Illinois Farmers Feel the Pinch as Diesel Prices Soar Ahead of Harvest

Record-breaking diesel prices are putting Illinois farmers in a tight spot ahead of harvest season. The national average for diesel has climbed to $5.94 per gallon, according to Wednesday's figures.

This is a significant increase from last year's price of $3.76 per gallon in the state. Farmers like Greg Miller and Kevin Shedd are feeling the pinch as they prepare their equipment for harvest.

Miller estimates that his operation will burn around 300 gallons of diesel on a busy day, which at nearly $6 a gallon, comes to about $1,800 in fuel per day. He expects to harvest roughly 2,000 acres of corn, soybeans, and hay this season.

Higher diesel prices could cost Miller's operation an additional $25,000 to $30,000 this season, he estimates. Shedd faces similar pressure, with his combine alone using 100 to 150 gallons of diesel a day.