Category: Agriculture

Farmers across the country experienced a marginal boost in peanut compensation during the most recent reporting period, according to federal agricultural data.

For the seven-day period concluding on March 21, agricultural producers earned an average of 22.0 cents per pound for all farmer stock peanuts, representing an increase of 0.2 cent from the previous week’s figures.

The pricing information reflects what growers actually received for their peanut crops during this timeframe, providing insight into current market conditions for this important agricultural commodity.

Federal agriculture officials report a notable increase in poultry production nationwide, with ready-to-cook weight showing a 5 percent jump from the previous year’s figures.

The data comes from the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, which tracks poultry slaughter and processing statistics across the country.

This upward trend in poultry weight indicates stronger production levels in the industry, reflecting both increased processing capacity and potentially larger bird sizes reaching market.

The agriculture statistics service regularly monitors these production metrics to provide industry stakeholders and consumers with current market information.

National shell egg production has experienced a 4 percent decrease when compared to the previous year’s figures, according to newly released federal agricultural data.

The decline in shell egg processing was documented in a report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, which monitors production trends across the egg industry.

The data reflects ongoing changes in the agricultural sector as producers navigate various market conditions and industry challenges affecting egg production nationwide.

Federal agricultural regulators have given the green light to a new genetically modified corn variety, removing it from regulatory oversight and allowing for widespread commercial planting.

The corn variety, designated MON 95275 and created by Bayer CropScience, has been engineered to defend itself against corn rootworm beetles that typically cause significant crop damage. The modified plant produces two pest-fighting proteins along with specialized RNA designed to target these destructive insects.

Federal officials announced their decision to deregulate the corn after conducting a comprehensive review of scientific evidence submitted by Bayer CropScience. The evaluation process included analyzing research data, assessing potential plant health risks, and considering feedback from the public regarding the company’s initial petition and preliminary risk evaluation.

The regulatory agency stated that their conclusion was reached after thorough examination of all available scientific information and public input received during the review period. Documentation supporting this determination has now been made available to the public.

This approval allows farmers to plant the new corn variety without special permits or regulatory restrictions that typically apply to experimental genetically modified crops.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has kicked off a nationwide campaign to educate food producers about new voluntary labeling guidelines that became effective at the start of this year.

On Tuesday, federal agriculture officials announced their effort to spread awareness about the ‘Product of USA’ labeling standard, which officially began January 1, 2026. The initiative targets meat, poultry, and egg producers while also working to help consumers better comprehend what this designation actually represents.

The labeling system operates on a voluntary basis, giving producers the choice of whether to participate in the program. The USDA’s campaign focuses on both educating industry professionals about the requirements and helping shoppers understand the meaning behind the label when they see it in stores.

Federal food safety officials are requesting public feedback on potential changes to how meat and poultry processing facilities are categorized by size.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service released an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking this Tuesday in the Federal Register. The notice asks industry stakeholders and the public to weigh in on whether the agency should modify its current system for classifying processing plants as “very small,” “small,” or “large” operations.

The federal agency is looking for input on both whether these size classifications need updating and how any revisions should be implemented.

The current classification system affects how FSIS regulates different types of meat and poultry establishments, with varying requirements based on facility size.

DELMARVA — Wet weather moving across the peninsula is expected to delay fieldwork through the weekend as rain puts early planting operations on hold for the next few days.

Rain will be steady throughout the day with totals near 0.5 inches in most areas. Delaware farmers hoping to get into the field for pre-emergent applications or early corn planting will need to wait until conditions dry out.

Markets

May corn futures opened at $5.42/bu, up $0.03 overnight. Soybeans for May delivery are trading at $12.18, down $0.04. July wheat is at $6.07, steady from yesterday’s close.

Locally, Dover grain elevators are posting $5.28 for cash corn and $11.90 for beans delivered today.

Forecast

Expect rain throughout the day with temperatures reaching 59°F under northwest winds at 5-10 mph. There’s a chance of light rain continuing into tonight as temperatures drop to 31°F.

Saturday looks much better with sunny skies and a high near 45°F, though it will be breezy with northwest winds 10-15 mph. That drier pattern holds through early next week, giving fields time to drain before conditions turn unsettled again midweek.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 27, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Agricultural producers across the globe are confronting mounting challenges as the ongoing conflict involving Iran disrupts critical supply chains. Energy costs have surged while fertilizer availability has diminished significantly following Tehran’s substantial restrictions on traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, implemented as a response to military strikes by the United States and Israel.

This fertilizer crisis threatens to compound existing hardships for agricultural producers in developing nations, who already face challenges from climate change and unpredictable weather patterns, potentially resulting in increased food costs for consumers worldwide.

Agricultural producers in the Northern Hemisphere who depend heavily on fertilizer imports from Gulf region suppliers are particularly vulnerable as the growing season commences, according to Carl Skau, deputy executive director of the World Food Program.

“In the worst case, this means lower yields and crop failures next season. In the best case, higher input costs will be included in food prices next year,” Skau explained.

In Punjab, India, rice producer Baldev Singh, age 55, expressed concern that small-scale agricultural operations — which represent the majority of the nation’s farming operations — face an uncertain future without government fertilizer subsidies when demand reaches its peak in June.

“Right now, we are waiting and hoping,” Singh stated.

Tehran has significantly curtailed commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway that typically facilitates approximately one-fifth of global petroleum shipments and nearly one-third of worldwide fertilizer commerce.

Essential plant nutrients nitrogen and phosphate face immediate supply disruptions due to the maritime blockade.

Nitrogen-based products, including urea — the most commonly traded fertilizer that promotes plant development and increases crop production — experience the most severe impact from transportation delays and escalating liquefied natural gas costs, which serve as a crucial component in production.

The regional conflict has affected roughly 30% of international urea commerce, according to Chris Lawson from CRU Group, a commodities consulting firm based in London.

Several nations already confront severe supply shortages, reports Raj Patel, a food systems economist from the University of Texas. Ethiopia, for instance, obtains more than 90% of its nitrogen fertilizer from Gulf suppliers via Djibouti, a supply chain that experienced strain even before hostilities commenced in February.

“The planting season is now,” Patel observed. “The fertilizer isn’t there.”

Phosphate availability, which supports plant root systems, also faces constraints. Saudi Arabia manufactures approximately one-fifth of global phosphate fertilizer, while the region exports more than 40% of the world’s sulfur — a vital component and byproduct of petroleum and gas processing, Lawson noted.

Following the conclusion of hostilities, Gulf region producers would require substantial security assurances before resuming normal shipping operations through the strait, with insurance expenses likely to increase significantly, said Owen Gooch, an analyst with London-based Argus Consulting Services.

India’s government has made domestic urea supplies a priority and provides fertilizer manufacturers with approximately 70% of their natural gas requirements. However, some facilities continue operating below full capacity, resulting in reduced production.

“The food system is fragile, and it depends on stable fertilizer supply chains to ensure farmers can produce the food the world relies on,” stated Hanna Opsahl-Ben Ammar from Yara International, a major global fertilizer manufacturer.

Agricultural producers typically apply fertilizers immediately before or during planting, meaning crops lose crucial early development opportunities and production can decline when deliveries experience delays, regardless of later supply improvements.

The consequences are already apparent in the United States and Europe during their primary planting period, with similar effects anticipated across much of Asia in upcoming months.

“Our crops out in the field need nitrogen now — the sooner the better — so they can get off to a good start, helping them establish themselves and build up reserves for the harvest later this summer,” explained Dirk Peters, an agricultural engineer operating a farm near Berlin.

While fertilizer costs remain below the highs experienced following Russia’s Ukraine invasion, grain prices were elevated then, enabling producers to manage expenses, said Joseph Glauber from the International Food Policy Research Institute. Current lower grain prices mean reduced profit margins, potentially forcing producers to select crops requiring less fertilizer — such as soybeans in America — or reduce fertilizer applications, decreasing yields. Reduced production can result in higher consumer costs.

Alternative suppliers are unlikely to compensate for the deficit. China, the world’s leading nitrogen and phosphate fertilizer manufacturer, focuses on domestic requirements, with urea exports unlikely to restart until May, Lawson indicated. Russian facilities, representing another major producer, already operate near maximum capacity.

The supply disruptions are already affecting Africa, where numerous agricultural producers depend on fertilizer imports from Middle Eastern and Russian sources.

Unusually heavy early rainfall in East Africa has provided producers with approximately one week of dry conditions to prepare fields and apply fertilizer, said Stephen Muchiri, a Kenyan maize producer and CEO of the Eastern African Farmers Federation, representing 25 million small-scale operators.

Fertilizer shortages and cost increases severely impact agricultural producers, compelling them to use reduced quantities and resulting in diminished yields. Brief delays alone can decrease maize production by approximately 4% per season, Patel noted, referencing Zambian research.

Government intervention options include implementing subsidies, encouraging domestic production, and regulating exports.

India currently subsidizes fertilizer to reduce financial pressure on agricultural producers, though these subsidies reduce funding available for long-term agricultural investments. The nation has allocated $12.7 billion this year specifically for urea subsidies, according to the U.S.-based Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis.

Domestic urea production efforts have increased India’s reliance on imported gas, while excessive urea application has damaged local soil quality, said Purva Jain of IEEFA, who advocates for organic fertilizer alternatives.

Reduced dependence on imported fertilizers could shield agricultural producers and consumers from energy price fluctuations and climate-related disruptions, said Oliver Oliveros, executive coordinator of the Agroecology Coalition.

“This could be a turning point,” Oliveros concluded.

DELMARVA — Spring planting preparations are ramping up across the Delmarva Peninsula as growers take advantage of warmer temperatures this week. Soil conditions are improving rapidly in Kent and Sussex counties with field work resuming after last week’s wet weather. Nitrogen applications are well underway for early corn plantings, and equipment dealers report strong demand for parts and service as farmers get ready for the push ahead.

Markets

Grain markets closed mixed Thursday. July corn futures settled at $5.32 per bushel, down 4 cents on the session. July soybeans finished at $11.16, up 2 cents. July wheat came in at $6.08, down a penny.

Locally, cash corn at Delmarva elevators is averaging $4.95 per bushel. Soybeans are bringing $10.70.

Forecast

Thursday afternoon temperatures reached 71 degrees under mostly sunny skies with southwest winds at 15 miles per hour. Tonight, mostly cloudy conditions with a chance of showers and thunderstorms are expected. The low will drop to 56 degrees.

Friday brings periods of rain with temperatures reaching 59 degrees and north winds at 5 to 10 miles per hour. Rain will likely continue into Friday night with lows falling to 31 degrees.

Field work will be on hold through the weekend, but conditions improve Sunday with mostly sunny skies returning.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 26, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

America’s swine population has experienced a marginal uptick, according to newly released federal statistics from agricultural officials.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service published updated inventory numbers showing modest growth in the country’s pig and hog populations.

The quarterly livestock report provides farmers, industry analysts, and agricultural markets with current data on swine numbers nationwide, helping track trends in one of the nation’s major protein production sectors.

These population figures serve as important indicators for pork producers and commodity traders who monitor livestock inventories to gauge future market conditions and supply projections.

Commercial storage facilities nationwide are currently holding 5.32 billion pounds of peanuts, according to the latest agricultural data. The inventory figures represent a snapshot of the nation’s peanut supply chain during the current marketing season.

Processing activity for shelled edible-grade peanuts has shown a modest uptick when compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. The seasonal utilization data indicates steady demand for processed peanut products across various market segments.

These inventory and processing statistics provide industry stakeholders with crucial information for making informed decisions about pricing, distribution, and production planning throughout the remainder of the marketing year.

President Donald Trump revealed Thursday that his administration plans to unveil new support measures for American farmers during a White House gathering scheduled for Friday.

The announcement will take place as hundreds of agricultural producers, ranchers and industry leaders visit the White House for an event focused on the farming sector.

The timing coincides with the expected release of highly anticipated biofuel blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard, a regulation that determines how much renewable fuel must be added to the country’s gasoline and diesel supplies. This policy is closely monitored by corn producers, ethanol manufacturers and petroleum refiners.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the Trump administration plans to unveil its 2026-27 biofuel blending volume requirements this week. These sources indicated the final rule will remain largely consistent with volumes the EPA had previously proposed before the Iran conflict began.

During a cabinet meeting Thursday, Trump told reporters that American farmers have faced unfair treatment from certain nations. He also highlighted the multi-billion-dollar assistance package farmers received to help compensate for losses caused by trade tariffs.

The biofuel policy announcement arrives during a challenging period for both petroleum and agricultural industries, as the White House navigates competing demands from refiners concerned about fuel costs and farmers hoping for increased biofuel demand to strengthen crop markets.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has kicked off a nationwide initiative to spotlight revised labeling standards for domestic meat, poultry and egg products, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced recently.

Under the new guidelines that became effective January 1st, livestock must be born, raised, slaughtered and processed entirely within American borders before products can display the “Product of USA” designation.

According to Rollins, these modifications aim to create clearer information for shoppers while ensuring producers who maintain completely domestic operations can compete on equal footing.

Federal officials emphasized the timing of these changes coincides with ongoing challenges facing American agriculture, including declining numbers of family farming operations and cattle inventories reaching their lowest point in three-quarters of a century, despite rising consumer appetite for beef.

The revised requirements eliminate earlier policies that permitted imported meat to qualify as domestic following basic processing steps. Businesses that elect to display the label must now satisfy the complete U.S.-sourced criteria.

Agricultural leaders in Virginia indicate this federal shift complements state-level initiatives to bolster regional beef production. Virginia’s Verified Meat program, which began operations in 2025, provides certification for beef that originates, develops and undergoes processing within state boundaries. This program emerged from 2024 legislative action designed to assist local producers, guarantee honest labeling practices, and build consumer confidence in Virginia-origin meat products. The initiative also works alongside recent state laws mandating clear identification of laboratory-grown or cell-based protein alternatives to prevent deceptive marketing.

