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.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
·
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 02:04 PM
·
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
January 20, 2026 01:14 PM
·
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
January 20, 2026 12:25 PM
·
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
·
Freight volatility and route selection remain critical to soybean export margins and competitiveness.
January 19, 2026 04:00 PM
·
