expected until the holiday weekend. Farmers are urged to keep field workers hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and check on anyone vulnerable to the heat.

Crop Concerns

The heat wave is raising national concern for the corn crop. A Purdue University Extension agronomist warns that extreme temperatures this close to pollination present a serious problem. While heat has helped some stressed fields recover, sustained highs could hurt yield potential if conditions stretch into the pollination period. Delmarva growers are advised to monitor their fields closely over the next several days.

Markets

Yesterday’s closing futures reflected mixed results across major commodities. September corn finished up 6 cents at $4.22¾. August soybeans gained 9 cents to close at $11.33¼. September Chicago wheat posted a strong session, rising 10¾ cents to close at $6.00.

On the livestock side, August live cattle slipped 60 cents to $241.82, and August lean hogs dropped $1.15 to $97.05.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bringing $4.69/bu, and November soybeans are trading at $11.04.

Policy

The USDA announced Wednesday it is prepared to offer up to $500 million in aid to small and mid-sized beef processors dealing with the ongoing cattle shortage.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 2, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Bayer announced Wednesday that it is moving all of its U.S. glyphosate operations under its Ruveon unit, just one day after the company asked Washington to impose tariffs on Chinese imports of the chemical — the same ingredient found in its well-known Roundup weedkiller.

Bayer holds the distinction of being the only domestic manufacturer of glyphosate in the United States. On Tuesday, the company stated that “the domestic glyphosate business as it stands today is not sustainable,” a comment that drew sharp criticism from farmers who warned the tariff push would drive up the cost of herbicides they rely on.

The Ruveon unit, headquartered in St. Louis and remaining under Bayer’s ownership, will take control of all facets of U.S. glyphosate operations — including pricing decisions, sales strategies, manufacturing, and distribution logistics.

Bayer described the restructuring as part of a broader five-year plan for its Crop Science division. In the company’s own words, “Ruveon is expected to be a more nimble and well-positioned player within its commodity-based market, which requires a specialized approach to address competitive dynamics.”

The announcement follows a significant legal win for the German pharmaceutical and agriculture giant. Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court blocked thousands of state-level lawsuits accusing Bayer of failing to inform users that glyphosate may cause cancer.

Bayer veteran Alfonso Alba Ordonez has been named to lead the Ruveon unit going forward.

Maryland’s Veterinary Technician Committee has announced a virtual meeting set for July 9th, 2026, beginning at 7pm.

Those attending will see several topics addressed during the session, including reviews of licensing and VTNE applications, as well as consideration of applications for appointment to the Veterinary Technician Committee itself.

Anyone looking for additional information can contact the board by calling 410-841-5862 or by sending an email to [email protected].

DELMARVA — The National Weather Service has upgraded Delaware’s heat alert to an Extreme Heat Warning covering all 3 counties, in effect through July 4. The most dangerous stretch is expected Thursday and Friday, with highs reaching 100°F Thursday and 101°F Friday. Officials warn the conditions pose life-threatening risks for anyone working outdoors across Delmarva.

Livestock operations and field workers face the greatest exposure during peak afternoon hours. Farmers are advised to plan field work and chores around early morning hours and to provide animals with additional water and shade.

Crop Health

The combination of heat and humidity is also raising disease pressure in corn and soybean fields. Damon Smith, an Extension field crops pathologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is urging growers to be selective before applying fungicides. With tight margins, Smith recommends prioritizing the worst-pressure fields rather than making blanket applications across every acre.

Markets

Grain futures closed higher Wednesday. September corn settled at $4.22¾ per bushel, up 6 cents. August soybeans closed at $11.33¼, up 9 cents. September Chicago wheat finished at $6.00 even, a gain of nearly 11 cents.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bidding $4.68 per bushel and November soybeans are at $11.00.

On the livestock board, August live cattle closed at $241.82, down 60 cents. August lean hogs fell $1.15 to $97.05.

Forecast

Temperatures reached 95°F Wednesday, with an overnight low of 75°F expected. Thursday will hit 100°F under sunny skies. No rain is in the forecast until the holiday weekend.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 1, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — July 1, 2026 — The National Pork Producers Council, the voice for more than 60,000 pork producers across the United States, issued a statement Tuesday following the decision to not renew the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement — commonly known as USMCA — in its current form.

