On this week's episode of Farm News and Views: Consumer attitudes toward food production are changing, with increased support for animal welfare laws like California's Proposition 12, leading to a surge in cage-free egg production.

This edition of Farm News & Views covers the USDA's plan to lower food prices, and some lawmakers calling for members of Congress to come back to Washington to provide funding for farmers who have been affected by Hurricane Helene.

This week’s Farm News and Views covers the latest Ag Economy Barometer, where farmers express mixed feelings about commodity prices, trade, and the 2024 elections, as well as a heartwarming story of a goat joining a half marathon in Canada.

This week's Farm News & Views with Bob Bragg covers record heat in the West, the impact of Hurricane Helene on southeastern agriculture, and rising egg prices due to bird flu.

Rising food prices spark political debate, but production costs have surged by 28% since 2019. Low water levels hinder grain transport, while drones may soon herd cattle.

This week: U.S. ag trade deficit revised to $212B amid rising import demand and falling exports, with lower projections for major crops. Despite this, horticulture exports rise.

USDA revises ag outlook: profits may not drop as feared due to lower production costs and rising livestock prices, despite headwinds for crop producers. State fairs adapt to H5N1 impacts, and legal battles over animal welfare and alternative meats continue. California's walnut crop forecast drops significantly.

The USDA's recent updates include the expansion of the grasslands Conservation Reserve, a pioneering bird flu vaccine trial, rising oxtail popularity, and a record agricultural trade deficit.

Rising land prices and investment firms' dominance make it harder for young farmers to enter the industry. With U.S. beef cow numbers at a historic low and range conditions mixed, the future of farming faces challenges.

Midwest farmers face lower crop prices and California's grape growers deal with a surplus, while the EPA bans a harmful herbicide. Good news: $2 billion in aid for affected farmers and new Colorado laws to protect pollinators.