Author: Admin

The Delaware Farm Bureau made an impressive showing at this year’s American Farm Bureau Federation Convention held in Anaheim, California from January 9-14, 2026, bringing home multiple prestigious awards.

The national organization divides states into six categories based on membership numbers, with Delaware competing in group one alongside states having up to 6,999 members. For the third consecutive year, Delaware dominated the competition within its category, claiming every major award.

The state organization earned the New Horizon Award, which celebrates the most creative new state Farm Bureau initiative. Delaware was recognized for its Specialty Crop Crate Program, an educational effort supported by USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant funding that supplies teachers with agricultural materials and lesson plans aligned with educational standards.

Delaware also claimed the Pinnacle award, representing the highest recognition available to state Farm Bureau organizations. This distinction celebrates exceptional performance in innovative member programming and overall organizational excellence.

Additionally, the Delaware Farm Bureau secured the Awards of Excellence, honoring states that excel across four key areas: Advocacy, Coalitions & Partnerships, Engagement & Outreach, and Leadership & Business Development.

“It is an honor to accept these awards on behalf of the Delaware Farm Bureau,” said DEFB President Bill Powers. “Delaware is as successful as it is because of our dedicated and passionate members and staff, and I am grateful for each of them.”

The Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation earned recognition with the Leader award for supporting the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, an honor granted when every board member contributes at least $50 to the Foundation.

Several Delaware representatives participated in various convention activities. Mollie Lynch, who chairs the state Women’s Committee, served as the Women’s Committee Delegate, with Kim Klair from New Castle County serving as alternate at the national Women’s Committee gathering.

Maci Carter, co-chair of Delaware’s Promotion and Engagement committee, participated in the Young Farmers and Ranchers Discussion Meet Competition, marking the first time Delaware had representation in this event for many years.

Steve Breeding, who serves as Delaware’s First Vice President and Sussex County Farm Bureau President, was chosen to serve as Vice Chair of the national Promotion and Engagement Committee.

President Powers represented Delaware as the state’s delegate during policy discussions at the annual meeting. Convention polling revealed that 99% of voting participants operate family farms, with over two-thirds running small to mid-size operations.

Policy topics addressed during the convention included enhancing labor programs, backing federally supported research and biosecurity infrastructure, emphasizing locally produced food in institutional settings like schools and government buildings, among other issues. Complete policy information is available at https://www.fb.org/news-release/american-farm-bureau-establishes-2026-policies.

Next year’s convention is scheduled for Charlotte, North Carolina from January 8-12, 2027. Those interested in attending can contact the Delaware Farm Bureau state office at 302-697-3183. Additional information about Delaware Farm Bureau is available at defb.org.

Delaware agricultural producers who attended a special preparedness workshop in Harrington during Delaware Ag Week discovered how inadequate emergency planning could jeopardize their farming businesses.

The educational session, organized by Nationwide Insurance working alongside the Delaware Farm Bureau, focused on helping farmers develop comprehensive risk management strategies.

According to Todd Givler from Nationwide, the key lesson for participants involves taking a moment to consider potential scenarios by asking themselves a simple question: “What if?” He explained that numerous situations could impact agricultural operations, including personal injuries, extreme weather conditions, staff departures, and economic fluctuations.

The insurance company is urging agricultural producers to develop detailed response strategies for various emergency situations. Givler illustrated this concept using the example of solo farm work, prompting attendees to think about basic safety questions: “Who is your emergency contact? What happens if they don’t answer? What if you don’t have your cell phone or service? What if you’re unconscious?”

Weather-related emergencies also require advance planning, Givler noted. While farmers cannot control meteorological conditions, they can reduce potential damage through proper preparation. He recommended developing specific protocols for hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, and similar catastrophic events. The insurance representative revealed that major weather disasters along the East Coast typically cost $250,000 on average, yet approximately half of all farmers adopt a reactive stance rather than proactive planning, leaving them exposed to significant financial losses.

Workshop participants received several practical suggestions, including conducting routine employee safety training, performing annual comprehensive insurance policy evaluations, and regularly assessing both professional and personal risk factors.

Givler also warned that obtaining insurance coverage is becoming increasingly difficult as worldwide markets become more restrictive. He explained that farmers who establish solid risk management protocols and safety procedures can show insurance companies they represent lower-risk clients, making policy approval easier and potentially reducing premium costs.

