DELMARVA — Maryland poultry farmers can finally move forward after the state Department of the Environment released its updated permit for concentrated animal feeding operations yesterday. The new 2025 general discharge permit ends a nearly 10-month delay that stalled an estimated $30 million in business investment.
Holly Porter with the Delmarva Chicken Association says the holdup impacted builders, realtors, lenders, equipment manufacturers and farmers looking to build modern chicken houses. The permit becomes effective May 8, allowing broiler producers to begin submitting applications under the new requirements.
Markets
Grain futures showed mixed results yesterday as traders wrapped up the week. Soybeans climbed on short covering and technical buying, though the crop still posted modest weekly losses. Wheat finished the week with gains driven by weather and fertilizer concerns.
Cattle futures moved higher at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. June live cattle advanced $1.72 to settle at $245.22 per hundredweight. August feeder cattle surged $2.42 to finish at $361.77.
On the cash side, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel Delaware is offering $5.05 a bushel for May corn and $11.24 for May soybeans.
Forecast
Expect rain tonight with a low around 44°. Tomorrow brings a chance of rain showers early, then mostly cloudy skies with a high near 54°. Monday looks sunny with temperatures reaching 64°.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, April 25, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
