Nebraska Farmers Burn Through $110 Million More in Diesel This Planting Season

Diesel prices have been on the rise for agricultural producers in the Midwest, and Nebraska farmers are feeling the effects.

A recent study by AAA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Iowa State Extension found that Nebraska's soybean and corn growers spent a combined $110 million more on diesel fuel during the planting season than last year.

This puts Nebraska fourth in the country for increased spending behind Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota.

Ann Johanns with Iowa State University Extension noted that while diesel prices tend to increase over time, they're usually offset by rising grain prices. However, this hasn't been the case this year, as diesel prices have shot up nearly 50% since last fall due in part to uncertainty over the Iran war and its effect on the Strait of Hormuz.