Jake Tabor, who handles livestock policy matters for Virginia Farm Bureau, explained how federal and state requirements complement each other.

“Virginia’s livestock producers take pride in raising a high-quality product from start to finish, and both the ‘Product of USA’ and Virginia Verified Meat standards help ensure that commitment is recognized,” Tabor said. “Clear labeling gives Virginia farmers the fairness they deserve and gives consumers confidence that choosing local truly supports our communities.”

This initiative represents one component of the USDA’s comprehensive strategy to enhance domestic processing capabilities and provide support for American agricultural producers.

NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 24, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association wrapped up its 130th annual gathering this week after bringing together over 700 agricultural industry executives from nationwide for three days of strategic discussions and policy planning in Nashville, Tennessee.

During the conference’s main sessions and committee gatherings, NGFA participants tackled the industry’s most urgent issues, including challenges with supply chain dependability, railroad and waterway transport effectiveness, unpredictable global markets, and current government regulations and policies.

The convention opened with transportation policy discussions led by Surface Transportation Board Chairman Patrick Fuchs, who outlined the agency’s focus areas of service dependability, market competition, and regulatory equilibrium. His presentation to conference attendees highlighted transportation’s vital importance to grain and feed distribution systems and the need for ongoing cooperation between government regulators and private sector participants.

Monday’s main program included presentations from prominent industry executives such as Bunge CEO Greg Heckman, BNSF Railway president and CEO Katie Farmer, and Rob Dongoski, who leads Kearney’s global agriculture division. The speakers stressed the necessity of durable infrastructure, streamlined transportation systems, and preserving America’s competitive edge in international agricultural commerce despite changing trade patterns and global political tensions.

The convention’s final general session on Tuesday showcased Ardent Mills CEO Sheryl Wallace, political commentator Nathan Gonzales from Inside Elections, and NGFA chairman Chris Boerm, who stressed the need for active industry participation as lawmakers and federal officials deliberate significant policy matters, including farm legislation, infrastructure development, and trade regulations.

NGFA president and CEO Mike Seyfert emphasized a key message during the event: “From rail service and river reliability to market access, a resilient supply chain is the backbone of U.S. agriculture. NGFA members are committed to working with policymakers and other stakeholders to advance solutions that keep grain moving efficiently and maintain our global competitiveness.”

Committee sessions and policy conversations held during the convention solidified the organization’s lobbying focus areas for the coming year, which include boosting domestic consumption, enhancing export market strength, improving railroad service efficiency and dependability, promoting important legislative objectives, and establishing consistent, research-based regulations for grain and feed businesses. Conference participants also engaged in networking activities that strengthened NGFA’s position as the primary national representative for grain, feed, and processing enterprises.

The association’s next scheduled events include the Trading, Trade Rules, and Arbitration Seminar in April, CONVEY in August, and the Country Elevator Conference in December.

CROWLEY, La. — Louisiana’s crawfish industry is facing major challenges during what should be its most profitable time of year, as spring marks the height of crawfish season for the state’s $300 million business.

The sector is experiencing significant difficulties this season because of a lack of available seasonal workers from other countries, with industry representatives pointing fingers at the Trump administration for what they describe as delays in approving sufficient guest worker permits on schedule.

Major crawfish operations rely heavily on temporary workers, primarily from Mexico and Central American nations, to handle the labor-intensive work of shelling and freezing the freshwater crustaceans harvested from Louisiana’s flooded rice paddies — grueling work that domestic laborers typically avoid.

DELMARVA — Agriculture groups are welcoming an EPA emergency waiver allowing E15 ethanol fuel sales this summer, but they are continuing to push for permanent legislation. The Renewable Fuels Association’s Troy Bredenkamp says while the temporary measure helps, it cannot substitute for comprehensive permanent authority.

Meanwhile, the American Farm Bureau Federation president is warning of what he calls a generational storm brewing over rural America. Speaking at a National Ag Day event in Washington, Zippy Duvall highlighted the severe economic pressures facing producers nationwide.

Markets

Soybeans led yesterday’s gains with investment fund buying and technical trading ahead of an expected EPA biofuel announcement Friday. Corn and wheat futures also posted higher moves.

Live cattle for April delivery dropped $0.95 to $234.42 per hundredweight. Feeder cattle for April fell $1.10 to $353.35. Cash cattle trading remains sluggish as buyers stay on the sidelines.

Forecast

Mostly sunny skies are expected today with a high near 70° and southwest winds 10 to 15 mph. It’s a nice day for field work. Tonight turns mostly cloudy with rain showers likely developing and a low around 53°.

Friday brings rain showers with temperatures dropping to 61°. Wet conditions will limit field activity through Friday night before clearing Saturday.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 26, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

CROWLEY, La. — Louisiana’s crawfish season is in full swing, but the state’s iconic industry is grappling with a significant workforce crisis that threatens to impact prices and availability nationwide.

The $300 million crawfish business, which supplies everything from backyard boils to upscale New Orleans restaurants, is struggling without access to foreign seasonal workers who typically handle the labor-intensive processing operations. Industry leaders are expressing frustration with federal immigration policies they say have failed to provide adequate numbers of temporary work visas.

This workforce shortage adds Louisiana to a growing list of American industries — including landscaping and construction — that depend on seasonal international labor but have faced increased difficulties securing workers under tightened immigration restrictions. The situation has put Republican state officials in an awkward position, as many support stricter immigration policies while simultaneously advocating for more legal foreign workers for their constituents.

“People have built businesses around these workers and this year we can’t get them,” said Alan Lawson, who runs a crawfish production facility in the rural town of Crowley. “This industry would not exist without it because the American people don’t want to do the jobs we’re offering.”

Commercial crawfish operations typically employ international workers, primarily from Mexico and Central America, to process and freeze the freshwater shellfish harvested from flooded rice fields. These employees work under H-2B temporary visas for non-agricultural positions and can remain in the United States for up to one year, but only after employers demonstrate they cannot fill positions with American workers.

Federal law requires the Department of Homeland Security to issue 66,000 H-2B visas annually, with authority to nearly double that number. However, the additional visa releases occurred later than normal this year — well after Louisiana’s crawfish harvest had already started.

DHS officials did not respond to requests for comment. The Department of Labor acknowledged the crawfish industry’s economic significance and stated the agency “has been actively engaging with industry stakeholders to help address workforce needs and identify workable solutions.”

Even if international workers arrive before the season concludes in June, Lawson believes the harm has already occurred. Restaurant operators and processors warn that crawfish costs may increase significantly for consumers already dealing with rising food prices.

American businesses’ growing dependence on seasonal international labor existed before the current administration. However, federal visa allocations have not matched expanding demand, and stricter immigration enforcement has further complicated the labor market. Companies are requesting tens of thousands more guest workers than the government has authorized, according to Labor Department statistics.

“The demand is there but the supply is not,” Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation Public Policy Coordinator Andy Brown said. “These businesses want to follow the law. They want to go through the legal parameters to meet their labor needs.”

Typically, Lawson’s operation employs over 100 international workers to peel and package thousands of pounds of the sweet, red shellfish each season. This year, none have been permitted to work.

While DHS can begin issuing additional visas in consultation with the Labor Department starting in October, the Trump administration delayed releasing supplementary visas until February. The initial allocation was capped at 35,000 — approximately half of what the Biden administration had previously authorized. Following business pressure, the Trump administration eventually agreed to release nearly 65,000 additional visas, matching recent years’ totals.

Louisiana officials report that federal authorities rejected numerous crawfish processors’ applications because they listed start dates before January. DHS informed Lawson that his company was ineligible because he had applied months earlier, according to a February rejection letter he shared with The Associated Press.

According to Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, at least 15 of the state’s 20 major crawfish processing facilities are operating without guest workers this season. The Republican official called the Trump administration’s response to their concerns “unacceptable.”

Crawfish processors report that despite months of local job advertisements for peeling positions paying approximately $13 per hour, only a few American workers have applied for the seasonal roles.

“I can’t put the crawfish somewhere else. They have to be peeled at this time,” said processor David Savoy. “The locals don’t want to do it, I’ve tried — standing on concrete for seven, eight hours a day, peeling crawfish until your hands hurt.”

Immigration policy experts suggest the crawfish industry’s labor challenges reflect broader administrative approaches to legal immigration.

“There’s much less of a push to facilitate legal immigration,” said Julia Gelatt, associate director of the U.S. Immigration Policy Program at the Migration Policy Institute. “It’s not a high priority to make sure that the immigration system is moving smoothly.”

Industry representatives warn that crawfish farmers will have limited sales opportunities and frozen tail meat prices in supermarkets will climb.

Chandra Chifici, owner of Deanie’s seafood restaurant in New Orleans, worries about accumulating sufficient Louisiana crawfish inventory to last through the extended off-season.

“Some companies might not be able to have some of their dishes on the menu,” Chifici said. “When tourists come into town, that’s what they’re here for.”

Rice farmer Win Zaw and four family members ride motorcycles through the night from their village in Myanmar’s Irrawaddy delta, searching fuel stations for precious diesel to power his farming equipment.

“Some even sleep there overnight,” the farmer explained, describing how buyers line up on motorcycles and tractors starting at 3 a.m. “This is a total waste of manpower and time.”

Myanmar’s struggling economy, already devastated by five years of civil conflict following a 2021 military takeover, faces another crisis as the Iran situation has pushed global oil prices higher and created severe domestic fuel shortages.

Diesel prices at the pump reached 3,800 kyat ($1.80) per liter by mid-March, jumping from 2,450 kyat ($1.16) just one month earlier in February.

The shortage has driven farmers like Moe Win to illegal fuel markets, where diesel costs approximately 12,000 kyat ($5.71) per liter – a price he’s willing to pay to protect his rice harvest.

“Occasionally, after queuing in town for two days, we’ve had instances where we could only buy five or six litres,” the delta farmer said.

“But if we don’t harvest the paddy in time, the crops will be destroyed, so we have to bear any cost.”

Military leadership spokesman did not return phone calls seeking comment, though junta leader Min Aung Hlaing announced at a meeting this week that officials are addressing the fuel crisis, according to state media reports Wednesday.

GLOBAL HUNGER CRISIS

Myanmar ranks as the world’s fifth most food-insecure nation, where 12.4 million people – roughly 25% of the population – face daily hunger, according to the United Nations World Food Programme.

“Rising fertiliser costs and restricted fuel access for machinery threaten the upcoming cultivation season,” said Michael Dunford, the organization’s Myanmar director. “Production costs are expected to double if instability continues.”

Farmers are now preparing for the crucial monsoon rice-growing season following the completion of dry-season harvests, he noted.

Iran has emerged as Myanmar’s main source of urea fertilizer over the past three years, with yearly imports between 400,000 and 600,000 tons, some of which military forces reportedly convert into explosives.

The World Food Programme issued a warning this month that worldwide hunger could reach unprecedented levels, potentially pushing another 45 million people into severe food insecurity, as U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran since February 28 have increased food, fuel, and shipping expenses.

Myanmar requires immediate assistance to prevent an almost inevitable decline in agricultural production and substantial harvest losses, according to Maximo Torero, chief economist for the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization.

“A poor harvest would reduce supply, driving prices even higher and putting basic staples out of reach for millions who have lost their jobs and livelihoods.”

‘FIGHTING FOR FUEL’

Expecting fuel shortages after the conflict began, Myanmar’s military government implemented comprehensive vehicle rationing in early March, using QR code technology to prevent multiple daily refueling attempts.

However, this system has created enormous traffic jams at service stations, leaving many drivers with only a small portion of their fuel needs despite waiting for hours.

Airlines operating within the country, running short on jet fuel previously imported from Iran, have cancelled flight routes and imposed strict baggage restrictions, with remaining ticket prices increasing threefold.

Myanmar relies on regional Middle Eastern crude oil processing centers, including Singapore and Malaysia, for diesel imports essential to its weakened economy and agricultural sector.

To decrease fuel consumption, the military government has mandated that government workers stay home every Wednesday, while announcing Monday that current reserves will last approximately 50 days.

Nevertheless, three farmers from different areas across the country reported difficulties obtaining fuel before a crucial harvest period.

After depending on mechanized equipment for years, immediately returning to animal-powered farming was not feasible, they explained.

“Nowadays, we are practically waging a war just to get some fuel,” said Irrawaddy delta farmer Win Zaw.

DELMARVA — Delmarva farmers are taking advantage of a strong corn market rally to lock in prices they haven’t seen in 2 years. Matt Bennett from AgMarket.net says producers are selling both cash corn and new crop forward at favorable levels. It’s an opportunity to secure pricing ahead of the growing season.

Meanwhile, the nation’s top farm leader is warning of what he calls a generational storm brewing over rural America. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall told a National Ag Day gathering in Washington that heavy economic clouds are hanging over the agricultural sector nationwide. The warning comes as producers across the region face tight margins and rising input costs.

Markets

Corn futures closed higher on the day. Soybeans posted gains driven by fund buying and technical strength ahead of Friday’s expected EPA biofuel announcement. Wheat also finished in positive territory.

Live cattle for April delivery settled down $0.95 at $234.42 per hundredweight. Cash cattle trade remains slow with Texas asking prices between $238 and $240 per head.

Forecast

Mostly cloudy skies are expected tonight with lows around 42° and south winds at 10 mph. Thursday brings a warm up to 70° with partly sunny skies and southwest breezes 10 to 15 mph. Rain showers arrive Friday.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 25, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has unveiled a nationwide initiative promoting revised voluntary labeling standards for meat, poultry and egg products bearing the ‘Product of USA’ designation. Under the new rules that became effective January 1st, livestock must complete their entire lifecycle within American borders – from birth through slaughter and processing – to qualify for the domestic label.

