DELMARVA — Maryland’s Washington County documented 252 Johnsongrass violations in 2025, the highest count in at least 3 years according to state agriculture data. The figure represents more than one-third of all noxious weed cases across Maryland.
County weed specialist Lane Heimer identified land in transition as the primary problem — properties no longer actively farmed but not on consistent maintenance schedules. Industrial and warehouse sites have become frequent trouble spots, particularly when out-of-area owners must navigate multiple approval levels for weed management.
Policy
USDA announced Friday it will distribute a second round of emergency payments through its disaster assistance program. The payments will help farmers recover from financial losses sustained in 2023 and 2024, according to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
Markets
Friday’s session showed mixed results. Soybeans climbed on short covering and technical buying. At Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware, corn for May delivery is bringing $5.05 a bushel. Soybeans for May are at $11.24.
Forecast
Rain showers are likely Saturday with highs near 56° and east winds 10 to 20 miles per hour. Rain tonight with lows around 44°. Sunday brings a chance of rain then rain showers with highs near 50° and northeast winds 15 to 20 miles per hour.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Morning Edition, April 25, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
