Pressure Bombs and IFPA's Washington Conference
From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**Using pressure chambers, commonly called pressure bombs, has been compared to taking the “blood pressure” of a plant to tell how stressed it is for water.
It’s a technique that’s been around since the 1970s, but slow to catch on.
Now, as farmers face more pressures, growers say pressure bombs can help better steward their water.
Not only does the device help avoid under or overwatering, but it also helps to better time irrigations.
##Another data center is threatening farmers and their land, this time in Georgia.
Coweta County residents say they’re being threatened by
Georgia Power with easements that will disrupt their homes and farming operations thanks to a planned data center in neighboring Fayette County.
Brianna Rice says no one was asked for their opinions when the center was being permitted.
Georgia Power says there are 20 to 30 homes set for demolition.
**The USDA’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report showed little change from the previous month.
The 2026-27 U.S. corn outlook is virtually unchanged with the season-average farm price unchanged at $4.40 per bushel.
Soybean supply, use, and price projections are unchanged this month with a season-average price forecast at $11.40 per bushel.
The season-average farm price or wheat dropped 50 cents to an even $6 a bushel.
**Fresh produce industry leaders were in Washington, D.C. last week advocating policy priorities affecting growers, consumers, and ag businesses.
The International Fresh Produce Association's Washington Conference brought together produce growers, industry reps, and corporate execs to meet with lawmakers.
Top priorities included securing strong funding for nutrition programs, like SNAP and WIC, while expanding incentives that encourage buying fruits and vegetables.
The need for workforce and immigration reform was also emphasized.