According to Rollins, these modifications aim to give shoppers better transparency while ensuring producers who maintain completely domestic supply chains can compete on equal footing in the marketplace.

Federal officials highlighted that these changes arrive during challenging times for American agriculture, with family farming operations continuing to disappear nationwide and cattle numbers reaching their lowest point in three-quarters of a century, despite rising consumer appetite for beef products.

The revised guidelines eliminate earlier policies that permitted foreign meat to receive domestic classification following basic processing steps. Businesses that opt to display the label must now satisfy the complete U.S. sourcing criteria.

Agricultural officials in Virginia indicate the federal policy shift mirrors state-level initiatives to bolster regional beef production. Virginia’s Verified Meat certification program, established in 2025, validates beef that originates, develops and undergoes processing entirely within state boundaries. This program emerged from 2024 legislative action designed to assist local ranchers, guarantee accurate labeling practices, and build consumer confidence in Virginia-produced meat. The initiative also supports recent state requirements mandating clear identification of laboratory-grown or cell-cultivated protein products to prevent deceptive marketing.

Jake Tabor, who handles livestock policy matters for the Virginia Farm Bureau, explained how federal and state regulations complement each other effectively.

‘Virginia’s livestock producers take pride in raising a high-quality product from start to finish, and both the ‘Product of USA’ and Virginia Verified Meat standards help ensure that commitment is recognized,’ Tabor said. ‘Clear labeling gives Virginia farmers the fairness they deserve and gives consumers confidence that choosing local truly supports our communities.’

This initiative represents one component of the USDA’s comprehensive strategy to enhance domestic processing capabilities and provide support for American agricultural producers.

The United States poultry industry is experiencing steady growth, according to new data from federal agriculture officials.

Recent statistics show that broiler-type egg settings nationwide have increased by 2 percent compared to previous periods. Similarly, the placement of broiler-type chicks across the country has also risen by 2 percent.

These figures, compiled by the National Agricultural Statistics Service, reflect the ongoing expansion within America’s poultry production sector. The data tracks key indicators that help measure the health and trajectory of commercial chicken farming operations.

The statistics represent important benchmarks for industry analysts and agricultural economists who monitor trends in livestock production nationwide.

ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 25, 2026) – Officials with Maryland’s agriculture department have unveiled a new set of recommendations aimed at tackling the critical shortage of veterinarians serving rural communities and food production systems throughout the state.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) worked alongside the Farm Journal Foundation to develop the action plan, which emerged from a comprehensive statewide evaluation of the veterinary shortage crisis.

According to the department, the newly released recommendations focus on three key areas: community engagement initiatives, improved data collection methods, and long-term strategic planning to address the veterinary workforce gap.

The shortage of rural and food-systems veterinarians has become an increasingly pressing issue for Maryland’s agricultural communities, affecting everything from livestock health to food safety protocols across farming operations statewide.

Agricultural producers nationwide are demonstrating remarkable innovation through their participation in an annual competition that highlights the untapped potential of American wheat production. The National Wheat Foundation’s yearly contest serves as a showcase for groundbreaking farming techniques and exceptional harvests.

This competition functions as much more than a simple contest between farmers. It operates as a testing laboratory where producers experiment with cutting-edge practices, advanced plant breeding developments, and refined cultivation techniques. Participants evaluate different seed types, perfect their field management approaches, and exchange knowledge that advances the entire agricultural industry. The discoveries made on these farms extend far beyond individual operations, influencing research direction, establishing industry standards, and enhancing the global competitiveness of American wheat.

The most remarkable aspect is how willing farmers are to share their discoveries with others. The agricultural community has always thrived on cooperation, and this contest exemplifies that collaborative approach. From enhancing grain standards to maximizing resource efficiency to implementing advanced precision farming equipment, contest participants are driving meaningful progress in wheat cultivation.

A significant link exists between the achievements demonstrated in this national competition and the legislative priorities pursued in the nation’s capital. Ongoing funding for agricultural research, availability of innovative farming tools, and robust partnerships between public and private sectors all contribute to enabling producers to achieve these enhanced productivity levels. Research support programs through land-grant institutions, Department of Agriculture projects, and private industry partnerships remain essential for maintaining this forward momentum.

The competition illustrates a larger narrative about American farming: one founded on scientific progress, environmental responsibility, and dedication to constant advancement.

During a period when agricultural producers face narrow profit margins and increasing operational expenses, boosting productivity extends beyond record-breaking achievements to ensuring long-term sustainability. The knowledge gained through this contest helps farmers accomplish more with fewer resources, enhancing operational efficiency while delivering the superior wheat quality that markets demand.

Registration for the National Wheat Yield Contest closes soon. All submissions are handled digitally through www.wheatcontest.org. Participants can create accounts and submit winter wheat entries before the May 15th deadline. Multiple sponsors provide entry vouchers to cover registration costs. Participants must maintain membership in their state agricultural association or hold individual membership in the National Association of Wheat Growers.

As the National Association of Wheat Growers maintains its advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., the organization will continue promoting policies that enhance profitability and advancement. This includes supporting research funding, guaranteeing access to tools and technology, and encouraging regulatory frameworks that enable farmer innovation and success. The competition serves as evidence that wheat’s future is being developed in fields throughout America each day, with policy makers responsible for ensuring regulations support and enhance this innovation.

DELMARVA — Planting season is approaching fast across Delmarva, and soil conditions are improving with warmer temperatures this week. Delaware extension offices are reminding growers to test soil temps before putting corn seed in the ground. Growers will want at least 50 degrees at 2 inches deep for 3 consecutive days. The region is not quite there yet, but getting close. Most farms on the peninsula are wrapping up equipment maintenance and finalizing seed orders.

Markets

May corn futures opened this morning at $4.38 a bushel. July soybeans are trading at $11.12. May wheat is at $5.67. Local cash corn on Delmarva is running $4.25. Soybean bids are sitting at $10.90.

Forecast

Partly sunny skies are expected today with highs near 53 degrees. Light south winds 5 to 10 miles per hour. Tonight stays mostly cloudy with lows around 42. Thursday brings partly sunny conditions and a warmup to 67 degrees. But rain showers are likely Thursday night into Friday, so farmers should plan any field work accordingly. Growers will want to get spraying or spreading done before those showers arrive. Rainfall totals could reach 0.5 inches or more. Behind that system, conditions will clear out for the weekend with sunshine and highs in the upper 40s Saturday.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 25, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — More than 60 agricultural organizations are pushing the Commerce Department to drop phosphate fertilizer tariffs on imports from Morocco and Russia. The coalition includes the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, and USA Rice. These farm groups argue the countervailing duties benefit only a handful of corporations while driving up input costs for American farmers. The timing is critical with spring planting underway across Delmarva.

Meanwhile, rising diesel prices are squeezing livestock producers as transportation costs climb. Agricultural economist Charley Martinez at the University of Tennessee says there is a direct link between fuel and trucking rates. Martinez notes the rule of thumb is whatever diesel costs per gallon typically equals the per-mile rate for a loaded truck. That is hitting cattle haulers especially hard.

Markets

May corn settled up 3 cents at $4.62 1/2 per bushel. May Chicago wheat rose 2 1/4 cents to $5.90. May soybeans dropped 8 1/2 cents to $11.55. Live cattle futures showed mixed action with April up 7 cents at $235.37 per hundredweight, while June slipped 5 cents to $234.60.

Forecast

Partly cloudy skies are expected tonight with lows around 35°. Wednesday brings partly sunny conditions with highs near 54° and light south winds. Thursday warms nicely to 66° before rain chances arrive Thursday night into Friday. That will bring needed moisture to the region with totals around 1/4 to 1/2 inch expected.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 24, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

National cheese inventory held in refrigerated storage facilities showed mixed trends at the end of February 2026, according to warehouse data released by federal agricultural officials.

The total volume of natural cheese stored in cold facilities on February 28, 2026 registered a small increase compared to January levels, though quantities remained one percent below the same date in the previous year.

The monthly storage report tracks dairy product stockpiles across refrigerated warehouse networks throughout the United States, providing insight into cheese supply chains and market conditions.

NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 24, 2026 – The National Grain and Feed Association has selected Brian Schouvieller, Senior Vice President of Agriculture, Trade and Risk Management at CHS Inc. in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to serve as chairman for a one-year term following a membership vote.

Before his election to the top position, Schouvieller held both first and second vice chairman roles within the NGFA. He has maintained an active presence on the organization’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee for multiple years while championing the association’s policy initiatives and industry objectives.

The membership vote covered the selection of directors and industry leadership positions, along with approval of updates to the NGFA’s Trade Rules, Arbitration Rules and Rail Arbitration Rules.

Through his leadership position at CHS Inc., recognized as one of America’s premier farmer-owned cooperatives, Schouvieller contributes significant expertise in grain trading and international markets. His professional background and industry knowledge will support the NGFA’s mission to enhance U.S. agriculture’s global competitiveness, promote efficient supply chain operations, and champion policies benefiting grain and feed sector participants.

Leadership Team and Board Selections

The organization’s industry leadership will serve one-year terms:

• Chairman: Brian Schouvieller, Senior Vice President of Agriculture, Trade and Risk Management at CHS Inc., Saint Paul, Minnesota
• First Vice Chairman: Augusto Bassanini, President and CEO of United Grain Corporation, Vancouver, Washington
• Second Vice Chairman: Jason Klootwyk, Chief Executive Officer, Agtegra Cooperative, Aberdeen, South Dakota

Board members will serve three-year terms, with first-time appointees listed in bold:

• Scott Barkley, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer, Mid Kansas Cooperative, Moundridge, Kansas
• Christopher DeLong, President and Treasurer, The DeLong Co., Inc., Clinton, Wisconsin
• Matt Gibson, Chief Operating Officer, Friona Industries LP, Amarillo, Texas
• Kevin Gray, Chief Executive Officer/General Manager, Morrow County Grain Growers, Inc., Lexington, Oregon
• Kurt Haarmann, President and Chief Executive Officer, Columbia Grain International, Portland, Oregon
• Kimberly Hawks, Head of Product and Structuring, Global Financial Risk Management, Louis Dreyfus Company, Wilton, Connecticut
• Mark Heil, Senior Advisor, Prairie Central Cooperative, Inc., Chenoa, Illinois
• Julie Kenney, Chief Executive Officer, Agribusiness Association of Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa
• Jay Mathews, Chief Executive Officer, Prairieview Grain Trading LLC, Champaign, Illinois
• Kellie Melton, Vice President Customer & Business Operations, Purina Animal Nutrition LLC/ Land O’ Lakes, Arden Hills, Minnesota
• Aaron Meyerle, Vice President Grain, AgState, Cherokee, Iowa
• Brad Morrison, Director, Raw Material Procurement and Trading, Primient Grain, Decatur, Illinois
• Eric Perry, Commercial Director, The Wenger Group, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
• Jake Stagner, Vice President of Grain Merchandising, Landus Cooperative, Des Moines, Iowa
• Andrew Utterback, Director, Global Sustainable Agriculture, Ingredion Incorporated, Westchester, Illinois
• Tom Wapp, Commercial Grain Director, POET Grain, Wichita, Kansas

Two additional directors received appointments from state associations:

• Emily Ashe, Trader, TEMCO LLC, Houston, Texas (appointed by Texas Grain and Feed Association)
• Eric Williams, Senior Director of Grain Operations, MFA Incorporated, Columbia, Missouri (appointed by Missouri Agribusiness Association)

A recently released video highlights the energetic atmosphere and close-knit relationships found at livestock auction houses throughout Virginia.

The production, created by the Virginia Farm Bureau, examines how these rapid-fire sales events serve as more than just places to buy and sell cattle, sheep, and other farm animals. Instead, they function as important community hubs where agricultural producers gather to network and build lasting connections.

The video showcases the unique culture surrounding these auction facilities, where the pace is quick but the relationships run deep among participants in Virginia’s farming community.

These auction houses play a crucial role in the state’s agricultural economy, providing farmers with essential venues to market their livestock while fostering the social bonds that help sustain rural communities across Virginia.

DOSWELL, Va. — While they don’t possess superpowers or wear costumes, Virginia’s farming and agriculture professionals serve as real-life heroes who benefit communities across the state.

The Virginia State Fair wants to honor these champions by featuring them on special collectible trading cards, and they’re asking for public input to choose the honorees.

This marks the fourth consecutive year that residents can submit names of individuals working in agriculture and natural resources fields for the 2026 Agricultural Superhero Trading Cards initiative.

A selection committee will choose twelve agriculture heroes to feature on the cards, complete with professional details and industry-related information. Fair attendees can pick up these complimentary cards during the event, scheduled for September 25 through October 4. The cards will also serve as teaching tools, distributed to educators during the State Fair Educational Expo alongside curriculum materials and classroom activities.

Virginia’s agriculture sector represents the state’s biggest private industry, and the professionals who support it come from many different backgrounds. The trading card program seeks to highlight this wide range of contributors throughout the entire agricultural supply chain, including farm operators, scientific researchers, and healthcare workers serving rural communities.

The nomination period remains open until April 15. Those interested can submit their suggestions through an online form available on the State Fair website. Individuals who were nominated previously but not selected may still be considered for future card series.

Anyone wanting to see previous year’s featured Agricultural Superheroes or learn more about the program can visit statefairva.org and navigate to the “Education” section.

Companies interested in sponsoring the trading card production and distribution can contact The Meadow Event Park representatives at 804-994-2802.

Media inquiries should be directed to Thomsen at 804-994-2743 or [email protected].

VIRGINIA BEACH—Agricultural landowners and farmers across Virginia are exploring agritourism as a way to expand their business models, generating additional income while educating visitors about food and fiber production.

