NFU Calls On D.C. To Help Struggling Farmers

As the national farm economy continues to struggle, the National Farmers Union is calling on lawmakers in D.C. to help the Ag community.  On Tuesday, the NFU board passed a resolution calling on the administration and Congress to work together to strengthen the farm safety net, which will help family farms weather challenges into the future.

“Economic challenges have forced many farmers into significant financial strain, particularly beginning farmers and ranchers who have not had the ability to build up equity," said NFU President Roger Johnson.  "Despite their best efforts, many farmers are struggling to stay afloat.”

Johnson said a majority of U.S. farms, regardless of size lost money last year, and the government needs to act.

“The short-term assistance provided through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Market Facilitation Program was appreciated but fails to provide long-term relief. Regardless of when and how existing trade disputes are resolved, it will take decades to overcome the self-inflicted damage to our markets.”

In addition to bolstering the safety net, the NFU Board urged Congress to examine options to meaningfully address chronic oversupply in the marketplace, which has been particularly damaging to U.S. dairy and grains sectors.

Click Here to read the NFU resolution.

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