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
A mid-January winter storm delivered snow, ice, and extreme cold to a broad swath of the U.S., disrupting transportation, stressing livestock systems, and adding cost and complexity to winter farm operations as producers look toward spring.
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision overturning a prior Tax Court decision on self-employment tax for limited partners, the ruling’s impact on farmers, and potential next steps in Congress.
Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
Pennsylvania Farm Show scholarship recipient Elizabeth Dice discusses her award, her background in farming, and her path forward in the agriculture industry.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer helps producers navigate farm program payments and understand the key details farmers need to know.
Todd Janzen with Janzen Schroeder Ag Law explains the updated ag data use agreement model and what it means for farmers and companies alike.
UT Extension also offers tips to help consumers stretch their grocery budgets, including meal planning, sticking to a shopping list, and choosing store or generic brands.
Early indications suggest the U.S. cattle industry may be nearing the end of its liquidation phase. Oklahoma State University livestock economist Dr. Derrell Peel says the industry could be at or near the cyclical low.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar has four years remaining in her Senate term and could decide to continue serving in that role while campaigning for Governor of Minnesota.
STRAUSS CEO Henning Strauss joined us with a preview of “Meet Strauss: The Tool You Wear,” premiering live tonight at 7:30 ET — only on RFD Network and RFD+