NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Severe winter weather is disrupting grain transportation across major U.S. corridors, raising short-term risks for grain movement and basis levels. Extreme cold in the Midwest has slowed barge traffic on the Mississippi River System, while historic flooding in the Pacific Northwest briefly shut down key rail lines serving export terminals.
Ice accumulation has challenged barge operations since early December. Navigation on the Upper Mississippi River ended in late November, and ice has since slowed traffic on the Illinois River, where some barges have required ice couplings. These conditions have contributed to persistently low water levels on the Lower Mississippi River, where draft and tow-size restrictions have been implemented by at least one operator near St. Louis.
At the same time, heavy rainfall from an atmospheric river caused record flooding in western Washington, temporarily closing BNSF Railway’s Scenic and Stampede Subdivisions — critical routes to Puget Sound grain terminals. While service has since resumed, the disruptions highlight vulnerability during peak export periods, even as Pacific Northwest grain inspections remain above average.
Separately, Iowa temporarily waived hours-of-service rules for hauling heating fuels to address winter energy shortages.
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
October 21, 2025 12:17 PM
·
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
October 21, 2025 11:57 AM
·
Lyndsey Smith with Real Ag Radio joined RFD-TV to share a Canadian perspective on the discussions.
October 20, 2025 03:30 PM
·
Bioethanol is becoming a global standard. For growers, that boom comes as drops in Mississippi River levels and in soybean demand occur in tandem, leaving barge space for corn and wheat.
October 20, 2025 01:32 PM
·
The government shutdown has touched nearly every sector of the ag industry since it began, and now impacts are spilling over into dairy.
October 20, 2025 12:46 PM
·
With China halting U.S. soybean purchases and talks tied to broader strategic issues, growers face renewed export uncertainty.
October 20, 2025 11:52 AM
·
Talks highlight the widening role of agriculture in U.S.–India trade policy, though neither side appears ready for major concessions before tariff issues and oil imports are resolved.
October 20, 2025 11:28 AM
·
Global trade teams and summit discussions highlight expanding opportunities for U.S. corn and ethanol exports as nations explore renewable fuel options and reduced-carbon energy pathways.
October 20, 2025 11:17 AM
·
Slightly higher output amid softer gasoline pull points to steady corn grind — watch regional stocks and export pace for basis clues.
October 17, 2025 04:59 PM
·
