Agriculture covers more than half of the land area in the Upper Mississippi River Basin states. Culturally, farming has defined the region. But farm economics have changed significantly over the past 50 years due to land value appreciation, major reforms to crop insurance, growth in domestic and global livestock industries and expansion of biofuel production. The result is a homogenous, concentrated and consolidated agricultural landscape dominated by corn and soy production. This report examines the importance of crop diversity to improve the health of our water and climate.
Diversification Barriers and Opportunities for Agriculture in the Upper Mississippi River Basin
January 13, 2021
Declining diversity of production, assets, suppliers and markets is leading to increased economic and environmental risks for farmers and consumers
