US farmers rely on old machinery amid economic pressure

American farmers are increasingly relying on decades-old machinery to navigate a challenging agricultural economy. High costs for fertilizer and fuel, combined with historic highs in equipment prices, are making it difficult for many producers to turn a profit.

In Michigan, sixth-generation farmer Dennis Kellogg of Kellogg Family Farms utilizes salvaged parts and scrap-priced equipment to avoid the high costs of new machinery, which can range from $40,000 to $50,000 for single pieces. This trend is reflected in broader market data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, which shows combine sales dropped 50 percent compared to the previous year and tractor sales fell by 20 percent.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that farm income will decline this year, prompting many farmers to tighten budgets and maintain cash reserves in anticipation of uncertain harvests.