Steve Kuiper:
High fuel prices are adding to the cost pressures facing famers during the 2026 crop year.
South-central Iowa farmer Steve Kuiper tells Brownfield…
“That’s a bludgeoning we get every time we fill a semi, this $5-plus fuel for on-road fuel. We are trucking a lot of grain right now.”
He says it’s a frustration situation.
“Based on the price of oil, there’s no reason fuel should be as high as it is today. It’s really hitting people’s bottom line.”
Kuiper says spring and fall fuel needs were booked back in December, but purchasing decisions beyond harvest remain uncertain.
“I talk to my fuel guy periodically and he doesn’t really know what to tell you to do. This is uncharted waters and they are just wondering where this thing ends up.”
AAA says the national average price of diesel is currently $5.52 per gallon, up from $3.54 per gallon this time last year.
