DELMARVA — Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer signed Senate Bill 9 into law Tuesday, making Delaware the first state in the nation with a comprehensive freshwater wetlands protection program.
The new law covers 75,000 acres of nontidal wetlands statewide and establishes a new permitting process intended to provide farmers, landowners, and developers with clearer timelines and reduced regulatory uncertainty. DNREC will write the implementing regulations. Gov. Meyer said the state acted after federal protections were narrowed by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Markets
Grain futures closed mixed Tuesday. September corn gained 3.25 cents, finishing at $4.52¾ per bushel. August soybeans fell 6.5 cents to $12.19½. September Chicago wheat added 4 cents, closing at $6.78.
On livestock markets, August live cattle settled at $226.67, up 15 cents. August lean hogs closed at $101.50.
At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn is bringing $4.98/bu and November soybeans are at $11.73/bu.
Soybean growers are being urged to continue scouting for soybean cyst nematode throughout the season. An OSU Extension pathologist warns that SCN can silently reduce yields all season with no visible symptoms.
Forecast
Severe weather is active across Delmarva Tuesday evening. A tornado watch and severe thunderstorm watch remain in effect through the evening, with a flash flood warning and flood watch running into the overnight hours. Showers and storms are expected to continue Wednesday, with a high of 87°F.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 21, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
