Grain marketing chat, new tools and technology, the latest farm policy and ways to connect farmers with their consumers are among the highlights of this week's 2011 Commodity Classic held in Tampa, Florida. See some of the highlights from the annual trade show and meeting of the nation's corn, soybean, wheat and sorghum farmers.

Soaking up sun & commodity insights in Tampa

The last plane out of Minnesota put farmers Dave and Gerald Revier into Tampa at 2:00 Thursday morning. The crop year ahead is on their minds as they take a break from winter work. They're just a few of the more than 4,700 in attendance at this year's Commodity Classic.

• See more of what farmers are saying at this year's Classic
• Slideshow: See more 'Faces in the crowd'
• VIDEO: Spring
  market predictions

Vilsack, Lucas share
future policy visions

Two of the most powerful agricultural leaders in Washington, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and House Agriculture Committee Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) spoke to the Commodity Classic in Tampa, Florida, Friday, with some agreement on issues facing farmers and, perhaps, key omissions.

• Read more 
• Ways to reduce risk 
• Also: USB targets livestock support

VIDEO

Talking corn with NCGA leader

John Deere unveils FarmSight

To meet the needs of farmers not only today but as they look to the future, John Deere unveiled FarmSight, an array of services that will provide technology solutions in 3 areas. Deere officials made the announcement at the 2011 Commodity Classic Thursday in Tampa, Florida.

• See more on FarmSight

• Slideshow: Monsanto launches 'America's Farmers Mobile Experience'
• Bayer CropScience rolls out new products for 2011, beyond