U.S. farm debt has climbed to a record level, and some economists warn the real amount owed by producers may be even higher than government estimates. USDA currently estimates total farm debt at more than 605 billion dollars, more than double the level recorded in 2000. But researchers say traditional surveys may not fully capture financing from equipment manufacturers, agricultural cooperatives, suppliers and financial technology companies.

Those alternative sources of credit have become increasingly important as farmers deal with high input costs, volatile commodity prices and tighter margins. Researchers estimate roughly half of U.S. commercial farms now use some form of vendor financing. USDA researchers are looking at ways to improve debt reporting. Economists say underestimating farm debt could make it harder for policymakers and lenders to recognize financial stress developing across agriculture.

By: NATHAN STUEDLEU.S. farm debt has climbed to a record level, and some economists warn the real amount owed by producers may be even higher than government estimates. USDA currently estimates total farm debt at more than 605 billion dollars, more than double the level recorded in 2000. But researchers say traditional surveys may not fully capture financing from equipment manufacturers, agricultural cooperatives, suppliers and financial technology companies.Those alternative sources of credit have become increasingly important as farmers deal with high input costs, volatile commodity prices and tighter margins. Researchers estimate roughly half of U.S. commercial farms now use some form of vendor financing. USDA researchers are looking at ways to improve debt reporting. Economists say underestimating farm debt could make it harder for policymakers and lenders to recognize financial stress developing across agriculture.

Record farm debt may be higher than USDA estimates