Corn production should total 9.4 billion bushels this year, 3% less than 1998. Sorghum production is expected to increase 2% for 530 million bushels. The barley supply, however, should be reduced 9% from 1998-99 to 454 million bushels with a small crop. The oat supply for 1999-2000 should decline slightly to 334 million bushels from lower production and imports.

Reflecting an increase in expected supply and the likelihood of only small export gains, feed grain prices should remain weak in 1999-2000, says USDA. The average farm price for corn is expected to average $1.80-2.20 per bushel compared with $1.95-2.05 for 1998-99; the average sorghum price is expected to range between $1.50-1.90 per bushel compared with $1.65-1.75 for 1998-99, and the oat price should be 95 cents to $1.35 per bushel in 1999-2000 compared with $1.15 for 1998-99. The farm price for barley is expected to average $1.85-2.25 per bushel compared with $1.95 for 1998-99.