The organization emphasized that trade has been one of the most stable and positive aspects of the pork industry, even as producers face many other uncertainties. Canada and Mexico together account for one-third of all U.S. pork exports, making both countries essential trading partners.

In its statement, the council said: “Amidst the many uncertainties that come with pork production, trade has remained a bright spot for U.S. pork producers, whose neighbors to the north and south represent a third of all U.S. pork exports.”

“Ensuring USMCA remains intact is vital to continuing the mutually beneficial trading relationships U.S. pork enjoys with both Canada and Mexico,” the statement continued.

Though the group had hoped to see the agreement renewed right away, it acknowledged Ambassador Greer’s pledge to remain at the negotiating table. “While we would have liked to have seen immediate renewal of the USMCA, U.S. pork producers appreciate Ambassador Greer’s commitment to staying at the negotiating table with Mexico and Canada to make sure U.S. pork’s market access is preserved,” the council stated.

The council also highlighted the economic weight of pork exports, noting they add more than $66 in value for every hog brought to market and support over 155,000 American jobs. In 2025, Mexico ranked as the top export destination for U.S. pork, while Canada came in fourth. The council said USMCA plays a key role in keeping those markets stable and maintaining the strength of U.S. pork export values.

New data from the federal government indicates that manmade fiber consumption on the cotton system totaled 17.6 million pounds during the month of May 2026.

The figures were published by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service as part of its ongoing tracking of fiber use across the U.S. textile sector.

The report provides industry observers and agricultural stakeholders with a measure of how much manmade fiber is being processed through cotton system operations during the reporting period.

The latest federal report on broiler hatchery activity shows the U.S. poultry industry is seeing slight growth, with both eggs set and chicks placed ticking upward.

According to the report, the number of broiler-type eggs set in the United States increased by 2 percent compared to the prior period. At the same time, the number of broiler-type chicks placed across the country also rose by 2 percent.

The figures were published by the federal agricultural statistics agency as part of its ongoing tracking of the nation’s broiler poultry production activity.

The latest government figures on domestic fats and oils production show that U.S. processors crushed 6.39 million tons of soybeans to produce crude oil during the month of May 2026, a total that equals approximately 213 million bushels.

The numbers were released by federal agricultural officials as part of a routine monthly report tracking how the nation’s oilseed supply is being utilized by the crushing industry.

Soybean crushing is a key indicator of demand for both soybean oil, which is widely used in food production and biofuels, and soybean meal, a major protein source used in livestock feed across the country.

New data released by federal agriculture officials shows that corn consumption for alcohol production and other uses totaled 524 million bushels during the month of May 2026.

The report, which tracks grain crushing activity across the country, covers two months of data. April 2026 was recorded as a 30-day month, while May 2026 spanned 31 days.

The figures reflect total corn usage across all reported categories for the May 2026 period.

ARLINGTON, Va. — Following the completion of the first six-year joint review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, the National Grain and Feed Association announced on July 1, 2026 that it stands firmly behind a long-term extension of the trade deal.

Although the United States did not formally confirm an extension during the review period, the agreement continues to be fully in effect, with no changes to existing trade terms.

NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert emphasized the importance of keeping the agreement strong. “USMCA provides critical certainty for U.S. agriculture and supports the integrated North American supply chains that help keep our grain, feed, processing, and export sectors competitive,” he said. “The agreement remains fully in force, and we look forward to working with the administration, policymakers and other stakeholders throughout the review process to support seamless agricultural trade and continued market opportunities across North America.”

The organization noted that Mexico and Canada are essential markets for American agricultural products. NGFA said it plans to keep pushing for a robust, long-term version of the agreement that gives agricultural producers and investors confidence in the future of regional trade.

Looking for a creative way to use up those radishes? Chef Tammy Brawley featured this comforting radish soup on Real Virginia, the weekly television program produced by Virginia Farm Bureau.

Radish Soup

1 stick butter
1 red onion, sliced
2 pounds radishes, rinsed, trimmed, and quartered
2 red potatoes, diced
1 tablespoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon white pepper
1 cup water
3 cups milk

Begin by melting the butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, radishes, diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and water. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for approximately 30 minutes.

Gradually pour in the milk, heating the soup until it is hot but not quite boiling. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.

Ladle the soup into bowls while warm and top with sour cream or Greek yogurt. A side of crusty bread makes the perfect accompaniment.

