OMAHA, Neb. (RFD NEWS) — New analysis from the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) is reinforcing calls for urgent action to support farmers, as economic pressure across farm country is expected to continue this year.
Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall warns that without additional action from Congress, rising bankruptcies and increased consolidation could persist. While lawmakers have delivered some aid, Farm Bureau leaders say it is not enough.
“The target for months has been to include both priorities in the government funding package,” Duvall said in a press release. “So, it was a shock to see bill text proposed by the House that includes neither. There is still time. Congress must act. Failing to do so would not only fail farmers, who don’t control the prices they’re paid or the skyrocketing cost of supplies. It would fail every family in America that relies on farmers to provide safe and healthy food to stock their pantries. We know much work is yet to be done for a legislative package to reach the finish line. The importance of including a lifeline for farmers, which translates to food security for families across America, cannot be overstated.”
AFBF is urging Congress to expand the bridge support program for farmers and include year-round E15 fuel in upcoming legislation, warning that failure to act could threaten both farmers’ livelihoods and the nation’s food security. At the same time, the farmland real estate market is showing signs of stabilization following years of steady growth. While land values remain historically high, regional differences could contribute to increased volatility in the year ahead.
Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to take a closer look at current farmland market conditions.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Lacina explained why the current environment reflects a recalibration rather than a collapse, outlining the key factors influencing the market. He also discussed what is being seen in terms of farmland demand and how local conditions are expected to play a role moving forward.
Lacina wrapped up by sharing key takeaways for both buyers and sellers as they navigate the evolving farmland market.
