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

Understanding the Agricultural Impacts of Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke darkened skies across the Northeast for at least three consecutive days this July. Orange clouds were evidence of fires raging thousands of miles away in Ontario, Canada and northern Minnesota. While the duration and impact of wildfires have historically been concentrated in the Western United States, the issue is becoming a more frequent concern on the east coast. What impact does sustained wildfire smoke have on agriculture in our region?

August 7, 2026

burning dry grass in spring, air pollution due to burning dry grass

Latest From Today's Harvest Blog

Flooded corn field with tractor tire marks, blue skies
Crop Insurance
The Return of Prevented Planting Plus 5%: What Producers Need to Know

The USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) has reinstated the Prevented Planting Plus 5% option for the 2027 crop year. Producers will once again have the opportunity to purchase an additional 5% of prevented planting coverage, providing greater protection when adverse weather prevents intended acres from being planted.

August 17, 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
Farm Credit East and Horizon Farm Credit recently hosted Chris Gerlach of USApple for a discussion on the prevailing trends and forces shaping the U.S. apple industry.

April 16, 2026

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Two oyster farmers checking mesh nets in the water
Knowledge Exchange Partner
2026 Oyster Industry Outlook

Discover key trends shaping the 2026 oyster industry in this Knowledge Exchange Partner article, 2026 Oyster Industry Outlook, Bob Rheault, Executive Director of East Coast Shellfish Growers Association dives into modern farming innovations, shifting markets, the future of this iconic seafood and how growers are adapting.

March 03, 2026

Timber harvesting in a forest
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 03, 2026

Interior of greenhouse nursery full of blooming flowers in pots
Knowledge Exchange Partner
2026 Outlook for the Green Industry

In this month’s Knowledge Exchange Partner article, 2026 Green Industry Outlook, Dr. Charlie Hall of Texas A&M University offers a comprehensive assessment of the sector’s recent performance and emerging trends. As 2026 begins, the green industry is balancing cautious optimism with ongoing structural challenges. Although 2025 introduced significant uncertainty, the year ahead holds meaningful opportunities for firms that have adapted to shifting market conditions and positioned themselves for sustainable, long‑term growth.

February 02, 2026

Knowledge Exchange Partner
2026 U.S. Maple Syrup Outlook

This month’s Knowledge Exchange Partner article contributed by Mark Cannella, Extension Associate Professor at the University of Vermont, offers a broad look at the key forces influencing today’s U.S. maple industry. Steady production, evolving consumer demand, and ongoing economic pressures are reshaping the market landscape. These trends present both opportunities and challenges for producers as they navigate changing conditions. As the sector adjusts to these developments, thoughtful planning and adaptability will play an important role in sustaining long‑term growth and stability.

January 09, 2026

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