More than 50 farm operators attended the yearly Virginia Agritourism Conference in Virginia Beach on March 12, learning about current trends, obstacles, and business approaches. The Virginia Foundation for Agriculture, Innovation and Rural Sustainability organized the event, operating under the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation to assist agritourism businesses throughout the state.

Virginia Cooperative Extension agent Livvy Preisser from Isle of Wight County explained the concept: “When you marry the top two industries in Virginia—agriculture and tourism—you get agritourism.” She noted that “Agritourism is literally throughout the entire commonwealth and a huge economic booster. A bed-and-breakfast can be considered agritourism. So can trail rides, breweries and wineries, fall festivals, corn mazes, hayrides, you-pick or cut-your-own farms, stores and markets, and sometimes weddings depending on local zoning laws.”

Preisser observed that some business owners have shifted their perspective on traditional farming operations after exploring agritourism options.

“They may not want to drive the tractor, they may not want to feed livestock, but they may want to invite kids out and tell them how to grow food or where their food comes from,” Preisser explained. “That’s a big driver of why producers are turning to agritourism. It also allows you to market your farm products and to share your lifestyle!”

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services marketing specialist Ursula Tankard Deitch, who works on the Eastern Shore, emphasized the educational value of these ventures, noting that most Americans are now several generations removed from agricultural life.

“We need to educate everybody in our community on how important agriculture is, and agritourism is the step to do that with,” Deitch stated.

Deitch conducted interviews with agritourism business owners across Virginia to understand their commodity connections, successful strategies, and difficult experiences.

“Even though you have different commodities, you still have a lot of the same successes and challenges in an agritourism business,” Deitch observed. “Getting into agritourism, or any type of agriculture, you may want to go fast and go big. But it’s ideal to start small and work into it.”

Conference attendees also received information about utilizing local tourism networks to attract more guests, understanding liability issues, recent legislative changes from the Virginia General Assembly, and accessing financial support through VA FAIRS programs. The event wrapped up with visits to Cullipher Farms and Doodle Doo Farms in the area.

Additional resources are available through VA FAIRS at vafairs.com and Virginia Cooperative Extension’s agritourism resources at ext.vt.edu/agriculture/agritourism.

DELMARVA — Dry weather continues across the Delmarva Peninsula, providing ideal conditions for early fieldwork as farmers prepare for spring planting season. Clear overnight temperatures dipped to 31°F, with sunny skies expected to push temperatures to 49°F today with light northwest winds.

The favorable conditions offer a good window for checking equipment and scouting fields. However, overnight frost remains a concern for any early transplants, and growers are advised to keep row covers handy through the week.

Markets

May corn futures opened at $4.73/bu, up 2 cents from Monday’s close. May soybeans are trading at $10.86/bu, steady from the previous session. May wheat declined 5 cents to $5.31/bu.

Locally, cash corn bids across Sussex County are running $4.50 to $4.65/bu. Soybeans are bringing $10.45 to $10.60/bu.

Forecast

Today’s sunshine and high near 49°F will give way to mostly cloudy skies tonight with lows around 35°F. Wednesday brings partly sunny skies with temperatures warming to 53°F and light south winds developing.

Dry conditions are expected to hold through midweek, but rain is likely late Thursday into Friday. Farmers are advised to plan accordingly when scheduling spray applications or fieldwork.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 24, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Federal food safety officials are asking for public input on potential changes to how they classify processing facilities that handle meat, poultry, and egg products.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service has relied on the same classification system for nearly three decades, dating back to 1996. That system groups facilities using Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point categories, which look at how many people work at each plant and their yearly revenue figures.

Agency officials use these classifications to evaluate how new regulations might affect different businesses and to provide targeted support to smaller operations. In recent years, the service has also started using production volume measurements to group facilities when analyzing regulatory impacts and determining how often inspections should occur.

Through this advance notice of proposed rulemaking, federal officials are seeking feedback from industry stakeholders about whether the current classification system needs updating and what changes might be appropriate.

Chinese pig farmers are facing a devastating double blow as the conflict in Iran drives up feed costs while pork prices remain at their lowest point in 16 years.

The war that began February 28 has pushed futures prices for soymeal and corn—critical components of animal feed—to multi-month peaks on China’s Dalian exchange. Industry experts point to rising oil prices, increased shipping costs, and higher fertilizer expenses as key factors driving the surge.

During March alone, Chinese spot prices for soymeal jumped more than 200 yuan per ton, while corn increased around 100 yuan per ton—representing increases of 7% and 4% respectively. Other essential feed components have seen even steeper price hikes, with some ingredients rising as much as 77% this month.

“Prices for most raw materials used in animal feed have experienced a significant increase in March, partly driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East,” explained Lin Guofa, a senior analyst with Bric Agriculture Group.

Rosa Wang from Shanghai JC Intelligence Co. noted that critical feed additives including lysine, methionine, fishmeal, and vitamins A and E have all increased between 6% and 77% due to the war’s impact.

The timing couldn’t be worse for Chinese hog producers, who raise half the world’s pig population but are already struggling with excess capacity and sluggish consumer demand. On Monday, China’s primary hog futures contract dropped to a record low of 9,980 yuan ($1,448.16) per ton, while cash prices fell to 9.69 yuan per kilogram—the weakest level in 16 years according to JCI data.

The financial squeeze is severe. Lin calculated that producing a pig weighing 60-62.5 kilograms currently costs farmers 12.2-12.5 yuan per kilogram, meaning they lose 280-350 yuan on every animal sold.

Smaller operations face the greatest risk of closure, as they’re particularly vulnerable to price volatility despite accounting for less than 30% of China’s pig production, industry analysts warn.

“For small farmers now, either you sell your pigs cheap or you grit your teeth and bear it, get through this price drop, and then wait for the pig price to rebound,” said Fu Zhenzhen, a feed analyst with Beijing Orient Agribusiness Consultants.

Li, who operates a 600-head pig farm in northern Hebei province, described his predicament: “We are being roasted by fire now. Pork prices are so low, but feed costs have jumped sharply in March.” He said his operation has been losing money since last year.

Chinese government officials have stepped up efforts to address the oversupply crisis, encouraging breeders to reduce sow numbers and manage slaughter timing more strategically. Authorities have also begun purchasing frozen pork for national reserves to help stabilize market prices.

Despite these interventions, China’s sow population remained at 39.61 million head at the end of December, still above the recommended normal level of 39 million.

“Going forward, pork prices will mainly depend on how aggressively companies trim their herds,” said Pan Chenjun, senior animal protein analyst at Rabobank in Hong Kong.

DELMARVA — Planting preparation is advancing across the peninsula as temperatures warm this week, with most growers wrapping up equipment maintenance and finalizing seed orders for corn and soybeans.

Fields are drying out well after last week’s rain, and soil temperatures are climbing into the mid 40s in southern Delaware. Extension agents report the region is tracking about a week ahead of normal for spring fieldwork.

Markets

Corn futures closed at $4.18 per bushel, down 3 cents on the day. Soybeans finished at $11.42, up 5 cents. Wheat came in at $5.61, down 2 cents.

Local cash corn on Delmarva is running $3.90 to $4.00. Soybeans are bringing in $11.10 to $11.25.

Forecast

Partly sunny skies are expected through this evening with temperatures holding near 53 degrees and northwest winds at 10 mph. Tonight will drop to 31 under mostly clear skies.

Tuesday brings full sunshine with a high of 49 and light northwest winds around 5 mph. Good conditions are expected for any remaining field prep work.

Warmer air returns midweek with highs climbing back into the mid 50s Wednesday and mid 60s by Thursday before the next chance of rain moves in late week.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 23, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

American agricultural producers are confronting a significant challenge as fertilizer costs surge by 25 percent during the critical spring planting period, driven by supply disruptions from the Middle East conflict involving Iran.

The Persian Gulf region serves as a key source of fertilizer production globally, and the ongoing warfare has severely impacted export capabilities from these nations. This timing creates particular hardship for U.S. corn growers who are already facing economic pressures and must secure fertilizer supplies during their peak planting window.

Delaware’s poultry industry saw contrasting trends in February, according to newly released agricultural statistics that highlight the fluctuating nature of egg and chicken production.

Monthly egg production increased by 5 percent compared to the previous period, providing positive news for producers in the First State’s significant agricultural sector. However, the hatching of egg-type chicks declined by 5 percent during the same timeframe.

In contrast to the decrease in egg-laying bird production, broiler-type chick hatching showed growth, rising by 2 percent in February. This mixed performance reflects the complex dynamics affecting Delaware’s poultry operations.

The data comes from the National Agricultural Statistics Service, which tracks production trends across various farming sectors. These monthly reports help industry professionals and policymakers understand shifts in agricultural output.

Delaware’s poultry industry remains a cornerstone of the state’s economy, with chicken production particularly significant to local farmers and processing facilities throughout the region.

Agricultural education initiatives in Virginia are offering students valuable hands-on experience that prepares them for future careers in farming and related industries.

These educational programs focus on providing practical learning opportunities where students can apply classroom knowledge to real farming situations. Through direct involvement in agricultural activities, young people gain essential skills that extend beyond traditional academic subjects.

The hands-on approach allows students to understand the complexities of modern farming while developing problem-solving abilities and work ethic that will serve them throughout their lives. These programs represent a growing trend toward experiential learning in agricultural education across Virginia.

DELMARVA — Dairy producers across the region are being reminded that farm cleanliness has evolved beyond regulatory compliance. Industry experts say hygiene standards from the milking parlor to feed troughs directly impact milk quality, food safety, and increasingly, consumer confidence.

With more consumers wanting to know where their food comes from, maintaining spotless operations has become critical for building trust and protecting farm reputations. Strong sanitation protocols also help prevent disease and can improve profitability by reducing contamination and veterinary costs.

Meanwhile, livestock producers continue facing significant challenges beyond their control. Market fluctuations, shifting government policies, and volatile feed costs are hitting cattle operations especially hard this spring. These external pressures often determine whether operations succeed or struggle, regardless of how well day-to-day management is handled.

Markets

March corn futures opened at $3.82 per bushel. Soybeans traded at $10.15. Wheat opened at $5.47.

Locally, #2 corn is bringing $3.75 in Georgetown. Soybeans are fetching $10.05 in Salisbury.

Forecast

Showers and thunderstorms are likely this morning with temperatures reaching 53°F. North winds 10-15 mph. Skies will clear tonight, dropping to 33°F under mostly clear conditions.

Tuesday looks sunny and pleasant with highs near 49°F. Expect mostly sunny skies Wednesday as temperatures climb back to 54°F.

Field work remains on hold today but conditions improve starting tomorrow.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 23, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Nearly twenty years have passed since renowned labor advocate Dolores Huerta appeared alongside Mónica Ramírez at a Chicago gathering to support the Bandana Project, Ramírez’s initiative designed to spotlight sexual violence targeting female agricultural workers.

During that event, Huerta discussed the importance of teaching women farmworkers about their legal protections and encouraging them to report sexual misconduct that remains both common and underreported in agricultural settings. At that time, no one realized that Huerta herself had experienced sexual abuse from César Chávez, the legendary figure who established what became the United Farm Workers alongside Huerta in 1962.

The accusations against Chávez from Huerta and additional women and girls reveal that the atmosphere of fear and control that allows sexual misconduct to flourish in farm fields had also existed for years within the highest levels of the male-controlled labor movement dedicated to farmworker advocacy.

However, activists such as Ramírez believe that the choice by Huerta and others to come forward publicly — initially sharing their stories with the New York Times — demonstrates significant progress since Chávez’s era. During the thirty years following Chávez’s death in 1993, the network of community-based organizations headed by female farmworkers has expanded, demanding federal and state probes into agricultural sexual abuse and legislation requiring harassment prevention training, while also obtaining promises from growers and food purchasers to implement women-focused policies and other improvements.

For Ramírez, Chávez’s alleged misconduct represents a betrayal since she and fellow advocates respected him and viewed him as the inspiration behind the movement that sparked their own activism. However, his damaged reputation cannot diminish the progress that women farmworkers and advocates have achieved independently.

“It feels a little bit bewildering because so many of us have grown up looking up to César Chavez,” said Ramírez, founder and president of the advocacy group Justice for Migrant Women whose own parents were migrant farmworkers in Ohio. “But we have to remind each other that this is a long-standing movement that is made of many, many people, including women leaders.”

Women represent approximately 25% of the nation’s more than one million hired agricultural workers, based on federal data, though estimates regarding the farm labor population differ. The extent of sexual harassment and abuse remains difficult to measure since incidents frequently go unreported, but field research conducted by organizations including Human Rights Watch, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the University of California-Santa Cruz found that roughly 80% or more of female crop workers experienced some type of sexual harassment.

A pivotal moment in raising awareness occurred in 1999 when the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the federal body responsible for enforcing workplace anti-discrimination laws, obtained a $1.85 million settlement from a major American lettuce producer on behalf of a California employee who faced sexual advances from supervisors and termination after filing complaints.

Following that case, the EEOC has obtained additional millions in compensation for farmworkers reporting sexual harassment or abuse.

Determining whether sexual violence against female farmworkers has decreased due to government enforcement and expanding outreach and education programs remains challenging. Fear, field isolation, language obstacles, and immigration circumstances continue making farmworkers especially susceptible to exploitation. Over 40% of agricultural employees lacked work authorization from 2020 to 2022, according to federal estimates, and many hold H2-A visas connected to their jobs, heightening their concerns about job loss and deportation if they report abuse.

Darlene Tenes, executive director of Farmworker Caravan, a California advocacy organization, reported that during gatherings, most women continue reporting sexual abuse victimization, and the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement forced them to cancel education conferences and attempt direct community visits to quietly distribute resources.

Nevertheless, in areas with the strongest legal safeguards and protection programs, female farmworkers report gradual improvements.