Additional details about the Farm Risk Ready program are available at nationwide.com/lc/resources/farm-and-agribusiness/articles/farm-risk-ready. Information about the Delaware Farm Bureau can be found at defb.org.

Delaware residents can now apply for full scholarships to attend a comprehensive leadership training program thanks to a partnership between Delaware Farm Bureau and Corteva Agriscience. The organizations are funding complete participation in Leadership Delaware Inc.’s professional development series, covering the entire $1,500 cost for selected participants.

Delaware Farm Bureau members will receive preference in the selection process, though the opportunity is open to all qualified applicants. The scholarship funds will be sent directly to Leadership Delaware Inc. on behalf of chosen participants.

The comprehensive training program features six educational sessions that combine traditional classroom instruction with personalized coaching and collaborative group work to build essential leadership capabilities. Following completion of the program, participants will receive additional support through a follow-up session scheduled 90 days later to assess their development and review their professional objectives.

Three separate program cycles will run throughout 2026 to accommodate different schedules and locations across the state. The initial session begins in New Castle County with meetings scheduled for February 3, 10, 17, 24 and March 3, 10. A second cycle will take place in Sussex County, running April 14, 21, 28 and May 5, 12, 19. The final session returns to New Castle County for meetings on September 15, 22, 29 and October 6, 13, 20.

Those interested in applying must submit their applications through the Delaware Farm Bureau website at https://defb.org/leadership-development-series/ before the January 20, 2026 deadline. Additional information about the scholarship program is available by calling the Delaware Farm Bureau state office at 302-697-3183.

Local farmers will have the opportunity to learn valuable risk management strategies when Delaware Farm Bureau teams up with Nationwide for a special workshop during Delaware Ag Week. The educational session is scheduled for Tuesday, January 13, 2026, running from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Delaware Building.

Today’s farming operations must navigate an increasingly complex landscape of unexpected obstacles, including disrupted supply chains, volatile market conditions, and unforeseen disease outbreaks. The upcoming workshop aims to equip agricultural producers with the knowledge needed to anticipate and manage these challenges before they impact their businesses.

During the educational program, participants will learn about the Farm Risk Ready Plan, a comprehensive approach that empowers farmers to spot emerging risks, make informed decisions under pressure, and keep their operations stable during difficult times. The workshop will cover effective methods for building long-term business resilience, avoiding expensive disruptions, and safeguarding the agricultural enterprises that families have dedicated years to developing.

Attendees can expect to walk away from the session equipped with hands-on tools and valuable information to evaluate potential risks, build stronger defenses against uncertainty, and develop a comprehensive strategy that ensures their farming operation continues to thrive regardless of future obstacles.

Local farmers will have the chance to learn valuable business protection strategies at an upcoming conference hosted jointly by Delaware Farm Bureau and University of Delaware Cooperative Extension. The organizations will present their fourth annual farming risk management event on February 25, 2026, at Harrington Fire Hall.

Since its debut in 2022, this annual gathering has focused on helping agricultural producers reduce operational risks. Given the constantly shifting market landscape, farmers need effective approaches to safeguard their financial stability.

The 2026 program will include presentations covering commodity crop financial planning for the coming year, technology investment economics, insurance coverage choices for 2026, grain market predictions, agricultural chemical costs, farmer retirement planning, and coping with uncertain losses. Presenters from University of Delaware, University of Maryland, American Farm Bureau, and additional organizations will provide expert knowledge on these subjects. Participants can also obtain one Delaware and two Maryland Nutrient Management continuing education credits.

The educational event begins at 8:00am and concludes at 4:00pm on February 25, 2026, at Harrington Fire Hall. Organizers will provide lunch at no cost, and attendance is complimentary, though advance registration is required. Farmers can sign up at defb.org/risk-management-conference/. Questions may be directed to Nate Bruce at [email protected] or Mikayla Paul at [email protected].

Delaware farmers gathered on December 12 to get answers about transportation rules and road safety during a panel discussion at the Delaware Farm Bureau Convention. Officials from three state agencies – Mark Luszcz with the Delaware Department of Transportation, Keith Lamey representing Delaware State Police, and Jacob Carey from the Division of Motor Vehicles – addressed questions from agricultural producers statewide.

