2025 State Averages Presentation

Harvest is a good time to take a hard look at what this year’s crop actually cost, from equipment and repairs to labor, debt and other operating expenses. Before committing to next year’s inputs and investments, make sure every dollar spent has a clear purpose and contributes to the operation’s bottom line, by Leah Maertens.

When the person who knows the farm inside and out is suddenly unavailable, even routine decisions can become difficult. An emergency farm binder can help keep the operation running by putting essential contacts, financial information, farm responsibilities and key records in one accessible place, by Morgan Stutrud

Retirement planning is often overlooked in agriculture, but preparing for the future is just as important as managing today’s operation. Taking time to understand retirement savings options can help build long term financial security and provide greater peace of mind in the years ahead, by Jason Fewell

The International Year of the Woman Farmer celebrates the women whose leadership, hard work, and expertise help farms and rural communities thrive. From managing operations and making business decisions to caring for livestock and raising families, women play a vital role in agriculture every day. Strong farms depend on strong women, by Morgan Stutrud.

Farm succession planning is more than an estate decision — it directly impacts financial stability, leadership development, and the future of the operation. Delaying these conversations can create costly uncertainty and family tension, while early planning helps strengthen both the farm and the family behind it, by Linda Burbidge.

North Dakota farmers showed resilience in 2025, as strong yields, higher livestock prices, and government support helped push average net farm income to $163,455. Although cash income declined, higher inventory values and steady commodity prices helped keep operations financially stable, by Lynsey Aberle.

Keeping records up to date during the busy season reduces stress and improves accuracy. Tracking finances, inputs, and livestock as they happen helps you make better decisions and stay prepared for the unexpected, by Jason Fewell.

Farm financial stress is real, especially with low prices and rising costs. While it can’t be eliminated, careful planning, knowing your costs, and building working capital can help your operation stay resilient during tough times, by Jason Fewell.

Farmers are getting older, and the question of who takes over is becoming urgent. From those still hanging on to those thinking about stepping away, the decisions made today about protecting and passing on farmland will shape whether it stays productive, stays in the family, or quietly slips away, by Darren Wilcox.

Winter can be especially heavy in rural communities, where work never stops and struggles are often carried in silence. When isolation, stress, and uncertainty pile up, even the strongest people can find it hard to keep going—and asking for help can be a quiet but powerful first step, by Linda Burbidge.