Farmers’ quick planting progress may not lead to more crop acres

Farmers across the U.S. are making good progress in planting, but that does not necessarily mean there will be more crop acres.

In March, USDA found principal crop acres were down around 6 million from last year, which is a nearly 2 percent drop. Analysts with Reuters took a look back at 2015 where planting was also at a quick pace, and they found that crop acres fell by 2.4 percent that year.

Rain in the Corn Belt is expected to slow progress in the near future, and the markets will be looking forward to results of the June survey.

Related Stories
Officials say the tool could give Florida citrus growers another option against a disease that has devastated production for decades.
NCGA President Jed Bower joins us to discuss the House passage of year-round E15 legislation, potential opposition in the Senate, China trade talks, and spring planting progress.
Farmdoc economist estimates 2024 colony stock losses at roughly $175 million, with rebuilding and renovation costs near $161 million.
For dairy producers, that could help support fluid milk use in cafeterias, breakfast programs, and other child nutrition settings.
ASFMRA’s Chad Hertz joins us to discuss farmland trends, economic pressures facing producers, and how outside influences are shaping today’s land market.
“Irresponsible Lending Has No Place in Government Programs,” the U.S. Department of Agriculture said in a press release.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Chad Fiechter joins us to discuss Purdue’s precision ag study, challenges in capturing value from technology, and what farmers should consider when investing in and adopting these tools.
Ethanol demand held together last week, but lower production and thinner stocks put more focus on export strength. Production capacity is also strengthening over time and benefiting soybean farmers.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum discusses USDA’s efforts to expand fertilizer capacity, signals for farm profitability, and AFBF’s Farm Bill expectations.
Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt joins us to discuss House passage of the Farm Bill, its potential impact on farm profitability and stability, key policy compromises, and the outlook for Senate consideration.
The Purdue student team joins us to discuss how they developed Soy-Seal, their innovative soybean-based adhesive tape, and its potential ag impact.
John Mays with Central Life Sciences joins us to discuss the importance of pest management ahead of wheat storage and how protecting grain quality can support stronger marketing opportunities.