DELMARVA — Rising input costs are reshaping planting decisions across the Corn Belt as farmers pivot from corn to soybeans in search of better profit margins. Iowa farmer Dave Walton is shifting away from corn in favor of soybeans this season, flipping all his corn-on-corn acres to beans and citing better profit potential and lower input expenses. The same cost pressure is hitting Delmarva producers as they finalize their own spring planting plans.
Policy
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins hinted yesterday that federal action on high fertilizer prices could come soon. Testifying before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee, Rollins said her team has held daily calls with the White House on the issue, though she didn’t outline specific measures being considered.
Markets
Livestock futures closed lower today. June live cattle dropped $0.47 to settle at $243.07 per hundredweight. August lives fell $0.52 to $239.18. May feeders lost $0.12, closing at $358.42.
On the cash grain side, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bringing $5.04 a bushel for May delivery. Soybeans there are $11.25.
Forecast
Clear skies are expected tonight with patchy fog developing and a low around 51°F. Thursday looks sunny with a high near 70°F. Dry conditions continue through Friday before rain showers become likely this weekend.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, April 22, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
