The Census of Agriculture provides a wealth of data on the state of the industry. Economists with NASS recently took a look at farm topology, peeling back the layers of each operation.
“The farm topology sort of slices this up by looking at what’s called the gross cash farm income. Under value production, that farm produces many, many dollars in value production. But the part that comes back to the farmer is just the fee he receives. Cash farm income and the farm topology just count the part that the farmer gets for his fee. Value production counts everything that came off the farm,” said Joseph Parsons.
Economists uncovered that producers on small farms tend to be new to the profession and have served in the military, and they also likely rely on off-farm work to get by. They also discovered that farming has become a retirement plan, with many new small farmers over the age of 65.
Global fiber demand is growing, but cotton producers benefit only when cotton gains value and competes for market share.
Dr. Phillip Kaufman discussed sterile fly releases, release zone adjustments and steps producers can take to protect livestock.
As Special Envoy for American Landowners, John Rich will serve as a leading advocate for America’s farmers, ranchers, and private landowners, helping ensure their concerns are heard and their rights are protected.
Senate Western Caucus Chairman Sen. Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming joins us to discuss public lands grazing, New World screwworm response efforts, Western Caucus priorities, and policy supporting the future of rural America.
Industry estimates suggest approximately 500 million sterile flies per week may be required to fully eradicate the pest.
USDA raised exports by $2.5 billion from February, while imports are forecast at $205.5 billion. The resulting $29 billion agricultural trade deficit remains a reminder that higher shipments alone do not resolve trade pressure.
