1、1 ERSs 2008 farm sector income forecast, last updated on August 28, 2008, is available at theFarm Income and Costs Briefing Room, at http:/www.ers.usda.gov/Briefing/FarmIncome/nationalestimates.htm. Order Code RS21970Updated September 2, 2008The U.S. Farm EconomyRandy SchnepfSpecialist in Agricultur
2、al PolicyResources, Science, and Industry DivisionSummaryAccording to USDAs Economic Research Service (ERS), national net farmincome a key indicator of U.S. farm well-being is expected to rise to a record$95.7 billion in 2008, over 10% above the previous years record ($86.8 billion) on thestrength o
3、f higher commodity prices, which are being driven by the outlook forcontinued strong domestic and international demand and sharply lower stocks for majorgrains and oilseeds.1 Consequently, the outlook for the U.S. farm economy as a wholeis for another year of record profitability as projected record
4、 agricultural cash receiptsof $335.8 billion (up $51 billion or 18%) more than offset a $40.4 billion jump inproduction expenses to a record high of $294.8 billion. Government payments areprojected up slightly in 2008 at $13.2 billion. An increase in ad hoc and emergencyprogram payments are expected