#Plant26: Ongoing Drought Delays Corn Plantings in Kansas, Accelerates Spring Wheat Harvest

Kansas row crop farmer Brad Keeler joins us to discuss drought conditions, planting decisions, input costs, and overall farmer sentiment in his region.

GYPSUM, Kan. (RFD NEWS) — Drought is influencing planting decisions for many farmers this season, with some growers reporting delays and uncertainty across the region.

Kansas farmer Brad Keeler joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to share an update on regional planting progress from his farm.

In his interview with RFD News, Keeler discussed his farming background, noting that he has been farming since 1972 and currently grows corn, soybeans, and wheat, and provided an update on planting progress. He said that while corn planting has just begun, ongoing drought conditions are creating a challenging outlook.

In addition, Keeler discussed wheat on his operation, noting it is already heading and what that means for harvest timing, including the possibility of an earlier harvest than in past years. He also described what he is hearing from other farmers in the area, including whether some are considering not planting at all due to dry conditions.

He went on to address concerns around rising input prices and how those costs are affecting decision-making this season. Finally, he shared his outlook for the growing season.

Related Stories
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities breaks down the outlook on grain storage and domestic supply chain strength as producers weigh planting decisions with forthcoming federal aid.
Experts say flooding the zone with more money could have unintented consequences without opening new markets for planted crops and inputs under significant pressure.
A permanent national E15 standard would boost corn demand, lower fuel costs, and provide a stable path for U.S. energy security.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined Rural Health Matters to outline a few key reminders for parents about keeping kids healthy during the holiday season.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

FFA Central Region Vice President Claire Woeppel joins FFA Today to share her story and excitement to connect with FFA members nationwide.
NRECA CEO Jim Matheson reacts to the U.S. House’s passage of the SPEED Act, which aims to streamline federal permitting for energy and infrastructure projects, and discusses its potential impact on rural communities.
Cattle markets are watching the Cattle-on-Feed Report for signs of tighter supplies, while USMEF warns limited China access is cutting producer profits.
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg outlines the Farm Bridge Assistance Program and responds to calls from lawmakers and ag leaders for more assistance and expanded trade opportunities for farmers.
Callahan is no stranger to agricultural trade and has been with the U.S. Trade Representative’s office since 2016.
The Pet and Livestock Protection Act now moves to the Senate for consideration.