Energy Prices Offset High Crop Prices

Rising fuel and fertilizer costs are rain on what otherwise would be a picnic for U.S. farmers.

The costs are driving up operating expenses during a period of some of the highest crop prices in years. Indeed, experts predict the rise in diesel fuel could take a billion-dollar bite out of farm incomes.

Farm state leaders are especially worried that the costs could have serious consequences for farm-sector growth.

“I think we’re headed for some real problems in rural America,” said Rep. Bob Etheridge, a North Carolina Democrat.

Posted by Jim Langcuster at May 25, 2004 08:14 AM | TrackBack