DELMARVA — Fertilizer costs continue to threaten farm survival across the country, according to testimony delivered to federal regulators this week. An Iowa producer told the Federal Trade Commission Thursday that farmers are basically going broke right now, with input costs completely out of control.
Lance Lillibridge from Vinton delivered that stark warning directly to the FTC Chairman during a gathering in Texas, calling the current fertilizer pricing situation unsustainable for operations nationwide. That pressure hits Delmarva growers just as hard.
Federal Assistance
Federal help is on the way for specialty crop producers. The Agriculture Department announced yesterday a $1.625 billion assistance program opening soon for fruit and vegetable growers.
Regional Development
Perdue Farms launched 6 trucks running entirely on soybean-based biodiesel at their Salisbury, Maryland facility yesterday. The company says the fleet cuts vehicle emissions by 70%.
Markets
Corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bringing $4.90/bu for December delivery. Soybeans there, $11.40 for November.
Forecast
Sunny skies today with a high near 69°F and north winds 10-20 mph. Tonight partly cloudy, low 53°F. Tomorrow sunny again, 70°F with light west winds. Dry weather holds through Monday before a slight chance of rain showers moves in Tuesday.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, May 30, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
