Farm Futures Survey Reveals Potential Grain Acre Shifts in 2025

A recent survey by Farm Futures magazine indicates U.S. farmers may increase planted grain acres this year, despite facing low prices. The survey, conducted in late December, highlights evolving planting intentions influenced by a corn market rally and economic uncertainty.

More than 700 farmers responded to the survey, with results showing a slight increase in planned corn acreage and a notable rise in soybean plantings. However, over half of the respondents reported no changes to their crop mix, underscoring a cautious approach amid market volatility.

“In light of the corn market’s rally to six-month highs in late 2024 and early 2025, it makes sense that many farmers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and other top-producing states plan to ramp up corn plantings this year,” Farm Futures Senior Editor Bruce Blythe said.

Key Factors Impacting 2025 Planting Plans

Two major variables could reshape planting decisions before the spring season:

• Soybean Futures Prices: "A key question for the grain markets in coming months is whether soybean acres increase or decrease, given the outlook for heavy global supplies and weak prices," Blythe noted.
• U.S. Trade and Farm Policy: "Farmers will have some time to react to the incoming Trump Administration, weather patterns, price trends and much more before planters start to roll this spring,” Senior Editor Ben Potter explained.

Farmers Cautious Amid Economic Pressures

Respondents expressed concerns about prices and the need for stronger farm policies. Nearly 300 write-in comments emphasized the demand for price protection, crop insurance and a better safety net in the Farm Bill.

Farmers are also holding back on marketing activity, waiting for more favorable prices:

• Nearly half (48%) of 2024 corn and soybean crops remain unsold.
• Some respondents are still storing grain from 2023, including 8% of corn, 5% of soybeans and 3% of wheat production.

Despite the challenges, farmers seize profit opportunities when they arise:

• Around 40% reported hedging crops two or more years before harvest.
• However, only 7% believe they’ve forward priced enough 2025 production to ensure profitability.

Future Surveys to Refine Predictions

The survey also hints at flexibility in planting plans. One respondent noted the importance of staying adaptable: “Make possible in-season changes closer to planting time.”

Farm Futures plans to survey farmers again in March to track evolving intentions and provide insights into the upcoming planting season.