Page 21 2026 Spring Farm Outlook LINCOLN DAILY NEWS March 2026 to domestic and export markets and raises transportation costs that are passed back to inland counties like Logan County. The transportation disruptions from low Mississippi River water levels can be mitigated by shifting grain to rail or truck when barges are restricted, expanding short-term storage, improving coordination across the supply chain, and investing in infrastructure that reduces dependence on river capacity during drought. When the Mississippi is below average and impacting the ability for river traffic, this forces grain shippers to use alternatives routes other than the traditional barge transport, with a hefty price if used longterm. Rail Transportation Rail is often the first alternative when barge traffic slows. USDA grain transportation data show rail costs are consistently higher than barge rates, especially during periods of river disruption. However, the rail system at least keeps the grain moving but raises delivered costs, which often show up as a wider basis for farmers. Some things to consider with rail usage are: • Rail freight rates include tariffs plus fuel surcharges • Rail capacity can tighten quickly during harvest • Shippers may pay secondary market premiums for railcars Truck transportation costs Trucking is the most flexible option, but also the most expensive. Industry analysis notes that barge shipping can cost as little as one sixteenth of trucking, where barge service is available. Trucking is essential during disruptions but relying on it long term significantly increases costs. • Higher fuel use per ton mile • Labor, equipment, and maintenance costs are significant • Best suited for short distances, not long hauls to export terminals Indirect costs passed back to Logan County Even if Logan County farmers don’t ship directly by barge, higher downstream costs lead to unexpected costs. These upstream impacts during low water events are widely documented in Mississippi River drought years.
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