Nelly Rodriguez described sexual abuse as “bread and butter” during her field work decades earlier, but she didn’t completely comprehend her rights until joining the Florida-based Coalition of Immokalee Workers, which operates the Fair Food Program, a collaboration with major food purchasers including Walmart and McDonald’s that commit to sourcing from growers who sign legally binding agreements to follow conduct standards. These include sexual harassment training and complaint investigation systems with perpetrator accountability measures.

For numerous female advocates, the most significant change has been eliminating the stigma within farmworker communities surrounding discussions of sexual abuse.

In her statement revealing that Chávez assaulted her during the 1960s, Huerta, now 96, explained she maintained her silence for decades because she worried that “exposing the truth would hurt the farmworker movement” but now recognizes herself as a “survivor — of violence, of sexual abuse, of domineering men who saw me, and other women, as property, or things to control.”

Patricia Campos-Medina, executive director of the Worker Institute at Cornell University, noted the Chávez allegations remind us that the labor movement “is not immune” to power abuse, and found it particularly troubling that Huerta “had to keep that secret for that long so that she could keep her respectability within the movement.”

“You cannot expect the victim to be the one that holds the person accountable, because it takes a lot of personal courage,” Campos-Medina said. “I can imagine when she was trying to co-create this union with him, how much it would have cost her to speak up.”

When Ramírez began her legal advocacy career in Florida during 2003, she reported that both male and female movement participants dismissed sexual abuse claims as “gossip” or argued that limited resources required focusing on larger issues affecting most workers.

By the time the #MeToo movement emerged worldwide in 2017, farmworker women had been speaking publicly for years, though with significantly less attention. Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, a national organization Ramírez co-directed then, published an open solidarity letter to Hollywood women that became viral and further highlighted farmworker women’s struggles nationally.

The “Dear Sisters” letter, combined with ongoing efforts by women-led farmworker organizations, significantly influenced the creation of the TIME’S UP Legal Defense Fund, which offers legal assistance to low-income women experiencing sexual harassment and abuse, according to Jennifer Mondino, the fund’s director at the National Women’s Law Center.

Ramírez believes the #MeToo movement provided victims, including Huerta, with vocabulary to discuss abuse experiences.

“Do I think it’s still a widespread problem? Yes. Do I think that there are many survivors who do not feel like they can come forward? Yes,” she said. “But farmworker women have exerted their power and shown their leadership on this issue, and I don’t want that to get lost.”

DELMARVA — Agricultural groups wrapped up the week pressing federal officials for emergency aid as operating costs continue squeezing farm budgets nationwide.

Nathan Reed with the National Cotton Council says expenses have grown to crisis levels, with Arkansas now leading the nation in farm bankruptcies. The pressure is hitting producers across all commodities as input costs stay elevated.

Farm groups urged President Trump to include agricultural relief in the defense spending package being assembled for military operations. The request came Thursday as organizations push for fresh support for producers facing tight margins.

Markets

Major crops ended the week lower. May corn settled at $4.65½, down 4¼ cents. May soybeans closed at $11.61¼, dropping 7¼ cents. May Chicago wheat finished at $5.64¾.

Live cattle showed strength, with April contracts climbing 77 cents to $234.05 per hundredweight.

Forecast

Mostly sunny conditions are expected this evening with temperatures at 63 degrees. Patchy fog develops tonight as temperatures drop to 43.

Sunday brings partly sunny skies and a high of 68 before showers and thunderstorms move in Sunday night. Rain showers are likely Monday with highs only reaching 56 degrees.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 21, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Agricultural groups escalated pressure on Washington this week, asking the Trump administration to include farm relief in a defense spending package for military operations involving Iran. The request comes as producers nationwide face mounting economic pressures, with operating costs continuing to squeeze margins.

Meanwhile, USDA officials are reminding farmers to document any weather-related damage from recent storms. Sandy Chalmers, Wisconsin’s Farm Service Agency Director, says producer reports are essential for disaster declaration requests, even as farmers focus on immediate recovery work.

Markets

It was a losing week across the board. Soybeans led Friday’s decline on profit-taking and technical selling. May soybeans closed at $11.61.25, down 7.25 cents. May corn settled at $4.65.5, falling 4.25 cents. May Chicago wheat finished at $5.48.75, losing 3.5 cents.

Cattle markets bucked the trend with April live cattle climbing 77 cents to $234.05 per hundredweight.

Forecast

Expect a nice Saturday with sunny skies and highs reaching 61°F. Northwest winds 5-10 mph. Sunday turns partly sunny and warmer with highs near 69°F before showers and thunderstorms become likely Sunday night.

Rain showers likely Monday with highs only reaching 54°F and northeast winds 10-15 mph. Clearing returns Tuesday with sunny skies and highs near 48°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 21, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service has announced plans to extend its data collection program focused on the voluntary disposal of imported meat, poultry, and egg products.

Following requirements under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 and guidelines from the Office of Management and Budget, FSIS stated it will seek renewal of its existing information collection system without any modifications to current procedures.

The federal agency’s current authorization to gather this data is set to end on July 31, 2026.

DELMARVA — Agricultural leaders are pressing Washington for immediate emergency financial aid as farming operations face mounting economic pressures nationwide. Nathan Reed with the National Cotton Council says expenses have climbed dramatically while commodity prices remain under pressure.

The call for federal relief comes as Arkansas leads the nation in farm bankruptcy filings, reflecting the severe financial stress hitting producers across multiple regions.

Meanwhile, USDA officials are urging producers to document any weather-related damage from recent storms. Sandy Chalmers with Wisconsin’s Farm Service Agency says thorough reporting is crucial for accessing potential federal disaster assistance. That information gets used to put together requests for disaster declarations.

Markets

Major crop prices dropped across the board to close the week. May corn settled at $4.65.5/bu, down 4.25 cents. May soybeans closed at $11.61.25/bu, falling 7.25 cents. May wheat finished at $5.47.75/bu, losing 3.75 cents.

Cattle markets showed strength with April live cattle gaining 77 cents to $234.05/cwt.

Forecast

Expect mostly cloudy skies this evening with temperatures around 60°F and south winds at 15 mph. Showers and thunderstorms move in tonight with lows near 47°F. Saturday brings mostly sunny skies with highs reaching 60°F and northwest winds 5-10 mph.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 20, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

While the majority of agricultural workers across America lack union representation today, the United Farm Workers continues to serve as a recognized advocate for their interests.

Nearly six decades after César Chávez and fellow activists established the organization, the UFW maintains its position as a significant political entity in California and other regions, though experts question how much progress has been made in improving farmworker conditions.

The union currently faces public scrutiny over accusations that Chávez engaged in sexual misconduct with young girls and Dolores Huerta, a co-founder of the movement, during the organization’s most prominent years.

The UFW champions workers’ rights and equitable labor standards for those employed in America’s agricultural sector.

According to UFW spokesperson Antonio De Loera-Brust, the union currently serves approximately 10,000 workers across California, New York, Washington, and Oregon. This represents a significant decrease from the 70,000 agricultural workers who belonged during Chávez’s era, and constitutes only a small portion of the hundreds of thousands of farmworkers in California alone, where a substantial amount of the nation’s fresh produce is cultivated.

Agricultural workers lack the federal labor organizing protections that cover most other employees, leaving the vast majority without union representation.

However, the UFW has maintained considerable influence on farmworker issues including social justice, labor rights, and immigration policy, according to Armando Ibarra, a professor at the University of Wisconsin, Madison’s School for Workers. The organization operates alongside a sister group focused on immigrant advocacy.

“The impacts and the power and the influence of the UFW go far beyond those 10,000 members,” Ibarra said.

During the 1960s, Chávez, Dolores Huerta, and other organizers established California-based groups that would eventually merge to form the UFW, marking a significant milestone in nationwide farmworker organizing efforts.

The activists orchestrated a nationwide grape boycott that pressured agricultural companies and organized an extended march from California’s agricultural heartland to Sacramento’s Capitol building, which resulted in the first labor agreement for farmworkers.

“It’s the most successful era in the farmworker organizing campaigns to this date,” Ibarra said. “It was a big moment.”

Opinions vary regarding the union’s impact in subsequent decades.

Miriam Pawel, author of a 2014 Chávez biography, believes the UFW has been hindered by its attachment to Chávez’s legacy rather than concentrating on fundamental labor concerns. She notes that Chávez’s reputation as a reform advocate has persisted long after his 1993 death at age 66, even among farmworkers unfamiliar with his work, while also pointing out his tendency to remove critics from the organization.

“It would be good, in some sense, if the movement moves on” from Chávez, she said.

The UFW continues efforts to unionize additional farmworkers, who remain excluded from federal labor organizing regulations.

California established state legislation and a specialized board in 1975 to safeguard farmworkers’ unionization rights. However, relatively few have organized over the years due to declining labor union participation nationwide and immigration status challenges many farmworkers encounter, Ibarra explained.

Recent attempts to change this pattern have created political divisions even among pro-labor Democrats. Efforts to expand farmworker voting methods in union elections faced gubernatorial opposition for years until enactment in 2022, when former President Joe Biden urged Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom to approve the legislation. The breakthrough came as UFW members conducted an extended march to the Capitol, echoing the movement’s Chávez-era tactics.

Since then, workers at eight facilities have organized under UFW representation, De Loera-Brust reported.

The UFW is currently defending the California law in court against opposition from large agricultural operations, including the Wonderful Co., a prominent state farm company known for producing and marketing pistachios, pomegranates, and citrus fruits.

This week, the UFW appeared in federal court for litigation challenging Trump administration policies that reduce costs for hiring temporary foreign agricultural workers, claiming these changes will lower wages for American farmworkers.

UFW President Teresa Romero noted that when the union began, agricultural workers had no protection from heat exposure or workplace illness.

California workers now receive field shade and paid rest periods when temperatures reach certain thresholds, though enforcement remains inconsistent.

“It took us 20 years to be able to get heat and illness protections here,” Romero said. “And to this day, we have employers that refuse to implement them.”

California has since passed legislation mandating overtime compensation and meal breaks for agricultural workers along with additional labor safeguards.

Following California’s lead, states including Washington and New York have begun implementing overtime regulations for agricultural employees.

Romero acknowledged that cities, schools, and other organizations will need to determine whether to remove Chávez’s name from their facilities. The union’s affiliated foundation has cancelled all events planned for this month’s César Chávez Day on March 31.

She indicated the UFW plans to reintroduce farmworker organizing legislation in Washington state next year while continuing worker organization efforts. She emphasized the importance of state-level legislation to enable farmworker organizing and improve workplace protections, noting many workers fear advocating for labor rights due to immigration enforcement concerns.

“We’re going to continue to fight for farmworkers,” she said. “I respect the thousands of people who work with the union throughout the years as volunteers, and that is not going to change.”

Agricultural producers across the nation saw their peanut earnings decline during the week ending March 14, according to federal agricultural data.

Farmers received an average of 21.8 cents per pound for their farmer stock peanuts during this period, marking a decrease of 2.4 cents compared to earlier pricing.

The price drop affects growers nationwide who depend on peanut crops as a significant source of agricultural income. The weekly pricing report tracks compensation levels that producers receive for their harvested peanut inventory.

America’s dairy industry delivered strong results in February, with farmers in the nation’s 24 leading milk-producing states generating 17.6 billion pounds of milk throughout the month.

The February output marked a notable 3.1 percent increase when compared to milk production levels from February of the previous year, according to federal agricultural data.

The monthly production figures reflect the ongoing performance of the country’s major dairy operations across nearly two dozen states that serve as the backbone of America’s milk supply chain.

Federal agricultural officials report a modest decline in the number of cattle currently being fattened in feedlots nationwide, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The monthly cattle feeding report indicates fewer animals are being prepared for slaughter compared to previous periods, which could have implications for beef supplies and pricing in the coming months.

Feedlots serve as the final stage in cattle production, where animals are given high-energy diets to reach market weight before processing into beef products found in grocery stores and restaurants.

The decrease in cattle numbers may reflect various factors affecting the livestock industry, including feed costs, weather conditions, and market demand fluctuations that influence ranchers’ decisions about when to send cattle to feeding operations.

Rich in protein and beloved across cultures for thousands of years, peanuts represent a major agricultural success story for Virginia.

March serves as National Peanut Month, a designation established in 1974 to recognize how this versatile legume has shaped societies, communities and economic systems worldwide.

The National Peanut Board reports that ancient Incas in Peru offered peanuts in religious ceremonies dating back to 1500 B.C. These nutritious crops traveled from South America through Asia, crossed the Atlantic, and eventually returned to North America, where Virginia near Wakefield became home to the first commercial U.S. peanut harvest in 1842.

Currently, Virginia-variety peanuts have earned worldwide recognition for their superior flavor, premium quality and impressive size. Eight southeastern Virginia counties produce these crops, which brought in more than $41 million in cash receipts during 2023, based on U.S. Department of Agriculture data. Virginia holds the eighth position among peanut-producing states, with approximately 200 growers cultivating 30,000 acres in 2024.

Honor this legume’s widespread influence by preparing rich satay sauce or a crunchy Thai-style salad.

Chicken Satay

½ cup full-fat coconut milk
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne powder
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
10 wooden skewers, soaked for 30 minutes

Peanut sauce:

¼ cup creamy peanut butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
Optional garnishes:
1 scallion, thinly sliced
black pepper to taste

Mix coconut milk, minced garlic, salt, black pepper and cayenne powder in a large bowl. Stir thoroughly until marinade appears well-combined and uniformly seasoned.

Slice chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces, place in bowl, and mix until completely coated. Cover and chill for 5 to 6 hours.

Preheat oven to 450°.

Place marinated chicken pieces on soaked wooden skewers, keeping approximately half of each skewer free for easy handling. Position skewers in single layer on large baking sheet for even heat distribution. Bake 10 minutes, turn skewers over, then continue baking 5 minutes or until chicken reaches proper doneness.

