Minnesota farm operations had the lowest median income in at least 23 years last year, and University of Minnesota researchers say it likely was the worst year for farmers since the early 1980s. Extension Ag Economist Dale Nordquist:

Over-production and trade issues hit dairy farmers especially hard, forcing many to sell their herds. Low profits continued for beef producers, and pork producers also had a tough 2018, with average income less than a third of the year before. U-of-M researchers say crop producers also struggled with weather, prices and trade issues. Median income was up slightly from 2017 but still at historically low levels.