Nebraska Farmers Face Higher Fuel Costs Amid Harvest Season

Nebraska farmers are facing higher fuel costs as harvest season gets underway. Diesel prices have reached $6 a gallon, putting additional pressure on producers. Governor Jim Pillen understands this pressure, having experienced it firsthand as a farmer himself.

Pillen pointed out that the connection between agriculture and energy is significant. With crude oil around $100 a barrel, he noted that agricultural commodity prices are also rising. December corn has moved above $5.50 after trading near $4 just 60 days earlier.

However, Pillen emphasized that ethanol and biodiesel play an important role in the agricultural economy, helping to offset higher fuel costs. He argued that this connection between agriculture and energy is crucial for Nebraska's producers.