NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Energy markets are sending conflicting signals to agriculture, with lower long-term fuel prices but continued short-term volatility in heating and fertilizer inputs.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s February Short-Term Energy Outlook (PDF Version) projects Brent crude oil averaging about $58 per barrel in 2026 and $53 in 2027 as global production continues to outpace demand and inventories build. Despite recent geopolitical disruptions, expanding output worldwide is expected to keep diesel and fuel costs generally softer over time.
Natural gas tells a different story in the near term. The Henry Hub price averaged $7.72 per MMBtu in January after winter weather tightened supplies. Storage levels are now projected to end winter about 8 percent lower than previously expected. Prices should moderate later as drilling increases, with averages near $4.30 this year and $4.40 in 2027.
U.S. natural gas production is forecast to grow 2 percent in 2026, while rising solar generation and modest coal use help meet expanding electricity demand from industry and data centers.
Lower propane prices are also expected as higher gas production boosts supply.
Some sustainability shifts are not particularly challenging and can be implemented with resources already available to farmers and ranchers on their operations.
November 13, 2025 01:00 PM
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Winter weather will challenge livestock producers working to rebuild their herds despite harsh conditions.
November 12, 2025 01:20 PM
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Enforceable origin labels could create clearer premiums for U.S. cattle and address concerns some producers have had with competition from foreign imported beef.
November 12, 2025 12:39 PM
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Rural businesses report softer sales, tougher hiring, and restrained investment — a backdrop that can pinch farm support capacity even if posted prices cool.
November 12, 2025 12:22 PM
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Friday’s release will be the first WASDE report in about two months, and early estimates indicate a corn surplus is still on the way.
November 12, 2025 12:16 PM
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The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) says recent wins in markets like Malaysia and Cambodia help farmers focus on production rather than trade barriers.
November 11, 2025 03:50 PM
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If the House concurs and the President signs, USDA services and farm-bill programs resume at full speed with authorities extended for another year.
November 11, 2025 10:46 AM
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Here is a regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture for the week of Monday, Nov. 10, 2025.
November 10, 2025 10:48 AM
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Congressman Blake Moore of Utah discusses the bill’s potential to promote both economic growth and healthier forests on this week’s Champions of Rural America.
November 07, 2025 01:36 PM
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