WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. grain inventories climbed broadly as of December 1, reflecting larger supplies of corn, soybeans, wheat, and sorghum heading into winter, according to the latest Grain Stocks report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Corn and sorghum posted the largest year-over-year increases, reinforcing a supply-heavy tone for feed grains despite solid fall usage.
Corn stocks totaled 13.3 billion bushels, up 10 percent from a year earlier. On-farm inventories jumped 14 percent, while off-farm stocks rose 4 percent. At the same time, disappearance from September through November reached 5.29 billion bushels, well above last year, signaling strong feed, ethanol, and export demand even as supplies rebuilt.
Soybean stocks increased 6 percent to 3.29 billion bushels. Off-farm inventories rose sharply, up 10 percent, while on-farm stocks were only slightly higher. Fall disappearance fell 20 percent from last year, reflecting slower export movement and ample global supplies.
All wheat stocks totaled 1.68 billion bushels, up 7 percent year over year. Off-farm wheat inventories climbed 11 percent, while on-farm stocks declined modestly. Wheat disappearance during the fall quarter ran 9 percent above last year, suggesting steady domestic and export usage.
Sorghum stocks surged 26 percent to 268 million bushels, with both on- and off-farm holdings rising equally. Disappearance also increased sharply, up 27 percent, highlighting active feed and export demand alongside expanding supplies.
Overall, the NASS report highlights higher grain supplies entering 2026, with corn and sorghum balances drawing particular market attention.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
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