One of the most common misconceptions that people have about the agricultural industry is the idea that corporate farming is taking over the industry. Some people will even scorn the industry because of their belief in this myth.
The reality of the situation is a statistic that anybody can find with a simple search. According to the USDA, family owned and operated farms make up 97.6% of the agricultural industry. ( http://www.ers.usda.gov/amber-waves/2014-march/family-farming-in-the-united-states.aspx#.VkFZLZVdGpo )
That is a whopping number.
The same source also cites that family farms were responsible for the production of 96% of major field crops, which includes corn, wheat, cotton and soybeans. Not only do they produce 96% of those crops, but they produce 96% of hogs, poultry and eggs.
The only thing left to be disputed about this is what is considered the definition of "family farm." It means different things to different people and can be defined in various ways. In this instance, with these particular statistics, it is defined "as those whose principal operator and people related to the principal operator by blood or marriage own most of the farm business." (Quoted from the article in the link above)
So there you have it. Family farms. They're still around and still kicking.
Before I read this post, I was one of those that believed corporations dominated the farming industry. 97.6% wow that is an eye opener!
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