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
Teams create meals from pantry items while incorporating a surprise ingredient
Local groups distribute potatoes to support hundreds of families across the Idaho Panhandle to celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month.
UNL’s Dr. Dirac Twidwell discusses wildfire recovery efforts in Nebraska and what producers should keep in mind in the days and weeks ahead.
Rich Nelson with Allendale joined us to break down early planting progress, market expectations, and what producers should keep an eye on as the season moves forward.
Tight global supply is likely to keep fuel and fertilizer costs elevated.
Dr. Michael Langemeier with Purdue University provided perspective on the improving farmer sentiment and the trends shaping the agricultural economy moving forward.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Kentucky Firefighters Jonathan and Lonny Epley and Extension Agent Leann Martin tell us about a new portable grain bin rescue tool, and its potential to enhance safety for farmers and first responders nationwide.
Tennessee Ag in focus: Commissioner Holt shares his farm economy outlook, the TNFB honors a cotton legacy, and TN 4-H and FFA leaders discuss support for the next generation of agriculture in Tennessee.
F-10 Wound Spray can now be used for livestock and other animals as officials monitor the ongoing New World Screwworm outbreak in Mexico.
China’s stricter inspection rules prompt Cargill to pause soybean exports from Brazil, briefly lifting U.S. soybean prices as traders anticipate potential shifts in global trade, as export demand remains supportive across all major U.S. commodities.
Suderman joins Tony St. James in the RFD Studios to discuss how geopolitical tensions are triggering global transport disruptions, new inflation pressures, and other challenges for agriculture to navigate.
Severe drought in South Texas is forcing ranchers to consider cattle sell-offs as feed and water supplies dwindle, threatening herd health and livestock operations.
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.