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Farmers Face New Challenges Amid Record Harvests

10/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In October, farmers around Augusta, Illinois, are harvesting billions of bushels of maize and soybeans.
Brady Holst, a 32-year-old farmer managing 3,500 acres, says concerns have shifted from weather to policies and global events.
He notes that these factors now complicate farming and have raised anxiety about external influences on agriculture.

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Story summary

In October, farmers around Augusta, Illinois, are harvesting billions of bushels of maize and soybeans.
Brady Holst, a 32-year-old farmer managing 3,500 acres, says concerns have shifted from weather to policies and global events.
He notes that these factors now complicate farming and have raised anxiety about external influences on agriculture.