The Van Trump Report

Agriculture

America’s Christmas Tree Farmers Keep Holiday Traditions Alive

The business of Christmas tree farming is like any other crop production operation, in that the opportunity to turn a profit revolves around a once-a-year harvest. Christmas tree farming carries some unique risks, too, not least of which is the seven to fifteen years between planting and maturity, an investment that can be wiped out …

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USDA Slightly Raises Net Farm Income Outlook to $140.7 Billion

USDA’s latest update to its 2024 farm income forecast provides a slightly better outlook than its previous estimate, though not by much. Net farm income, a broad measure of profits, is pegged at $140.7 billion in 2024, up from $140.0 billion forecast in September. The new forecast represents a -4.1% decline from 2023 net farm …

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What Are They Growing Out There In “Kentucky”

Agriculture is one of Kentucky’s leading and most vital industries, contributing about $45.6 billion to the state’s economy each year. Of Kentucky’s 25.4 million acres, just under 50% is considered farmland. The state is an important contributor to U.S. corn and soybean production, as well as poultry, eggs, and cattle. However, the state’s farmers dedicate …

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Argentina’s Corn Acreage Set for Biggest Decline in Almost Two Decades… Maybe

Argentina’s corn production is expected to decrease sharply in the 2024/25 crop season; at least, that’s the early story we are hearing. Personally, I’m not entirely sold on the headlines, but time will tell. In case you haven’t heard, the Rosario Board of Trade estimates a -25% decrease in corn planted area, the largest relative …

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How A Young Man That Knew Nothing About Flour Transformed the Wheat Industry

Most Americans are very familiar with the Pillsbury Company, which has given us a host of iconic products, including the company’s Classic Yellow Cake Mix, every flavor of pre-made frosting, and those addictive Crescent Rolls. Pillsbury’s marketing efforts for its various brands also generated iconic characters like the Doughboy and Jolly Green Giant. The company …

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Limited Holiday Service

***LIMITED SERVICE – The staff and I will be taking off for the Thanksgiving holiday. There will be no report on either Thursday or Friday. Full-coverage will resume Monday morning. From our families to yours, we wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving!