USDA to conduct nationwide survey - Brownfield
Farm boom is leading to growing concerns - The Wall Street Journal
Gas pains for the grain industry - Ag Web

Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin has proclaimed the week of Feb. 20 “Farm Bureau Week” in Oklahoma.

The week is part of a statewide observance during which county Farm Bureaus will make a concerted effort to enroll members, introduce the community to Farm Bureau volunteer leaders and explain the organization’s goals and objectives.

“This is a special time to acknowledge Farm Bureau members and the work they do yeararound in the communities across this great state,” said Mike Spradling, OFB president. “It is significant the governor recognizes Farm Bureau and agriculture’s importance to Oklahoma.”

When making the proclamation, Fallin cited Farm Bureau’s rich heritage and history of championing rural and agricultural issues.

“We have always had the best interests of rural citizens as a priority,” Spradling said. “That was true when we started in 1942, and it’s true today.”

Farm Bureau is a grass roots organization and its foundation is the county unit. Each county in the state has an organized county Farm Bureau.

“With more than 161,000 member families, OFB is the largest and most influential voluntary farm organization in the state,” Spradling said.

The Sand Springs rancher said Farm Bureau is a voluntary, general farm organization that seeks to improve income and living conditions of farm and ranch families. It represents the farmer and rancher at the county courthouse, in Oklahoma City and in the nation’s capital.

Throughout Farm Bureau Week, county Farm Bureau groups will be hosting receptions, open houses and other events highlighting the organization’s strong rural heritage.

Disaster assistance for livestock owners - Pryor Daily Times
Plains HRW wheat greening up early - Agriculture Online
Farm economy is sound, Vilsack says - Des Moines Regsiter

Farm incomes push up land values - Fed - Agriculture Online
Poultry to overtake red meat in U.S. diet - Agrimoney
Effects of winter storms will take time to work through cattle markets - OSU DASNR Press Release

Obama would end subsidies to wealthiest farmers - Reuters
Republicans oppose meatpacking industry reforms - Bloomberg
China's drought could have "devastating" consequences - The Telegraph (UK)