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The number of cattle in U.S. feedlots edged lower from a year ago, while placements fell to a record September low, according to the latest USDA Cattle on Feed Report.  NAFB News Service   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

USDA is investing $57 million dollars to boost American Meat Processing Capacity and Support our nation’s ranchers. Processers in 40 states are expected to receive $57 million to expand their capacity and create new and better markets through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP). Source: USDA See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Agriculture Department Chief Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at states reporting significant jumps in corn harvest progress as of October 25. USDA Radio Newsline See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The idea of using food as medicine is gaining traction among policymakers and health care leaders. During a discussion on nutrition and public health, Dr. Oz, who serves as administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, argued that better diets could improve health outcomes while reducing health care costs. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farm income is not keeping up with the rising costs of groceries. Terri Moore, vice president of communications for the American Farm Bureau Federation, says farmers get a very small share of every dollar spent on food. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A University of Illinois Extension educator has been studying the plight of small-town grocery stores. John Shadowens started looking at the subject five years ago. He says it’s a challenging business model, but he believes there is a future for those type of operations. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Trump administration announced it will provide $8 billion in relief for farmers getting squeezed during harvest by the high price of diesel fuel. John Newton, vice president of public policy and economic analysis for the American Farm Bureau, talked about the potential impact on farmers. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

USDA Chief Meteorologist Brad Rippey says above normal temperatures and moisture is expected for much of the nation during the period of October 27 - November 2. USDA Radio Newsline See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The dairy market is sending mixed signals. While exports remain strong and demand for dairy protein continues to grow, cheese prices have struggled. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Farm Talk segment features North Dakota Corn Growers Association board member Mark Belter. Belter represented NDCGA during a recent Farm Bill roundtable with Sen. Hoeven and Chair of the US Senate Ag Committee, Sen. John Boozman (AR). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rusty Halvorson and Sarah Heinrich share the week's top stories in agriculture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cattle Markets showed weakness heading into the fall season, but now that we are into late October, the markets seem to be showing some promise. Jess Peterson, a rancher and the Senior Policy Advisor for U.S. Cattlemen’s Association, highlighted the usual ups and downs that occur in the fall. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diesel and gas prices began the week heading in opposite directions. Patrick DeHaan with Gasbuddy.com says that various geopolitical tensions, whether that’s the U.S. and Iran, Russia and Ukraine remain top of mind for the oil markets. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Sandbakken with the National Sunflower Association discusses how sunflower harvest is progressing across the region.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The USDA's October U.S. supply and demand estimates show a larger wheat production forecast.  So, what does that mean for the balance sheet? World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski. NAFB News Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.