#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
National Land Realty’s Jeramy Stephens shares his outlook on farmland market trends, which remain under close watch as new federal assistance programs roll out — with experts analyzing potential impacts on land values, buying, and stability.
Michelle Perez shares more about the American Farmland Trust’s resource to help farmers and producers plan soil health improvements.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer outlines the key difference between previous ECAP payments and the Farm Bridge Assistance Program.
Jeff Johnston with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange explains the growing role of Rural America in supporting the nation’s digital infrastructure.
FFA Central Region Vice President Claire Woeppel joins FFA Today to share her story and excitement to connect with FFA members nationwide.
Weather-driven transportation disruptions can tighten logistics, affect basis levels, and delay grain movement during winter months.

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:

Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.
Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
Dr. Seth Meyer Concludes Service; Dr. Justin Benavidez Appointed USDA Chief Economist
USDA data indicates that 13.7 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate since 2014, even as most households remained food secure.