Arkansas leaders in agriculture are warning farmers across the state of a possible economic crisis with farmers.

Delays in federal relief, rising input costs and increasing debt could cause delays in farmers receiving federal relief funds by Spring 2026.

Farmers around the state are reportedly already losing hundreds of dollars per acre due to the rising prices in vendors.

Der Yang, whose parents own Twin Creek Farm in Logan County, said Arkansas contract chicken growers for Tyson Foods are experiencing the effect of financial struggles with rising costs.

“Many of our seed vendors have increased prices by 10 percent or more, and even our tulip and ranunculus bulbs now carry tariff charges. With higher costs across the board, seeds, irrigation and fuel, we’ve had to narrow what we grow and focus only on 8 to 12 flower varieties instead of 20,” Yang said.

There were federal relief measures in place from the One Big Beautiful Bill that was passed earlier this year, but most of the benefits won’t start until late 2026.

Political leaders such as representative Matthew Brown D-55 say that this long of a delay could have a huge detrimental effect on farmers.

“If relief doesn’t arrive soon, some farmers may have to scale back even more on their produce and other resources. There could also be a rise in taxes that will have a big impact on farmers if financial support is delayed until late next year,” Brown said.

Many young farmers in surrounding areas of Twin Creek Farms are starting to step away from agriculture because of the financial challenges.

“Several young farmers we’ve met at markets or through local networks have either downsized or stepped away completely. The rising cost and uncertainty make it nearly impossible for new growers to stay afloat, especially if they don’t already have another source of income or a paid-off operation to lean on,” Yang said.

Targeted cost-share programs for seeds, irrigation supplies or fuel could potentially ease the burden.

Expanding grants for specialty crops and small producers, or temporary input cost relief funds are what farmers are hoping will come from the state rather than waiting on federal action to stop the crisis.

Brown believes exemptions or credits for farmers could help if the state decides to step in for relief, while federal assistance is still in the works.

“Even state tax credits or exemptions on farm inputs would make a big difference for operations that are trying to keep local food accessible,” Brow said.

Some farmers are considering delaying equipment purchases or to reduce acreage next year if relief doesn’t come anytime soon.

“At the moment, we’re not reducing acreage or delaying purchases, but we constantly evaluate every expense. Each year we ask whether certain crops are worth bringing back. Without some cost relief, that might have to change, especially for the specialty flowers and vegetables that are more expensive to produce,” Yang said.

As discussions continue in Arkansas and in Washington, farmers like Twin Creek Farm are debating each planting and purchasing decision.

For other farmers, the upcoming months will determine not only what will be grown in the fields, but if they can continue to farm in the future.