DELMARVA — Maryland’s poultry industry took another hit this week as agriculture officials confirmed a 2nd bird flu outbreak at a commercial operation in Caroline County. That brings Maryland’s total cases to 3 this year, including an earlier detection in Wicomico County.
All affected facilities remain under quarantine with birds already destroyed or in the process of being depopulated. Officials are working to contain the highly pathogenic avian influenza strain and prevent further spread across Delmarva’s critical poultry sector.
Crop Insurance
Delaware farmers have less than 3 weeks to secure crop insurance for the 2026 season. The March 15 sales deadline is approaching fast for coverage on corn, soybeans, and wheat. Producers need to refresh business entity information with their insurance agents and review coverage levels before that deadline hits.
Markets
March corn closed Friday at $4.38.75/bu, up 5.5 cents. March soybeans climbed 9.5 cents to $11.57.25. March wheat gained 14.75 cents. Live cattle futures took a beating, with April contracts dropping $4.67 to $232.22/hundredweight.
Forecast
Patchy fog gives way to mostly sunny skies Saturday with highs reaching 51° and light south winds. Sunday brings a chance of light rain with highs near 45° and northeast winds 5-10 mph.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, February 28, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
