DELMARVA — Crop insurance sign-ups on Delmarva have exploded this year, according to data from the University of Delaware. Participation in supplemental coverage programs jumped from 170 policies in 2025 to 1,440 policies this year.
The surge came after Congress boosted federal premium subsidies from 65% to 80% last summer, cutting what farmers pay by about 43%. A Maryland corn and soybean grower told the Delmarva Farmer the higher subsidies added a lot more coverage for not as much premium, making it finally affordable.
Midwest Weather Concerns
Cold weather continues to stall crop development across the Midwest. An agronomist working in Illinois and Wisconsin says recent low temperatures have created emergence problems for corn and soybeans. Without those growing degree units and heat, plants just aren’t developing normally during this critical phase.
Markets
Soybeans and corn both finished yesterday’s session firm ahead of the Memorial Day weekend. Traders say short covering and technical buying pushed prices higher.
Locally, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel Delaware is bringing $5.02 a bushel for December delivery. Soybeans there are $11.38 for November.
Forecast
Expect rain today with temperatures near 59° and east winds 15 to 20 miles per hour. Rain continues tonight with lows around 55°. Tomorrow brings more rain, then showers and thunderstorms, with highs near 69°.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, May 23, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
