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Michelle Rook

National Reporter

Michelle Rook is a national agricultural reporter and market analyst for Farm Journal’s AgDay and U.S. Farm Report, and she is the host of Markets Now. With expertise in commodity markets, grain trading, and agricultural journalism, she delivers daily market updates and analysis to farmers nationwide. She earned the NAFB Farm Broadcaster of the Year award and the prestigious Doan Excellence in Reporting Award.

Latest Stories
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News
Diesel Prices Spike on Iran Conflict Just Ahead of Planting Season
Strait of Hormuz disruptions and refinery attacks drive fuel costs higher as farmers face a 2026 planting season crunch.
March 04, 2026 09:54 AM
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Michelle Rook
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News
Conflict in Iran Ripples Through Global Fertilizer Markets, Raises Prices Even Higher
As the Strait of Hormuz faces potential closure, experts warn of supply chain disruptions just as U.S. farmers prepare for spring planting.
March 02, 2026 10:01 PM
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Michelle Rook
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News
House Ag Committee Starts Farm Bill Mark Up
Why is a long-term farm bill even needed with the provisions included in the One Big Beautiful Bill? Industry leaders explain their views on the issue.
March 02, 2026 09:36 AM
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Michelle Rook
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News
Will 2026 Finally Be the Year for Immigration and Ag Labor Reform?
The debate over immigration and ag labor reform has been a political hot potato for decades now and has led to inaction by Congress, but leaders of the House and Senate Ag Committees say they are making it a priority for 2026.
January 13, 2026 04:50 PM
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Michelle Rook
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Industry
What Are the Odds of Congress Passing a Farm Bill 2.0 and Trade Aid Package in 2025?
The House and Senate Ag Committees are planning to work on language yet this fall on a Farm bill 2.0., but at least one Washington ag lobbyist says he expects it will be difficult to get passed.
September 24, 2025 09:06 PM
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Michelle Rook
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Industry
USDA Reorganization Draws Fire From Both Sides of Aisle
The Senate Ag Committee held a hearing on Wednesday to get more details about its plan to relocate 2,600 employees from Washington, D.C., to five regional hubs to achieve $4 billion in savings.
July 31, 2025 01:53 PM
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Michelle Rook
Inflation Moderating but Still Above Fed Target — Signals Higher Interest Rates
Inflation is moderating, but still well above the Federal Reserve’s 2% inflation goals. So, farmers are bracing for higher interest rates ahead.
February 15, 2023 03:57 PM
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Michelle Rook
USDA Announces Additional Disaster and Pandemic Assistance: Climate Smart Ag Programs to Follow
USDA has announced additional disaster and pandemic assistance for farmers, plus there is more funding for climate smart ag on the way.
November 29, 2022 11:04 AM
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Michelle Rook
One Nebraska Farmer Says Improving Soil Health Helped Keep Her on the Land
In a moisture deficit area like southwest Nebraska conservation and regenerative practices have long been a staple for farmers. That’s important especially in drought years like 2022.
November 01, 2022 05:12 PM
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Michelle Rook
Flip Your Soil: Climate Smart Agriculture New Name for Conservation Practices Designed to Promote Soil Health and Carbon Sequestration
Soli health practices can help Flip Your Soil from good to great. These practices are also part of the new push for Climate Smart Agriculture practices to sequester carbon.
October 17, 2022 02:46 PM
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Michelle Rook
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