Iowa Corn Growers Support Fertilizer Act

By Andi Anderson

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) has welcomed the reintroduction of the Fertilizer Research Act, a bipartisan effort aimed at investigating the rising costs and market dynamics of fertilizer, one of the most significant expenses for farmers. The bill was brought forward by Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst of Iowa, along with Senator Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin.

If enacted, the legislation would direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct a detailed study of competition, pricing trends, and market forces within the fertilizer industry.

The research would examine how tariffs, company practices, and market power affect prices, providing insights that could help farmers manage input costs.

Mark Mueller, ICGA president and a farmer from Waverly, Iowa, expressed strong support for the proposal. “The Iowa Corn Growers Association sincerely appreciates Senator Grassley once again honoring our request for a study to review the competition and transparency within the fertilizer industry,” Mueller said. “Fertilizer prices have continued to increase, putting pressure on Iowa corn farmers who are already faced with low corn prices and increased input costs, making profit margins slim or even nonexistent.”

The ICGA emphasized the importance of understanding how fertilizer pricing practices impact farm profitability. According to Mueller, assessing the industry is essential to reveal how market power and tariffs influence costs and to identify opportunities for greater transparency.

The association also pledged to work with Iowa’s U.S. House delegation to introduce a companion bill in the House of Representatives, ensuring bipartisan support across Congress.

With fertilizer prices remaining high and farm margins tightening, the Fertilizer Research Act is seen as a key step toward providing Iowa farmers and corn growers nationwide with the information needed to advocate for fairer market conditions and long-term economic stability.

Photo Credit: iowa-corn