USDA says additional federal action involving fertilizer competition could be announced in the coming weeks following farmer testimony about alleged market practices. Producers are also looking at record ARC and PLC payments, continued diesel pressure and changes to conservation programs and Chinese feed demand.
Listen to today’s Ag News Update:
Ag News Update – Friday 10/09/2026
USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden says federal officials are preparing additional action on fertilizer competition after farmers from 17 or 18 states described alleged practices that could limit new entrants and producer choice. USDA also says Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs will generate about $13.8 billion in gross 2025 crop-year payments, the largest annual payout since the programs began. Kansas State University’s Meat Demand Monitor shows consumer willingness to pay for beef strengthened in September despite continued household financial pressure. The Energy Information Administration expects fourth-quarter distillate inventories to remain about 11% below the five-year average, keeping diesel costs elevated through harvest and into winter. NRCS is lowering a key Conservation Stewardship Program participation threshold from 100% to 75% while shifting more decisions to state and local levels. In China, corn’s share of compound feed fell from 47% in January to 29% in August as cheaper wheat, barley and sorghum gained ground.
Today’s Ag News Highlights
• USDA signals possible upcoming federal action on fertilizer competition.
• ARC and PLC payments for the 2025 crop year are expected to total a record $13.8 billion.
• Beef demand strengthens despite continued household financial pressure.
• Tight distillate supplies could keep diesel costs elevated through winter.
• NRCS lowers a conservation participation threshold as China cuts corn use in feed.