News

2025 outlook requires a support system

A vice president with Great American Insurance Group says U.S. farmers are in a crisis.

Steve Maulberger says he’s worried about the ag economy.

“Nothing is really set in a way for a farmer to know that there’s a positive commodity for them to make money on this year, so it’s all has kind of a negative tint to it.”  He says, “And then you throw tariffs, and it just makes matters even scarier for the American farmer.”

He tells Brownfield projected increases in corn acres could help soybean prices, but…

“Now we’re hearing reports that maybe rice and cotton will be less, and the South will plant more beans. So, it’s a concern.”  He says, “More corn acres, more bean acres, and already depressed prices, means, you know, a negative outlook and even lower prices.”

Maulberger says these are the times it’s critical farmers rely on a trusted support system.

“Just go get more advice than ever.”  He says, “Listen to the advisors.  Go talk to your banker.  Go talk to your grain trader, your fertilizer person.  Make sure you’re getting help.”

He says farmers can utilize crop insurance, and even minor market rallies, to help reduce some of the risk of the current ag landscape.  

Brownfield spoke with Maulberger at the recent DeWitt County Soil & Water Conservation District annual meeting in Clinton, Illinois.

AUDIO: Steve Maulberger – Great American Insurance Company