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Rising Costs Threaten Dallas Farmers Ahead of 2026 Season

4/7/2026

50 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Marion Welliver, a farm owner in Dallas, says the 2026 growing season brings rising costs for fertilizer, fuel, and seeds.
Fertilizer prices have doubled, with urea around $800, due to disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for U.S. fertilizer imports.
Fuel costs have risen sharply, jeopardizing farmers' ability to maintain affordable prices for customers.

History

Historical Context

The 2008 fertilizer price crisis was fueled by soaring oil prices, which peaked at $147 per barrel in July, and global supply chain disruptions. Major producers like PotashCorp faced production challenges, leading to urea prices reaching $1,000 per ton. Today, similar issues persist as fertilizer prices have doubled to $800, threatening agricultural sustainability and food prices amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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Story summary

Marion Welliver, a farm owner in Dallas, says the 2026 growing season brings rising costs for fertilizer, fuel, and seeds.
Fertilizer prices have doubled, with urea around $800, due to disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for U.S. fertilizer imports.
Fuel costs have risen sharply, jeopardizing farmers' ability to maintain affordable prices for customers.

1 / 2