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Spiking fuel costs further pinching farmers

Several Illinois farmers say rising fuel costs are squeezing already thin margins.

With diesel nearly two dollars above year ago levels, southern Illinois farmer Matt Raben, who grows corn and soybeans in Gallatin County, says some are adjusting tillage practices.

“A lot of guys down my way do have their fuel booked for the spring.”  He says, “We don’t for the fall. So as of right now, you’re going to see a little more no-till than normal.”

Brady Holst, who farms in western Illinois, tells Brownfield, “People are concerned about it for sure, but I haven’t heard of anybody doing fewer tillage passes or anything like that.”  He says, “It looks like it might be kind of a slow ride down from the high prices we’re at now.”

Southern Illinois farmer Granvil Travis, who raises corn, soybeans, and cattle in Massac County, says it adds another item to a long list of ever-increasing costs.

“You’ve got to have the fuel, so I mean, we’re going to have to buy it regardless.”  He says, “I don’t think fuel will be as big as a concern as the fertilizer prices.”

All three farmers say summer diesel prices are likely to be a key to profitability this year, as that’s when they’ll look to secure fuel for the fall harvest season.

AUDIO: Granvil Travis – southern Illinois farmer