Baltimore bridge collapse may impact spring planting [Video]

ILLINOIS (25News Now) – It’s been a week since the fatal collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, and some have concerns about potential disruptions to the agricultural supply chain, for the Midwest’s farming industry.

However, U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Moline), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, and Kreg Ruhl, vice president of crop nutrients at Bloomington-based Growmark, Inc. offer reassurances to local farmers ahead of the planting season.

Sorensen says supply chain disruptions take about a month before there are noticeable impacts. With the port having been closed for only a week, both Sorensen and Ruhl believe the immediate impact on the Midwest will be minimal for now.

“I would not expect a whole lot of impact in the Midwest from that disruption,” Ruhl said, highlighting the resilience of the region’s agricultural sector.

However, concerns are being raised about the availability of supplies, like fertilizer, for the upcoming …