Minnesota lost about 1,300 farms between 2024 and 2025, reflecting broader financial pressure facing U.S. agriculture, according to new federal data.
A report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows the number of farms in the state fell from roughly 65,300 in 2024 to about 64,000 in 2025, as farmers grappled with rising costs and weak commodity prices. Producers and farm groups say the decline is the result of years of financial strain rather than a single poor season. KAAL-TV reports farm bankruptcies nationwide rose about 46% in 2025, adding to concerns about the long-term viability of some operations.
Farmers say many are selling crops below breakeven levels, forcing difficult decisions about whether to continue operating. Industry leaders note that some farms are closing as operators retire or consolidate operations, while advances in technology allow fewer producers to farm larger acreages.
Federal officials have introduced assistance programs aimed at helping farmers manage short-term financial stress, but many producers say stronger domestic demand and stable markets will be critical to sustaining the next generation of farms.
NAFB news service
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