Rising fertilizer costs, global supply concerns and a new farmer survey are raising questions about the outlook for agriculture and rural communities this year.

A new Farm Journal survey finds farmers increasingly concerned about rising fuel and fertilizer costs, trade uncertainty, and the future of rural communities.

This week’s Farm News and Views examines worsening drought across western rangelands, rising diesel prices, beef import concerns, and new satellite-based virtual fencing technology for ranchers.

The House has advanced the Farm Bill further than any effort since 2018, but Senate disputes, rising costs, trade concerns, and broader economic warning signs continue to weigh on farmers and ranchers.

Severe drought across the Four Corners is raising irrigation concerns for farmers, while high fertilizer prices and dry wheat fields add pressure nationwide.

Proposed federal budget cuts and tariffs could impact farmers, rural services, and agricultural research, while concerns grow over threats to bald eagle populations.

Rising input costs and federal aid packages are shaping farm income in 2026, as women take on larger roles in agriculture nationwide.

Extreme heat, expanding drought, rising fertilizer costs, and policy changes are shaping a difficult spring for farmers across the U.S., including the Four Corners region.

Record-breaking wildfires in Nebraska highlight growing drought and fire risks across the Plains and Four Corners, with impacts to ranchers and rural communities.

A historically dry and warm winter across Colorado is raising concerns about irrigation water supplies heading into the 2026 growing season, with reduced allocations expected for local farmers.