The executive director of the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association says the state’s farmers are cautiously optimistic about 2025.
However, Tadd Nicholson says there are still challenges.
“High input prices, high land prices, all these things really pressuring farmers,” he says. “If you look at those input prices compared to what is a moderately normal corn price, the margin is still very thin. They’re watching their pennies this year as they go into this new growing season.”
He tells Brownfield the avian influenza outbreak is concerning for the long-term impact to the state’s corn industry.
“We process a lot of of corn within our state and that gives us a great advantage,” he says. “We feed a lot of poultry and what a serious problem it is now. We really do hope that we can get that resolved.”
Nicholson says he’s hopeful for a better crop this year, but there are still concerns about weather and soil moisture following last year’s drought.