Harvest Season Road Signs

Agricultural producers inquired about implementing rotating warning signs during busy harvest periods. Luszcz responded that harvest time overlaps with numerous special events when temporary signage is already prevalent. He advised farmers to contact DelDOT about problem areas where additional warning signs might be beneficial.

Concerns were also raised about road signs positioned directly across from each other on two-lane highways. While some locations make alternating placement impossible, Luszcz said DelDOT workers receive instructions to offset signs when feasible. Problems can be reported through #77, the DelDOT mobile app, or the department’s website issue reporting feature.

Understanding Farm Tag Classifications

Carey outlined the distinction between Farm Vehicle and Farm Truck registration tags: Farm Vehicle tags don’t mandate inspections, but Farm Truck tags do require them.

Questions arose about the 20-mile operating limit for Farm Vehicle tags. Carey specified that these vehicles can travel on roads and highways within a 20-mile radius of farms owned or operated by the vehicle owner.

He stressed that colored diesel fuel remains restricted to off-road applications only, with no exceptions for Farm Vehicle or Farm Truck tagged equipment.

State Police noted that MAP-21 federal legislation established farm trailer tags and related exemptions. Without proper farm trailer registration, operators forfeit these exemptions regardless of their truck’s farm tag status.

Frequent Enforcement Issues

Lamey identified under-inflated tires as the most common violation his department encounters. Tires are considered flat when they reach 50% of required pressure, and this infraction can rapidly harm safety ratings. He urged regular tire pressure monitoring.

Additional frequent violations include improperly secured cargo and malfunctioning lighting systems. Load securement guidelines are available at fcsa.com.

Roundabout Challenges

Farmers voiced frustration about roundabouts being inadequately sized for agricultural equipment. Luszcz explained that these traffic circles are becoming more common due to their proven ability to reduce accidents by 70-80%.

All new roundabouts utilize a design tested by farmers, and DelDOT attempts to include local consultants in planning. However, the department may be unaware of farm-to-farm traffic patterns without notification. DelDOT has no authority over roundabouts constructed by private developers.

Farmers should monitor DelDOT’s website for upcoming construction projects, as design-phase input is more effective than post-construction modifications.

Roadway Width Limitations

DelDOT recognized narrow road concerns but highlighted the challenge that wider roadways typically encourage higher speeds, while shoulder additions are prohibitively expensive. As an example, adding shoulders to every two-lane road in Sussex County would require 40-50 years and approximately $16 billion, excluding inflation.

Licensing and Weight Requirements

Vehicles exceeding 10,000 GVW should obtain DOT numbers. Weight limits for Farm Vehicle and Farm Truck registrations depend on manufacturer door tag specifications, and registration cannot exceed these limits.

State Police recommended the Non-CDL license option for farmers. Qualification requires being over 18, having one year of driving experience, maintaining a valid license, and passing knowledge and road tests. Lamey described this alternative as simpler and more affordable than commercial driver’s license requirements.

Morgan Webb has claimed the top prize in the Delaware Farm Bureau’s yearly amateur photography competition, which attracted more than 200 submissions from across the state. Webb’s winning photograph shows a young child with a lunch pail walking toward farm equipment, creating a nostalgic scene that resonated with contest judges.

The touching image evokes memories familiar to many farming families – youngsters spending time alongside tractors and learning about agricultural life from an early age. These childhood experiences in farm settings often cultivate a deep appreciation for agriculture and introduce children to the commitment and effort required in farming.

Contest results were revealed during the Delaware Farm Bureau’s Annual Banquet held on December 13. The winning photographs will be featured at two locations: the Delaware Farm Bureau headquarters in Camden and the Delaware Agriculture Museum in Dover.

The competition results are as follows:

Top four finishers:
• Morgan Webb, First Place
• Emerson Hickey, Second Place
• Lois Uniatowski Wilkinson, Third Place
• Kristen Kemp, Fourth Place

Recognition also went to six honorable mention recipients:
• Shelby Alexander
• Charlotte Betley
• April Doyle
• Deborah Felmey
• Madison Pete
• Tracy Thompkins

Photography enthusiasts can start preparing for next year’s competition, as the 2026 contest launches in May. Organizers encourage participants to capture Delaware’s farming community throughout the upcoming year.

