It's been a relatively quiet week in agriculture between the  holidays, yet there was some news you  may have missed.

1- Just how was the 2017 corn crop? The U.S. Grains Council weighed in with a look at the numbers and the quality, and volume, of this year's crop was in a word - remarkable. Solid test weights, near-record yields and more, according to the group. Check out their analysis of all those kernels you harvested.  - Farm Futures

2 - Officials in Oregon are dealing with an outbreak of Seneca Valley Virus, an emerging disease showing up in swine. While the disease isn't serious it manages to mimic the much worse foot-and-mouth disease. It's something to watch. - National Hog Farmer

3 - China complained about too much foreign material in U.S. soybeans and is demanding some action. First step is to notify the country when the material is above 1% (2% has long been an acceptable standard), but there will be longer term market issues to consider. USDA issued a statement this week on the matter. - Farm Futures

4 - Even with all the snow you're seeing on the news, farmers know the truth. It's dry out there and this week's U.S. Drought Monitor report confirmed that. A big chunk of the country is showing some form of drought stress, check out our report on the issue. - Farm Futures

5 - Ever hear of Nutrien? Probably not, the company doesn't exist yet. But it will on Jan. 2. It's the result of the "merger of equals" between Agrium and PotashCorp - two large fertilizer suppliers. The merger cleared its final regulatory  hurdle this week. Learn more about Nutrien. - Western Farmer-Stockman

6 - Sure Congress has passed a tax bill (now signed) but what about the Farm Bill. Talk was there'd be something ready before the holidays - that didn't happen. But it may be next on the agenda. Here's a look at some key issues - Wallaces Farmer

7 - No-till is still No. 1 in South Dakota, really. And the reason is that the cropping approach actually helped farmers meet yield goals in the midst of drought. Less tillage does preserve soil moisture. Learn more in this report. - Dakota Farmer

And your bonus…

What about a documentary that takes an honest look at the value of meat in your diet? That's the goal of registered dietitian who wants to set the record straight in a new documentary. The title? "Kale vs. Cow: The Case for Better Meat" - it's an interesting idea. Learn more about the story behind the documentary.  - BEEF Magazine