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Soybean farmers say aid helps short term, but stronger markets are needed

A pair of Illinois soybean farmers say they’re planning for a less than profitable 2026 crop. 

Heath Houck, who farms in Montgomery County and serves on the Illinois Soybean Association Board of Directors, says high input costs and low commodity prices are taking their toll.

“It’s a tough thing because we do have to cut because we’re below cost of production.”  He says, “There are certain things maybe that you can cut a little bit.  Phosphate fertilizer has been a big area where guys have cut.”

AUDIO: Heath Houck – Illinois Soybean Association

David Wessel, who farms in Cass County and serves on the United Soybean Board, says the upcoming bridge payments will help, but…

“No farmer likes to get aid.”  He says, “We’d rather have the trade and the markets for our soy that would bring that value up to where it’s profitable.  Them payments that will be coming out, it’s just a band-aid onto the real problem that is out here in farm country.”

Wessel tells Brownfield the best way to assist farmers is through improving demand and expanding market access.

“We don’t want to be reliant on just one country.”  He says, “That’s why Egypt is a great partner.  The EU, they’ve been a great partner for years. They’re really our #2 buyer.”

Both farmers say nearly two thirds of U.S. soybeans are exported, so establishing stable trading relationships is vital for farmer profitability.

AUDIO: David Wessel – United Soybean Board