What's Happening?
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) has released a report titled 'America’s Crop at Risk: The Future of Corn and Family Farms,' which underscores the significant challenges facing U.S. corn growers. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary,
the report highlights the economic pressures that threaten the sustainability of American agriculture. The NCGA emphasizes that the current period is one of the most consequential in modern agriculture, with issues such as consolidation, rising input costs, and volatile markets exacerbating the difficulties for farmers. The report also notes that only 43% of farmers have a family successor in place, raising concerns about the future of farm operations. The NCGA calls for urgent action to expand demand, modernize regulatory structures, and reduce market concentration to ensure the viability of the farming sector.
Why It's Important?
The report from the NCGA is significant as it highlights the precarious state of the U.S. agricultural sector, particularly for corn growers who are integral to the nation's economy. The challenges outlined in the report, such as market volatility and the lack of generational continuity, could have far-reaching implications for the agricultural industry and rural communities. With 96% of farm households relying on off-farm income, the sustainability of farming as a livelihood is at risk. The NCGA's call for action is crucial to prevent the loss of farms and the economic strength they provide. The report serves as a wake-up call for policymakers and stakeholders to address these issues to secure the future of American agriculture.
What's Next?
The NCGA plans to continue its advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., and aims to build new markets outside the traditional policy landscape. The association intends to release additional insights in the coming months on emerging demand pathways that are critical to future farm profitability. These efforts are expected to focus on expanding demand and creating new opportunities for farmers to ensure the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector. Stakeholders, including policymakers and industry leaders, will need to collaborate to implement the necessary changes to support the farming community.
