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

United States Citizenship and Immigration Service Clears H-2A Path for Dairy Employers

A new USCIS policy is opening the door for dairy producers to access the H-2A temporary agricultural worker program, a workforce option that has long been out of reach for year-round dairy operations. This month’s Knowledge Exchange Partner discusses how the updated guidance could help dairies address labor shortages, support seasonal workforce planning and navigate new petition requirements moving forward. Republished with permission courtesy of Harris Beach Murtha Attorneys at Law.

July 7, 2026

Cow milking facility and mechanized milking equipment

Latest From Today's Harvest Blog

Black and white Holstein dairy cows at feed trough in outside barn waiting to be fed by large feed truck driving by on a sunny day.
Ag Economy
New Report Examines Dairy Price Support Policies Across the Northeast

For dairy farmers in the Northeast, profitability depends on factors outside their control. Milk prices fluctuate while production costs continue to rise. When milk prices fall below the cost of production, the financial pressure can be considerable and, ultimately, create the conditions that lead to dairy farm exits. 

August 5, 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
Farm Credit East and Horizon Farm Credit recently hosted Chris Gerlach of USApple for a discussion on the prevailing trends and forces shaping the U.S. apple industry.

April 16, 2026

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Tag: farm management 
male farmer working on a laptop computer on his truck hood in front of a cow pen
Tax Talks
Maximizing Your Farm’s Bottom Line: Income and Expense Reporting

Filing farm taxes doesn’t have to be confusing. The IRS requires you to report all income unless specifically excluded, and only deduct expenses that are both ordinary—common in farming—and necessary—helpful for your business. Understanding these basics can save you time and stress.

October 27, 2025

Two farmers walking in a crop field at sunset while looking at a tablet.
Tax Talks
Choice of Entity Structure for your Farm Business

When starting a new business, there are many challenges and considerations. While entity selection and structure may not be at the forefront for an entrepreneur, making an informed decision early can allow the focus to remain on the business operations and enable a smooth initial tax filing. Let’s examine some key structural considerations and tax implications. 

August 29, 2025

Two rural business owners looking at a tablet while standing in field with cows
Business Tips and Tools
Proactive Strategies for Business Success: Good Records & Budgeting

If the past several years have taught us anything, it’s that we need to be agile. While we can’t plan for the unexpected — and the unexpected will come — we can be informed and proactive. Planning ahead using available insights can help you strategically accomplish your business goals. So, what can you do today to set yourself up for success?

May 12, 2025

Tractor preparing field for planting
Tax Talks
Claiming Federal Fuel Tax Credits in 2024: What Farmers Need to Know

Before filing your taxes for 2024, take a look to see if your farm operation can claim the Credit for Federal Tax Paid on Fuels. Today's blog covers the requirements, including a new Fuel Tax Credit Statement checklist which needs submitted as well. 

February 27, 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