Farmers anticipate positive crop estimate

Grain traders and farmers are looking ahead to a major U.S. Agriculture Department crop estimate tomorrow.

The first detailed prediction of the fall harvest is expected to forecast better yields than previously anticipated.

After heavy spring rains flooded many of the nation's farm fields, few people thought the fall harvest would be a good one.

University of Minnesota grain marketing specialist Ed Usset says that could happen. He said since the middle of June temperatures and rainfall have worked in favor of farmers.

"A month and a half ago I think the trade struggled with the idea of us averaging 145 to a 148 bushels per acre. Now we're thinking maybe 150 or better per acre average nationwide. And that's a big change," Usset said.

Because of the better crop prospects, grain prices have tumbled. Corn prices are down about 35 percent in the last two months.

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