No immersion blender? You can carefully transfer the hot soup to a standard blender. Be sure to leave a vent at the top, cover it loosely with a towel, and pulse slowly to avoid spills.

FARMVILLE, Va. — Flower farming is taking root across Virginia at a remarkable pace, with the number of farms growing cut flowers and florist greens rising to around 320 today — a 73% increase compared to the 184 farms counted in 2017. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, floriculture ranked 11th among Virginia’s top farm commodities, bringing in more than $132 million in cash receipts in 2024.

Erin Small, an agriculture and natural resources agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension in Prince Edward County, first noticed a rising interest in cut flower growing while leading floral design workshops for home gardeners.

“I think people are looking for a connection,” Small said. “They’re looking for avenues to be creative — especially since COVID when people were at home, looking for things to do, and trying to get in touch with their land and food system.”

In response to that growing interest, Small launched the Cut Flower Discussion Group in 2024. The group has since grown to roughly 260 members, most of whom are beginning farmers. It offers field tours, vendor fairs, educational sessions, and informal meetups that connect participants with Extension resources, fellow growers, and industry representatives. Small also runs online floral design contests and is developing a grower-led podcast called The Flower Hour to reach even more people. Her efforts earned her the 2025 individual “Innovation and Creativity” award from the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals.

Beginning farmer Claudia Vasquez found her way to flower farming in 2022 during a difficult period with her mental health and her adjustment to rural life in Culpeper County. After spending much of 2024 preparing the land alongside her husband, Azalea Field Flowers officially launched at the start of 2025. Vasquez now grows spring, summer, and fall flowers for weddings, local events, and customers at the Culpeper Downtown Farmers Market, and she shares her journey on TikTok and Instagram.

“I most enjoy getting to share what I’ve grown, what I’ve started from seed, with my community,” Vasquez said. “I’m forever grateful that I got into flower farming, because it has healed me in ways that I can’t even explain.”

In King William County, Jenny and Paul Maloney of Wind Haven Farm see the expansion of cut flower farms as a positive development for agriculture as a whole. “We need more small farms. They’re so important to our sustainability,” Paul Maloney said.

The Maloneys operate nine high tunnels and two greenhouses, growing more than 160 varieties of flowers and foliage from January through Thanksgiving. Their products go to Richmond florists, businesses, and grocery stores. The couple focuses on close communication with clients, working from mood boards and color palettes to bring their customers’ floral visions to life.

MECHANICSVILLE, Va. — With 2026 designated as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. is shining a spotlight on three women who have dedicated their careers to protecting the financial well-being of farmers and rural communities across Virginia.

Leah Roller, from Hanover County, came to Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. without any farming background when she started as an insurance agent three decades ago. She famously traded her high heels for muck boots, literally walking through cow pastures alongside farmers to conduct coverage reviews and better understand their daily operations.

That hands-on approach helped build a career grounded in trust, earning her numerous state and national awards and making her the company’s first woman to serve as a regional sales manager.

Today, Roller oversees approximately 135 agents, agency managers, member service specialists, and associate agents across the northern portion of Virginia. She mentors teams that help Farm Bureau members protect their families, farms, and businesses.

“Farming isn’t just an occupation, it’s a way of life,” she said. “Our members are creating a legacy to pass down through generations, and we’re helping protect what they’ve built. It’s a rewarding challenge.”

Roller noted that more women are now leading discussions about insurance, risk management, and long-term planning — a shift she views as significant. Being the first woman in her position has made the path “even more meaningful.”

“I’ve seen it as an opportunity to pave the way for future women leaders,” she added.

Sharon Ambrose of Essex County works as one of the company’s regional crop agents, and her approach to the job is deeply personal. She describes her role as showing up for farmers even when they don’t need her, simply to check in and make sure they’re doing alright.

Ambrose manages relationships with farmers, helping them obtain and maintain insurance policies throughout the entire life of those policies, all while keeping up with constantly shifting federal regulations and evolving coverage needs.

“Crop insurance is an essential tool because the markets change so often these days, the prices of inputs are increasing, and it’s so hard to put all that money into a crop and not get anything back if we have another dry year like 2024,” she said. “It keeps them afloat so they can be around next year.”

