Low water levels on the Mississippi River, persisting for the third consecutive year, are forcing barge companies to restrict cargo loads, negatively impacting farmers’ profits. Following months of heavy rainfall that had caused flooding earlier in the year, drought conditions in the Ohio River states have exacerbated the situation, leading to record low river levels south of Cairo, Illinois. With key grain shipments limited, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reports a 17% decline in grain transport via barge in late August, alongside sharply increased freight costs. While consumers may not feel immediate effects, farmers face challenges due to rising transportation costs and international competition.
