LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Long-standing agricultural cooperatives may need to adapt their structure and services to better align with the needs of younger producers entering the industry.
According to analysis from Oklahoma State University Extension economist Phil Kenkel, more than 23 percent of agricultural cooperatives are over 100 years old, while 77 percent have operated for more than 50 years. At the same time, about nine percent of U.S. farmers — nearly 300,000 producers — are under 35, representing a small but growing segment of the industry.
The traditional cooperative model offers advantages, including open membership and limited upfront investment through a revolving equity structure. However, that same structure can pose challenges for younger farmers, as equity payouts are deferred over multiple years and are not readily convertible to cash. That lack of liquidity may reduce the appeal for producers facing tighter financial constraints.
Participation at the governance level is another hurdle. While cooperatives often seek younger members for leadership roles, time demands from farm operations and off-farm work can limit involvement.
Despite these challenges, the relationship remains important. Younger producers often seek access to financing, markets, and new technologies, while cooperatives rely on new members to sustain growth and equity.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Cooperatives may need changes to attract younger producers.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Texas lawmakers secure funding for sterile fly production as officials work to stop the New World screwworm from spreading into the U.S. cattle herd.
March 03, 2026 12:20 PM
·
China may no longer serve as a consistent anchor market for U.S. cotton exports. Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the factors influencing planting decisions, river conditions, and what producers are considering as they finalize acreage plans for the season.
March 03, 2026 07:00 AM
·
Falling commodity prices and rising costs continue to squeeze farm margins. Kip Jacobs with The Mosaic Company addresses fertilizer market pressures, nutrient use efficiency, and strategies growers can consider to protect their fertilizer investment this season.
March 03, 2026 05:00 AM
·
Weather Swings Shape Early Season Farm Conditions Nationwide
March 02, 2026 02:54 PM
·
Dry conditions may tighten hay supplies before summer growth. John Mays of Central Life Sciences joined us to discuss the risks of extended grain storage, how quality can be affected over time, and what growers can do to protect their grain while waiting for market opportunities.
March 02, 2026 02:21 PM
·
Crop value concentration keeps farm income tied closely to commodity price cycles.
March 02, 2026 01:23 PM
·
