Mixed Results: Ag economists are hoping for the best for the year ahead but it may take patience

Some ag analysts do not have the most optimistic outlook for the season ahead. Right now, they are watching several issues but say the bad times will not last forever.

“When you look at the crop sector of U.S. agriculture, we just have to work through these very large supplies. It sometimes takes us a while to do that, and so, even though prices are relatively low right now, in two to three years, we’ll probably be in a situation where crop prices are more similar to the break-even prices. The livestock sector, particularly the beef sector, is going to continue to do strong, and not only in 2025 but probably well into ’26,” said Michael Langemeier.

USDA’s most recent farm income forecast shows profits are set to increase for the first time this year since 2022. However, there is a catch, as those increases are largely due to the assistance package Congress passed late last year, and recently released by Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The Final Grain Stocks Report may be the last key figures we see if a government shutdown halts future updates.
USDA and EPA officials aim to maintain America’s robust food supply while ensuring farmers have access to key resources and crop protection tools.
The campaign is about more than just a digital push; NPB leaders hope it will become a rallying point for the entire industry.
The Senate failed to pass a continuing resolution that had been approved by the House the previous week. They could take it up again today, but it would take seven democrats to end the stalemate.
The USDA is working with 14 different states, including Georgia, to develop and implement block grants to address the unique disaster recovery needs for each state.