Those interested in learning more about the competition or joining the Promotion and Engagement Committee can visit defb.org or contact the state office at 302-697-3183.

The Delaware Farm Bureau Women’s Committee made a significant impact in their community this past December through two meaningful initiatives focused on helping those in need and remembering fallen heroes.

During the Delaware Farm Bureau’s annual convention last month, the women’s group organized a food drive that resulted in collecting 100 pounds of canned food items. Convention participants were asked to bring non-perishable goods, which the committee then delivered to the Food Bank of Delaware to help address local hunger issues.

The women’s organization also maintained their annual commitment to the Wreaths Across America initiative, a nationwide program that places commemorative wreaths on veterans’ graves during the holiday season. On December 13, members of the committee traveled to the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery located in Millsboro, where they placed wreaths to pay tribute to service members who have passed away.

Community involvement remains a central mission for the Delaware Farm Bureau Women’s Committee. Those interested in joining their efforts can reach out to Mollie Lynch or contact the Delaware Farm Bureau State Office by calling 302-697-3183.

After a multi-year absence, the Delaware Farm Bureau brought back its Discussion Meet competition during the organization’s annual convention on Saturday, December 13. The contest returned as part of efforts to develop leadership skills among the state’s emerging agricultural professionals.

The competition format requires participants to work together in a committee-style setting, tackling current agricultural challenges and developing viable solutions. Young farmers and college students demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and work collaboratively during the event.

Six individuals took part in this year’s restored competition, representing both the Young Farmer & Rancher division and collegiate programs across Delaware:

Young Farmer & Rancher participants included Maci Carter from Kent County, Noah Dixon from Kent County, and Connor Vincent from Sussex County. College competitors were Makayla Bradley representing Delaware State University, Emerson Hickey from the University of Delaware, and Ainsley West from Delaware Technical Community College.

In the Young Farmer & Rancher category, Maci Carter secured first place and a $500 cash award. Carter will travel to Anaheim, California, in January to compete at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Convention representing Delaware.

Emerson Hickey took the top spot in the collegiate division, earning a $500 scholarship. Hickey will advance to national competition at the 2026 Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Conference in Portland, Oregon, this March.

The Delaware Farm Bureau thanked Horizon Farm Credit, King Crop Insurance, and Nagel Crop Insurance for providing financial support for the awards. The organization also recognized the judges and volunteers who contributed to making the event successful.

The return of this competition represents a significant step in nurturing Delaware’s future agricultural leaders through programs that emphasize teamwork, analytical thinking, and leadership development. All participants received recognition for their commitment and preparation, while the two winners prepare to showcase Delaware’s agricultural talent on a national platform.

Those interested in learning more about the Discussion Meet program can reach out to Sydnie Grossnickle, YF&R Coordinator, at [email protected] or by calling (302) 697-3183.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland lawmakers are taking action to combat the aggressive spread of Palmer amaranth across Eastern Shore farmland by proposing faster enforcement measures against property owners who fail to control this invasive weed.

The proposed legislation, brought forward by Talbot County’s legislative delegation, would mandate that Maryland’s Department of Agriculture immediately issue elimination orders whenever Palmer amaranth is discovered on any property throughout the state. Property owners would have just two weeks to remove the weed, followed by biweekly inspections until complete removal is achieved. Those who don’t comply would face escalating financial penalties: $500 for initial violations, $1,000 for second offenses, and $2,000 for additional infractions.

While Maryland has classified Palmer amaranth as a harmful weed since 2020, with existing legal requirements for property owners to manage or eliminate it, this new bill focuses on accelerating enforcement procedures once the weed is identified.

State Senator Johnny Mautz, a Republican from Talbot County, explained that current enforcement protocols often involve multiple warnings before any penalties are applied.

“By the time you get to a fine, it’s too late,” Mautz stated.

The Talbot delegation’s proposal would allow immediate fines for property owners who receive elimination orders but take no action, representing a strategic change designed to encourage prompt intervention and prevent further spread.

Agricultural experts consider Palmer amaranth among the most damaging weeds impacting row crops throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. This rapidly growing pigweed variety can grow beyond 6 feet tall, aggressively competes for essential resources like water and nutrients, and can generate hundreds of thousands or even more than one million seeds from a single plant. Multiple herbicide-resistant populations have emerged, making swift detection and immediate control essential.

