American's energy independence

Nearly two weeks prior to the first day of winter, we have seen snow, ice and freezing conditions across the Third District. While precipitation is needed to relieve Nebraska’s fourth-driest year on record, and snowfall may have many dreaming of a white Christmas, colder-than-average temperatures are expected to accompany historically high energy costs this winter.

Energy is an outsized operational expense for agriculture producers. Elevated input costs are taking a toll on farmers and ranchers working hard to feed and fuel the world. Diesel prices are about $1.20 higher per gallon in Nebraska...