For Ambrose, the greatest satisfaction comes from truly understanding each farmer’s operation and customizing coverage to fit their unique situation — whether that means a phone call or a visit to the farm.

“I would be perfectly happy doing this until I retire,” she said.

Kim Price, originally from Pulaski County, spent the bulk of her career in underwriting at Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co., retiring this spring as farm and field underwriting manager. Under her watch, the company’s Farm New Business Written Premium climbed to $3.7 million in 2025.

“This is the highest we’ve seen in years,” she said in March. “It’s a joint effort among the sales force, field underwriting, and the farm underwriting team to bring these numbers in.”

Price reflected on how much the farm division has changed since she began, noting that the company once focused primarily on traditional operations like cattle and crop farms.

“But it’s very different than when we first got started years ago,” she said. “Our farm operations are becoming very diverse, and we’ve adjusted to that. We want to keep the momentum going!”

Chef Tammy Brawley recently put together a bright and tangy green tomato salsa on Real Virginia, the weekly television program produced by Virginia Farm Bureau.

Green Tomato Salsa

2 cups chopped green tomatoes (a little red is okay)
Half a purple onion, diced
½ cup cilantro, finely chopped
3 tablespoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons candied jalapeños
1 tablespoon kosher salt

Combine all ingredients and stir together. Serve alongside tortilla chips.

Candied Jalapeños
*Note: This recipe also works wonderfully as a hot honey.

1.5 pounds jalapeños (or a mix of your favorite hot peppers)
1 cup apple cider vinegar
3 cups sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder (whole peeled garlic cloves can also be added)
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
¼ teaspoon celery seed

Begin by slicing the peppers into rounds about ¼-inch thick and set them to the side.

In a saucepan, combine all remaining ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for around 5 minutes.

Add the sliced peppers to the saucepan and bring everything back to a boil. Reduce the heat once more and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

With a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the peppers into a jar.

Allow the remaining syrup to boil for 5 to 6 minutes, then pour it over the peppers in the jar.

Store in the refrigerator for one to two weeks, or even longer if desired.

Nepal is confronting a rapidly expanding bird flu outbreak that has forced authorities to cull over half a million birds and place government quarantine facilities on high alert, officials announced Wednesday.

The first confirmed case this year emerged in March and has since reached 11 of the nation’s 77 districts, including the capital city of Kathmandu. Despite the spread, no human infections have been recorded.

According to Mukul Upadhyaya, spokesperson for the Department of Livestock Services, a total of 658,313 chickens have been killed, along with the destruction of more than one million eggs and 222,000 kilograms — roughly 489,400 pounds — of poultry feed.

“It is under control in other places except in Kathmandu Valley, where cases are severe,” Upadhyaya told Reuters.

Nepal’s only zoo, located in Kathmandu, shut its doors to visitors on June 19 after infections were found there. Zoo spokesperson Ganesh Koirala confirmed that several animals have died, including vultures, ducks, and some leopard cats.

Livestock specialists are actively monitoring the situation and supervising culling operations throughout the affected areas, officials said.

While Nepal does not import poultry meat, authorities have increased surveillance along its open border with India to stop any illegal smuggling of poultry products, Upadhyaya added.

The government is calling on citizens to immediately notify livestock authorities if they observe any unusual sickness or unexplained deaths among birds.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has announced its intention to seek a revision and extension of approval for an existing information collection process connected to the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act and its associated regulations.

The announcement was made in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, a federal law that requires government agencies to justify and obtain approval for information they collect from the public.

The information collection in question is tied to the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act, which governs the licensing and regulation of veterinary biological products such as vaccines, serums, and related treatments used in animals.

By seeking this revision and extension, the agency is working to keep its data collection practices current and in compliance with federal requirements.

Federal agriculture authorities have officially declared that a genetically engineered citrus rootstock developed to combat a devastating tree disease is no longer subject to regulatory oversight.

The rootstock, identified as event CarriCea T1, was created by Soil Culture Solutions, LLC using genetic engineering techniques. It was specifically designed to resist citrus greening disease, a bacterial infection also known as Huanglongbing, or HLB, that has caused widespread damage to citrus orchards across the United States.

Regulators reached their determination after reviewing a petition submitted by Soil Culture Solutions, LLC requesting nonregulated status for the product. That review included an examination of available scientific data, a plant pest risk assessment, and public comments gathered following an earlier notice that made both the petition and a draft risk assessment available for public review.

