Grain Analysts Brace for Storage and Transportation Capacity Issues Ahead of Record Harvests

CoBank Lead Grains Economist Tanner Ehmke joins us to share insight and concerns over current grain storage capacity as export demand lags.

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.

Related Stories
Corn and beef exports showed strong momentum, cotton sales surged, and soybean sales held steady, though China remains absent from the U.S. market.
Cheaper freight is helping exports move, especially corn, but weaker soybean demand looms large.
Disease risks remain a key factor to watch heading into fall.
Sen. Roger Marshall, a founding member and chairman of the Make America Healthy Again caucus, joined us with his thoughts on the commission’s latest report and the key ag-related issues.
Grain shippers face lower freight values thanks to weak soybean exports and strong rail service, but barge traffic and forward Gulf loadings suggest continued uncertainty as harvest ramps up.
Producers may need to prepare for margin pressure in livestock feeding, while dairy farmers could benefit from stronger product demand.
Farmers await concrete trade commitments from China. Until then, export prospects for soybeans, corn, and sorghum remain uncertain against strong South American competition.
“Continue to help us push the New World screwworm back to the Darién Gap and hopefully towards eradication.”
National Sorghum Producers CEO Tim Lust said farmers face a challenging year with strong supply, murky trade conditions, and uncertain access to their largest market: China.