(WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA) Farmer sentiment improved modestly last month in February, while future expectations slipped, according to the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. Up by 3 points from January, to a reading of 116, the barometer increase was driven by a stronger assessment of current conditions index which climbed 11 points. The future expectations index slipped by 1 point and fell to its lowest level since September 2024. While approximately 44% of respondents said their farm operations were worse off in February than a year ago, 15% say they plan to reduce the size of their farming operation and over double that amount, 34%, say they have no plans to increase the size of their operation. The February survey also asked farmers how they plan to use Farmer Bridge Assistance Program payments. Nearly half, 47%, said they intend to use the funds to pay down debt, 27% plan to strengthen their working capital, 14% will invest in machinery, and 12% will use for family expenses.