Officials have announced the availability of the written determination along with all supporting documentation for public access.

DELMARVA — An Extreme Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly is in effect through 8 PM on July 4, posing serious risks to farm workers and livestock across the region.

Temperatures Wednesday will reach 96°F, climbing to 101°F Thursday and peaking at 103°F Friday. Overnight lows will remain in the mid to upper 70s, providing little relief. Winds are light out of the southwest at 5-10 mph, and no rainfall is expected through the holiday weekend.

Farmers are urged to limit outdoor field work to early morning hours, protect livestock, check water supplies, and never leave animals in enclosed spaces.

Markets

Yesterday’s closing numbers showed gains across the grain complex. July corn settled up 10¾ cents at $4.12¾/bu. July soybeans gained 8 cents, closing at $11.16¾/bu. July Chicago wheat added 11¼ cents to close at $5.80¾/bu.

On livestock markets, August live cattle fell $1.15 to $242.42. Lean hogs bucked the trend, gaining 50 cents to close at $94.32.

Locally, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bidding $4.54/bu on December corn and $10.96/bu on November soybeans.

Policy

A new farm labor bill introduced this week by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson is drawing broad support from agriculture groups nationwide. The National Milk Producers Federation says the bill could open H-2A guest worker access to the dairy sector, addressing a long-standing gap in the program.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, July 1, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — The USDA released updated planting figures Tuesday showing nationwide corn planted area at 95.343 million acres, a revision 5 million acres above the previous estimate, signaling a larger crop than many analysts had anticipated heading into summer.

Soybean acres are now pegged at 85.365 million, up 700,000 acres from the March prospective plantings report and 5% above last year’s total. Both revisions point to a significantly larger crop than the market had priced in.

Policy

President Trump signed a proclamation Tuesday temporarily suspending countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizer imports from Morocco. Farm groups welcomed the move. Jed Bower, president of the National Corn Growers Association, called it a significant development for growers, though he acknowledged the relief is not permanent.

Markets

July corn futures gained 10¾ cents Tuesday, settling at $4.12¾. July soybeans closed up 8 cents at $11.16¾. July Chicago wheat posted a strong gain of 11¼ cents, finishing at $5.80¾. August live cattle slipped $1.15 to $242.42.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, December corn is bringing $4.51 per bushel and November soybeans are at $10.94.

Forecast

An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for Delmarva through the Fourth of July. Tuesday night will be partly cloudy with lows near 69°F. Wednesday brings sunny skies and a high of 95°F. Livestock operators and farm managers are urged to take precautions to protect animals and field crews from the dangerous heat.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, June 30, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

A major legal battle over alleged egg price-fixing has ended in a settlement involving the federal government and nearly two dozen states.

The Department of Justice, along with seventeen state attorneys general, reached an agreement with large-scale egg producers to resolve claims that the companies had artificially driven up egg prices.

Egg costs surged considerably over recent years, putting pressure on consumers and businesses alike. However, prices have since dropped sharply from those elevated levels.

The settlement brings to a close what had been a significant antitrust complaint targeting some of the biggest players in the egg production industry.

A newly released federal agricultural report indicates that the volume of shell eggs being broken for processing has increased by 3 percent compared to the same time last year.

The figures were published in the latest egg products summary from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The report tracks how shell eggs are being broken down and processed into egg products, which are used in a wide range of food manufacturing and commercial applications across the country.

The 3 percent year-over-year increase suggests a modest but notable uptick in demand for processed egg products relative to the prior year’s figures.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Pork Producers Council, which represents more than 60,000 pork producers across the country, is expressing strong support for new legislation introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson (R-PA). The bill, called the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, incorporates recommendations from the council that would allow pork producers to take advantage of the H-2A visa program.

NPPC President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Washington County, Iowa, offered his praise for the measure. “Agriculture needs a strong — and reliable — workforce. For pork producers, one giant step in the right direction means expanding the H-2A visa program to include year-round agricultural industries like ours,” Brenneman said. “Thank you, Chairman Thompson, for listening to our ideas and solutions for rectifying our severe workforce shortage.”

Under current federal law, the H-2A program is limited to temporary and seasonal agricultural work. That restriction has effectively shut out pork producers and other year-round farming industries from using the program to bring in immigrant farm workers.

