DELMARVA — Spring planting season is in full swing across Delmarva, bringing increased farm equipment traffic to area roads. Tractors, combines, and other large machinery are moving between fields as farmers begin spring field prep and planting operations. Motorists and agricultural workers both need extra vigilance to prevent accidents as slow-moving equipment mixes with regular traffic.
Fire
19 fire departments battled a massive poultry house blaze yesterday afternoon in Harrington. The alarm came in at 3:15 p.m., bringing crews to Hayfield Road where 2 buildings, each measuring 60 feet by 500 feet, were fully engulfed. Flames spread to a storage facility and threatened nearby propane tanks. Firefighters brought it under control in about an hour but stayed on scene until 8:30 p.m. dousing hot spots.
Markets
Grain prices retreated today as the rally from Middle East tensions continues fading. Corn at Laurel Grain Company is bringing $4.99 a bushel for May delivery. Soybeans are $11.24.
Policy
At the national level, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins called foreign purchases of U.S. farmland a significant security threat, particularly pointing to Chinese acquisitions.
Forecast
The area is finishing this afternoon near 79 degrees under partly sunny skies. Tonight drops to 61 with partly cloudy conditions. Tomorrow brings a chance of rain showers with highs around 74.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, April 16, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
