To conserve water, irrigation has stopped for 74,000 acres of 2021first rice crop.

Generally non-threatening summer weather expected for US Midwest.

Will invest $4 billion to strengthen food supply chain.

India could be possible source.

Helps crop rebound from cold start in the spring. 

Increased planted area helps offset lower yields.

Late planting, dry conditions may result in lower yields.

USDA attributes the bump in production to increased rainfall improving soil moisture.

Sonya McCullum Roberts joins Jeffrey Harmening in leadership role.