U.S. trucking companies are scrambling to hire more drivers as roaring consumer demand and tight shipping capacity stoke a resurgent freight market. (Wall Street Journal)

Some members of Congress are leveling their sights on family farms in an effort to pay for recent economic relief and future infrastructure programs. There are two separate tax issues, and both could have an unrecoverable impact on a farm family and their farming operation as a whole. (WCIA)

In an effort to improve soil and water health, while preventing soil erosion, Illinois farmers are exploring the benefits of cover crops. (The Center Square)

A new proposal in Congress could promise additional resources to Illinois farmers on the frontlines of climate change. (Northern Public Radio)  

China imported a record amount of meat in March on supply concerns as hog herds in the world’s biggest pork consumer struggled to recover from African swine fever. (Bloomberg)

As vaccinations progress and our pent-up desire for get-togethers takes hold, we’re all going to be after a lot more hot dogs and bacon for barbecues. Factor in continued fears about indoor dining, and you can see why one industry expert noted that barbecues “will be a big driver of meat demand in the coming months.” (Allrecipes