River and barge issues during the height of the harvest in the corn belt is being reflected in lower cash and futures prices for grain. Soy Transportation Coalition Executive Director Mike Steenhoek says a dry summer has caused low water levels in the Ohio, lower Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. At the same time there have been various locks and dams that have been closed which is causing grain transportation issues.

Steenhoek says these transportation failures are occurring at the worst time, as farmers bring the fall harvest. This is resulting in lower grain prices, which cuts into farmer profitability.

He says these grain logistical issues also point out the deterioration of the nation’s transportation system and the lack of commitment to any real solutions by lawmakers.

Steenhoek expressed disappointment in the lack of follow through of the President’s trillion dollar infrastructure plan.