Many in the agriculture space feel the merger between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific will be beneficial, but some still hold reservations.
No groups have come out to endorse the plan entirely; instead, most are taking a more cautious approach. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Roger Marshall have sent a letter to the Surface Transportation Board, the group responsible for either approving or tossing the merger. They are asking the Board to keep the best interests of rail shippers like farmers in mind while they consider the plan.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition joined us when the story broke. He tells us one major concern surrounds competition. He warns that a merger would mean farmers have fewer opportunities to shop around for the best prices on shipping.
The review by the Surface Transportation Board could take up to 16 months. Both rail companies hope to have the ink dry in early 2027.
Ag Law expert Roger McEowen explains the latest WOTUS developments and their implications for agricultural water management.
September 11, 2026 03:00 PM
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August data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics show continued inflationary pressure, with energy and transportation costs playing a significant role in both consumer and producer prices.
September 11, 2026 12:00 PM
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The Internal Revenue Service issued updated emissions-rate guidance on September 8, while the Department of Energy revised its 45ZCF-GREET model.
September 11, 2026 11:30 AM
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Drought is worsening across the Southern Plains as winter wheat producers prepare for planting
September 11, 2026 11:00 AM
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Ethanol-driven corn demand is shifting acreage as tighter soybean supplies push feed costs higher.
September 11, 2026 07:00 AM
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AFBF’s Brian Glenn discusses the Senate Farm Bill and the Farm Bureau’s push to finalize legislation before the end of the year.
September 10, 2026 06:00 PM
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