The agriculture department currently collaborates with property owners facing weed challenges, taking enforcement measures through a “case-by-case basis” approach, though financial penalties against farmers are uncommon due to the weed’s management complexity, according to department spokesperson Lauren Moses. She noted that existing regulations already mandate noxious weed control or elimination, with the department offering technical support and guidance on herbicide applications or mowing strategies.

Mautz explained that the legislation emerged from issues identified by Talbot County’s weed management program, which documented instances of property owners neglecting to address infestations.

“It’s a super-difficult weed,” he acknowledged.

While the proposed bill maintains existing penalty amounts under state regulations, it would create more explicit enforcement through mandatory elimination orders, established timelines, and required follow-up inspections. Talbot County farmers report that Palmer amaranth expanded rapidly in certain areas during the previous year.

“We had last year several locations in the county where (it) has gotten out of control in some farm fields,” explained John Swaine, who serves as president of the Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts and vice president of the Talbot County Farm Bureau. “Some neighbors complained about it.”

Swaine, who operates corn and soybean farms near Royal Oak, described how Palmer amaranth spreads rapidly through seeds and can overtake entire fields without early intervention. He noted that control methods differ significantly depending on the crop type. Herbicide treatments work most effectively with corn and soybeans that have specific genetic traits, while other crops provide fewer chemical control options. Vegetable producers face particularly limited alternatives and may need to rely heavily on manual removal.

Eddie Boyle, president of the Talbot County Farm Bureau, observed that the weed’s presence has become increasingly noticeable throughout the county, including roadside areas and public properties where reduced mowing schedules due to budget limitations have allowed plants to reach maturity.

“If something is not done sooner or later, it’s going to be a really big issue,” Boyle warned.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture did not participate in creating this legislation and will likely remain neutral on the proposal, Moses indicated. She added that implementing the bill as currently written would require additional department personnel.

Both Mautz and Swaine confirmed that farmers support the legislation. However, Mautz suggested that opposition might come from absent property owners who prefer not to monitor their land more closely.

The Senate Education, Energy and the Environment Committee has set a hearing for the bill on March 3 at 1 p.m. The companion House version will be heard by the House Environment and Transportation Committee on February 27 at 1 p.m. If approved, the legislation would become effective October 1.

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Students interested in agriculture, environmental protection, forestry, policy work, or legal careers now have an opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a paid summer internship program.

The Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, Inc., along with the Agriculture Law Education Initiative, is currently accepting applications for the Russell Brinsfield Agro-Ecology Summer Internship program. The program targets both law students and undergraduates looking to explore careers in related fields.

Several students will be chosen for this two-month program, which offers competitive compensation and networking opportunities with agricultural and environmental leaders, plus connections with state government officials.

The program runs from June 1 through July 24, with participants earning $19.91 per hour for full-time, 40-hour work weeks.

Interns will start their experience with an introductory session at the Wye Research Center located in Queenstown. Throughout the program, participants will attend weekly gatherings either at Wye or other locations across Maryland. When not attending in-person meetings, interns will work remotely or travel to various meetings statewide.

The curriculum covers challenging environmental topics such as Chesapeake Bay restoration initiatives, farming methods, and regional food systems. Participants will interact with various interest groups and learn about the intricate relationships between farming communities and environmental protection advocates.

Interns will also have the chance to meet with lawmakers and government agency personnel as they tackle ongoing environmental challenges.

Those interested must submit applications by Feb. 27. A informational online session is planned for 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19.

Application materials must include a resume, cover letter, and a minimum of one academic and professional recommendation letter with references.

Undergraduate applicants should email their materials to Nancy Nunn at [email protected], while law students should contact Megan Todd at [email protected].

(Editor’s note: Dr. Rich Barczewski serves as Professor Emeritus at Delaware State University.)

Youth programs focusing on livestock education have always earned my strong endorsement, particularly those offering young people pathways into animal agriculture careers.

Whether through 4-H, FFA, or independent youth initiatives, these activities teach valuable lessons about animal care fundamentals – daily nutrition requirements, veterinary needs, sales processes, and similar responsibilities. The most comprehensive programs also educate participants about meat processing and product creation.