During baking, prepare peanut sauce in small saucepan by mixing peanut butter, minced garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce and lime juice. Whisk over medium-low heat until mixture becomes smooth. Maintain warmth over low heat, stirring periodically. Add small amount of water if sauce becomes too thick.

Place chicken skewers on serving platter, brush lightly with peanut sauce. Garnish with sliced scallions and black pepper, serve with additional sauce alongside if preferred.

Thai Crunch Salad

Peanut dressing:

¼ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 ½ tablespoons sugar
2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves

Salad:

½ cup gourmet cocktail peanuts
4 cups chopped Napa cabbage or shredded coleslaw mix
1 cup prepared shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper, halved lengthwise, seeded, thinly sliced
1 cup edamame, cooked, shelled
2 medium scallions, thinly sliced
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped, loosely packed

Blend all dressing components except cilantro in blender until smooth. Add cilantro and pulse briefly until finely chopped. Refrigerate until serving time.

Combine all salad ingredients in large bowl and mix well. Pour peanut dressing over mixture and toss, or offer dressing separately. Top with additional peanuts if desired.

Recipes modified from AboutPeanuts.com, a joint effort of the Virginia Peanut Growers Association, North Carolina Peanut Growers Association and South Carolina Peanut Board.

Russian government officials acknowledged Friday that additional unidentified diseases are worsening a livestock crisis in Siberia that has resulted in the mass slaughter of thousands of cattle and triggered unusual public demonstrations against the government’s response.

Sergei Dankvert, who leads the government panel examining the situation, told Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper that veterinary officials struggled to carry out such unpopular actions. “However, this concerns an outbreak of a dangerous infectious disease, pasteurellosis, complicated by other illnesses, and incurable rabies,” Dankvert explained, though he did not identify what those additional diseases were.

The widespread animal killings have generated uncommon opposition in wartime Russia, with livestock owners demanding that senior agricultural officials step down from their positions.

American agricultural experts are raising questions about Russia’s explanation of the crisis. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agriculture Service released a Friday report citing local contacts who suggested “the scale of these measures may indicate an unconfirmed outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease.” The agency noted that Moscow’s handling of the situation “raised concerns about the adequacy of current vaccines and the potential impact on Russia’s cattle trade.”

Russian agricultural authorities have not responded to inquiries about whether foot-and-mouth disease might be present. This distinction matters significantly because Russia received certification from the World Organisation for Animal Health in 2025 as being free of foot-and-mouth disease. The extremely transmissible viral infection typically demands large-scale animal culling, and any verified cases could severely damage Russian farm exports, which President Vladimir Putin has directed officials to boost by 50% before 2030.

Documents obtained by the U.S. agency show that Russia implemented a complete ban on livestock shipments from 15 impacted regions across Siberia and central Russia, effective February 25.

The Novosibirsk region in Siberia announced an emergency declaration earlier this week to address the crisis, with local officials attributing the problem to pasteurellosis, described as a serious bacterial lung infection, along with rabies cases.

Animal killings continued Friday in Kozikha village, located 45 miles southwest of Novosibirsk, based on eyewitness reports and video footage from the location.

Svetlana Panina, a prominent demonstrator who lost 150 cattle in the government’s culling program, shared a video message saying authorities briefly held her for questioning as a witness regarding an arson incident at an animal burial location.

According to Dankvert, laboratory analysis revealed that the pasteurellosis strain in the initial outbreak had changed genetically and was displaying more severe symptoms than typically seen. “In such a situation, the only way to stop the spread is the rapid removal and destruction of sick and suspect animals, as is done worldwide,” he stated.

DELMARVA — Cattle and hog futures declined Thursday at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange as traders exercised caution ahead of Friday’s USDA On Feed report.

Live cattle for April delivery dropped $2.12 to $233.27 per hundredweight, while June contracts fell $2.30 to finish at $231.70. Feeder cattle saw steeper losses with April down $6.07 to $347.75. The pullback reflects caution as the industry waits for federal cattle inventory numbers due out Friday morning.

Policy

An ethanol industry leader is warning that the Department of Energy may exclude sustainable farming practices from final rules governing the 45Z biofuel production tax credit. The concern centers on whether low-carbon farming techniques will be recognized in the tax incentive program that affects corn growers across the region.

Markets

Corn futures are trading mixed Friday morning. Soybeans are seeing continued strength as analysts predict a shift of 4 to 5 million acres away from corn nationwide in 2026 plantings. Wheat remains steady in early trading.

Locally, corn is bringing $3.85 to $4.00 per bushel on Delmarva, with soybeans at $9.50 to $9.75.

Forecast

Friday will bring sunny skies and temperatures reaching 60 degrees under light south winds. Rain showers are likely Friday night with lows near 46 degrees. Saturday clears out with mostly sunny skies and highs back to 60 degrees.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 20, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Livestock markets experienced significant losses at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange on Thursday as traders exercised caution ahead of Friday’s USDA On Feed report.

Markets

Live cattle for April delivery dropped $2.12 to close at $233.27 per hundredweight. June contracts fell $2.30 to finish at $231.70. Feeder cattle saw even steeper losses with April contracts down $6.07 to close at $347.75. May deliveries fell $6.45 lower. The pullback reflects caution before the federal report.

Corn futures and soybeans showed mixed action with wheat holding steady across the major contracts.

Policy

A prominent ethanol industry leader warned that the Department of Energy may exclude sustainable farming practices from final regulations governing the 45Z biofuel production tax credit. The executive fears low-carbon farming techniques could be left out of DOE’s rule-making for this significant tax incentive program.

Forecast

Mostly clear skies are expected tonight with lows around 35 degrees and light southerly winds. Friday brings mostly sunny conditions with highs reaching 57 degrees and south winds up to 15 miles per hour. Rain showers are likely Friday night with temperatures holding near 46 degrees.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 19, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

The United States experienced a decline in commercial red meat production this year, with output dropping by 2 percent compared to the same period last year, according to new data from federal agriculture officials.

The National Agricultural Statistics Service released figures showing the decrease in livestock processing across the country, marking a notable shift in the nation’s meat production industry.

This reduction in red meat output reflects changes in the agricultural sector that could impact both producers and consumers nationwide. The statistics cover commercial slaughter operations throughout the United States.

The decline comes as the livestock industry continues to navigate various market conditions and operational challenges affecting production levels across different regions of the country.

The National Grain and Feed Association announced Thursday morning that the Mid-Mississippi River has officially opened for commercial navigation, effective at 7 a.m. on March 19.

According to NGFA Barge Freight Trading Rule 18(J), the waterway opening is triggered when specific conditions are met: “The Dubuque and South (Mid-Mississippi) opening commences the first 07:00 hours of the first business day after the first empty dry cargo covered barge suitable for loading, originating at or below Winfield, Mo., reaches Dubuque, Iowa. The Mid-Miss opening shall be determined by a majority vote of a three-person committee appointed by the NGFA Chairman and shall be announced by publishing the committee’s confirmation of the opening on the NGFA website.”

The specialized committee made their official determination after the MV John R. Operle arrived in Dubuque at 4:30 p.m. on March 18, carrying at least one empty dry cargo covered barge (T 13719) ready for loading operations. The three-member panel consisted of Jeff Webb from Cargill serving as Chair, Dan Patterson representing ADM/Artco, and Matt Tomayko from Ingram Barge.

This seasonal opening marks an important milestone for agricultural shipping along the nation’s river system, following NGFA’s established protocols for determining when conditions are suitable for commercial barge traffic.

AXTON, Va.—Agricultural producers throughout Southside Virginia are facing mounting financial losses as bears destroy corn crops and deer consume newly planted fields.

The wildlife challenges affecting Patrick and Henry county farmers have intensified over recent years, leading to a collaborative meeting between local producers and Department of Wildlife Resources representatives to address the escalating agricultural threats.

Farmers attending the discussion emphasized their need for expanded hunting seasons and higher harvest quotas, particularly advocating for greater flexibility in doe hunting programs that help manage deer populations.

“The main thing is we want our rifle and shotgun hunting seasons extended,” stated Darrell Jackson, who sits on the Henry County Farm Bureau board and organized the meeting.

Jackson, who previously cultivated crops in Henry County and currently rents out his agricultural land, witnesses producers repeatedly replanting soybeans throughout growing seasons due to wildlife interference.

“Deer will eat them as soon as they break the ground,” Jackson explained.

According to Jackson, bears target corn fields when ears reach the tender, immature stage, consuming multiple acres of crops during their feeding.

The wildlife interference drives up operational costs while restricting planting options for producers already managing unpredictable weather patterns, volatile market prices, expensive inputs, and shifting trade regulations, Jackson noted.

These challenges create additional obstacles for new and younger producers attempting to launch or grow their farming operations.

“There’s no chance if you’ve got to compete with the bear and deer,” Jackson observed, noting that residential gardeners and beekeeping operations face similar wildlife challenges.

Henry County livestock producer Darryl Holland described his alfalfa fields as “a salad bar for the deer,” with persistent grazing diminishing the forage needed for his cattle operations. Though bears don’t directly impact his livestock, Holland said neighboring corn crop losses “has been substantial.”

“We’re in an area where seeing a bear used to be a novelty,” Holland remarked, who also serves on Henry Farm Bureau’s board. “But in the last five to six years, they’re becoming more common.”

Jake Tabor, legislative specialist for Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, reported that producers also highlighted inconsistent hunting regulations between Patrick and Henry counties during the meeting, creating complications for those operating across multiple jurisdictions.

Department of Wildlife Resources representatives outlined how counties, residents, and farmers can influence hunting policy changes through proactive damage documentation, wildlife population reporting, and participation in public comment processes.

“There was a good-sized crowd,” Holland commented about the gathering. Both Holland and Jackson expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to voice concerns and explore potential solutions.

Officials encourage farmers to monitor DWR public comment periods for submitting crop damage feedback. Holland stressed the importance of accurate harvest reporting by hunters, as officials depend on this data to inform regulation decisions and develop effective management strategies.

ETTRICK, Va.—Research at Virginia State University is revealing the untapped commercial and wellness potential of edible flowers, offering new opportunities for farmers looking to diversify their operations.

During a February 27 workshop at VSU Randolph Farm, Professor Theresa Nartea shared her findings with young farmers from across Virginia as part of the 2026 Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers Winter Expo.

“Flowers are food for the soul and tummy,” said Nartea, who serves as VSU professor and Virginia Cooperative Extension small farm marketing and agribusiness specialist.

As participants received dried organic lavender bouquets, Nartea demonstrated the therapeutic benefits by having them crush the buds to release the calming fragrance.

“I carry a few stems of dried lavender with me in my pocket so I can keep going, because if you crush just one bud between your fingers, the fragrance becomes even more beautiful,” she explained. “Life’s trials are like this—you feel a crushing, but the beauty comes from those hard times in our life.”

Nartea pointed to growing research showing lavender’s effectiveness in addressing anxiety, depression and cigarette cravings, along with mounting scientific proof of various edible flowers’ therapeutic qualities.

Referencing a 2021 University of Pisa study, she outlined numerous scientifically documented health benefits, including Indian chrysanthemums’ cancer-fighting compounds, nasturtiums’ weight management properties, Aztec marigolds’ vision support benefits, roselles’ potential against Alzheimer’s disease, and the antioxidant content present in nearly all edible flower varieties.

“There are little things we can do every day to help in our healing process,” Nartea observed.

Her Nourishing Blooms Program at Randolph Farm investigates edible flowers, herbs and specialty products such as wellness-focused tea blends designed to support mental health and community wellness.

The demonstration garden, established in 2024, has allowed Nartea to examine various culinary applications of plants suitable for Virginia cultivation. These include hibiscus with its tart leaves popular in Jamaican cooking, cut-leaf coneflower leaves resembling kale that served as a Cherokee nutritional staple, and traditional applications for African blue basil flowers.

“You don’t have to ignore a whole plant—there are things yet to be studied that indigenous cultures have been using for over millennia to feed themselves,” she explained.

The market research component involved hosting Extension field days where community members could harvest their own flower arrangements from the half-acre demonstration plot. The 2025 season yielded approximately 2,550 bouquets with an estimated value of $38,250.

“There is definitely money to be had in this,” Nartea stressed. “People stayed even though we were done with the demonstration, because they found so much joy in cutting their own flowers.”

Several field day participants received seeds for hibiscus, butterfly pea and other plants suitable for therapeutic tea production to enhance their farming enterprises.

Nartea warned against pesticide use when cultivating herbs and flowers intended for consumption, recommending companion planting and alternative pest management strategies instead.

“That means some things won’t be as beautiful, you’ll have to pick things off and do things that are tedious,” she acknowledged. “But if it’s your passion, you make time for it.”

Future research plans include exploring additional value-added applications for butterfly peas and sunflowers in collaboration with other VSU researchers.

Nartea’s work was featured in an October 2024 “From the Ground Up” segment on Real Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s weekly television program, and additional information about edible flowers appeared in the organization’s 2024 summer Cultivate magazine.

SURRY, Va.—Across Virginia, agricultural producers are balancing multiple careers to sustain their farming operations.

Recent agricultural census data shows 40,327 Virginia farmers list non-farming occupations as their primary work, compared to 27,471 who identify farming as their main profession.

“Even if it’s a bad year with crops, you know you have a paycheck coming from somewhere,” explained Elizabeth Cooper, a young farmer who splits her time between her family’s operation and her role as a Virginia Cooperative Extension agriculture and natural resources agent serving Surry and Sussex counties.

Cooper grew up knowing she and her brother would continue the family tradition on their Surry County property, where they cultivate corn, soybeans and wheat while raising Black Angus cattle. However, expanding the operation to support multiple generations presents challenges including land acquisition difficulties, high startup expenses and other obstacles. An outside job provides health insurance coverage and reliable income.

