By Jamie Martin
Corn growers across the United States are raising alarms about the health of the farm economy. A recent survey by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) shows that an overwhelming majority of producers believe the nation is either already in a farm crisis or approaching one.
Conducted by Farm Journal from August 28 to September 10, the survey gathered responses from 1,034 farmers. Results show that 80 percent think the farm economy is in crisis or on the edge of it, with 46 percent warning the country is already on the brink. About 65 percent said they feel more financial pressure now than last year, prompting many to delay equipment purchases, cut fertilizer, and search for off-farm income.
NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr., a farmer from Illinois, called the situation urgent. He urged lawmakers to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025, which would permit nationwide year-round sales of E15, a gasoline blend with 15 percent ethanol.
"Farmers are in a lot of economic pain right now," said Illinois farmer and NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr. "It's a four-alarm fire in the countryside, and we need members of Congress to act fast to remove barriers to markets. Passing legislation for the year-round, nationwide sale of higher blends of ethanol would be an important first step in addressing this problem."
"These findings point to a once-in a generation problem for the agricultural economy," said NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson. "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."
NCGA research shows that full adoption of year-round E15 could add $25.8 billion to U.S. GDP, create 128,000 jobs, and provide a critical outlet for surplus corn.
Corn growers are visiting Capitol Hill this week to highlight their economic concerns and push for swift action on the E15 legislation. NCGA, founded in 1957, represents the interests of more than 500,000 U.S. corn farmers.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-oticki
Categories: National