Country Morning Presented by CHS Ag Services

The Red River Farm Network's 'Country Morning' episode, presented by CHS Ag Services, delivers a comprehensive update on agricultural conditions, market trends, and policy developments across the northern Plains. The segment opens with severe weather impacts in southern Minnesota, including tornadoes and large hail, followed by a forecast of mixed precipitation and snow in North Dakota. Market analysis highlights volatility in oil and grain prices, with crude oil near $100/barrel amid geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Soybean meal emerges as an unexpected beneficiary of market turmoil, while corn and soybean futures show signs of weakness despite recent gains. The episode underscores ongoing challenges in the farm economy, including high input costs, consolidation in the fertilizer sector, and concerns over profitability without government support. Key policy updates include a $275 million specialty crop grant announcement, the final push for Farmer Bridge payments, and the modernization of farm program reporting through a new acreage system in Grand Forks County. Additional coverage includes declining farm equipment sales, rising fuel prices, and upcoming agricultural events like the Minnesota Horse Expo and FFA conventions. The episode emphasizes the importance of timely government program participation, with FSA officials urging producers to complete applications before the Friday deadline. Analysts note that higher reference prices from the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' increase the likelihood of ARC and PLC payments this fall. Despite some market softness, there is cautious optimism around wheat and corn prices. The segment concludes with a spotlight on equine training techniques at the Minnesota Horse Expo, highlighting behavioral insights and operant conditioning. Overall, the broadcast provides a balanced mix of weather, market, policy, and community updates essential for farmers and ag professionals in the region.