In a year marked by a lot of uncertainties, many Wisconsin farmers are wondering what’s next. Behind the scenes, agricultural lenders are working closely with producers—not just to manage risk, but to help guide long-term success. One of those voices is Nicholas Felder, vice chair of the ag bankers section board, who’s seeing both concern and quiet confidence among his clients in Southwest Wisconsin.

Lenders are watching for key traits in borrowers. “The farms with an executive mindset—handling HR, finances, equipment choices—those are the ones that survive long term,” he emphasized.

Some sectors are faring better than others. “Dairy had an average year in 2024. But 2025 will be tougher. Crop farmers will face another rough season,” Felder shared. “Cattle producers are doing okay—if the math adds up.”

Across the board, producers are feeling uncertain. “There’s a lot of pessimism in agriculture right now,” Felder said. “No one knows what’s coming next—six weeks or six months out.”