However, I’ve noticed one significant shortcoming in these initiatives: they frequently fail to present accurate economic realities of commercial livestock operations.

This issue centers on the disconnect between what families spend on project animals versus the actual market returns when these animals are sold.

A specialized sector has emerged within the livestock industry, separate from commercial operations, dedicated to breeding animals specifically for youth competitions.

As these contests have grown increasingly competitive, certain breeders have responded by developing premium project animals featuring specialized bloodlines and genetic traits tailored to meet show ring demands.

This specialization commands premium pricing, as breeders seek specific breeding stock to produce pigs, sheep, goats, and cattle that excel in competition settings.

Anyone attending county fairs or livestock exhibitions can discover the substantial sums families invest in these specialized genetics by simply asking participants about their purchase prices.

Frequently, buyers pay amounts equal to or exceeding the value of a completely finished market animal just to acquire a young feeder animal of the same species.

This investment strategy banks on the possibility that the purchased animal will claim victory at shows, earn selection for champion sales, and command premium selling prices.

While participants certainly acquire all expected knowledge about raising pigs, sheep, goats, or cattle, they miss learning one crucial element: the genuine marketplace value of livestock.

This gap unfortunately creates distorted perceptions about the financial realities of livestock production among some participants.

Therefore, 4-H project coordinators and FFA instructors should prioritize educating their members about authentic commercial market values to maintain proper perspective.

Another frequently overlooked aspect involves the actual characteristics of animals raised in commercial settings. Show livestock represent more extreme genetic selections rather than the typical animals found in commercial production systems.

I find nothing problematic with entrepreneurs who have established successful niches serving this specialized market. Like other agricultural sectors, these producers have discovered profitable opportunities in industry segments they’re passionate about.

Nevertheless, it’s crucial to recognize that this market exists because numerous supporters of youth programs willingly invest by paying exceptional prices for project animals at livestock auctions.

Interestingly, the trend toward elevated prices shows considerable regional variation based on local competition levels at shows, though it generally becomes more widespread over time.

The essential point remains that regardless of specific conditions in your area, maintaining authenticity by ensuring young people understand the true commercial value of their animals – while appreciating the generous support from community members – is paramount.

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 29, 2026) — State agriculture officials in Maryland have identified what appears to be a case of H5 bird flu at a commercial chicken operation in Caroline County, according to an announcement from the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

The detection represents the initial occurrence of this highly pathogenic avian influenza strain at a commercial poultry facility in the region.

Delaware’s peanut farmers saw a small but positive bump in their earnings last week, according to new agricultural data.

Growers received an average of 24.1 cents per pound for all farmer stock peanuts during the seven-day period that ended on February 7th. This represents an increase of half a cent compared to the previous week’s pricing.

The price improvement comes as local agricultural producers continue to navigate market conditions for their peanut harvests. These weekly price reports help farmers and agricultural businesses track market trends for one of the region’s important crops.

WASHINGTON—As millions of Americans prepare to watch the New England Patriots take on the Seattle Seahawks in the 2026 Super Bowl, farmers across the region are working to satisfy an enormous appetite for game day favorites.

According to the National Chicken Council’s annual Chicken Wing Report, football fans nationwide are projected to consume a staggering 1.48 billion chicken wings during the championship game. This figure represents an increase of approximately 10 million wings compared to the previous year’s Super Bowl consumption.

To put this massive number in perspective, if all 1.48 billion wings were placed end to end, they would wrap around Earth nearly three complete times.

Virginia’s thriving poultry sector plays a crucial role in supplying this tremendous demand. Data from the most recent U.S. Census of Agriculture shows that 1,168 Virginia farms raised more than 55 million broilers and other meat chickens in 2022.

The poultry industry represents one of America’s most valuable agricultural sectors, generating approximately $45.4 billion in national farm-level receipts during 2024. Virginia alone saw cash receipts for broilers surpass $1.2 billion, based on USDA Economic Research Service statistics.

Economic analysts from the American Farm Bureau Federation recently examined popular Super Bowl snacks and the financial challenges facing the farmers who produce them in their latest Market Intel report.

The Super Bowl ranks as the second-largest food consumption day in America, trailing only behind Thanksgiving.

