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Farmers monitoring U.S., South American weather, economist says

Pictured: AgMarket.Net’s Jim McCormick at the 2025 Commodity Classic (Photo by Brent Barnett/Brownfield)

An ag economist says he’s keeping a close eye on global weather issues.

Jim McCormick with AgMarket.Net says conditions have been favorable for South American producers. “Brazil’s crop is going to be a big one. Argentina’s corn crop is a little bit up in the air, but in general it’s relatively good. Plus, the Safrinha crop in Brazil.”

Speaking to Brownfield at the 2025 Commodity Classic, he said he’s concerned about growing conditions in the Midwest. “We are very dry across the Midwest. We’re looking for a pattern change as we get into the spring and summer. If you look at the drought monitor, it’s very obvious that we need moisture. We’re not getting it right now.”

Red flag warnings were in effect across parts of the Western Corn Belt to start the week, which is an indicator of extremely dry weather coupled with strong winds.

Commodity Classic Audio: Jim McCormick with AgMarket.Net