By Scout Nelson
Nebraska Farm Business, Inc. (NFBI) has released a preview of its 2024 farm financial data, offering insights into the state’s agricultural economy. While net farm income nearly doubled to $85,471 from 2023’s $38,005, it remains well below the 2021 peak of over $500,000.
Despite income changes, average family living expenses held steady around $112,000, showing consistent household management. However, financial strain is increasing as farm debt rose by 15%, with current liabilities up significantly. Total liabilities now match gross accrual income — a shift from 10 years ago when they were only 83%.
Liquidity is also tightening. The working capital to income ratio dropped from 42.4% to 32%, the largest single-year decline recorded. Current liabilities are rising, and tighter credit conditions may add more pressure.
Interest expenses climbed as well, adding $15,247 on average. Irrigated corn producers saw a $12.63 per-acre rise in operating interest costs, straining already thin profit margins.
Farmers appear cautious in their spending. Equipment purchases declined, while land acquisitions rose, suggesting long-term investment priorities even with tighter cash flow.
Crop enterprise results were disappointing. Irrigated corn suffered a $94.44 per-acre revenue drop. Despite input savings, per-acre net losses rose by $24.29. Soybeans faced worse losses, with revenue falling $152.83 per acre. Fertilizer savings and ECAP payments helped, but average losses still increased by $79.20 per acre.
One area of strength came from cattle. Net returns per cow averaged $588.96. Though slightly down from last year, cattle production remains a profitable and stable segment of Nebraska agriculture.
Photo Credit:pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Government & Policy, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle