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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Cover of the 2024 Economic Impact report
Knowledge Exchange Partner
The Northeast Economic Engine: Agriculture, Forest Products, Commercial Fishing and Food Manufacturing

Natural resource-based businesses, like farming, fishing, forestry, and food manufacturing do more than provide food, fiber, building materials, ornamentals and other goods. They are economic engines in their communities, providing jobs and financial impacts throughout the region. In a new report, Farm Credit East, in collaboration with researchers at Cornell University, examines the economic impact of these industries in New England, New York and New Jersey.

October 09, 2024

 A corn field and farm buildings in the Finger Lakes Region of Upper New York with Tax Talk logo in lower right corner
Tax Talks
A Guide for Understanding New York State Land Credits

As we navigate the complexities of tax season, it's essential to stay informed about the various credits and deductions available to you. One such benefit is the Farmers School Tax Credit (FSTC), a valuable resource for those engaged in the business of farming. This blog aims to provide a high-level overview of the FSTC and Manufacturer’s real property tax credit to ensure you have the information needed to maximize your tax savings.

October 08, 2024

Rural home Construction In Framing Stages
Business Tips and Tools
5 Steps to Building Your Rural Home

Whether you already own rural land or are searching for your future construction site, building a home in the country doesn’t have to be a hassle. Read on for tips from the team at Country Living Loans for building your dream rural home — from lot purchase to final mortgage.

October 02, 2024

Small business owner going through paperwork with her workers at garden center.
Tax Talks
Beneficial Ownership Information: Who is Required to Report?

Earlier this year, Farm Credit East held a webinar reviewing The Corporate Transparency Act and the new Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements that went into effect on January 1, 2024. Several webinar attendees asked questions about how these requirements apply to different business structures.

September 24, 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