Ag Economy Barometer Drops After Recent Highs

“Uncertainty with respect to the level of support they could expect from USDA going forward.”

The latest ag economy barometer dropped this morning, showing a weakening farmers’ sentiment.

Farmer sentiment fell in June to 146, down 12 points compared to last month’s high. The decline has been attributed to producer concerns surrounding agricultural exports, with few optimistic about the future.

Despite declines, all three indices in the report remained well above year-ago levels.

Purdue University Professor of Ag Economics, Dr. Jim Mintert spoke with RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander about what drove the drop, how this compares to previous years, and what to expect moving forward.

Related Stories
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.