Wrap: 

Recent corn yield estimates a down year with 125 bushels per acre, roughly 20% less than normal. 

However, USDA Deputy Director Bob Garino says farmers are less likely to be affected because the price is already historically high.

But Garino also says if the next corn yield estimates continue dropping, commodities prices will increase and affect consumers.

Garino adds 2010 was also a down year, with yields similar to 2011. 

Reporting from the State Capitol, I'm Tong Gao.

Wrap:  

Reports released from the USDA say hot and dry weather in Missouri dropped corn yields nearly 20 percent in 2011.

But Missouri Corn Grower Association CEO Gary Marshall says this actually prevents cattle prices from going higher in short run, because a lot of cattle goes to the market. 

Marshall adds the cattle prices will eventually go up when there is a lack of cattle supply about a year later.  

USDA Deputy Director Bob Garino says the cattle price will still rise due to the higher cost of animal feeds.