“As fans gather around their TVs this Super Bowl Sunday, it’s worth remembering that every bite reflects far more than what’s on the plate,” the Market Intel states. “It reflects a highly coordinated agricultural system and the farmers and ranchers working every day to keep it running, even as economic pressures continue to mount well beyond game day.”

Despite strong wing demand, poultry producers face significant challenges within a highly consolidated, contract-driven industry. Farmers receive fixed payments that prevent them from capitalizing when wholesale or retail prices increase. Additionally, producers must finance their own facilities, often investing over $1 million in specialized poultry houses and equipment.

Tortilla chips dominate Super Bowl snacking preferences. These corn-based treats begin with field corn, America’s most extensively planted crop. Virginia’s corn production generated $227 million in value during 2024.

However, corn farmers currently face historically low prices, with projections showing average losses of $173 per acre for the 2026 crop year.

Potato chips rank as the second most popular Super Bowl snack. American farmers annually produce nearly $5 billion worth of potatoes, while Virginia’s 481 potato farms harvested 3,240 acres in 2022.

Although potato demand remains robust, escalating expenses for labor, energy, storage, and other operational costs have exceeded market payments to farmers.

Popular game day items including pizza, queso dip, and charcuterie boards depend on the nation’s approximately 24,800 dairy operations. Dairy products secured fourth place among Virginia’s top farm commodities in 2024, producing over $363 million in revenue.

While U.S. milk production has reached record highs, helping maintain affordable and plentiful cheese supplies for consumers, economic pressures have caused dairy farm numbers to drop by more than 60% between 2005 and 2024.

“Farmers are proud to grow the food America’s families enjoy during their parties, and every other day of the year,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We’re fortunate to be blessed with such an abundant food supply, but the reality is, farmers are facing an economic crisis like we haven’t seen in generations.

“We’re grateful for aid the administration has delivered to farmers this year and do not take that for granted, but more steps are needed to ensure farmers can stay in business until markets improve,” he continued. “There will be only one winner in the game this Sunday, but everyone wins when we protect America’s food supply chain.”

ASHLAND—While Delaware residents grow weary of shoveling snow and navigating icy conditions, local gardens are actually benefiting from winter’s frozen grip. The white blanket covering lawns and flower beds serves as natural protection for plants while delivering valuable nutrients to the soil below.

Snow collects beneficial elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus as it falls through the atmosphere, according to Scot Ferguson, who works as a Virginia Cooperative Extension agent in Hanover County.

Delaware homeowners can maximize these benefits by being strategic about where they pile snow during cleanup efforts. Rather than viewing snow removal as just another winter chore, Ferguson suggests thinking of it as preparation for spring growth.

“You’d want to relocate snow along the drip line of the shrub or tree, kind of like you would with mulch,” Ferguson explained. Placing snow around garden beds and landscaped areas provides “a little bump of nitrogen” to plants.

The melting process delivers these fertilizing compounds gradually into the ground. When warmer weather arrives, the slow melt provides consistent moisture without overwhelming plant roots.

“Plants are probably not getting super waterlogged, and you’re not dealing with runoff,” Ferguson noted. “They will be quite hydrated and trying to transpire!”

Rural property owners who manage large areas of grassland typically invest between $4 and $10 per acre for professional nutrient management services. These landowners appreciate the free fertilization that winter storms provide.

“And for bigger landowners with cover crop programs, that’s where they find the bang for their buck,” Ferguson said.

While Delaware’s native plants handle local weather patterns well, imported ornamental species like boxwood and delicate perennials can suffer damage when cold snaps arrive suddenly.

North Carolina Cooperative Extension research shows that even thin snow coverage shields soil from dramatic temperature swings. This protective barrier keeps soil temperatures more stable, preventing damage to plant root systems.

“And if it’s warm enough under there, the snow forms an insulating blanket, and grass will certainly grow,” Ferguson observed. “Snow still allows sunlight to penetrate its surface. If the plant can move water, if the ground isn’t frozen, then plants and grass can probably photosynthesize!”

Despite predictions of six additional weeks of winter conditions, Delaware temperatures will continue to vary throughout the season.

“Your flowering plants may come into bloom when we have warm weather,” warned Mark Viette, former host of “In the Garden,” a video series from Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. These mild periods may be followed by “a real cold spell.”

Viette recommends covering blooming plants with sheets or soft materials, adding warmth with outdoor-rated incandescent lighting when needed.