Fertilizer Costs Continue to Pressure U.S. Wheat Growers, New Report Finds

Rising fertilizer costs tied to tariffs are tightening margins for U.S. wheat growers, according to new data from the National Association of Wheat Growers.

BILLINGS, MONTANA (RFD NEWS) — New analysis is shedding light on how rising input costs—particularly fertilizer—are impacting America’s wheat growers and their bottom line.

According to new analysis of National Association of Wheat Growers data by Western Ag Network’s Russell Nemetz, tariffs on phosphate fertilizer have contributed to higher costs for producers, with impacts dating back to 2021.

According to Nemetz, the data underscore how elevated input prices are tightening already-thin margins across wheat country.

The report finds that higher fertilizer costs are not only affecting current profitability but could also influence future planting decisions as growers weigh input expenses against potential returns.

Industry leaders warn that U.S. wheat producers are facing increasing pressure to remain competitive in a global market where other countries may have lower input costs.

The findings also raise broader concerns about long-term sustainability for wheat operations, particularly if elevated fertilizer prices persist.

Read the full report:

Related Stories
Mike Stranz joins us to discuss farm safety net reforms, NFU’s proposed IMSET program, and the challenges facing family farmers nationwide.
The investigation does not prove wrongdoing, but it raises federal scrutiny of a major cost center for crop producers.
For decades, U.S. agriculture has planned around feeding a growing world. Experts say that trend could reverse course in the next 30 years.
The reports cover biodiesel, diesel, gasoline grades, ethanol, aviation fuel, kerosene, and specialty fuels.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Higher input costs are making flexible marketing plans and updated break-even targets more important.
The House is moving forward with debate on the Farm Bill after a lengthy session in the House Rules Committee cleared the legislation for floor consideration.
March pork gains lifted total meat production, but first-quarter output still ran below last year.
Austin Rice with Specialty Risk Insurance shares guidance on handling storm damage, navigating the insurance claims process, and managing risk during a volatile planting season.
Eric Weaver with UNL joins us to share about a promising new HPAI vaccine, early test results, next steps in development, and its potential impact on the livestock industry.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joins us to break down the latest USDA crop progress report, share insights from growers, and discuss how global factors are shaping planting decisions this season.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.