As March comes to a close, agriculture is picking up momentum — and the decisions being made right now are setting the stage for the entire 2026 season.

In this episode of The Risky Rancher, we break down the latest grain market trends, with corn, soybeans, and wheat showing some strength as planting season approaches. We also take a look at continued volatility in the cattle markets, where tight supplies are keeping prices strong but adding new layers of risk for producers.

We dive into rising fuel and input costs, with diesel prices holding above $4 per gallon, and what that means for farmers preparing for spring fieldwork. From fertilizer decisions to field operations, every input matters more than ever.

On the ranch side, we discuss pasture and grazing preparation, including how early-season management decisions can impact forage production and livestock performance for the rest of the year.

We also cover the latest weather outlook, as producers watch soil moisture, temperature trends, and planting conditions across the Plains and Midwest.

Topics in this episode:

• Grain market movement heading into planting
• Cattle market strength and volatility
• Diesel and input cost pressures
• Pasture and grazing management
• Spring weather and planting outlook

This is the time of year where preparation meets opportunity — and staying informed is one of the smartest moves a producer can make.

Stay informed. Stay involved. And keep taking the smart risks that move agriculture forward.