By Jamie Martin
The 1990 Farm Bill introduced planting flexibility, allowing farmers to make planting decisions based on market conditions rather than government programs. The 1996 Farm Bill further expanded this policy, making all base acres eligible for flexible planting. This shift significantly impacted corn, soybean, and wheat production across the U.S.
Since 1990, U.S. corn and soybean acres have increased by 14.8 million and 26.3 million, respectively, while wheat acres have declined at nearly the same rate as soybean expansion.
The ethanol boom from 2005 to 2015 contributed to the rise in corn acres, but long-term trends in planting remained steady. Despite fluctuating demand, the expansion of corn and soybeans has been consistent.
At the state level, Kansas recorded the highest increase in corn acres, with the top five states accounting for 82% of the national growth. The increase in soybean acres was more evenly distributed across states, while wheat acres declined across all major wheat-producing states.
Geographically, corn acres have shifted more westward, while soybean production has moved north. The decline in wheat acres is more closely linked to the increase in corn acres than soybeans, indicating that former wheat fields were primarily converted to corn production.
“This first 65 acres will be world-beating in the quality and quantity of fresh produce it will grow, all close to the end consumer,” said Andy Allen, Co-founder of Oasthouse Ventures.
The ability to adjust planting decisions has made U.S. agriculture more adaptable and responsive to economic shifts. The ongoing changes in planting trends will continue to shape the future of U.S. crop production.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: National