US farming efficiency achieves new heights since '48

Mar 06, 2024

By Farms.com

The landscape of US agriculture has undergone a remarkable transformation since 1948, with farm output nearly tripling by 2021. This extraordinary growth, documented in a report by the US Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service (USDA ERS), highlights the critical role of technological and genetic innovations in achieving unprecedented levels of productivity and efficiency.

With an average annual productivity growth of 1.46% over 73 years, the US agricultural sector has benefited from a decrease in overall input usage by 2.0%, underscoring an increase in production efficiency rather than merely an increase in resource utilization. Advancements in crop genetics, chemical applications, and farming equipment have been instrumental in this development, along with improvements in farm organization.

The concept of total factor productivity (TFP) has been key in measuring these achievements. TFP accounts for the output produced from all inputs, reflecting the industry's success in enhancing production efficiency and quality.

The report credits a combination of on-farm innovations, structural changes in the farm sector, and focused research efforts for the sustained growth in agricultural productivity. Despite challenges posed by variables such as weather, the USDA ERS report affirms the positive trajectory of US agriculture, driven by continuous innovation and an unwavering commitment to efficiency and sustainability.

This narrative of growth and innovation serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the US agricultural sector, showcasing its vital contribution to the economy and its pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for global agriculture.

Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.