Kansas Farmers Face Severe Drought and Rising Costs, Wheat Crop at Risk
Kansas Farmers Face Severe Drought and Rising Costs, Wheat Crop at Risk
US · Published May 21, 2026
Farmers in Kansas are grappling with extreme weather conditions and escalating costs, leading to what could be the worst wheat crop since
According to AP News, prolonged drought and fluctuating temperatures have exacerbated the spread of wheat streak mosaic virus and barley yellow dwarf virus, significantly reducing crop yields. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) projects a 21% drop in wheat production compared to 2025, with Kansas seeing 58% of its wheat crop rated as 'poor' or 'very poor' as of May 17,
Farmers are also contending with rising input costs, including fertilizer and diesel, further straining their operations. The situation is compounded by global market pressures and climate change, which have made farming increasingly challenging in the Great Plains.

Why It's Important?

The drought and rising costs are severely impacting Kansas farmers, many of whom rely on wheat as a primary source of income. Reduced yields—down to as low as 10-15 bushels per acre for dryland wheat—are forcing farmers to file for crop insurance or consider alternative crops. Consumers may also feel the effects through higher bread prices and reduced availability of U.S. wheat in international markets. The USDA notes that the accelerated growth of wheat due to dry conditions could lead to poor-quality harvests, further compounding the issue.

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