WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (RFD-TV) — New research from Purdue University suggests smaller crop farms may be closing the financial gap with larger operations.
Researchers analyzed farm financial data from 2007 through 2025 and found operating profit margins averaged about 20% across farms of all sizes.
Larger farms still generated more revenue relative to their assets, averaging 35% for operations with more than 2,000 acres compared to 22% for those with fewer than 500 acres.
However, researchers found that gap has been narrowing, suggesting farm size alone does not necessarily determine profitability.
Related Stories
Falling farm commodity prices do not guarantee lower grocery bills when processing, labor, transportation, and retail costs remain high.
RFD-TV Farm Legal expert Roger McEowen said USDA should make the process transparent, ensure the formula reflects actual economic circumstances, and distribute assistance within the authority Congress has provided.
USDA reports more than 500 counties experienced large animal veterinarian shortages last year.
Corn growers are calling for immediate changes to USDA’s reporting process.
Lenders are working with struggling farmers to find ways to keep their operations in business.
The Mosaic Company field solutions agronomist Tryston Beyrer recommends comprehensive soil testing, balanced nutrient management, and strategic fertilizer spending to protect soil productivity while making the most of every input dollar.