RealAgristudies: 75% of Farmers Say 2026 Will Be Riskier Season Than Last Year

Real Ag’s Shaun Haney explains how farmers are approaching risk management and the steps they’re taking to strengthen profitability through better financial planning.

2026BrandGuidep45-AerialViewHouseInAutumnWoods_clay-banks-2flbLB0-2f0-unsplash_1920x1080.jpg

ALBERTA, CANADA (RFD NEWS) — New research from Real Ag Studies shows growing interest among farmers and ranchers in boosting profitability through improved financial decision-making.

Shaun Haney, host of Real Ag Radio, joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the findings.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Haney explained that 75% of farmers surveyed believe 2026 will be a riskier season than last year, citing economic pressures and market uncertainty as key drivers of concern.

The survey also asked farmers whether improving financial decision-making is more important than technology adoption or government programs. Haney shared that a majority of respondents prioritized financial strategy, and he highlighted differences in responses among various farm types and regions.

With strong prospects for corn and soybean markets this year, these insights suggest farmers are looking to combine sound financial planning with favorable commodity opportunities to navigate risk and maximize profitability.

Related Stories
China may no longer serve as a consistent anchor market for U.S. cotton exports. Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the factors influencing planting decisions, river conditions, and what producers are considering as they finalize acreage plans for the season.
Falling commodity prices and rising costs continue to squeeze farm margins. Kip Jacobs with The Mosaic Company addresses fertilizer market pressures, nutrient use efficiency, and strategies growers can consider to protect their fertilizer investment this season.
Weather Swings Shape Early Season Farm Conditions Nationwide
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.
Be sure to catch Kim Collingsworth on Gaither Gospel Hour’s new special, “His Gift, My Story,” tonight, Friday, Feb. 27, at 6 p.m. ET, on RFD Network and streaming on RFD+
Colorado Congressman Jeff Hurd joins Champions of Rural America to share insights into the Western Caucus legislative priorities as they champion wildfire prevention and mitigation in the West.
Britt Hilton with the Oklahoma Farm Bureau joined us to discuss current conditions, producer impacts, and the road to recovery following the Ranger Road Fire.
National FFA Southern Region Vice President T. Wayne William talks about Wear Blue Day, the history of the blue jacket, and why the tradition continues to inspire pride and connection among FFA members nationwide.
The closure of Lubbock Feeders highlights mounting pressure on the U.S. cattle supply, according to the Texas Cattle Feeders Association, as border restrictions and costs strain feedyards.