NH Farm Future Fund & USDA Grants Boost
Key Questions
What is the NH Farm Future Fund providing?
The NH Farm Future Fund offers $100k Champions grants on a recurring basis to support farms. These grants aim to boost agricultural initiatives in New Hampshire.
How much is New Hampshire's maple industry worth?
New Hampshire produced about 149,000 gallons of maple syrup in 2024, valued at roughly $7.9 million according to USDA data. The industry is finding its sweet spot with family-run operations.
What is the current status of fuel prices in New Hampshire?
Fuel prices in New Hampshire are rising to $3.92-4.08 per gallon due to the Iran war disrupting energy markets. Pre-buys are helping shield against further increases.
What are the latest crop progress updates?
As of April 6, 2026, corn planting is 3% ahead of schedule with exports up 36%. Acreage projections show higher corn and lower wheat/soy, contributing to market volatility.
What are the projected 2026 prices for major crops?
Projected 2026 prices are corn at $4.21-5.72/bushel, soybeans at $10.39-12.50/bushel, and wheat at $5.58-7.54/bushel. Futures hedging is recommended amid volatility.
Why has the USDA paused funding for certain projects?
The USDA has extended a pause on funding for biodigesters and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) projects to ensure program stability. This occurs amid farm bill limbo and budget constraints.
How are grocery prices in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire ranks in the F-tier for high grocery prices, influenced by tariffs and cattle market issues. Farmers receive only about $0.06 per dollar spent on food.
What impacts are tariffs having on farmers?
Trump tariffs are backfiring as China cuts U.S. soy use in pig feed, reducing exports. Combined with global politics like the Iran war, this drives up food prices.
Farm Future $100k/Champions grants recurring; maple $7.9M; IRS relief Apr15; NH grocery F-tier high prices (tariffs/cattle); fuel $3.92-4.08/gal rising Iran war pre-buys shield; fert shortages urea $835+/ton; Crop Progress 4/6, corn 3% planted ahead exports +36%, acreage higher corn/lower wheat/soy volatility; 2026 corn $4.21-5.72/soy $10.39-12.50/wheat $5.58-7.54; cattle peak; futures hedging; USDA biodigester/CEA pause, farm bill limbo budget locks; HPAI clear; RVO $11+ soy; beginner land access terminated.