03.24.26

National Ag Day: Honoring the Farmers Who Keep America Moving Forward

Today, March 24th, marks National Ag Day—a moment to recognize the farmers, ranchers, and producers who power one of America’s most essential industries.

Less than two percent of the population produces the food, fiber, and fuel that sustain the other 98 percent. It’s a remarkable responsibility, and one that America’s farmers continue to meet, day in and day out.

But this year, that recognition comes at a time when farming is anything but easy.

A challenging moment for American agriculture

The latest data from the Modern Ag Alliance’s State of the American Farmer report paints a clear picture: farmers are facing mounting pressure from all sides.

Input costs from seed and fertilizer to fuel and labor remain high. At the same time, commodity prices have dropped significantly in recent years, squeezing already thin margins. Farm bankruptcies have risen sharply, and many farmers are questioning the long-term viability of their operations.

Put simply, farmers are being asked to do more with less while navigating uncertainty that grows by the day.

Farming has never been an easy profession. It requires resilience, long-term planning, and an unwavering commitment to stewardship of both the land and the food system we all depend on.

Modern agriculture reflects that commitment. Today’s farmers rely on crop protection tools to produce more with fewer resources, helping keep food affordable while conserving water, improving soil health, and reducing emissions. 

These tools and practices ensure agriculture remains sustainable, protects our food security, and are the future of farming in America.

Progress made possible by partnership

National Ag Day is also an opportunity to recognize our partners.

The Modern Ag Alliance is proud to work with more than 110 agricultural organizations across the country, farmers, grower groups, agribusinesses, and advocates, who are united by a shared goal: ensuring farmers have access to the tools and policies they need to succeed.

Together, that partnership has already delivered meaningful progress.

Over the past year, we’ve seen landmark legislative victories in states like North Dakota and Georgia, helping reinforce science-based standards and provide greater certainty for farmers. We’ve expanded our coalition, elevated farmers’ voices in statehouses and national media, and strengthened the conversation around what’s at stake for American agriculture. 

Our momentum continues this session where we’ve seen legislation advance in states like Kentucky, Missouri, and Kansas. Those wins are a testament to what’s possible when farmers and their allies speak with a unified voice.

Looking ahead

While we celebrate progress, we know the work is far from finished.

Farmers still face uncertainty—from volatile markets to ongoing policy debates that could impact their access to essential tools. That’s why the Modern Ag Alliance remains focused on advancing commonsense, science-based solutions that support farmers, protect our food supply, and strengthen rural communities.

A simple message this National Ag Day

Today and every day we owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who keep our food system running.

Their work often happens out of sight, but its impact is felt at every kitchen table in America.

This National Ag Day, we celebrate their resilience, their innovation, and their commitment to feeding the nation.

And we recommit ourselves to standing with them.

A collage of social media posts celebrating National Ag Day, featuring farmers, crops, fields, and supportive messages about agriculture and farming. Logos of agricultural organizations are visible on several posts.