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.
While the 2018 Farm Bill received an extension under the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act, the National Pork Producers Council wants lawmakers to do more to support the sector.
December 04, 2025 11:27 AM
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Buying a real Christmas tree directly supports U.S. farmers facing rising import competition, long production cycles, and weather-driven risks.
December 04, 2025 11:02 AM
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Tight cattle supplies continue to drive lower beef output despite heavier weights.
December 04, 2025 05:00 AM
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WTO gauges point to agricultural raw materials trade growing more slowly than overall goods, reinforcing the need to manage export risk and monitor policy shifts closely.
December 03, 2025 03:46 PM
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Kip Eideberg with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers details its campaign spotlighting the people who build equipment vital to farming and food manufacturing.
December 03, 2025 03:24 PM
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Improved export prospects and higher crop prices strengthened future expectations despite continued caution about spending.
December 03, 2025 01:52 PM
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