WOYM - Why Wheat Still Matters: Economic Realities with Tanner Ehmke
The Official Podcast for Kansas Wheat
Hosted by Aaron Harries
When crop prices are down and input costs are still sky-high, how are farmers deciding what to plant?
In this episode of Wheat’s on Your Mind, host Aaron Harries talks with Tanner Ehmke, Lead Economist at CoBank, about the tough decisions producers are making right now.
Tanner breaks down why wheat still plays a role in many rotations, even when margins are razor-thin.
He also explains how export demand—especially from Mexico—is offering a rare bright spot in an otherwise challenging outlook for grains.
From the impact of tariffs and fertilizer costs to the long-term future of wheat in drought-prone areas, Tanner offers insights that blend market analysis with on-the-ground understanding.
You’ll also hear how Farm Credit lenders and co-ops are adapting, what global players like Russia and Australia mean for U.S. producers, and what financial warning signs are flashing as we head into 2026.