As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, the National Corn Growers Association has released a sweeping new report illustrating how far American agriculture has come — and how urgently action is needed to secure its future.
The report, America’s Crop at Risk: The Future of Corn and Family Farms, highlights that the nation’s semiquincentennial is not only a historic milestone but also a critical turning point for U.S. corn growers facing economic pressures unlike any seen in generations.
“As we celebrate 250 years of American resilience and innovation, we must confront the reality that our farmers — who built this nation’s economic foundation — are in jeopardy,” said Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower. “This report makes clear that we are entering one of the most consequential periods in modern agriculture. If we fail to act now, America risks losing not just farms, but the communities, values, and economic strength that agriculture has anchored since the country’s founding.”
The report traces the evolution of American corn farming from 1776 to today. Once, 90–95 percent of the U.S. population worked in agriculture; today, just 1.3 percent of Americans farm, even as they continue to produce the food, fuel and fiber that support the entire nation. At the same time, consolidation, rising input costs, volatile markets, and limited competition have accelerated pressures on farm operations.
“This 250th anniversary should be a moment of pride — but also reflection,” said Krista Swanson, NCGA Chief Economist. “Farmers have achieved extraordinary gains over two and a half centuries. But productivity doesn’t necessarily equal profitability — not in today’s environment. That is why 2026 represents a pivotal moment. The decisions we make now will shape whether the next 250 years include a thriving American farm sector.”
Generational continuity — a defining tradition of American agriculture — is also at risk. In a survey recently conducted by NCGA, only 43 percent of farmers report having a family successor in place, leaving more than half of farm operations facing uncertain futures. With 96 percent of farm households relying on off‑farm income and nearly two‑thirds holding off‑farm jobs, many growers worry that the next generation may simply not be able to make farming viable.
“America’s farmers are committed to carrying on this legacy — but commitment alone isn’t enough,” Bower emphasized. “As our nation celebrates its 250th year, we must ensure that we don’t lose the very people who made our country strong in the first place.”
The report calls for bold action to expand demand, modernize regulatory structures, reduce market concentration, and foster new opportunities.
NCGA will continue its advocacy in Washington while accelerating efforts to build new markets outside the traditional policy landscape. The association plans to release additional insights in the coming months on emerging demand pathways critical to future farm profitability.
