Rail Merger Raises Questions for Agriculture
A proposed railroad merger with a major footprint across the Southeast is getting pushback from National Farmers Union.
Union Pacific wants to combine with Norfolk Southern, creating a roughly 50,000-mile rail network across 43 states. NFU says it opposes the deal, arguing decades of railroad consolidation have left farmers with fewer shipping choices, higher rates and less reliable service.
Norfolk Southern already has a significant eastern network, including routes through the Southeast. The Surface Transportation Board says Alabama, Florida and Georgia have rail lines or facilities that could see operational changes exceeding its thresholds for environmental review. Merger-related capital improvements are also proposed in all three states.
Union Pacific argues a single coast-to-coast railroad would reduce handoffs, improve reliability and expand market access. The company says agricultural businesses are among more than 500 customers supporting the combination.
The merger remains under review. Comments on the application are due to the Surface Transportation Board November 18.
