MEMPHIS, TENN. (RFD-TV) — Fall harvest is progressing across the country, with U.S. corn 13 percent harvested, but farmers and shippers are navigating several moving factors as the season gets underway.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the quick harvest progress across the Mid-South this year, as well as how producers in the region are dealing with extremely elevated fuel costs, weather, and global developments the markets are monitoring.
“It has been a beautiful harvest season,” Williamson said in his interview with RFD-TV. “I’ve never seen a crop get harvested just as quickly.”
Mid-South Harvest Moving Ahead of Schedule
Williamson says the Mid-South harvest has been wide open in the Bootheel, Missouri area.
He said farmers planted the corn crop about two weeks earlier than usual in the area and have also harvested it about two weeks early. Yields have also been strong.
“We’re seeing some record corn and bean yields,” Williamson said. “I do think it will be a solid, solid crop.”
As harvest moves further into the Corn Belt, Williamson said the industry will watch how yields compare with those in the Mid-South.
Williamson said some rain moving into the western portion of the Corn Belt could slow harvest progress somewhat, but he is also watching developments around the world.
“I think, when I look at this, it’s more about what’s happening in the world and what’s happening in the Black Sea and what’s happening in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said. “And I don’t see any real lineup in sight there.”
Diesel Costs Pressure Harvest Margins
Fuel prices are another major concern as farmers and shippers move grain.
Williamson said he has been on calls discussing diesel prices and what they mean for grain transportation across the Mississippi River, rail and truck markets.
“It’s going to add to the U.S. producer that is in the middle of harvest right now, moving trucks to the elevator,” Williamson said.
He said higher transportation costs can affect farm profitability, particularly during harvest when large volumes of grain are being moved.
Markets and Trade Remain in Focus
Williamson also pointed to recent market activity and upcoming trade discussions as areas to watch. He expects traders to focus on the upcoming Trump-Xi summit in the United States on Thursday.
He said the market moved sharply higher the previous day following comments from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and described the current session as a more normal type of trade following that move.
Williamson also highlighted Commitment of Traders data, saying funds are holding record-long positions in corn, meal and beans.
“I think that’s a real concern — or it is to me — and we need to keep our eye on what funds do,” Williamson said.
Mississippi River Levels Add Another Layer of Concern
Low water levels on the Mississippi River are also creating some minor issues, according to Williamson. He said the river had dropped to -0.8 feet in Memphis and that dry conditions have contributed to the decline.
The extended heat and dryness have been noticeable across the Mid-South as well.
Williamson said the area had gone 150 days without a day in Memphis when temperatures failed to reach 90 degrees.
“It’s been extremely hot around here and dry,” Williamson said.
He said cooler temperatures and rain would be welcome as fall continues.
MORE: TODAY’S WEATHER FORECAST
