Michigan State University researchers are developing more financial resources to help controlled environment growers succeed. Horticulture economics doctoral student Megan Burritt tells Brownfield, “Everybody is considering, as you’re trying to grow your agricultural commodity entity, should I buy a new tractor or should I invest in a new greenhouse?” “All of those things are really […]

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The vice president of fertilizer with Stone X Group says the price of phosphate fertilizer isn’t likely to fall much in 2026.  Josh Linville says China’s restriction of phosphate exports continues to hurt global supplies. “They didn’t export from January until May of 2025.”  He says, “This year they’re talking about not exporting until August, […]

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The USDA has a new chief economist.  Dr. Justin Benavidez has been selected to replace the retiring Dr. Seth Meyer. Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says Benavidez brings strong policy experience, deep roots in production agriculture, and a clear understanding of the economic realities facing farmers and ranchers. Ethan Lane with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association […]

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An ag economist with University of Missouri Extension says the USDA’s latest ad-hoc assistance program will likely impact some acreage decisions this spring. Ben Brown says using planted acres to determine payment rates is the reason. “I just think it starts to get baked into people’s minds that there’s maybe a stronger safety net for […]

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