Record-High Diesel Prices Slam US Farmers Amid War-Driven Fuel Shortage

The price of diesel fuel in the US has hit record highs at an inopportune time for many farmers, particularly those growing soybeans and corn. The national average price surged to $5.85 per gallon on September 4, before reaching a new high of $6.05 per gallon by Friday, according to AAA.

For farmers like Jason Kurtz, who grows corn and soybeans near Forest City, Missouri, the increased cost is a significant burden. He pays twice as much for diesel this year compared to last, which he uses for his combine, tractor, and trucks. His combine alone consumes 200 gallons of fuel per day.

Kurtz's situation is not unique; many farmers are struggling with higher costs due to the record-high diesel prices. The war between the US and Iran has disrupted global fuel supplies, leading to a significant increase in crude oil prices. As a result, American diesel prices have risen by 60% since late February.

Paul Mitchell, a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, notes that the higher diesel costs are not just limited to harvesting but also affect other aspects of farming, such as hauling crops from the field to storage or market. 'Farms that are cash strapped, they're the ones that are most having to figure out what to cut to make this work,' he said.