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.
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Dr. Gary Schnitkey from the University of Illinois discusses farmers’ sentiment toward industry consolidation, especially in the fertilizer sector, where costs remain historically high.
To qualify, land must be in the U.S., used substantially for farming in the last 10 years, and restricted from non-farm use for at least 10 years after the sale.
The dairy industry is encouraged by potential H-2A reforms while supporting renewal of the USMCA.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension is helping ranchers navigate grazing and herd management strategies.
