DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - As spring planting nears, farmers' crop
choices could impact what Americans pay for everything from car
fuel to chicken wings.

If farmers decide to plant as much corn as possible, soaring
prices could stabilize. But if many farmers rotate their plantings
to other crops like soybeans or if bad weather hits then the price
could soar even more.

Corn feed is key for food producers. So if prices go up then
poultry, beef and pork companies say they will have to raise their
prices.

Ethanol proponents say they may also have to pay more for corn,
which could push the price of ethanol fuel higher.

Industries could get a better idea after the U.S. Department of
Agriculture releases its planting report on Monday. It will reveal
farmers' planting intentions for this year.
     
     
      (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)