Ag Industry Trends & Outlooks

Discover insights, trends, ag market outlooks and other topical information as it relates to the Northeast's diverse agricultural industries. Brought to you by Knowledge Exchange from Farm Credit East.
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Knowledge Exchange Partner

Knowledge Exchange Partner

Forest Products Industry Outlook: Softwood Markets Set to Stabilize in 2026

In this month’s Knowledge Exchange Partner article, Paul Jannke of Forest Economic Advisors, LLC delivers a compelling look at what’s ahead in the 2026 Forest Products Industry Outlook, spotlighting signs of momentum across lumber and pulp markets. Strengthening housing starts, steadier capacity, and gradual price gains point to an industry regaining its footing, even as long‑term structural pressures and shifting trade dynamics continue to shape the competitive landscape.

March 3, 2026

Timber harvesting in a forest

Latest From Today's Harvest Blog

Harvested oysters in a mesh basket by body of water
Business Tips and Tools
The Road Ahead for Oyster Growers: Trends, Risks and Opportunities for 2026

The U.S. oyster industry’s current landscape is shaped by decades of regulatory progress, rapid production innovations and shifting market pressures. As growers head into 2026, understanding the forces behind today’s rules, technologies and economic trends is essential for making informed business decisions. In a recent Farm Credit East webinar, Bob Rheault, executive director of East Coast Shellfish Growers Association, shared the key challenges and opportunities for the oyster industry. 

March 10, 2026

Featured Webinar

A display of red ripe Macoun apples - a sweet crisp eating apple from the Hudson Valley of New York State.
Business Tips and Tools
2026 Apple Industry Outlook Webinar

Join Farm Credit East, Horizon Farm Credit and Chris Gerlach of the U.S. Apple Association to discuss the future of the apple industry. This webinar will take a deep dive into the prevailing trends and forces shaping the U.S. apple industry.

April 16, 2026

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Knowledge Exchange Partner
2025 Potato Industry Outlook

The potato industry is facing a dynamic year ahead, with significant changes in production and market trends. The 2024 North American potato crop has seen a slight decrease in production, while European production has increased, impacting the global market dynamics. Read on for an in-depth analysis of the current state of the potato industry, including crop overviews, sector updates and 2025 market outlooks. 

February 12, 2025

Knowledge Exchange Partner
2025 Outlook for the Green Industry

In this month's Knowledge Exchange Partner article, 2025 Green Industry Outlook, Dr. Charlie Hall from Texas A&M University provides a comprehensive analysis of the sector's performance and future trends. The report highlights the importance of value propositions, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships in navigating the evolving market landscape. Discover the key insights and strategies shaping the green industry in 2025.


February 05, 2025

Milk bottles on the supermarket shelf
Business Tips and Tools
Key Factors to Watch in the Dairy Market for 2025

Farm Credit East recently hosted a webinar with Christopher Wolf, of Cornell University, to provide a 2025 Dairy Industry Outlook. Trade issues and policy changes may lead to shocks affecting milk prices and feed costs. Below is a summary of 2024 milk production followed by important factors that will influence the industry in 2025.   

February 04, 2025

Maple sap collection tubes strung between trees
Business Tips and Tools
5 Things for Maple Producers to Consider in 2025

Farm Credit East recently hosted a webinar with University of Vermont Extension Associate Professor, Mark Cannella, providing insights for the maple industry in 2025. As U.S. maple syrup production continues to grow, there are potential changes for the industry on the horizon.  Following are the key takeaways from this webinar. 

January 28, 2025

Northeast Economic Engine

Download Farm Credit East’s Northeast Economic Engine report, which analyzes the economic impact of the Northeast agriculture, forest products, commercial fishing and food manufacturing industries. This report was released in October 2024. 

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Cover of the 2024 Economic Impact report