LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Farmers and ranchers are using a broader mix of tools to manage risk as markets, weather, and policy uncertainty continue to shift. A new report from the USDA Economic Research Service shows savings and off-farm income remain the most common risk management strategies on U.S. farms.
The report, authored by USDA economists, examined risk management practices from 1996 through 2020. Producers increasingly rely on a combination of on-farm strategies, crop insurance, marketing contracts, government programs, and longer-term planning tools.
Participation in the Federal Crop Insurance Program has remained relatively steady since 2005, but usage has increased among very large farms while declining among smaller operations. Government payments tied to programs like Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), Price Loss Coverage (PLC), and Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) reached fewer than 15 percent of farms in most years.
Succession planning remains another weak spot. Fewer than one-third of producers had a formal succession plan in place by 2019, though adoption increased over time and was more common on larger farms.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Diversified risk tools help protect farm income.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch explains the importance of timely enrollment, and how the program helps dairy producers safeguard their operations against volatile milk markets.
February 26, 2026 02:25 PM
·
National FFA Annual Fund Manager Kimberly Coveney encouraged everyone watching to join the effort today and help celebrate Give FFA Day while investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
February 26, 2026 02:04 PM
·
Tennessee FFA officers join us in the RFD-TV Studios to showcase student leadership and inspire support for agricultural education on Give FFA Day 2026.
February 26, 2026 01:30 PM
·
National FFA President Trey Myers shares the significance of Give FFA Day, its role in supporting student growth, and how communities can join the celebration to make a difference for future agricultural leaders.
February 26, 2026 01:19 PM
·
The Ranger Road Fire is fully contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres. Ranchers face significant cattle and fence losses, with recovery efforts underway.
February 26, 2026 01:04 PM
·
National FFA Organization CEO Scott Stump shares the importance of Give FFA Day, how contributions support students, and why today is an opportunity for everyone to help invest in the future of agriculture.
February 26, 2026 12:33 PM
·