Her Extension position sits just 15 minutes from home, allowing her to help her father with business operations, apply her plant science and pest management knowledge, and contribute labor when possible.

Cooper dreams of eventually dedicating herself entirely to the family farm, regardless of the timeline required.

“We do it because we have a passion for agriculture, feeding our families and the world, and conserving our land for generations to come,” she said. “Even if it means a few hours less of sleep at night, it’s worth it.”

Fellow Surry County producer Breyon Pierce also navigates demanding schedules while maintaining his commitment to rural agricultural communities.

Pierce collaborates with his father Glen at Pierce Farms LLC, cultivating peanuts, corn, soybeans and wheat across more than 900 acres, while providing mentorship opportunities for local youth interested in agriculture.

Serving as an agriculture instructor and FFA advisor at Surry County High School earned Pierce recognition as 2020-21 school and district Teacher of the Year. His former students have pursued careers in production agriculture, forestry, industry agencies and agricultural education.

Pierce won election to the Surry County Board of Supervisors in 2022, where he champions agriculture, education and thoughtful community development.

“Sometimes I feel bad I can’t be out there to assist my dad with what he needs,” Pierce acknowledged. “But knowing that everything is more expensive in farming, working an off-farm job helps build income.”

Kent Firestone manages 24-hour shifts with Roanoke County Fire & Rescue while operating a small cow-calf business, noting that farming’s entry barriers make it challenging “especially to reach the point where it’s a sole source of income.”

Between fire station duties, Firestone works with his wife Sarah managing their Hereford cattle, developing his commercial crop spraying enterprise, and raising their son.

Despite demanding schedules, Kent finds his dual careers complement each other. Firefighters with farming backgrounds often become “subject matter experts” during emergencies involving loose livestock, cattle trailers or rural incidents.

Although free time remains scarce, the family prioritizes togetherness.

“Farming is a lifestyle, and what might not look like a vacation to anyone else is a vacation to us,” he noted.

DELMARVA — Multiple agricultural organizations are pushing the Trump administration to ease fertilizer import restrictions as Delmarva farmers face climbing input costs. The National Corn Growers Association says recent phosphate duties on Moroccan imports are adding financial pressure to producers already dealing with tight margins and supply uncertainties.

Livestock operators across Delaware are weighing a critical financial decision that could impact their bottom line this season. The choice between producing hay and stored forages on-farm versus buying from outside suppliers comes down to labor availability, equipment costs, and land use. Each option presents unique trade-offs producers need to evaluate for their specific operations.

Markets

April live cattle closed up 17 cents at $235.40 per hundredweight. June live cattle gained 30 cents to $235.00. April feeders dropped 97 cents to $353.82. Cash cattle trade remains slow with packers bidding $232 live and $368 dressed. Corn, soybean, and wheat futures will be key to watch as planting season approaches.

Forecast

Mostly sunny skies are expected today with highs reaching 48 degrees and southeast winds 5 to 10 miles per hour. Good conditions for early fieldwork if soils are ready. Tonight drops to 34 under partly cloudy skies. Friday brings mostly sunny weather with highs near 57, but light rain becomes likely Friday night into early Saturday.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 19, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Multiple farm organizations are pushing the Trump administration to ease fertilizer import restrictions as growers across Delmarva and the nation face mounting input costs. The National Corn Growers Association’s vice president of public policy, Lesley McNitt, points to recent import tariffs on Morocco as a key factor driving up phosphate costs for American farmers. The advocacy effort comes as producers head into spring planting season already dealing with tight margins and supply uncertainties.

Markets

Grain futures closed mixed Wednesday. March corn settled at $2.98 per bushel. May soybeans finished at $11.42. March wheat closed at $4.75.

Locally, number 2 yellow corn is bringing $2.90 at Laurel elevators. Soybeans are running $11.15 on the Eastern Shore.

Forecast

Clear conditions are expected tonight with temperatures dropping to around 29°. Thursday brings mostly sunny skies with highs near 47°. Southeast winds stay light through Thursday.

Friday looks mostly sunny with temperatures climbing to 55° before rain chances arrive Friday night and continue into Saturday morning. Good fieldwork weather through Thursday for those wrapping up early season tasks.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 18, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

The United States poultry industry is experiencing steady growth, with new federal data showing a 2% uptick in broiler-type egg production and chick placements across the country.

According to the latest report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, both key indicators of chicken production have risen compared to previous periods, signaling continued expansion in the nation’s poultry sector.

The statistics track broiler-type eggs being set for hatching as well as newly placed chicks, both critical measurements for forecasting future chicken meat availability and industry health.

This modest but consistent growth reflects ongoing demand for poultry products and suggests stable conditions within the agricultural sector that produces chicken for American consumers.

DELMARVA — New research in the poultry industry shows feed pellet quality can be just as important as feed ingredients when it comes to maximizing profits for turkey growers. Scientists found that pellet durability, how well feed stays intact rather than crumbling, plays a major role in bird weight at harvest and overall farm profitability. The findings come as turkey breeding programs have dramatically increased growth rates through genetic improvements over the past 40 years.

Markets

Cattle markets posted strong gains Tuesday at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange as traders positioned ahead of this week’s direct sales and Friday’s On Feed report. April live cattle climbed $1.97 to close at $235.22 per hundredweight. June live cattle gained $1.82 to $233.70. Feeder cattle showed even stronger movement, with April contracts surging $4.95 to $354.80.

Turning to the grain markets, May corn held steady at $4.54 per bushel. May soybeans gained $1.75 to $11.57. May Chicago wheat fell $0.075 to $6.8975.

Forecast

Expect partly sunny skies today with a high near 40° and north winds 5 to 10 miles per hour. Tonight drops to 29° under mostly clear skies. Thursday brings mostly sunny conditions with temperatures climbing to 48°. Friday looks mostly sunny with highs reaching 55°, but rain chances arrive Friday night and continue into Saturday.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 18, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A Tennessee farmer anticipates spending an additional $100,000 on fertilizer this growing season, representing a 40% increase over last year’s expenses due to the ongoing conflict in Iran — and he’s struggling to find ways to cover the unexpected costs.

“The problem is, is we’re so strained financially coming into this issue,” said Todd Littleton, whose family has farmed in Gibson County in Tennessee’s northwest region for three generations. “We have had a couple of record losses the last couple years, so everyone’s kinda grabbing at straws anyway, and then to have input prices increase yet again, it just really couldn’t happen at a worse time.”

Littleton, who cultivates corn, soybeans and wheat, represents thousands of agricultural producers nationwide facing unexpectedly high fertilizer expenses this spring for nutrients crucial to their harvests. Nitrogen fertilizer proves particularly critical for corn production, typically America’s most extensive crop that supports livestock feed and ethanol fuel production for vehicles.

Agricultural producers have voiced concerns about expensive fertilizer for years, but costs have climbed dramatically since U.S. and Israeli forces struck Iran on February 28, creating shipping delays through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles 20% of global oil and natural gas transport. Beyond driving up fuel costs essential for fertilizer manufacturing, the shipping interruption has essentially halted nitrogen fertilizer exports from Persian Gulf producers and restricted access to vital fertilizer components.

Approximately 15% of American fertilizer imports originate from Middle Eastern countries, with roughly half of the world’s urea supply and 30% of ammonia coming from that region, according to American Farm Bureau Federation data.

“When the ports started raising their nitrogen prices due to the conflict due to shipping concerns, that directly affects me here on the farm,” Littleton said.

These additional expenses prove difficult to manage following multiple challenging years when commodity prices declined while operational costs continued rising, Littleton explained.

The situation could deteriorate further, as some producers may find fertilizer completely unavailable regardless of price, according to Zippy Duvall, who leads the American Farm Bureau Federation.

“We’re being told that many of our farmers that haven’t preordered their fertilizer and paid for it may not even obtain the fertilizer that they’re going to need during the season or for spring planting,” Duvall said. “That’s why this situation is so serious.”

Harry Ott, who grows cotton, corn and peanuts while heading South Carolina’s farm bureau, indicated insufficient fertilizer reserves exist in storage facilities to satisfy upcoming demand.

“It is a really dire situation that our farmers facing,” Ott said.

Prior to these recent price jumps, multiple factors over recent years had already elevated fertilizer costs, beginning with the Ukraine-Russia conflict that restricted raw material access and increased natural gas prices. China also reduced phosphate exports while prioritizing domestic requirements.

Current circumstances have intensified existing supply challenges, meaning fertilizer prices likely won’t drop quickly even if the Iran conflict ends, according to Jacqui Fatka, who analyzes farm supply economics for lender CoBank.

“There’s going to be a tail to this to get everything turned back on, sent back out,” Fatka said.

Transportation time from Middle Eastern suppliers to American markets typically requires 30 to 45 days to reach New Orleans ports.

Some fertilizer already stored domestically can help address shortages from reduced Middle Eastern imports, but those supplies will eventually be exhausted.

“We don’t quite know how it’s going to shake out,” said Nancy Martinez, who oversees public policy, trade and biotechnology for the National Corn Growers Association.

Domestic production of nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers provides some relief, noted Anne Villamil, an economics professor at the University of Iowa.

“But again, energy prices are an input, and so even if you’re producing it in the U.S., if the cost of your inputs goes up, then it’s going to be an increase in price to the farmers who want to buy it,” Villamil said.

Rising oil costs could translate to higher grocery prices through increased diesel expenses for product transportation and petroleum-based packaging materials, explained Chad Hart, an economics professor at Iowa State University.

Nevertheless, elevated fertilizer prices shouldn’t substantially impact supermarket costs despite reducing farmer profits, since production expenses represent only a small portion of consumer grocery bills.

The Trump administration announced measures to address fertilizer costs, including efforts to boost fertilizer imports from Venezuela, which U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins described as “a huge step that puts farm security and farmers first.”

The Agriculture Department also highlighted previously announced $12 billion in one-time payments helping farmers offset losses primarily from Trump administration tariffs. USDA statements indicate over $30 billion in additional farmer assistance since January 2025, while supporting increased fertilizer marketplace competition to reduce prices.

CoBank’s Fatka noted the $12 billion provides limited help for farmers receiving $44 per corn acre when USDA estimates approximately $900 per acre production costs for typical American producers.

Farm bankruptcies remain uncommon, with only 315 cases last year among nearly 1.9 million national farms. Prices for America’s two primary crops — corn and soybeans — have shown recent improvement.

Tom Waters, who manages about 5,000 acres of corn, soybeans and wheat near Kansas City, said rising fertilizer and other costs make profitability challenging when crop prices stay low.

“The margins get smaller and smaller so we just have to really work hard to trim our costs and be as frugal as we can be but still provide the soil and crop what it needs to grow and produce,” Waters said.

DELMARVA — Worldwide coarse grain production is climbing during the 2025-26 season according to the USDA’s March report. International forecasts show modest upward revisions with increases expected in barley, corn, oats, and sorghum. The most significant production boost is anticipated in corn harvests, with Ukraine projected to lead this expansion. That rising global supply could pressure corn prices as harvest season approaches.

Markets

Soybeans recovered some ground Tuesday after Monday’s losses. May soybean futures climbed $1.75 to close at $11.57/bu. May corn held steady at $4.54/bu with no change. Chicago wheat for May delivery dropped $0.075 to finish at $6.8975/bu. Soybean meal slipped $0.50 to $311.70/cwt.

In livestock markets, April live cattle surged $1.97 to $235.22/cwt. April feeder cattle jumped $4.95 to $354.80.

Forecast

Scattered snow showers are expected tonight with temperatures dropping to 25°F and northwest winds 5-15 mph. Wednesday brings partly sunny skies with a high near 40°F and light southwest winds up to 10 mph. Wednesday night stays partly cloudy with lows around 28°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 17, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 17, 2026) – The poultry industry is expressing gratitude to the Trump administration for postponing a regulation from the previous administration that would have affected payment structures for chicken farmers nationwide.

Harrison Kircher, who serves as President of the National Chicken Council, praised the decision in a statement released today. “We applaud Secretary Rollins and the Trump administration for their thoughtful review of this Biden-era regulation and for listening to chicken farmers across the country who oppose it,” Kircher stated.

The industry representative emphasized the organization’s backing of the current administration’s approach to regulatory reform. According to Kircher, the National Chicken Council fully endorses the administration’s dedication to eliminating unnecessary regulatory barriers.

A representative from the dairy industry appeared before a House Judiciary subcommittee today to discuss shipping problems that continue to plague American dairy exporters.

Tony Rice, who serves as Senior Director of Trade Policy for both the National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council, spoke to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform and Antitrust about ongoing maritime transportation issues.

Last year, the American dairy sector shipped $9.6 billion worth of products overseas, including three million metric tons of cheese, milk powder, whey protein and other dairy goods. This massive export volume makes dependable shipping crucial for the industry’s financial health. However, dairy exporters have limited options when it comes to ocean transportation, with nearly all carriers being owned by foreign companies.

“Dairy farmers milk their cows 365 days a year,” Rice explained during his testimony. “When export shipments are delayed, cancelled, or become more expensive to move, the disruptions ripple back through the supply chain and ultimately affect farm income.”

Rice referenced the supply chain disruptions experienced during the pandemic, which caused significant delays, frequent booking cancellations and severe port bottlenecks. These problems resulted in billions of dollars in unexpected expenses and missed sales opportunities for dairy producers across the country. Although Congress passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 to tackle some unfair fee practices, Rice emphasized that American dairy exporters still deal with unpredictable operations when their bookings get turned down, ships bypass scheduled port stops, or delivery schedules change without warning.

The dairy industry is pushing for several solutions to these ongoing problems, including increased investment in America’s maritime infrastructure to boost domestic shipbuilding capabilities, stronger oversight by the Federal Maritime Commission of international shipping companies, and more transparency from ocean carriers regarding their booking procedures.

