Ag Industry Trends & Outlooks

Discover insights, trends, ag market outlooks and other topical information as it relates to the Northeast's diverse agricultural industries. Brought to you by Knowledge Exchange from Farm Credit East.
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Knowledge Exchange Partner

Knowledge Exchange Partner

Forest Products Industry Outlook: Softwood Markets Set to Stabilize in 2026

In this month’s Knowledge Exchange Partner article, Paul Jannke of Forest Economic Advisors, LLC delivers a compelling look at what’s ahead in the 2026 Forest Products Industry Outlook, spotlighting signs of momentum across lumber and pulp markets. Strengthening housing starts, steadier capacity, and gradual price gains point to an industry regaining its footing, even as long‑term structural pressures and shifting trade dynamics continue to shape the competitive landscape.

March 3, 2026

Latest From Today's Harvest Blog

rows of various annual flower plants in bloom outside a nursery
Business Tips and Tools
2026 Green Industry Outlook: Cautious Optimism in a Shifting Economy

While the broader economy is shifting sideways, opportunities remain strong for green industry producers who stay nimble, informed and ready to adapt. In a recent Farm Credit East webinar, Texas A&M’s Dr. Charlie Hall covered what’s ahead for the green industry in 2026. From fluctuating housing markets to rising input costs and evolving consumer behavior, this year is shaping up to be one of cautious optimism for the greenhouse, nursery and landscaping sectors.

March 3, 2026

Featured Webinar

A display of red ripe Macoun apples - a sweet crisp eating apple from the Hudson Valley of New York State.
Business Tips and Tools
2026 Apple Industry Outlook Webinar

Join Farm Credit East, Horizon Farm Credit and Chris Gerlach of the U.S. Apple Association to discuss the future of the apple industry. This webinar will take a deep dive into the prevailing trends and forces shaping the U.S. apple industry.

April 16, 2026

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Rows of corn stalks in a field with flood water covering the ground at dusk
Crop Insurance
USDA Expands Access to Risk Protection: What the 2026 Final Rule Means for Crop Insurance

The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) has announced sweeping changes to federal crop insurance policies, effective for the 2026 and succeeding crop years. These updates, known as the Expanding Access to Risk Protection (EARP) Final Rule, are designed to modernize the farm safety net, reduce regulatory burdens, and expand coverage options for producers across the country.

December 16, 2025

Row of 20 large black and white Holstein cows in an open sided barn. Eating chopped feed.
Crop Insurance
6 Key Areas to Evaluate in Your Dairy and Livestock Risk Management Strategy for the Year Ahead

For producers across the Northeast, preparing for 2026 means more than setting goals and updating budgets; it means evaluating your farm’s entire risk management approach to make sure you’re positioned for stability and success. Taking a proactive approach to risk today can help you avoid surprises tomorrow.

December 09, 2025

Couple of farmers examines the field of cereals
Business Tips and Tools
Evolving our Credit Delivery: Stronger. Faster. And still Customer First.

Farm Credit East is committed to making your borrowing experience faster and more convenient. We’re enhancing our credit process to deliver quicker decisions and more personalized service—so you can focus on what matters most: your business. Learn how these improvements will help you plan ahead and achieve your goals.

December 04, 2025

Small business owner going through paperwork with her workers at garden center.
Business Tips and Tools
New York State Secure Choice Savings Program: Helping Employees Save for Their Future

The New York State Secure Choice Savings Program is New York's retirement savings program for private-sector employees who do not have access to a retirement plan at work. This new program provides an easy and simple way for workers in the state to save for the future.

December 02, 2025

Northeast Economic Engine

Download Farm Credit East’s Northeast Economic Engine report, which analyzes the economic impact of the Northeast agriculture, forest products, commercial fishing and food manufacturing industries. This report was released in October 2024. 

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Cover of the 2024 Economic Impact report