RTRS- USDA'S Vilsack say drought will spike prices

WASHINGTON, July 18 (Reuters) - U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said the worsening Midwest drought will result in sharply higher crop prices, but there is no need yet to seek a reduction in corn-based ethanol production.


Vilsack urged Congress to work with the Obama Administration on ways to improve aid to farmers struggling with a crop that will be sharply reduced from the searing heat and lack of rain.