Agriculture News
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Shrinking equity, rising nitrogen costs and continued global upheaval signal a reckoning for corn growers and a shift to soybeans — especially if higher biomass-based blending diesel mandates come through.
While drought intensity eased, most areas remain abnormally dry
Record corn yields have risen 10x in 100 years. David Hula says continued genetic gains, along with a deeper understanding of what’s happening underground, could push yield potential far beyond what most farmers expect.
USDA expects to announce payment rates for its $1B specialty crop aid in a few weeks after closing acreage reporting, which will determine how relief is distributed across eligible crops.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says a multi-agency Trump administration effort will target fertilizer costs and boost U.S. production, with a major announcement expected yet this week.
Following a major stakeholder meeting, USDA is boosting survey sample sizes and moving data-focused offices out of D.C. to rebuild farmer trust and improve the accuracy of its agricultural reports.
The dry conditions have allowed for swift planting progress
USDA annual summary shows red-meat production fell 2% last year, with beef production down 4%.
Freezing temperatures pushed condition ratings lower again this week
In a candid conversation with Farm Journal, USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden says USDA’s message to fertilizer companies is simple: “Be part of the solution, don’t be part of the problem.”
Chances for higher than usual temperatures across nearly the entire lower 48
54% Rural Bankers Say Local Economies Are in Recession
Heavy rains came to the area at the start of planting season
As the Iran war drives fertilizer prices up 40%, the Trump administration is warning against price gouging. A new survey shows only 60% of corn farmers have secured their nitrogen needs for 2026.
Accumulated export inspections for corn show final tally could top USDA’s latest estimate, though the pace has slowed in recent months.
President Trump has called for an immediate blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following failed peace talks over the weekend, prolonging delays of fertilizer and fuel trade, though other factors are in play.