Ag Industry Trends & Outlooks

From national economic trends to housing demand, lumber supply and global trade shifts, many economic forces are shaping the U.S. forest products industry. In a recent Farm Credit East webinar, Paul Jannke, of Forest Economic Advisors, provided an economic forecast pointing to a year of stability, modest growth and continued adjustment across the forest products sector. The following are the key insights from the webinar. 

This month's Knowledge Exchange Partner article contributed by Chris Gerlach, of USApple examined how the U.S. apple industry is undergoing a significant transition as shifting markets, changing production economics, and evolving consumer trends are reshaping the landscape.

In this update, we share key 2026 changes to New York’s Farm Employer Overtime Credit, including expanded eligible overtime hours, shifting thresholds, and new certification requirements for all farm employers. We also highlight reminders on payroll adjustments and advance payment options to help farmers stay compliant and prepared for the season ahead.

As we celebrate National Agriculture Day on March 24, we recognize the contributions of the hardworking agriculture, commercial fishing and forest products producers to our everyday lives here in the Northeast and beyond.