Recent data from the USDA indicates a sharp increase in drought coverage across major U.S. agricultural regions, posing a potential challenge as farmers prepare for the spring planting season. USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey noted that while recent rainfall in some dry areas may offer some relief, significant soil dryness and drought conditions remains a concern …
Category: Ag News
Mar 24
Klobuchar Delivers Remarks at the Agri-Pulse Ag and Food Policy Summit
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, delivered remarks at the Agri-Pulse Ag and Food Policy Summit conference. In her remarks, Ranking Member Klobuchar addressed the need to strengthen domestic supply chains for producers. Senator Klobuchar also highlighted her bipartisan efforts to expand domestic fertilizer production …
Mar 24
Cow Calf Corner Mark Johnson: Selection Pressure is a Precious Commodity
Selection and mating decisions in cow-calf herds need to be made with a clear objective in mind. There are more trait specific expected progeny differences and bio-economic indices available to cattle breeders than ever before. These are powerful tools which can be used to improve calving ease, growth rates and carcass quality. Perhaps of even …
Mar 24
Dr. Derrell Peel Talks Carcass Weights, Drought Challenges, and High-Priced Cattle Markets
In today’s Beef Buzz, senior farm and ranch broadcaster Ron Hays speaks with Dr. Derrell Peel, who discusses rising carcass weights, drought concerns, and managing risk in a volatile but strong cattle market. Carcass Weights Keep Climbing Peel says the industry continues to push cattle to heavier weights, noting, “We put about 50 pounds on …
Mar 24
USDA Promotes New, Voluntary “Product of USA” Label
Today, on National Agriculture Day, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the launch of a national public awareness campaign to inform meat, poultry, and egg producers of the “Product of USA” voluntary labeling standard which went into effect on January 1, 2026, and increases consumer understanding of what the label means. “Our great …
Mar 24
Governor Kevin Stitt Appoints Energy Executive Alan Armstrong to U.S. Senate
Governor Kevin Stitt officially announced energy executive Alan Armstrong as his U.S. Senate appointee Tuesday morning, filling the vacancy created by Markwayne Mullin’s recent confirmation as Secretary of Homeland Security. Armstrong, the former CEO of Williams Companies, steps into the role with a clear mandate to champion Oklahoma’s energy interests on the national stage. The …
Mar 24
Registration open for OKFB Foundation for Agriculture’s 2026 watermelon challenge
Second-grade teachers can now enroll their classrooms in a watermelon-growing contest through the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture’s fifth-annual Watermelon Challenge. During the challenge, students will grow their very own watermelon from seeds provided by the foundation for a chance to win prizes. The challenge illustrates the hard work and effort Oklahoma farmers and …
Mar 24
Energy Volatility and Drought Concerns Shape 2026 Wheat and Soybean Outlook
The global agricultural landscape is currently navigating a period of rare intensity as energy price shocks, geopolitical conflict, and persistent environmental challenges converge. According to Dr. Todd Hubbs of Oklahoma State University, the ongoing conflict with Iran has generated a level of market volatility and uncertainty seldom seen, with global oil prices showing no signs …
Mar 24
Ben Hale: Strong Cattle Market Continues with No Ceiling on Grazing Demand
On Tuesdays, Senior Farm and Ranch Broadcaster Ron Hays visits with Ben Hale of Western Livestock Auctions as he talks about the latest in the markets and more. Established in 1995, Western has grown into a multi-generational family-owned and operated business and stands as a symbol of tradition, excellence, and a deep-rooted passion for the …
























