American Farm Bureau Survey Highlights Fertilizer Price Impact on U.S. Farmers
The American Farm Bureau Federation conducted a survey to assess the impact of fertilizer availability and pricing on U.S. farmers. The survey, which gathered responses from over 5,700 farmers between April 3 and April 11, revealed significant regional differences in fertilizer pre-booking rates and affordability. In the Midwest, 67% of farmers secured fertilizer ahead of the season, compared to only 19% in the South. The survey highlighted that 70% of respondents nationwide could not afford all the fertilizer they needed, with the South and Northeast facing the most acute challenges. Rising input costs, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, have increased financial pressures on farmers, with diesel prices up 46% since February. The survey underscores the urgent need for economic assistance to support farmers during the spring planting season.