Agricultural economist encourages careful optimism amid trade changes and federal assistance

By: Meghan O'Brien

Outlets: South Dakota Searchlight

Published: June 26, 2026

Words: 343

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 1 day ago

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PIERRE — Resumption of trade with China and potential year-round availability of E15 biofuel could positively impact the farm economy, according to an agricultural economist who spoke Thursday at the Governor’s Ag Summit in South Dakota.

But David Widmar, who focuses on agricultural trends and decision-making for farmers at Agricultural Economic Insights, said they have to balance their optimism with the tough times they’re still facing.

Federal aid for farmers last year helped some …

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