Supply-chain challenges, production shortages and additional pressure from the ongoing war in Ukraine have created an “off the charts” chemical shortage for U.S. farmers. Producers have compensated by cutting back on weedkillers, altering management plans or using less-effective pesticides for weeds, pests and diseases.

The tough management decision could lead to an overall yield trim at a time when global grain supplies are already tight. USDA has reported hearing from farmers and food companies about concerns about hiked prices for chemicals, seeds and fertilizer. Many agrichemical companies point to the pandemic, supply-chain struggles, labor challenges and extreme weather as the reason for boosting prices, making the supplies that are available a more significant challenge to purchase amidst record inflation.

Read more on chemical shortages and their impact on producers here.