What question did this study set out to answer?

This article aims to address the ongoing farm crisis in the 1990s and improve support for struggling farm families.

May 28, 2026

The On-Going Farm Crisis: Extension Leadership in Rural Communities

Key Points

This article aims to address the ongoing farm crisis in the 1990s and improve support for struggling farm families.
Survey data from Wisconsin farm families was collected to understand the impact of the farm crisis.
Interventions for Extension agents were outlined to enhance their engagement with farmers.
Focus on addressing misconceptions about Extension's support targeting only successful farmers.
Identified specific needs of farm families affected by the ongoing farm crisis.
Outlined effective strategies for Extension agents to connect with a broader spectrum of farmers.
Provided evidence-based recommendations to enhance the support of rural communities.

Abstract

While much has been written about the farm crisis of the 1980s, very little attention has been given to the on-going farm crisis of the 1990s. This article focuses on the on-going farm crisis, highlights data from a survey of Wisconsin farm families, and outlines interventions that will help Extension agents address the situation. The interventions outlined in the article can help Extension agents overcome the perception that Extension only works with the most successful farmers in the county.

Mark Helpful

Bookmark

Relay