Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, providing food, fiber, and renewable fuel that the country depends on. Across the nation, farmers and ranchers rise early, working tirelessly to ensure that the food supply remains secure and the economy stays strong. This hard work continues from dawn until dusk, with long hours and physical labor that many people in other industries rarely experience. Despite the challenges, farmers are unwavering, knowing that their efforts are essential to maintaining the country’s food security and supporting economic growth.
The importance of agriculture in the U.S. economy cannot be overstated. According to recent reports, while fewer than 2% of Americans are directly involved in farming, the impact of agriculture spans much further, affecting the lives of every American. The agriculture supply chain, which stretches from the manufacturers of agricultural equipment to grocery stores, plays a critical role in the nation’s economy. In 2024, the direct and indirect economic impact of agriculture reached a staggering $9.5 trillion, or about one-third of the U.S. economy. To put this in perspective, if the agricultural supply chain were a separate nation, it would be the third-largest economy in the world.
This economic strength also creates millions of jobs. The food and agriculture supply chain employed more than 24 million people in 2024, representing 15% of the U.S. workforce. When factoring in jobs supported by agriculture, such as those in research, engineering, and transportation, this number nearly doubles to over 47 million jobs. These figures highlight the far-reaching impact of agriculture on employment in the U.S., underscoring how essential farming and ranching are to the overall economic structure.
However, farmers and ranchers face numerous challenges that threaten the stability of the agriculture sector. One of the biggest hurdles is the unpredictability of yields. While a good season or even several years of good seasons may provide some financial security, farmers know that success is never guaranteed. Events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent egg shortage have provided clear reminders of how fragile the agricultural supply chain can be. During times of crisis, grocery store shelves can empty, and food prices can skyrocket, affecting consumers across the nation.
Additionally, inflation, rising labor costs, and outdated policies create immense pressures on farmers, who often operate on slim margins. Many farmers struggle to stay afloat, and some are unable to continue their operations. Farm bankruptcies saw a sharp increase of 55% from 2023 to 2024, and between 2017 and 2022, more than 141,000 farms went out of business. These figures highlight the economic strain faced by farmers and the difficulties that the agricultural sector continues to navigate.
Despite these challenges, there is a concerted effort to strengthen American agriculture and ensure that it remains a resilient pillar of the economy. Many organizations and industry leaders are working closely with lawmakers to address the issues that farmers face, advocating for policies that will provide relief and long-term support. There is a collective understanding that agriculture is too important to take for granted, and that every effort must be made to protect the people who feed and fuel the nation.
As the country moves forward, it is crucial to remember the vital role that farmers and ranchers play in sustaining both the food supply and the economy. Their hard work is the foundation of an industry that supports millions of jobs and contributes trillions of dollars to the U.S. economy. Strengthening the agricultural sector will ensure that it continues to thrive and meet the needs of Americans for generations to come.
