Rice
Louisiana estimates the storm caused $112 billion in agricultural losses and widespread damage to farm infrastructure.
USDA says farmers and landowners have until Aug. 31 to review or dispute newly assigned base acres that could expand eligibility for farm safety net programs.
Farm leaders say rising costs and weak prices are forcing producers to reduce rice plantings.
Solid yields are providing some relief as one operation prepares to pass the farm to the next generation.
Harvest is underway, but producers say profitability remains a challenge.
USDA projects the smallest U.S. rice crop since 1987 as acreage continues to decline.
University of Illinois researchers say loss ratios and indemnity patterns remained consistent with previous years.
Southern rice plantings have fallen sharply, pushing total U.S. rice acreage to its lowest level since 1972.
Brooke Miller is carrying on three generations of farming while building an operation of her own.
Farm financial stress can affect more than a balance sheet when markets weaken, and costs stay high. A 2026 Southern Extension Committee update says many operations are cutting expenses, restructuring debt, and seeking additional income.