Strain on Grain: AFBF Economist Breaks Down Growing Storage Capacity Issues

Large carryover stocks continue to put pressure on commodity prices, creating uncertainty for growers looking to market their grain.

WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — As harvest moves forward across the country, farmers are facing mounting challenges tied to record crop yields, slowing export demand, and rising transportation and storage costs.

According to American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Bernt Nelson, the combination of strong production and large carryover stocks continues to put pressure on commodity prices, creating uncertainty for growers looking to market their grain. He joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss what these factors mean for U.S. agriculture as harvest continues.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Nelson said many producers are now weighing their storage options, as bins fill up quickly after back-to-back bumper crops. The tight storage situation, coupled with expensive freight rates, is forcing some to consider alternative marketing strategies or off-farm storage—both of which can eat into profits.

While abundant supply typically benefits consumers, Nelson notes that it is contributing to softer price trends in many markets, leaving farmers hoping for stronger demand signals in the months ahead.

Related Stories
Pseudorabies case confirmed in Iowa herd prompts heightened biosecurity measures as U.S. swine producers work to prevent spread and protect herd health.
Wyoming cowboy and Dusty Vaquero Days founder J.B. Zielke joins us to preview his upcoming event in Gillette and to highlight the festival’s celebration of cowboy culture through music and community events.
The goal is to start conversations and connect farmers with help when they need it.
Members from across the state will gather for competitions, workshops and leadership opportunities.
The new county maps show farm program payments are widespread, but payment design still produces very different outcomes across regions and crops. AgriSompo’s Brooks York joins us to discuss the role of crop insurance in supporting mental health.
Nebraska cattle rancher Joe Van Newkirk joins us to discuss wildfire recovery in Nebraska’s Sandhills athe challenges ranchers face restoring basic infrastructure after the fire.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Eric Weaver with UNL joins us to share about a promising new HPAI vaccine, early test results, next steps in development, and its potential impact on the livestock industry.
California almond acreage tightens while pistachios shift into an off-year, shaping a mixed outlook for prices and supply in the tree nut market.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joins us to break down the latest USDA crop progress report, share insights from growers, and discuss how global factors are shaping planting decisions this season.
House lawmakers push toward a Farm Bill vote as debate grows over E15, Prop 12, and input costs, with farmers seeking certainty and policy updates.
NAAA’s Andrew Moore joins us to discuss the role of ag aircraft in crop protection and emerging concerns surrounding stolen agricultural drones.
To celebrate the release of A Beautiful Life, Dailey & Vincent are giving one fan the chance to win an unforgettable Nashville experience!
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.