USDA Fertilizer Projects Target One Million Tons Capacity

USDA says the FIELDS program will fund 22 projects across 16 states in an effort to boost fertilizer supply.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — USDA says eight newly selected fertilizer projects could add more than one million tons of annual domestic production capacity as the department pushes to reduce reliance on foreign supply.

The projects span 22 manufacturing locations in 16 states and represent more than $1.34 billion in proposed investment. USDA says its direct investment totals $573.1 million through the FIELDS program.

Secretary Brooke Rollins says the projects include new facilities and expansions of existing operations. USDA expects the investments to increase domestic potash production by 40% and nitrogen production by 4%.

Department officials say project groundbreaking is expected in the coming weeks and months, with completion targeted for 2027 and 2028. USDA says the selected projects were chosen for financial viability, market demand and readiness to move toward construction.

USDA says the broader goal is to expand domestic fertilizer manufacturing, storage, transportation and related infrastructure while reducing exposure to foreign supply disruptions.

Farm-Level Takeaway: New domestic fertilizer capacity could improve long-term supply resilience, but most production gains will not arrive until 2027 or 2028.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

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