OMAHA, NE, July, 2025. AgCountry Farm Credit Services (AgCountry), Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica), and Frontier Farm Credit recently released a joint sustainability report, designed to be a resource for sound decision-making for those interested in the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. The data-rich report includes results from a 300-producer survey from fifteen states conducted to better understand what sustainability practices are currently being implemented, what barriers exist that prevent adoption, and what types of financial partnerships are needed in this space. The report also highlights adoption practices of producers from across the Midwest and High Plains.
Among the findings detailed in the report, 84% responded that tillage practices to minimize disturbance are part of their operation, 76% utilize precision equipment or technology to increase efficiency, and 75% engage in soil erosion and nutrient runoff reduction practices. Most reported long-standing practices that delivered multiple benefits including cost savings, operational efficiency and greater yield.
Producers also indicated general satisfaction with their lenders when it came to supporting sustainable practices, but more is needed. “There is a growing understanding of the financial risks producers bear when they make changes on their farm or ranch,” said Mark Jensen, president and CEO of the collaborating associations. “We are part of the efforts to make those risks more manageable, reward producers for their efforts, and remove financial barriers for those who choose to engage with the practices.”
Highlights in the report include stories from customer-owners who have utilized innovation to improve sustainability outcomes. One such story is Bestifor Farms in Belleville, Kansas where annual rainfall is about 28 inches, making water management crucial. The company’s CEO, Chase Larson, developed VandWater which is a software platform used to monitor and manage water usage from every well, ensuring compliance with water rights permits. Despite using the same amount of water, his innovative approach has increased crop yields, demonstrating efficient irrigation practices. “Water is my most precious resource,” said Larson. “I start with how much water I have and then I work backwards and determine my crop, plant population, fertilizer, etc.”
Partner Voices
Building strong partnerships is essential in achieving the goal of providing farmers and ranchers with the resources they need to succeed in their sustainability efforts. Partnerships with the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) and Farmers for Soil Health (FSH) are among those detailed in the report.
“Our sustainability program has grown each year, as have the opportunities and demands to do more as an agricultural industry,” said Myriah Johnson, vice president corporate sustainability for the collaborating associations. “The sustainability space continues to evolve quickly. Whether it’s through our industry partnerships, conducting survey work, or removing barriers, we’re helping producers break through the noise to make informed, financially viable decisions that are right for them.”
To download the full report, visit Sustainable Agriculture | FCSAmerica
