Key Takeaways
- Modern Ag Alliance published its first State of the American Farmer report assessing economic and regulatory challenges.
- Rising input costs and declining commodity prices are placing increased strain on farm finances.
- Regulatory uncertainty is cited by farmers as a growing operational concern.
- Access to existing crop protection tools is viewed as critical to maintaining yields and food affordability.
- The findings underscore calls for legislative action on agricultural policy and the Farm Bill.
Modern Ag Alliance Publishes National Assessment of U.S. Farming Conditions
The Modern Ag Alliance released its inaugural State of the American Farmer report, offering a nationwide snapshot of the economic, regulatory, and operational conditions facing U.S. farmers. According to the report, producers are navigating a combination of rising input costs, lower commodity prices, and regulatory uncertainty that is affecting farm profitability and long-term planning.
The report identifies declining margins as a central concern, noting that prices for major commodities have fallen by as much as 58% since 2022, while production costs continue to increase. It also reports that farmer bankruptcies are up approximately 60% year over year.
“With operating costs rising and margins slimming, farmers need relief,” said Missouri farmer Blake Hurst. “This begins with lawmakers understanding the realities of modern farming. We need practical policies and continued access to crop protection tools that afford us the stability to do our jobs and produce high-quality food.”
Modern Ag Alliance Findings on Regulation and Farm Viability
The Modern Ag Alliance report highlights regulatory uncertainty as a key factor affecting farmer confidence. Eighty percent of surveyed farmers agreed that producers should be consulted on the operational impacts of new agricultural regulations. Nearly three-quarters of respondents said additional regulations could contribute to higher food prices for American families.
The findings also point to growing concern about the future of farming. Sixty percent of farmers surveyed indicated that, without changes to current conditions, farming may “cease to exist as we know it.” Only about half of respondents said they would recommend farming as a career to their children.
“Farmers are being squeezed from every direction,” said Elizabeth Burns-Thompson, Executive Director of the Modern Ag Alliance. “This data shows that economic pressure and regulatory uncertainty are colliding on the farm. Policymakers need to understand what this means in real terms—for farmers’ ability to stay in business and for the affordability of America’s food, fuel, and fiber.”
Implications for Crop Protection and Food Prices
The report also examines the potential impact of restrictions on crop protection tools. Fifty-seven percent of farmers surveyed said such restrictions would lead to higher input costs, while 39% expect lower yields. Respondents indicated that maintaining access to existing tools is essential to sustaining production levels and managing costs.
According to the Modern Ag Alliance, the findings reinforce the importance of clear, science-based agricultural policy and timely congressional action on a Farm Bill to provide stability for farmers and the broader food system.
Read the entire report.
