March 7, 2017 - In This Issue:

Ohio Checktesting

This last week NDGI Ohio started their biannual checktesting cycle! We are excited for this, as it is our first big one since we entered Ohio. 

Specialists will be going out to each lab across the state making sure every piece of equipment is in tolerance. We also make sure that every other item, including lighting, documents  and facilities are in order. Each of these items is vital to ensure you are getting the most accurate grades you can get! 

If anyone has questions on what we are doing when we are out at locations, come find us! 



 
U.S. Drought Monitor

Several weather systems traversed the contiguous U.S. in the upper level flow during this U.S. Drought Monitor week. The warm temperatures and unusually early green up have increased evapotranspiration and heightened the need for soil moisture for areas nearing a winter-time drought. D0 expanded in the lower Ohio valley to southwest Ohio. Parts of the Dakotas received a tenth of an inch or less of precipitation. 


 

Wheat Exports to Climb 50 Million Bushels

According to the USDA wheat exports are seeming robust despite record world wheat supplies and a relatively strong dollar. the USDA expects wheat exports to exceed expectations calling for a 50 million bushel increase in the 2016 and 2017 marketing year. 

This forecast was predicted for both hard red spring wheat and hard red winter wheat. 
USDA Releases Agricultural Projections, Focus on Corn and Soybeans

On Thursday February 23rd, the USDA released its 10-year projection for the food and agriculture sector. The report stated that over the course of the next several years the agricultural sector will continue to adjust to lower prices for most farm commodities. 

Specifically, for corn the USDA stated, "Demand for U.S. corn is projected grow steadily over the next decade." Soybeans are also expected to increase in prices and a higher producer return.