farming income and agriculture in the economy chapter long term trends chart 2 1 2000 total from tiff is at an historically low level it may be as or lower than time of depression late 1930s exact comparison not possible because statistics on farm incomes before 1973 are directly comparable with current series although fluctuates considerably there was a general decline between 1990 followed by sharp rise up to 1995 but then dramatic fall further local fluctuations caused weather conditions world commodity prices since shifting exchange rates have been major factor bad affected very wet autumn problems sugar beet potato harvests reduced quality finished animals hindered planting absence dry spells summer led delayed harvesting high moisture content harvested cereals sterling against euro continuing downward pressure for most agricultural commodities these pressures sizable reduction
