Benchmark up $6.91 to $185.74, sellers gain

The six-market benchmark ran to $185.74 this week, up $6.91 or 3.9 percent from $178.83. That move favors sellers. Regional gains backed it up: Nebraska - East jumped to $182.50, up 14.1 percent on 700 vs. 350 reported tons; 2 current lines / 3 prior lines.

This week reads as broad firming, with the benchmark up 3.9 percent and gains showing up across Nebraska and Iowa markets. Strength sits in Nebraska, where Dakota SD Mon leads at $209.72 and supply runs light against very good demand. The $43.90 spread shows plenty of slack still down the quality ladder.