Farmers Depend on Additional Income to Support Their Families

The Changing Landscape of Farming in Union County, Ohio

Introduction

In Union County, Ohio, the idyllic image of farming is increasingly overshadowed by economic realities. A growing number of farmers are discovering that relying solely on their agricultural operations is no longer sufficient to sustain their families. With rising costs, fluctuating prices, and unpredictable weather patterns, many are turning to off-farm jobs to keep their operations afloat. This article explores the challenges faced by farmers in Union County and the innovative ways they are adapting to survive.

Defining the Modern Farm

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines a farm as any operation that sells more than $1,000 worth of agricultural products in a year. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of agricultural activities, from small family farms to large commercial operations. However, the latest USDA data reveals a striking trend: in 2023, a staggering 96% of farm households earned income from sources other than their farming activities. This statistic underscores the financial pressures that many farmers face today.

The Reality of Dual Income

Ron Burns, a lifelong farmer in Union County, epitomizes this trend. He and his wife manage a diverse operation that includes cattle, corn, wheat, beans, and hay. “It’s organized chaos,” Burns describes his daily life on the farm. Yet, despite his dedication to agriculture, Burns also works as a crop consultant, balancing his time between his family’s farm and his consulting duties.

“As the season progresses with the stages of the corn, we’ll go out and scout all that and make sure it has the right nutrients at the right time,” he explains. This dual role not only helps him manage the farm more effectively but also provides a crucial financial buffer against the uncertainties of farming.

The Need for Off-Farm Income

The necessity for off-farm income is not merely a personal choice for many farmers; it has become a survival strategy. Rising operational costs, coupled with fluctuating market prices and the unpredictability of weather, have made it increasingly difficult for farmers to rely solely on their agricultural income. The additional income from off-farm jobs often provides essential benefits, such as health insurance, which are not always available through farming alone.

Jared Grant, an assistant professor at the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics at Ohio State University, emphasizes that having a secondary job does not reflect poorly on a farmer’s abilities. “It just could mean this is what’s going on this year—low yield, factors you can’t control,” he explains. For many, off-farm work serves as a safety net, allowing them to navigate the ups and downs of agricultural life.

Balancing Act: Farming and Full-Time Work

For farmers like Burns, the challenge lies in balancing the demands of full-time work with the responsibilities of running a farm. “It’s a time commitment,” he acknowledges. “Trying to do that balance with full-time and then also farming part-time, and family balance.” This juggling act requires careful planning and prioritization, as farmers strive to maintain their operations while also providing for their families.

Despite the challenges, Burns remains committed to his dual roles. “The goal has always been the same. The purpose is just to keep growing a better operation for myself and for my family who has given me the opportunity to get started,” he reflects. This dedication to both farming and family underscores the resilience of farmers in Union County.

Conclusion

The landscape of farming in Union County, Ohio, is evolving. As economic pressures mount, farmers are increasingly seeking off-farm employment to sustain their livelihoods. While this shift presents challenges, it also highlights the adaptability and determination of those who work the land. Farmers like Ron Burns exemplify the spirit of resilience, balancing their passion for agriculture with the realities of modern life. As they navigate this complex landscape, their stories serve as a testament to the enduring connection between farming and community in Union County.