It has been a hectic week. Did you miss some agricultural news? We’ve got you covered. Here are seven stories to catch you up.

Ukraine shuts ports

Ukraine's military has suspended commercial shipping at its ports after Russian forces invaded the country, an adviser to the Ukrainian president's chief of staff said, stoking fear of supply disruption from leading grain and oilseeds exporters. Ukraine is a major exporter, supplying 17% of the world’s corn exports and 30% of all wheat exports. – Reuters, Farm Futures

Also, a ship chartered by Cargill Inc. was hit while sailing in Ukrainian waters and is sailing south to Romanian waters to receive assistance. – Bloomberg

This inevitably leads to the question...

How will war in Ukraine impact your farm?

The world is suddenly dealing with a grim set of circumstances not seen since WWII, and it may have a significant impact on food, fuel and shipping sectors. The short-term supply outlook in the next 6 to 12 months needs more acres and ideal yields to prevent a fear-driven market. Bill Biedermann says not to rule out government intervention. Learn how you can manage your risk. – Farm Futures

Also on the topic of Ukraine, learn what’s at stake for the global economy as the Russia standoff escalates.

2022 crop production outlook

The first look at 2022 row crop production and usage was released by USDA Thursday morning. USDA projects 92 million acres of corn and 88 million acres of soybeans to be planted in the U.S. this spring.  Export volumes are not likely to match 2020 and 2021 highs, but high commodity prices point to another record-setting year of export values in 2022. – Farm Futures

Avian flu expands reach

Since the USDA confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza in a commercial turkey flock in Indiana, there have also been confirmed HPAI cases in Michigan, Delaware, Maine, New York and Virginia. Federal and state partners are working jointly on additional surveillance and testing in areas around the affected flocks. – USDA APHIS, Farm Progress

Eating meat extends life expectancy

Eating meat still offers important benefits for overall human health and life expectancy. A recent study examined the overall health effects of total meat consumption in 170-plus countries around the world. Total meat consumption correlates to greater life expectancy, independent of the competing effects of total calories intake, economic affluence, urban advantages and obesity. – BEEF Magazine

Can ethanol lower gas prices?

Consumers are faced with higher gas prices and a push to lower carbon emissions. Ethanol can position itself as a solution for each challenge, according to speakers at the National Ethanol Conference.  “The quickest way to lower gas prices would be to restore the ability of retailers to sell E15 year-round and allow them to do it through existing equipment,” says Geoff Cooper, Renewable Fuels Association. – Farm Futures

National Grain Bin Safety Week

The third week in February is Grain Bin Safety Week to raise awareness of the dangers of working in and around grain bins. Consider nominating your fire department to win grain bin safety equipment from Nationwide, and review important safety tips: