Farmer sentiment weakened in September as rising production costs continued to pressure the agricultural economy. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell 12 points from August to a reading of 123. The Index of Current Conditions dropped 18 points, while the Index of Future Expectations declined nine points.

For the first time since July, more farmers said they expect their financial situation to worsen over the next year than improve. Thirty-five percent expect to be worse off, compared with 22 percent who anticipate improvement. Higher input costs remain the biggest concern, cited by a record 52 percent of respondents.

The Farm Financial Performance Index also fell, while the Capital Investment Index dropped six points. One bright spot was farmland, with long-term farmland value expectations reaching a record-high index reading of 168.

By: NATHAN STUEDLEFarmer sentiment weakened in September as rising production costs continued to pressure the agricultural economy. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell 12 points from August to a reading of 123. The Index of Current Conditions dropped 18 points, while the Index of Future Expectations declined nine points.For the first time since July, more farmers said they expect their financial situation to worsen over the next year than improve. Thirty-five percent expect to be worse off, compared with 22 percent who anticipate improvement. Higher input costs remain the biggest concern, cited by a record 52 percent of respondents.The Farm Financial Performance Index also fell, while the Capital Investment Index dropped six points. One bright spot was farmland, with long-term farmland value expectations reaching a record-high index reading of 168.

Farmer sentiment falls in September