Ag News: U.S. Pumpkin Production
**With Halloween fast approaching, many of us are searching for the nearest pumpkin patch.
According to agrimarketing.com, all states produce at least some pumpkins, but according to the 2017 U.S. Census of Agriculture, about 62 percent of pumpkin acres were grown in only ten States.
Illinois is consistently the Nation's largest producer, the majority of which are used for pies and processed foods.
**Potato exporters are optimistic about 2020 shipments.
According to Potatoes USA, U.S. potato and potato product exports have been on a growth trajectory in recent years, up 4.58% in volume and 4.63% in value in 2017.
Fresh potato exports were up 6% in 2017 while frozen and chip exports were up 1%.
Thepacker.com reports, exports of all U.S. potatoes and potato products reached a record $1.76 billion for the marketing year ending June 2017.
**The latest glyphosate trial, that was to start last week in St. Louis, is being pushed back until next year.
According to greenbook.com, a status conference for Winston versus Monsanto has been set for February, but no trial date yet.
Winston's is another trial contending Monsanto, now Bayer’s, Roundup causes cancer, one of several delayed as mediator Ken Feinberg tries to negotiate a settlement.
Bayer executives say the appeals of the three completed trials will be a significant focus of the litigation in the months ahead.