NEW REPORT: Diesel Prices Hit Record High, Hurting Farmers as Harvest Approaches

DES MOINES, IA — Yesterday, it was reported that diesel prices hit a record high in Iowa, topping nearly $6/gallon for the first time as chopping season begins and harvest is just weeks away for Iowa farmers. Diesel prices have nearly doubled since last year, further straining farmers financially as they face high input costs on items like fuel and fertilizer because of politicians playing games with their livelihood instead of standing up for them.

This comes on the heels of a report released in July showing farm income has fallen 53%, family farm bankruptcies hitting a six-year high in April, and farmers facing a fourth straight year of expected losses.

“With harvest on the horizon, Iowa farmers are getting hit yet again as we pay record amounts for diesel. Our input costs have been skyrocketing this year because of bad decisions and a bad economy, and our income has plummeted,” said nominee for lieutenant governor Dave Muhlbauer. “The backbone of Iowa’s economy is our ag economy. Farmers are resilient, but family farmers are getting squeezed and can’t afford more of the same. We need leaders that will stand up for what’s best for Iowa and our farmers regardless of political party. Rob Sand and I will always have the backs of farmers, strengthen our economy, and support our rural communities.”