A once-in-a-generation economic crisis in rural America means this year could be the last one for many farmers as Trump-Xi call offers no relief
Two-thirds of farmers said they are more concerned about their financial situation compared to a year agoThe 40th Farm Aid benefit concert is being held on Saturday as the economic outlook for rural America is the gloomiest it’s been in decades.
A survey released by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) on Wednesday showed that 46% believe the U.S. is on the brink of a farm crisis, and another 33% said maybe.
Meanwhile, about two-thirds said they are more concerned about their financial situation compared to a year ago, with 58% postponing equipment purchases, 38% reducing fertilizer applications and 22% looking for more off-farm income.
“These findings point to a once-in-a-generation problem for the agricultural economy,” said NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson said in a statement. “The survey findings suggest that this crisis could have a long reach, affecting every area of the economy, as farmers are less likely to make purchases and will certainly make budget cuts that could affect their local communities.”