DELMARVA — Winter wheat growers across the country are assessing hail damage as severe weather systems continue to move through major farming regions.
Jason Maschhoff with COUNTRY Financial reported that storm fronts have damaged wheat crops this week. The insurance representative told Brownfield Ag News that while some damage claims have been filed, fortunately nothing has been overly devastating. The hail arrived at a critical growth stage for winter wheat when the crop is particularly vulnerable to weather damage.
Markets
Livestock futures finished Friday’s session lower as corn prices climbed. August live cattle dropped $0.85 to settle at $247.82 per hundredweight. Feeder cattle fell harder with August contracts down $1.35 to $372.17. Analysts say rising corn prices pressured cattle futures by increasing feed costs.
Policy
The EPA on Friday released a draft plan aimed at reducing fungicide impacts on endangered species. The framework is designed to help producers protect at-risk wildlife when applying crop treatments while still meeting farming needs.
Forecast
Overcast skies are expected Saturday with afternoon rain possible and highs around 60°F. Saturday night clears out with lows in the lower 40s. Sunday brings sunshine back with cool temperatures holding near 60°F. Monday will start warming up with clear skies and highs climbing to the lower 70s.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, May 2, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
