A sharp rise in fertilizer and fuel costs is forcing many farmers across the Northeast to scale back or reconsider planting plans this season, according to a new survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Nearly 70% of farmers in the Northeast said they cannot afford to purchase all the fertilizer they need this year, part of a broader national trend showing widespread financial strain across the agricultural sector.
The survey, conducted April 3–11 with more than 5,700 farmers nationwide, found that rising input costs are hitting nearly every region, though the impact varies. Farmers in the southern U.S. reported the highest strain at nearly 80%, followed by the Northeast at 69%, the West at 66% and the Midwest at 48%.
Farm Bureau officials say a combination of rising diesel prices and global supply disruptions is driving the surge. Diesel prices have climbed 46% since late February, while nitrogen fertilizer costs have jumped more than 30%. Urea prices alone have increased 47% over the same period.
New York Farm Bureau President David Fisher said the cost increases are compounding existing challenges for farmers, including labor shortages, volatile trade conditions and unpredictable weather. He added that additional surcharges tied to transporting fertilizer from ports are further driving up costs, even for farmers who placed orders earlier in the season.
The financial pressure is already influencing decisions in the field. Many farmers surveyed said they plan to reduce fertilizer use or delay applications in hopes that prices stabilize later in the growing season.
Farm Bureau economists warned that reduced fertilizer use could lead to lower crop yields and fewer acres planted, potentially tightening food and feed supplies. While the long-term impact on food prices remains uncertain, industry leaders say the current conditions are a warning sign for both producers and policymakers.
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