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 critical challenges facing U.S. agriculture as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
The report highlights the evolution of American corn farming from 1776 to the present, noting a dramatic decrease in the agricultural workforce from 90-95% of the population to just 1.3% today. Despite this, farmers continue to produce essential food, fuel, and fiber. The report warns of economic pressures such as consolidation, rising input costs, volatile markets, and limited competition that threaten the viability of farm operations. NCGA President Jed Bower emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent the loss of farms and the communities they support.
Why It's Important?
The report's findings are significant as they highlight the precarious state of U.S. agriculture, a sector foundational to the nation's economy and cultural heritage. With only 43% of farmers having a family successor, the future of many farm operations is uncertain. The reliance on off-farm income by 96% of farm households further underscores the economic challenges faced by farmers. The NCGA calls for bold actions to expand demand, modernize regulations, and reduce market concentration to ensure the sustainability of the agricultural sector. The outcome of these efforts will have far-reaching implications for food security, rural economies, and the preservation of agricultural traditions.
What's Next?
The NCGA plans to continue its advocacy efforts in Washington and explore new market opportunities outside traditional policy frameworks. The association intends to release further insights on emerging demand pathways critical to future farm profitability. These efforts aim to address the economic pressures identified in the report and secure a sustainable future for American agriculture.
