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Rep. Hinson pushes for greater domestic fertilizer production

U.S. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson says fertilizer costs remain a significant challenge as farmer face tight margins.

During a media call Tuesday morning, the Iowa Republican said the US needs continued investments in domestic fertilizer production.

“I think those priorities are even more important having heard what our producers are going through, and what some of the folks who are trying to start up businesses to provide those products to farmers domestically have faced.”

Hinson says two major projects recently breaking ground in Louisiana was a good start.

“We need to do more to help make sure those investments are happening in the United States because I think the best answer here is good legislation to force the transparency and then more competition to help lower prices.”

Construction began this summer on what’s expected to be the world’s largest low-carbon ammonia plant in Louisiana. CF Industries says the new $3.7 billion Blue Point Project will provide reliable domestic nitrogen fertilizer supplies for American farmers.

The second facility, announced in August by CHS and Moroccan-based OCP North America, is a $450 million phosphate plant that aims to reduce reliance on phosphate imports.

Hinson tells Brownfield the USDA has also taken steps to address supply chain challenges and other factors contributing to high input costs.