Beyond expanding access to the H-2A program, the legislation would also make several other changes. It would broaden the definition of “agriculture labor or services” to better reflect the needs of the industry, including certain meat processing activities, and would transfer authority to further define that term to the Secretary of Agriculture. The bill would also lock in standards for calculating Adverse Effect Wage Rates, which are designed to keep costs manageable and bring more predictability to farmworker pay. Additionally, the legislation would allow multi-year housing certifications and set maximum daily housing charges that employers can deduct from worker wages — both measures aimed at cutting costs. It would also create a single, internet-based electronic portal to streamline the H-2A application process.

The council notes that despite offering higher wages and competitive benefits, employment in pork production has dropped over the past five years — a challenge that adds to the difficulties producers already face in supplying food domestically and internationally.

Chairman Thompson’s bill drew from recommendations made by the bipartisan Agricultural Labor Working Group, an effort in which the National Pork Producers Council has been actively involved. The council says it will continue pushing for solutions to the workforce challenges confronting pork producers.

The chairman of the House Agriculture Committee has introduced new legislation aimed at expanding and modernizing the federal H-2A agricultural guest worker program.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Pa., unveiled the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, known as SAWA, which would make significant changes to how farms can access foreign guest workers.

Under current law, the H-2A program is limited to seasonal agricultural work. SAWA would remove that restriction, opening the program to employers who need agricultural workers on a year-round basis.

The proposed legislation would also revise the way wages are calculated under the program and would work to streamline the overall process for agricultural employers seeking to participate.

The nation’s grain supply is looking stronger compared to this time last year, according to a new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Corn stocks have climbed 14 percent compared to June 2025 levels, representing the largest percentage gain among the major crops tracked in the report.

Soybean stocks also moved higher, posting a 5 percent increase over the same period a year ago.

All wheat stocks rounded out the report with an 8 percent rise compared to June 2025 figures.

The data comes from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, which regularly tracks grain inventory levels across the country as a key indicator of supply and demand conditions in agricultural markets.

The nation’s rough rice supply has grown compared to where it stood a year ago, according to a new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The agency’s latest rice stocks report shows that rough rice inventory is up 7 percent from June 2025 levels.

The report is part of the USDA’s ongoing effort to track commodity supplies and provide farmers, buyers, and policymakers with up-to-date data on agricultural stockpiles.

New figures from the federal government show notable changes in how American farmers are planting their fields in 2025, with some major crops losing ground while others are expanding.

According to the latest report, corn planted acreage is down 3 percent compared to 2025 figures. All wheat acreage also saw a decline, falling 6 percent from the previous year.

Meanwhile, farmers appear to be shifting toward other crops. Soybean acreage increased by 5 percent, and all cotton acreage rose by 6 percent compared to prior plantings.

The data was released by the federal agricultural statistics agency and reflects planting decisions made by farmers across the country heading into the current growing season.

DELMARVA — An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect across the Delmarva Peninsula from Tuesday, June 30 through July 4, covering a multi-day stretch of dangerous conditions over the Independence Day holiday weekend. The National Weather Service out of Mount Holly issued the warning early Tuesday morning. Farmers are advised to schedule their heaviest field work before midday and ensure livestock have adequate shade, water, and ventilation.

Crop Scouting

A Bayer agronomist is urging corn growers to scout their fields immediately. Doug George says June’s warm, humid weather pattern mirrors conditions from 2021 — a year that brought serious tar spot damage to corn across the region. The fungal disease thrives under heat and humidity, and George says early scouting is critical to catching it before it spreads.

Conservation

ShoreRivers has secured more than $3 million in grant funding from Maryland’s Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund. The project targets a Cecil County farm along Black Duck Creek, restoring 3 degraded stream segments totaling 3,770 feet. When complete, the project is expected to remove more than 4,138 pounds of nitrogen from the watershed each year.

Markets

Monday’s grain markets closed soft. July corn settled at $4.02/bu. July soybeans closed at $11.08¾. July Chicago wheat settled at $5.69½. At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, December corn is bid at $4.47/bu.

Forecast

Highs are expected near 90°F Tuesday under mostly sunny skies, with south winds to 10 mph. Wednesday temperatures surge to 95°F with sunny conditions. No rain is in the forecast.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, June 30, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.