The nature of the U.S. farm sector and the character of nonmetro America are changing. Today's typical farm is highly dependent on other agribusiness firms including input industries (chemicals, fuels, equipment, and farm machinery) for basic production needs and on an increasingly centralized food manufacturing system which responds to increased consumer demands for more processed farm goods. Wholesale and retail trade activities, often considered part of the food and fiber system, are more closely linked to final demand and changing consumer preferences. This report describes the modern food and fiber complex and government commodity programs and how they affect nonmetro economies.