Delaware State Fair Opens as Grain Futures Surge on Weather Concerns

Listen to the Morning Delmarva Farm Report Update — July 23, 2026

DELMARVA — The Delaware State Fair is open in Harrington, marking its 106th year across more than 300 acres of fairgrounds. Thursday’s gates run noon to 11 p.m. Beginning Friday through July 31, gates open at 9 a.m.

Markets

Grain futures closed higher Wednesday, with hot temperatures forecast across key growing regions raising crop stress concerns. Traders are also watching for signs of fresh Chinese buying interest. The USDA’s weekly export sales report was released Thursday morning, with figures carrying the potential to move prices further.

September corn settled at $4.62¼ per bushel, up 9¼ cents. August soybeans closed at $12.33, gaining 13½ cents. September Chicago wheat led the complex, closing at $7.05¾ — up 27¾ cents.

August live cattle fell $3.47 to $223.20. August feeder cattle dropped $8.37 to $341.17.

At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, September corn bids are at $5.06 per bushel. November soybeans are at $11.89.

Policy

Corn growers are pressing the Senate Judiciary Committee to accelerate its investigation into fertilizer industry pricing. Farmers nationwide are contending with record-high input costs, and growers are seeking answers on what is driving those price spikes.

Forecast

Thursday will be mostly sunny with a high of 82°F. Thursday night will be clear with a low of 63°F. Friday is also expected to be mostly sunny, topping out at 82°F. Dry conditions are forecast to hold through the weekend.

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