Demand for farm loans is way up...but so are bankruptcies.

Demand for farm loans surged in the first quarter of the year, topping the previous record set in 2016.

Economists at the Kansas City Fed say that weaker crop prices over the past year have reduced farm income. That has led to lower loan repayment rates and more renewals and extensions. Last year, farm banks issued more than $115 billion in agricultural loans.

Meanwhile, farm bankruptcies are also on the rise. A University of Arkansas study shows more U.S. farms filed in the first three months of 2025 than in all of 2024.

Extension economist Ryan Loy says the 259 filings signal financial stress, similar to that seen in 2018 and 2019. He points to low commodity prices and higher costs for seed, fertilizer, and diesel.

Related Stories
Congress is seeking insight from meteorologists and weather researchers on how new technology can enhance safety and response times to severe weather and prevent future disasters.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joins us now with the highlights.
A group of 32 Democratic senators is urging ag lawmakers to halt their opposition to Prop 12 in the next Farm Bill.
In honor of Rural Road Safety Week, we’re highlighting some commonly overlooked hazards on rural roads, where 40 percent of all fatal crashes in the United States occur.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Culver’s Quality Manager Jim Krombach explains why it is vital for brands to invest in the next generation of agriculture through organizations like FFA.
Tidal Grow Agri-Science joins us to celebrate Global Fertilizer Day, sharing how innovation continues to drive American agriculture forward.
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) is urging Congress and the Trump Administration to act quickly on behalf of American agriculture.
Better yield measurement means fairer grids, more precise breeding targets, and more dollars for truly efficient cattle.
The news immediately caused a drop in equities and commodities, with soybeans down 20 percent in a matter of minutes.