American farmers are preparing for notable changes in their crop production plans for the 2026 growing season, according to new data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
The latest planting intentions report reveals that farmers nationwide plan to reduce corn acreage by 3 percent compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, soybean producers are moving in the opposite direction, with intended plantings up 4 percent from 2025 levels.
Wheat growers are also scaling back their operations, with total wheat acreage expected to decline by 3 percent. Cotton farmers, however, are bucking the trend toward reduced plantings, with acreage intentions showing a 4 percent increase over last year’s figures.
These planting decisions reflect farmers’ responses to market conditions, weather patterns, and economic factors that influence crop profitability. The annual prospective plantings report serves as an important indicator for agricultural markets and food supply planning.
