Strong first-half beef exports to Russia, European Union confirm beef industry leadership's findings
As export results for the first half of 2008 clearly indicate, Russia is emerging as one of the top destinations for U.S. beef. Also, as European Union nations deal with extremely high production costs and loss of access to imports from other beef-exporting countries, Europe is also becoming a growing market for U.S. beef. more
 

Winter pastures good bet despite high seed costs
Despite high seed costs, investing in some sort of winter pasture is still a sound economical venture, particularly for areas where the hay reserves have been depleted this year, said Dr. Ray Smith, AgriLife Research legume breeder. But the higher costs of production means producers will have to make some tough choices, he said. more
 

Wheat, corn prices fall; groceries won't
As prices for crude oil and other commodities ease, consumers have gotten a small dose of relief at the gas pump. But don't expect less pain at the grocery counter. Food inflation is here to stay -- and will probably get worse for some things. more
 

Impact of fed decision on water district unclear
The U.S. Department of Justice is blocking changes to Texas law that helped create a Panhandle water district dominated by employees of Texas billionaire T. Boone Pickens. The changes approved last session in the state House and Senate allowed property owners in a freshwater district, even if they don't live there, to serve on the board. Previous law required board supervisors be registered, resident voters. more