The agriculture industry has seen some big changes over the years, and this year promises to bring new trends that could impact your business. We took a look at three buzzworthy trends including tariffs, hemp farming and next generation farmers.

Tariffs

Over the past few years, the U.S. has imposed tariffs on a wide range of products. In retaliation, many countries have imposed tariffs on U.S. products as well, especially agricultural commodities like soybeans, cotton and grains.

In addition to high tariffs, farmers across the country have experienced lower commodity prices and poor weather. Many U.S. farmers depend on the ability to export their crops around the world, but retaliatory tariffs are making their products less competitive. The loss of sales for U.S. commodities is concerning to many U.S. farmers.

Historically, tariffs drive farm income down and increase expenses. As farm loan delinquencies and bankruptcies are rising, congressional efforts such as the Family Farmer Relief Act and the opening of new markets globally will hopefully provide some traction for U.S. farmers in the coming year and reverse the negative trend.

Hemp Farming

The hemp market has grown rapidly in the U.S., largely due to the crop’s low-maintenance nature. Hemp works well as a rotational crop because it helps suppress weeds and decreases insect and plant disease outbreaks. With its widespread root system, hemp may help improve soil conditions by replacing organic matter and providing aeration.

Hemp is an extremely versatile plant, and can be used to make things ranging from building materials to auto parts to personal products. The seeds themselves can be consumed as well, whether ground, dried, or raw. Due to the high demand for hemp and CBD-based products, 2019 saw an increase of 445% in licensed hemp acreage in the U.S.

Most small farm machines can be put to use for hemp cultivation. Skid steer and compact track loaders in particular make great machines for the hemp market, specifically to move potted plants. And with an auger attachment, farmers can use skid steers to plant.

Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp can now be cultivated more widely in the U.S., but growers still face a number of restrictions. In order to produce industrial hemp, the grower must obtain a permit from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Most states allow for cultivation of hemp for commercial, research or pilot programs.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced that hemp famers are eligible for federal crop insurance starting in 2020. Just as recently as August, the Federal Credit Union Administration announced that credit units are allowed to maintain accounts for hemp businesses.