“We recognize the importance of efficient global shipping networks,” Rice stated. “Our concern is ensuring that those networks work for American dairy exporters as well as they work for global carriers.”

Authorities in Russia’s Siberian Novosibirsk region have implemented emergency protocols to combat livestock disease outbreaks, but the aggressive response has sparked widespread anger among local farmers who say their livelihoods are being destroyed.

Regional Agriculture Minister Andrei Shindelov announced the emergency measures would enable “effective coordination of actions and the containment of the movement of animals and animal products,” according to state news agency TASS.

Health officials have documented five cases of pasteurellosis—a serious bacterial lung infection—along with 42 instances of rabies throughout the region, prompting the mass removal of farm animals.

Video footage and social media posts have captured thousands of cattle and other livestock being incinerated as part of disease containment efforts, while residents physically confront law enforcement and government representatives attempting to seize their animals.

One particularly dramatic confrontation involved local farmer Svetlana Panina from Novoklyuchi village, who pursued Minister Shindelov through a government building’s hallways, expressing her desperation about mounting financial hardship.

“Why are you running away? Go and hide in a toilet from us people,” Panina confronted the official. She reported losing 200 animals, including three camels, and discovered they had been removed while she was away from her property.

Although TASS reported the emergency declaration occurred a month prior, numerous farmers claim they received no notification and argue that pasteurellosis can be successfully treated with antibiotics rather than requiring complete herd elimination.

The enforcement actions have disproportionately targeted smaller farming operations while leaving major agricultural corporations largely unaffected, further intensifying farmer resentment.

The emergency status does provide a pathway for farmers to receive financial compensation for destroyed livestock, and local authorities indicate initial payments are now being processed.

Novosibirsk ranks as Russia’s 15th most populous region with over 2 million residents, sharing a border with Kazakhstan and positioned approximately 600 kilometers from China.

Federal agricultural oversight agencies attribute the outbreak’s severity to Siberia’s brutal winter conditions, which compromised animal immune systems, while warning farmers against using feed from unverified sources.

Additional Siberian regions have reported smaller disease incidents or placed their areas under heightened surveillance.

“There are some cases when a fast reaction is needed,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov explained to media representatives, noting that affected regions are maintaining coordination with Moscow.

While several individuals faced brief detention, authorities have not launched any major crackdowns against the protesting farmers.

The federal agriculture ministry has not provided responses to media inquiries about the situation.

DELMARVA — Soybean markets suffered significant losses Monday, with several near-term contracts hitting limit-down as traders grew increasingly concerned that planned trade talks with China could be delayed beyond their late March target due to ongoing tensions in the Gulf region. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent attempted to calm market concerns, but his comments had little effect on trading sentiment.

Cattle ranchers across Delaware are wrapping up a challenging winter and turning their attention to spring breeding season. As calving operations wind down, producers are preparing to move herds onto fresh pasture while making critical breeding decisions ahead. Extension specialists remind ranchers that livestock are now entering the most nutritionally demanding phase of their annual cycle, requiring careful planning and management through the coming weeks.

Markets

May corn futures are trading at $3.98 per bushel. May soybeans are at $10.12. July wheat stands at $5.46. Local grain elevators are paying $3.70 for cash corn and $9.85 for soybeans.

Forecast

Partly sunny skies are expected today with a high of 42 degrees and west winds 15 to 20 miles per hour. Tonight drops to 25 under partly cloudy skies with northwest winds 5 to 15 miles per hour. Wednesday looks mostly sunny with a high near 40.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 17, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Soybean futures tumbled Monday with several contracts hitting their daily loss limits as trade concerns with China intensified. May soybeans closed down $0.70 at $11.55¼ per bushel. Traders are worried that negotiations scheduled for late March could be delayed due to Gulf region tensions.

Meanwhile, Middle East conflict continues driving up input costs for growers across the nation. Fertilizer and fuel prices are climbing, putting pressure on farm budgets as planting season approaches.

Markets

May corn settled at $4.54 per bushel, down $0.13¼. May wheat fell $0.11½ to $4.83¾. Soybean meal closed at $312.20 per ton, down $10.50.

On the livestock side, April live cattle jumped $2.35 to $233.25 per hundredweight. April feeder cattle surged $6.75 to $349.85.

Forecast

Severe weather is moving through this evening with showers and thunderstorms. A wind advisory remains in effect through 2 a.m. with gusts up to 45 miles per hour. Growers should hold off on field work tonight. Temperature is dropping to 31°F with southwest winds 20 to 30 miles per hour.

Tuesday turns much colder with a high of 44°F and scattered snow showers. Northwest winds 20 to 25 miles per hour. Better conditions return Wednesday with partly sunny skies and a high near 40°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 16, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

The nation’s hop inventory has experienced a notable decline, with stockpiles dropping 13 percent when compared to the same period last year, according to new agricultural data released for March 1.

The decrease in hop reserves could have implications for breweries and other industries that rely on this essential ingredient for beer production and other products.

The inventory figures represent the stored quantities of hops available across the United States as measured on the first day of March.

DELMARVA — Agricultural families across the region are being urged to develop succession plans for their farming operations before a crisis hits. Experts say planning ahead ensures decisions about who takes over the family operation are made thoughtfully, not under pressure during emergencies or health crises. The guidance comes as many Delmarva farm families face generational transitions in the coming years.

Meanwhile, national poultry genetics company Aviagen has announced a $40,000,000 investment to build a breeding facility in Uzbekistan. The project signals continued global demand for American poultry expertise, which could influence domestic breeding operations here on Delmarva’s Eastern Shore.

Markets

May corn futures opened at $4.18/bu. Soybeans are trading at $10.72. Wheat came in at $5.41. Local grain elevators are paying $4.05 for cash corn, $10.50 for beans.

Forecast

A wind advisory is in effect through tonight with gusts up to 35 mph. Showers and thunderstorms are expected today with a high near 63°F. Winds are south at 15 to 25 mph, so delays are likely for spray applications and field work. Tonight brings more storms with temperatures dropping to 31°F as a cold front moves through. Tomorrow turns mostly sunny and breezy with highs only reaching 44°F. Much better conditions for field operations are expected by midweek.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 16, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

DELMARVA — Congress is working on emergency financial support for American farmers as producers face what lawmakers are calling a generational crisis. Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins says Senators John Boozman and John Hoeven are developing a package that could bring $16-17 billion in ad hoc assistance. Senator Boozman, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, says federal action is needed to stabilize farm finances across the country during these difficult economic conditions.

Meanwhile, fertilizer costs continue pressuring corn growers. South Dakota Corn Growers Association President Trent Kubik says consolidation has created a duopoly with just 2 companies controlling the market for farmers’ highest cost input.

Markets

Corn futures closed mixed, soybeans were lower, and wheat showed strength. Live cattle April contracts settled $0.35 lower at $239.90 per hundredweight. June contracts dropped $0.42 to $228.95. Feeder cattle April gained $0.10 finishing at $343.10.

In cash markets, Northern dressed cattle traded mainly at $372 per hundredweight, down $8 from last week. Texas dressed cattle moved at $235, a $4 weekly decline.

Forecast

The region will see mostly cloudy skies this evening with temperatures around 55°F under northwest winds at 20 mph. Tonight drops to 36°F with lighter north winds. Sunday brings mostly cloudy conditions again, 56°F with east winds at 10-15 mph. Rain moves in Sunday night with showers and thunderstorms likely.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 14, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

Leaders from the National Milk Producers Federation have kicked off the year with an ambitious schedule of outreach activities, bringing their expertise to dairy communities both within the United States and internationally.

Economic Policy and Market Analysis Vice President Stephen Cain delivered insights on protein market trends during his February 10 address at Nashville’s Farm Journal Top Producers gathering. Meanwhile, Global Economic Affairs Senior Vice President Will Loux made presentations to industry leaders, first addressing the Lone Star Milk Producers Board of Directors in Dallas on February 18, then speaking to the Dairy Management Inc. Board in Phoenix on February 24.

Animal welfare took center stage during a groundbreaking collaboration between the FARM Program, Saputo, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Dairyland Initiative. Their first-ever USA Dairy Welfare Roundtable brought together dairy producers and animal welfare researchers in Madison, Wisconsin, on January 21-22.

Participants examined critical animal welfare challenges including lameness issues, group housing practices, and young calf management. The gathering employed a SWOT analysis framework to identify industry obstacles and develop strategies for addressing these concerns moving forward.

International engagement was highlighted by a trade policy mission to Lima, Peru, during the week of February 24. Executive Vice Presidents Shawna Morris and Jaime Castaneda, Senior Director Tony Rice, and Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs Miquela Hanselman attended the Latin America Nutrition Congress organized by the U.S. Dairy Export Council.

Back home, Executive Vice President Alan Bjerga connected with Colorado dairy producers at the Greeley Farm Show on January 28, discussing recent legislative victories and ongoing support initiatives for farmers facing challenging milk price conditions.

Groups seeking to arrange NMPF staff participation in their events can reach out to Casey Kinler at [email protected].

Following nearly ten years of regulatory discussions, the Food and Drug Administration declared on February 19th that producers of Grade A cottage cheese will receive an exemption from the agency’s Food Traceability Rule.

The waiver relieves Grade A cottage cheese makers from enhanced tracking requirements that apply to items listed on the Food Traceability List, lessening administrative duties for companies already adhering to stringent Grade A Pasteurized Milk Ordinance standards overseen by the National Conference on Interstate Milk Shipments.

The National Milk Producers Federation backed the Food Safety Modernization Act when it passed in 2011 and acknowledges that tracking systems and proper documentation play crucial roles in food safety. Nevertheless, since FSMA became law, NMPF has challenged the FDA’s methodology for identifying “high-risk foods” as outlined in the legislation’s Section 204.

Even with NMPF’s numerous protests, the FDA implemented final regulations in November 2022 classifying all cheese varieties except hard cheeses as high-risk products. The agency’s risk assessment framework under these rules categorizes “pasteurized cheese, other than hard” at the highest risk tier among all marketplace foods — ranking it even above raw milk cheese products. The final regulations initially established January 20, 2026, as the deadline for manufacturers to comply, but advocacy efforts by NMPF and other industry groups convinced the FDA to postpone the compliance deadline by 30 months until July 20, 2028. This delay provides additional time for NMPF to advocate for modifications. The Grade A cottage cheese exemption announced this month represents one victory that NMPF, working alongside the International Dairy Foods Association, vigorously pursued. Cottage cheese appeared on the original Food Traceability List because it belongs to the “Cheese (made from pasteurized milk), fresh soft or soft unripened” classification.

The FDA eventually accepted NMPF’s argument presented in September 2024 submissions that existing PMO supervision and its inherent protective measures eliminate the need for additional traceability procedures. This practical decision decreases regulatory burden while maintaining robust food safety measures.

DELMARVA — Senate Agriculture Committee leaders are ramping up efforts to address what they describe as a generational financial crisis facing American farmers, with discussions underway for a supplemental aid package potentially worth $16-$17 billion.

Arkansas Senator John Boozman, who chairs the committee, has called the situation facing producers a generational crisis requiring congressional action. Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins said lawmakers are actively developing the emergency relief package, with Senators Boozman and Hoeven leading the discussions, though the exact figures remain fluid.

Energy Markets

Energy markets remained in focus this week as experts warned that tensions in the Middle East could drive up fuel and fertilizer costs for producers across the country. Rising oil prices from the Iran situation are starting to impact American consumers.

Delaware Leadership

Delaware’s Farm Service Agency is operating under new leadership this spring. Cory Atkins was named state executive director in January, bringing hands-on farming experience to the role. He has been running his own operation while advocating for producers at multiple levels of government.

Markets

Live cattle futures closed Friday with April contracts down $0.35 at $239.90 per hundredweight. June contracts fell $0.42 to $228.95. Feeder cattle showed mixed results, with April contracts gaining $0.10 to finish at $343.10, while May contracts dropped $0.75 to $339.17.

Forecast

Sunny skies are expected today with highs reaching 54° and west winds 15-20 mph. Tonight turns partly cloudy with lows dropping to 35°. Sunday brings partly sunny conditions with highs near 55°, but showers and thunderstorms move in Sunday night as lows hold around 47°.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, March 14, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.

California’s most productive agricultural area is confronting a groundwater emergency caused by excessive extraction from underground water sources. Legislation enacted in 2014 aimed at preventing the overuse of these underground water reserves is now being implemented across the region.

The new regulations are designed to address the critical situation created by years of drawing too much water from the aquifer systems that support the state’s agricultural industry. These enforcement measures represent the first major step in controlling groundwater usage in the area.

DELMARVA — Field work across Delmarva continued at a steady pace Friday afternoon as growers took advantage of dry conditions ahead of next week’s weather change. Most producers wrapped up fertilizer applications with equipment running in Kent and Sussex counties through the late afternoon hours. Soil temperatures are holding in the upper 40s to low 50s, right where they need to be for early prep work.

Markets

Corn futures closed mixed Friday with the May contract up 3 cents at $4.75 per bushel. July soybeans gained 8 cents, settling at $10.42. Wheat showed strength with the May contract adding 5 cents to close at $5.18. Locally, corn is moving at $4.50 in Dover while soybeans are fetching $9.90 at Seaford elevators.

Forecast

Friday evening finished with mostly sunny skies and temperatures around 51 degrees under south winds at 20 miles per hour. Tonight drops to 41 with mostly clear conditions. Saturday brings sunshine with highs near 54 and west winds 15 to 20 miles per hour.

By Sunday night conditions change as light rain moves in, setting up a stormy Monday with showers and thunderstorms likely. Temperatures Monday climb to 63 before a cold front drops the region back to the 40s Tuesday with a chance of rain and snow showers mixing in. Producers should plan field work accordingly through the weekend.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, March 13, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.