Higher diesel prices are adding another expense for farmers as harvest approaches. AAA data show mid-August diesel prices are at their highest level in a decade, while U.S. distillate inventories are running about 13 percent below the five-year average. Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower says his operation could spend an additional 20- to 25-thousand dollars on diesel this year compared with prices at the beginning of the year.

That’s adding to pressure from elevated fertilizer and other production costs. A University of Missouri agricultural analyst says harvest is typically the most fuel-intensive operation of the year for farmers, with activity continuing through November in many areas. Global supply concerns tied to conflicts involving Iran and Ukraine are also contributing to higher fuel costs.

By: NATHAN STUEDLEHigher diesel prices are adding another expense for farmers as harvest approaches. AAA data show mid-August diesel prices are at their highest level in a decade, while U.S. distillate inventories are running about 13 percent below the five-year average. Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower says his operation could spend an additional 20- to 25-thousand dollars on diesel this year compared with prices at the beginning of the year.That’s adding to pressure from elevated fertilizer and other production costs. A University of Missouri agricultural analyst says harvest is typically the most fuel-intensive operation of the year for farmers, with activity continuing through November in many areas. Global supply concerns tied to conflicts involving Iran and Ukraine are also contributing to higher fuel costs.

Diesel costs rise into harvest