Middle East Conflict Squeezes Wisconsin Farmers' Budgets

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Local farmers in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin are facing sharply higher input costs for fertilizer and diesel fuel as a result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, putting strain on their spring planting operations. Nitrogen fertilizer prices have jumped 30-40% since January, while phosphate fertilizers are also climbing. Diesel fuel costs have spiked as well, creating a 'two-fold' challenge for grain farmers in the region.

Why it matters

The escalating costs of essential farm inputs like fertilizer and fuel could have long-term impacts on the profitability and viability of farming operations in Wisconsin, a major agricultural state. If these elevated prices persist, it may force some farmers to scale back production or even exit the industry altogether, potentially reducing the local food supply and impacting the regional economy.

The details

Manitowoc County Farm Bureau President Brent Sinkula says the combination of rising fertilizer and diesel prices is 'putting pressure on operations, especially grain farmers.' Country Visions Co-op Agronomy Vice President Brian Madigan notes that the 'nitrogen market' has been hit hard, with prices up 30-40% since January, and phosphate fertilizers are also starting to climb again. Madigan says relief is unlikely until 'the ships start moving in the Middle East through the Strait of Hormuz.'

• Fertilizer prices have increased 30-40% since January 2026.
• Phosphate fertilizer prices have also started rising again in recent months.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Farmers in the region will be closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and hoping for a resolution that could ease pressure on fertilizer and fuel costs ahead of the critical spring planting season.