A group of former agricultural association leaders, farmers, and USDA officials says farm country is facing a serious crisis—and farmers are increasingly afraid to speak publicly about it. The group, Restore American Agriculture, launched a website where farmers and ranchers can share how trade, budget, and regulatory policies are affecting their operations.
Former National Corn Growers Association CEO Jon Doggett said commodity groups may fear retaliation from the administration.
“Farmers want markets. They don’t want handouts,” said Bob Dinneen, former president of the Renewable Fuels Association. “Ad hoc assistance is necessary, but it’s not sustainable, and it’s not what farmers want.”
Iowa farmer and former NCGA President Pam Johnson pointed to rising diesel costs, fertilizer availability, and weak farm income. “It’s projected that farmers aren’t going to make any money for the next two years,” Johnson said. “This is a serious crisis out here in farm country.”
Comments