Diesel Prices Reach Record High, Worrying Illinois Farmers Ahead of Harvest

Diesel prices have reached an all-time high in the US, reaching $5.85 nationwide and $5.65 in Illinois. This development has caught the attention of farmers as they prepare for harvest season.

Farmers are concerned about the rising costs of diesel fuel, which is a crucial component of their operations. According to Lucas Roney of Roney Farms, many have already stocked up on diesel for the first half of harvest, but may struggle with refueling costs later in the season.

Roney noted that the high diesel prices are compounding existing challenges, including high fertilizer costs. While corn and soybean prices have increased, offsetting some of the impact, other inputs such as labor and equipment costs remain a concern.