Severe Winter Storm Threatens to Disrupt U.S. Supply Chain

Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain challenges facing agriculture as snow, sleet and ice threaten most of the Eastern U.S.

ANKENY, IOWA (RFD NEWS) — A powerful winter storm moving across farm country is raising concerns about potential impacts to farm operations, rural communities, and the agricultural supply chain.

Mike Steenhoek, with the Soy Transportation Coalition, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss what the organization is watching as the storm progresses, particularly in transportation and supply chain disruptions.

The conversation also turned to rail transportation issues, including the proposed merger between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific. Steenhoek addressed the Surface Transportation Board’s decision to reject the merger application due to insufficient information and outlined the issues identified in the paperwork. He also touched on the industry’s mixed reactions to the proposed merger, which were part of the discussion as well, including concerns about pricing and consolidation, and how those factors could impact agriculture as a whole.

Finally, Steenhoek discussed how the process could move forward as the companies work to revise and resubmit their application.

Related Stories
Commissioner Sid Miller says productive farmland, water resources, and rural infrastructure are increasingly under pressure as data centers continue growing across Texas.
The Meat Institute says meat sales reached a record $112 billion last year as protein demand remained strong nationwide.
National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles says potato wart could have devastating consequences for U.S. growers and export markets.
Congressman Mark Messmer discusses the Farm Bill, rural investment priorities, Prop 12, and support for farmers facing economic pressure.
The Livestock Conservancy says protecting rare breeds helps preserve genetic diversity and long-term agricultural resilience.

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:

Meet Annaliese Wegner, a Wisconsin dairy FarmHER, mom to twins, and a passionate agriculture advocate.
After months of declining consumer egg prices, buyers could be facing a sharp increase in costs as prices surge upwards once again.