DENVER, Colo. (RFD-TV) — As U.S. farmers prepare for what could be a record-setting grain harvest, concerns are growing across the ag sector. With export demand lagging and both storage and transportation capacity under pressure, many are bracing for a challenging close to the season.
CoBank Lead Grains Economist Tanner Ehmke joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to share insight into current grain storage capacity.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Ehmke notes that while overall capacity may be sufficient nationwide, certain regions could face tight conditions depending on crop size and local infrastructure. He explained that grain elevators will be forced to make difficult decisions this fall — from managing space constraints to balancing grain quality and timing.
Ehmke also pointed to low water levels on the Mississippi River, which could once again disrupt grain transportation and slow export movement, adding to logistical strain. He emphasized that the coming months will test both supply chain efficiency and market adaptability, as farmers and handlers work to move a large crop amid limited export opportunities and ongoing infrastructure challenges.
U.S. agriculture entered the week with mixed signals as weather, logistics, and markets shaped early-year decisions. Here is a regional breakdown of domestic crop and livestock production for the week of Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
January 19, 2026 11:40 AM
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While short-term volatility remains a risk, softer ocean freight rates in 2026 could improve export margins.
January 18, 2026 12:00 PM
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Trade volatility and shifting export destinations increase marketing risk for producers heading into 2026.
January 18, 2026 07:00 AM
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RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey speaks with Texas’s Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Vicente Gonzalez about USMCA renegotiation and its impact on U.S.–Mexico agriculture trade.
January 17, 2026 05:00 PM
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Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
January 16, 2026 01:34 PM
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Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.
January 16, 2026 01:16 PM
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National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
January 16, 2026 01:13 PM
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Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
January 15, 2026 01:36 PM
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Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
January 15, 2026 12:51 PM
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