U.S. Farm economy

New economic surveys show rising farm debt, falling equipment sales, and growing financial stress for producers, as wolf programs add costs for western states.

Farm leaders question whether Trump’s tariffs are helping or hurting U.S. farmers as rising input costs and global competition reshape agriculture and trade.

Farm News & Views reports falling snowpack in southwest Colorado river basins and growing strain on U.S. farmers from low crop prices, high costs, and trade impacts.

Farm News & Views examines USDA staffing losses, rising production costs, global market shifts, and trade challenges shaping agriculture in 2026.

In this week’s Farm News & Views Report, Bob Bragg discusses backlash from U.S. beef producers after former President Donald Trump announced plans to loan Argentina $40 billion in exchange for Argentine beef imports aimed at lowering U.S. beef prices. Ranchers and industry experts warn the proposal could harm domestic producers, poses potential animal health risks, and is unlikely to provide meaningful relief to consumers.

Farm organizations are warning that America’s agricultural economy is sliding toward crisis levels reminiscent of the 1980s, as low crop prices, high input costs, and ongoing trade disputes squeeze producers. The American Farm Bureau Federation has urged federal leaders to authorize bridge payments and enact long-term solutions to stabilize farm incomes, while analysts note that diversified farms and livestock producers are faring better thanks to strong markets.

Over half of ag economists say U.S. row crops face recession, while Congress stalls on a new farm bill and USDA plans to close key research facilities.

Beef prices climb, farm bankruptcies rise, and tariff threats loom as the U.S. nominates a new Chief Agricultural Negotiator.

Amid rising input costs, trade tensions, and extreme weather, U.S. farmers—especially older producers—are facing mounting debt, mental health strain, and record-low incomes.

U.S. farmers face uncertainty as tariffs disrupt agricultural markets. With global competition growing, experts warn that trade policies may harm the U.S. ag economy.