Empowering Indiana Farmers: Grain Market Navigator Program Launches February 2026

Indiana farmers seeking to strengthen their grain marketing strategies during uncertain economic times now have a powerful resource: the Grain Market Navigator Program. This four-session Extension series is designed to provide the knowledge and tools farmers need to confidently navigate grain markets and make informed decisions. This series will be held from 6:30-8:30 P.M. Eastern on Feb. 17, Feb. 24, Mar. 3, and Mar. 10 at sites across Indiana and virtually.

Topics covered will include grain marketing terminology, differences between cash and future markets, real-world examples, current market trends and projections, and insights from grain buyers. A keynote speaker will be simulcast to every workshop location during each meeting, with time for questions and a hands-on activity for participants.

“Marketing risk is one of the biggest challenges farmers face today, said Jenna Nees, Purdue Extension – Putnam County Ag & Natural Resource Educator. “This program gives producers the tools to understand grain markets, evaluate different outlets, and make informed decisions about contracts. It’s about building confidence and flexibility in a rapidly changing marketplace.

This program will be hosted at 12 locations across Indiana. Those locations include: LaPorte, Jasper, White, Elkhart, Whitley, Huntington, Carroll, Putnam, Johnson, Knox, Dubois, and Spencer Counties. If you are unable to join us at an in-person location, you are welcome to join our virtual cohort. The Whitley County location will be Northeastern REMC, 4901 E. Park 30 Dr., Columbia City, IN 46725.

The registration fee for in-person attendance is $40. A virtual option is available for $55. Please register by February 12, 2026. Participants are encouraged to attend all four sessions. More information and registration is available at https://bit.ly/GrainMarkets.

This program not only equips farmers with essential marketing knowledge but also fosters community engagement and resilience by connecting producers with experts and peers. Register today and take control of your grain marketing decisions!

For the Whitley County program, questions may be directed to educators in Allen, Noble, or Whitley Counties. In Allen County, contact James Wolff, (260) 481-6826 or jmwolff@purdue.edu. In Noble County, contact Ann Kline, (260) 636-2111 or kline60@purdue.edu. In Whitley County, contact John Woodmansee, (260) 244-7615 or jwoodman@purdue.edu.

If you have any programmatic questions, please contact Purdue Extension Putnam County at smith535@purdue.edu or 765-653-8411. If you are in need of accommodations to attend this program, please contact Jenna at 765-653-8411 or smith535@purdue.edu by February 3, 2026. If you need an interpreter or translator, please contact Jenna Nees prior to the meeting at 765-653-8411 or smith535@purdue.edu by February 03, 2026. Purdue University prohibits discrimination against any member of the University community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran.