Ag law experts to discuss bankruptcy rise
The agriculture industry in the US is facing a tough time as farm bankruptcies increased by 55 percent between 2023 and 2024. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, 216 farm bankruptcy cases were reported last year. Rising interest rates and falling net incomes are pushing more farmers to seek financial relief under Chapter 11 and 12 bankruptcies.
To help those involved in agriculture better understand this issue, the 3rd Annual Western Water, Ag, and Environmental Law Conference will take place on June 19-20 in Reno, Nevada. One of the key sessions will be led by Jamie Dreher, a legal expert and partner at Downey Brand LLP. He will present a session titled, “Dealing with Farm Debt in the West: Practical Considerations in Preparing for and Navigating Ag Bankruptcy.”
“Unfortunately, financial distress and bankruptcies have become more common in light of the overall ag economy,” said Jamie Dreher, partner/chair of Litigation at California-based law firm Downey Brand LLP. “The ag industry across the western states and elsewhere is likely to continue facing significant headwinds through the next year, adding to the financial uncertainty.”
The session will cover real-world examples of how farmers, processors, and lenders handle bankruptcy. Topics will include ranch foreclosures, loan enforcement, and security interests in water rights, equipment, and crops.
The event is hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) and the NASDA Foundation. “Downey Brand LLP has been a great friend to the NALC, including being a Founding Supporter of our newsletter, The Feed,” NALC Director Harrison Pittman. “We’re honored Downey Brand will again be a big part of this annual program. Jamie is highly regarded in this area, and particularly adept at walking through these issues in a relevant way even for those who don’t work in this area day-to-day.”
Legal professionals attending the event can earn continuing education credits, including ethics. Registration and details are available at nationalaglawcenter.org/western2025.
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