Harvest'25: Shutdown Stalls Reports, But Producers Keep Combines Rolling

Elizabeth Strom with the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) joined us to share the latest on harvest progress and market activity in her area.

(RFD-TV) — While the government shutdown has paused USDA harvest reports for a third week, progress in the fields continues across much of the country.

Elizabeth Strom with the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers says harvest activity remains steady in her region, with producers making strong headway despite data delays. She adds that fall fieldwork is also moving forward as growers prepare for next year’s planting season.

Looking ahead to 2026, Strom notes that planning is already underway, with farmers assessing input costs and crop rotations amid ongoing market uncertainty. She also highlights that land auction season is in full swing, drawing strong interest from both investors and producers.

Related Stories
Experts warn pests could reduce yields and raise costs for producers
Dr. Gold encouraged farmers and ranchers to prioritize eye safety in their daily routines, offering his expertise to help reduce risks on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Recent USDA reports show a steady feedlot supply despite growing consumer demand for beef, ahead of typical seasonal summer trends.
Dave Duquette, founder of Western Justice, joined us to discuss wolf management, rancher concerns, efforts to return control to the states, and his upcoming documentary, “Wolves: True Conflict.”
Citrus production depends heavily on reliable irrigation, making water shortages a critical issue for South Texas growers moving forward.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, in consultation with the U.S. Department of Energy and under the Clean Air Act, approved the temporary measure to help stabilize fuel supplies and reduce costs for consumers.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

ASFMRA’s Tony Toso joins us with an update on California farmland values, ongoing market uncertainty, and key discussions shaping agriculture in the Golden State.
AFBF Women’s Leadership Committee Chair Isabella Chism joined us to discuss Ag Day planning, community involvement, and supporting the future of agriculture.
EPA Administrator Scott Mason shares updates on farm equipment regulations, regional accomplishments, and federal efforts supporting agriculture in honor of National Ag Day.
Sen. Roger Marshall joins us in honor of National Ag Day to share legislative updates, highlight key policy victories, and initiatives supporting farmers and rural communities he is championing in Washington.
Carol Anderson joined us to highlight the importance of rural mental health, introduce a new resilience program, and share resources available to the ag community.
During opening remarks, Rollins emphasized the strength and perseverance of the agricultural community, while teasing that a new policy announcement is expected later this week.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
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.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.