The latest Rural Mainstreet Index shows a dire situation unfolding. It fell below growth neutral for the 17th time in 18 months, and Creighton University economists say trade is the leading factor.
A global economic slowdown certainly is not helping out there, and certainly an supply over, I would argue, an oversupply from some of our competitors, such as Brazil and Argentina, pushing, pushing down, prices are holding, holding them down. I should say prices have improved a bit over the last month or two, but still not in a territory that makes the farmer feel good about what that farmer is making,” said Dr. Ernie Goss.
Dr. Goss says other countries are paying attention to our recent tariff action and adds any potential retaliation is likely to hurt U.S. farmers.
USDA Under Secretary Richard Fordyce says the department stands ready to provide technical assistance with the Farm Bill if Congress requests it.
March 09, 2026 01:27 PM
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Surging energy markets are quickly becoming a cost story for U.S. agriculture as crude oil climbs on supply fears tied to the Middle East conflict.
March 09, 2026 12:25 PM
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Strike risk adds volatility to already tight markets.
March 09, 2026 11:22 AM
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Fertilizer investigation may impact input costs and margins.
March 06, 2026 02:19 PM
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The American Coalition for Ethanol reacts as the Farm Bill heads to a full House vote — while ethanol expansion, including year-round E15, is left out — as well as the USDA’s pursuit of global markets for ethanol.
March 06, 2026 01:45 PM
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Big oils-and-fats volumes can support crush demand, but fuel markets can quickly tighten supplies.
March 06, 2026 12:57 PM
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