Farm Economy Temperature Survey

Lyndi Allen
September 18, 2025

Illinois Farm Economy Faces Pressure from Low Prices and High Costs

Farm Economy Temperature Survey with charts and graphs on climate impact.

At the 2025 Farm Progress Show, IL Corn did a survey on the Farm Economy. This survey showed that Illinois farmers are concerned about their farms and the need for changes in production costs.


Based off 259 Illinois farmers or landlord/ retired farmer

  • 68% say corn and meat product exports are inhibited by current trade climate
  • 83% say there is a long-term growth potential for domestic ethanol use
  • Top areas of concern from the MAHA movement
  • Food regulation
  • Pesticide regulation
  • Human Health
  • Top answers to address low corn prices
  • More exports
  • Increased ethanol use
  • Lower input costs


The findings come as farmers face the largest three-year decline in net cash receipts in history because of declining crop farm profitability associated with lower prices and elevated input costs. Policy action is becoming urgent to expand ethanol blends, improve market access, and address high input costs.


On top of that, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is projecting record crops this year. Despite demand forecast at a record level, it still trails production, and any reduction could further drive down corn prices. 


This past week, IL Corn used these findings to show lawmakers how Illinois farmers are feeling about the farm economy. 

Cliff Lane with Tara
By Tara Desmond October 2, 2025
While harvesting Cliff talks about his operation and conservation practices
Maren outside Franklin, IL
By Tara Desmond October 2, 2025
Maren, from Norway, tells her story about becoming an exchange student to a Franklin, Illinois family - the Thompsons
farmers in dc
By Tara Desmond October 2, 2025
An Illinois farmer - Lance -- tells the story of his experience in IL Corn's GROW Program.
U.S. Capitol Building with cloudy sky overhead.
By Lyndi Allen October 1, 2025
When the federal government shuts down, farmers feel the effects in their fields, finances, and futures. Government programs through the USDA can hurt farmers when not operating.
Dan Parker, Gabriel Mendoza: Consul for Economic and Cultural Affairs, Ambassador Reyna Torres: Cons
By Lyndi Allen October 1, 2025
Last week, IL Corn leaders Art Bunting and Dan Parker attended a series of trade meetings in Chicago that focused on trade relationships and the importance of agricultural exports.
Assortment of packaged food products arranged in front of a cornfield background.
By Lyndi Allen October 1, 2025
What the Make America Healthy Again Commission means for Agriculture in regards to pesticides, crop inputs, and high-fructose corn syrup
Show More