10.78 billion bushels for 2012 harvest

   It's official USDA reports the 2012 corn harvest at 10.78 billion bushels making it 73% of what was projected at planting time last year. 
   Low water levels on the river systems have slowed barges going down the river and in some cases halted it completely.  They are doing work on the Mississippi river and we hope it makes a significant difference.  Grain bids are less competitive with river terminal buyers unable to move their product.  There has been an increase in large rail terminals that have given us some outlet.  Container shipments and unit trains have been busy but it costs more than river transportation does. 
   I feel more comfortable that we will have enough moisture to plant crops in the spring here in northern Illinois but the western states have been stuck in a drought and typically do not get relief as soon as the eastern states.  Keep them in your prayers again.
   Corn inventory is low and usage is greater than expected.  Most pork producers have been operating at a loss but with beef herds dwindling from the effects of long range drought they feel prices will rebound to profitable levels.  As a result the hog heard is staying steady.  Feed use will hold and give prices strength.
                                                                Serving together, Dean