News | MU Extension

Many entrepreneurs find that government contracting is an excellent way to ensure that their small business grows. But for Kit Price, co-owner of Robinson’s Cleaners in Columbia, Missouri, government contracting goes beyond expanding her company. To her, it has been part of the family business since Robinson’s Cleaners opened over sixty years ago.

July 5, 2019

U.S.–China trade war results in 25% decline in total U.S. soybean exports

July 3, 2019

African swine fever reduces China’s pork production

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) projects that by the end of 2019, China’s total swine inventory will be down by 18%. Indeed, the USDA estimated that the Chinese sow inventory was down 12% at the start of 2019.

July 3, 2019

Corn prices headed up?

The outlook for corn prices is more positive because corn is likely to experience a significant downward supply shock. Not only will planted area be reduced, but the yields will also likely be significantly lower.

July 2, 2019

A glut of soybeans?

The combination of the ongoing trade war, large carry-in stocks, fewer hogs in China and the potential shift of corn area to soybeans could result in a large abundance of soybeans, but this is far from certain given the severity of planting delays.

July 2, 2019

Missouri planting progress data as of June 23, 2019

The rain returned to Missouri this past week, leaving only 2.1 days suitable for fieldwork. Soybean plantings progressed by 9 percentage points, but progress was minimal in corn, rice and cotton.

June 28, 2019

National planting progress data as of June 23, 2019

June 20, 2019

Proper disposal of flood-damaged grain

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June 17, 2019

Inspect buildings and look for fire hazards

Once an area has been cleared for you to return, stay out of any buildings where floodwaters remain. Avoid using candles or open flames. Instead, use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights to reduce fire hazards.

June 17, 2019

First steps home after a flood

As floodwaters recede and you’re allowed back into your home or business to assess the damage, take lots of pictures of the building and its contents to document damages for insurance claims.

June 17, 2019

Removing water from flooded basements

Before you enter a flooded basement, take the following steps:Turn off electricity and gas. Check outside basement walls for possible cave-ins, evidence of structural damage or other hazards. Open doors and windows.

June 14, 2019

Saving food after a power outage

Those of us in the Midwest know that spring storms can bring power outages. When freezers and refrigerators are off for several hours, whether it’s due to a storm or an accident, the food safety rules about what to keep or toss are the same.

June 10, 2019

Poor corn stands and crop insurance provisions

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