EVENTS THIS MONTH
- Women’s History Month
- Partial Solar Eclipse (visible in parts of North America) - March 29
- Cesar Chavez Day - March 31
- Seward’s Day (Alaska) - March 31
TODAY’S RURAL RUNDOWN FROM RFD-TV NEWS:
BORROWING COSTS REMAIN A BIG CONCERN FOR FARMERS
As farmers gear up for spring planting this season, borrowing costs are at the top of their minds. Last week, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell left interest rates unchanged, but economists warn that the future remains uncertain.
Experts advise farmers to avoid betting solely on falling rates and instead take a balanced approach, splitting debt between floating and fixed rates. This strategy could protect if rates increase while still benefiting if rates continue to decline. Market tools like swap options can also help farmers manage their risks more effectively.
CHINA’S IMPACT ON GLOBAL AG MARKETS
China plays a huge role in global agricultural trade, particularly in the livestock sector. While the U.S. accounts for many of China’s imports, understanding Chinese consumer trends and livestock welfare is becoming increasingly crucial for U.S. farmers. However, tensions persist between the U.S. and China, with the U.S. Trade Representative warning of China’s dominance in sectors like maritime and logistics. If fees are imposed on Chinese shipping operators, U.S. meat exports could face disruptions, especially from the key Port of Oakland. Experts worry this could impact the timely delivery of chilled cargo to Asian markets like Tokyo.
President Trump is also considering new port fees targeting Chinese-built ships to strengthen his “America First” trade agenda. While the World Shipping Council supports the idea, such fees could raise costs for American farmers, especially in areas like fertilizer and seed. Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition warns that these proposals might hurt U.S. farmers’ global competitiveness.
ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PLANS SPREAD ACROSS STATES
Following California’s lead, over 15 U.S. states adopted plans for zero-emission vehicles. This shift has raised concerns among biofuel advocates, with the Renewable Fuels Association urging Congress to overturn California’s waiver that allows such policies. They argue that banning internal combustion engines could have far-reaching implications for feedstock producers and impact the biofuel market. Legal experts are still debating whether the Congressional Review Act applies in this situation, but there’s growing pressure to address the issue before more states adopt similar measures.
U.S. + E.U. AG GROUPS CALL FOR TRADE DE-ESCALATION
The National Farmers Union (NFU) and Coldiretti, an Italian-based group representing European agricultural interests, called for de-escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and the European Union. Both groups expressed concerns about the economic toll tariffs put on farmers, with NFU President Rob Larew emphasizing that trade disputes disrupt supply chains and raise costs. These groups are urging leaders to open negotiations to avoid further damaging agricultural communities on both sides of the Atlantic.
SPRING SAFETY TIPS FOR FARMERS
As spring kicks into gear, farm safety is critical—especially when handling fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and tank mixing.
According to Anthony Duttle, owner of Rush and Duttle Consulting, tank mixing can quickly go from safe to hazardous, so it’s important to always follow current and thorough recommendations. Safety precautions should never be overlooked when working with anhydrous ammonia.
Key tips include:
- Purging equipment before inspections
- Following manufacturers’ hose replacement schedules
- Driving under 25 miles per hour when transporting ammonia tanks
In case of an ammonia release, notify first responders immediately to ensure safety.
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH SPOTLIGHT: Modern Southern Magazine
March is Women’s History Month, and we’re celebrating the incredible women shaping the future of agriculture! Everyday in March, we will showcase feel-good stories and interviews highlighting the passion and persistence of powerful women in agriculture.
Kellie Walton, the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Modern South Magazine, sat down with RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander to discuss the publication’s mission and some of the stories it is highlighting.
