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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Business Tips and Tools
New York's Investment Tax Credit Program: Maximizing Your Capital Investment Webinar

Thursday, Jul 11, 2024 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EDT

NOTE: THIS WEBINAR IS LIMITED TO CURRENT FARM CREDIT EAST CUSTOMERS 

In this webinar, Farm Credit East discussed how the New York State Investment Tax Credit (ITC) program can benefit your operation. This presentation is designed for Farm Credit East members who are considering capital expansions and want to take advantage of available tax incentives.

July 11, 2024

Rural home set back in agriculture pasture during sunset
Business Tips and Tools
Buying a Rural Property? Check for deed restrictions.

When buying a rural property, the buyer should always ask if the property has any deed restrictions as these can impose various limitations on how the property can be used and also potentially decrease the property’s value. 

July 09, 2024

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Tax Talks
Important Update Regarding Life Insurance Redemptions

In April, we discussed that the Supreme Court was hearing arguments in the Connelly v U.S. case regarding life insurance proceeds. With this case now decided, it will be important for individuals and small businesses owning life insurance to fund buy/sell agreements to include a review of these policies.

July 05, 2024

Knowledge Exchange Partner
Record U.S. Agricultural Trade Deficit Forecasted to Keep Growing

The United States is the world’s largest agricultural exporter and has been for decades. However, as a wealthy country with a population of more than 340 million people with appetites for a broad range of agricultural products - we are also one of the world’s top agricultural importers. American Farm Bureau Economist, Betty Resnick examines historical trade data, and insight on forecasted trends.

July 03, 2024

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