Southwest Minnesota Farmers Struggle with Tight Margins Amid High Input Costs

The agricultural industry in southwest Minnesota is facing tight margins for corn and soybean farmers, according to farm management analyst Kent Thiesse. He said that even with record yields last year, these farmers have struggled to make ends meet due to high input costs and low prices.

Thiesse noted that government support payments and supplemental and disaster payments have helped cushion the blow for corn and soybean farmers. However, he warned that input costs such as fuel, fertilizer, parts, and repairs will continue to be a challenge for farmers in the coming years.

On the other hand, livestock farmers like Ryan Vos are experiencing better times. He said that the cow-calf industry is doing well due to high prices for calves, and feedlots have managed to keep their markets stable despite higher costs for cattle feed.