Farm Reality

August 17, 2016 – By #South Dakota Farmer UnionHave you ever heard phrases like “don’t judge a book by its cover”, “scratch beneath the surface”, or “there’s more than meets the eye”? All of these phrases share a common message. We should look for more than what appears obvious in everyday life. Agriculture is a prime example.

From a consumer’s perspective, a quick snapshot of agriculture might lead one to a very misleading conclusion. Take for example the fact that farm bill payments are skyrocketing above what were originally predicted, or that Tyson foods is touting a record profit in 2016. Add that to the fact that food prices are not declining and in many cases are actually increasing. What you get is a perception that farmers are getting paid the big bucks. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth. There is much more to that story.

Farm bill payments are skyrocketing as commodity prices are plummeting. I have heard stories of producers doubling their yields only to break even. I know what you are thinking, “breaking even isn’t the end of the world”. You’re right, but most producers aren’t doubling their yields. So what is happening to them?

Articles like the one published by Ag Web can answer that question. The title says it all, Minnesota Farmers Turn to Bankruptcy as Low Prices Continue. Low commodity prices and harsh weather conditions have been too much to bear for many farmers and ranchers across the nation. In conversations here at the office and with other organizations, we often talk about doing a better job of telling our story in agriculture. That sentiment is true now, maybe more so than ever.

We have to join together to rebuke groups like the Heritage Alliance who recently blamed the Renewable Fuel Standard for rising food costs, despite the fact the food vs. fuel argument has been defeated time and time again. As the average age of a farmer rises, we need to do more to protect our beginning farmers and ranchers. In many cases they haven’t established themselves enough to bear the hard times facing agriculture today.

In less than a month, Farmers Union members will travel to Washington D.C. to lobby on behalf of all farmers and ranchers. As one voice we will seek stronger farm support in all areas on the farm, including dairy protection. If you have any concerns or comments you would like passed along to our Congressional delegation, contact me at [email protected] . Together we can tell our story.

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Last Modified: 08/17/2016 1:12:24 pm MDT