That's a substantial difference, and one that many people just can't afford. Stierwalt said this situation plagues farmers nationwide. You need it for a successful crop, but you can't afford to buy it. Livestock is still the primary user of grain, and if there is any more of a drop in consumption or exporting the results could be devastating. If Europeans have to keep slaughtering hogs, cattle and sheep, they won't need to import grain on the same scale they do now.
Agricultural revenue makes up a large part of the U.S. economy.
When something impacts farm production, it is felt in more than the farmer's pockets, Hesterberg said. The government is smart enough to know that if farming goes down the tubes, the whole economy goes down the tubes. There are several programs and options besides the government subsidies to ensure farmers make it each year. Crop and hail insurance have made sure farmers can rest a little easier when a year goes bad. Every decision you make has that much more impact.