Farmers' positive sentiment towards the future spiked following the November election according to the latest Purdue University Ag Economy Barometer. That’s despite President-elect Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs that in the past have hurt farmers.

State fairs can spread viruses from animals to humans. With bird flu found in cows for the first time ever, some experts advise caution.

For the third year in a row, Indiana farmers have set a record for the most acres of cover crops planted — more than 1.7 million acres. Cover crops are planted to keep the soil from eroding away — which can pollute Indiana’s streams and lakes.

For the last few months, lawmakers have been debating the Farm Bill in an attempt to have a new one signed before the Sept. 30 expiration date. Talks have been halted due to the pending government shutdown, making the bill likely to expire.

Crop losses in Indiana due to drought and excess rain cost taxpayers and farmers more than $3 billion in crop insurance payouts since 1995.

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture is partnering with the Indiana Rural Health Association and Purdue Extension to reduce mental health stigma in farm communities and connect people to stress assistance programs.

One concern farmers are increasingly worried about is higher costs for fertilizer, machinery and other expenses. These input prices have survey respondents hesitant about their future financial outlook.

While not all applicants have been accepted, one member says the program is overall an improvement.

Farmers are feeling less optimistic about the future following the November elections. The latest Ag Economy Barometer showed a sharp shift in expectations that U.S. agriculture will face unfavorable policies over the next five years.

Legislation passed earlier this year allows the organization to create and offer health plans to its members, including sole proprietors.