DTN Poll Finds Increase in Farmer Confidence

A poll by DTN-The Progressive Farmer shows confidence by farmers has increased steadly since December.  The Agricultural Confidence Index for spring 2017 scored 130 overall, which DTN calls a significant improvement from the mostly neutral 98 for the December survey, and a complete flip from the pessimistic 75 score produced in spring 2016.  The survey, conducted three times a year, determines farmers’ opinions about their current economic situation and about that situation in the year to come.

The current conditions index within the survey was a pessimistic 70, but the index on future prospects was a record high 163.6, resulting in the overall score of 130.  Researcher Robert Hill says questions asked in the survey are specific to income expectations, costs of inputs, and overall business conditions.  Farmers are not asked about political, regulatory or other non-revenue-related issues.

Agribusinesses showed a more subdued optimism. Business owners rated their current prospects at a mostly neutral 96.6, with future expectations slightly more optimistic at 119.3. The next Ag Confidence Index will be conducted just before harvest this year.

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