Agriculture has been declared an essential industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. That allows food and ag businesses to continue operating as usual amid current restrictions to stem the virus spread, including USDA inspectors at meat processing plants. Michelle Rook reports this is good news for farmers and consumers. Heartland Consumer Report on KELO-TV 5pm News.

The coronavirus pandemic has shocked the nation and the markets and that has an impact out in the country on the agricultural and food production industry. Agricultural prices have dropped just like the stock market on fear of recession and lower demand for food products. Michelle Rook looks at how farmers and ranchers are still working hard to produce food for Americas consumers. Heartland Consumer Report on KELO-TV 5pm News.

Agriculture is a $32.5 billion industry in South Dakota and soybean production makes up a significant part of that. During National Ag Week we celebrate the economic impact soybean farmers make in the state. Heartland Consumer Report on KELO-TV 5pm News

The U.S. biodiesel industry continues to face headwinds which are limiting growth in production. Michelle Rook looks at how this effects soybean prices and the impact that has on South Dakota soybean farmers. Heartland Consumer Report on KELO-TV 5pm News

Soybean checkoff dollars have been used to develop a new asphalt product made from high oleic soybean oil. This is a renewable product that has the potential to add life to roads across the United States. Michelle Rook looks at the benefits for farmers and consumers. Heartland Consumer Report on KELO-TV 5pm News