Winter Storm 2026: Ag Impacts — Midwest

Brooks York with AgriSompo joined us with his outlook on crop insurance and risk management following the recent winter storm that tore through most of the United States, including the Midwest.

CARMI, ILLINOIS (RFD NEWS) — A powerful winter storm moved across farm country over the weekend, impacting a number of rural communities. As with any major weather event, the storm has prompted renewed questions around crop insurance and risk management heading into the next growing season.

Brooks York with AgriSompo joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss how farmers can use this time to think through risk management decisions for 2026.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, York shared what he is hearing from producers across the country and outlined new considerations farmers are weighing as they plan for the upcoming crop year. He also shared his best piece of advice for farmers as they evaluate crop insurance products and broader risk management strategies in the year ahead.

Related Stories
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses the ongoing measles outbreak in the United States and the importance of vaccination awareness on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Federal aid helps, but producers will bear most of the losses. Balance sheets may look stable, but margins remain fragile without policy support.
Strong corn exports support prices while soybeans lag yearly pace. However, large carryover stocks limit upside despite solid yields.
Lori Stevermer with the National Pork Producers Council reacts to the USDA’s speedline proposal, the new Farm Bill’s fix for California’s Prop-12, and other policy developments impacting the pork industry.
Red Flag Warning in effect as high winds fuel fast-moving blaze across Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law reviews key highlights from the House Agriculture Committee’s latest farm bill proposal.
Lawmakers from Texas and Tennessee outline priorities for USMCA renegotiations, focusing on tariffs, China trade concerns, beef prices, and stability for U.S. agriculture.
Duvall’s connection to cowboy culture extended beyond the screen.
Ethanol output is improving, but weak domestic demand and export headwinds temper optimism about corn demand. Renewable Fuels Association President & CEO Geoff Cooper discusses the latest developments on Federal approval of year-round E15.
The National Farm Machinery Show is underway in Louisville, Kentucky, bringing together the latest in agricultural equipment, technology, and innovation. Here are some highlights from the trade show floor so far!
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses how AI integration in grocery retail could impact farmers and the broader food supply chain.