Farmers vs. Activists: Agriculture rallied against activism in 2024

The entire ag industry is feeling pressure from activists determined to attack animal agriculture. Bryan Humphreys with the National Pork Producers Council says that despite the pushback, they are proud of how the industry responds:

“In Sonoma County, California, it was all livestock; any medium CAFOs and larger that were going to be banned. In Denver, it was to stop any slaughter facilities inside Denver, and there is only one. It is a lamb processing facility, Superior Meats. The interesting part here, the heartwarming part, is that all of agriculture came together and helped fight these initiatives. The folks on the ground ran the campaigns, and the other organizations helped contribute money and resources as appropriate to help fend these off, and so, agriculture came together in a strong way.”
Bryan Humphreys, National Pork Producers Council

Lawmakers have argued anti-agriculture activism not only harms local economies, but also damages the global food system.

Related Stories
The impact of tariffs on the potato trade has not been fully realized
That fact – not tariffs – is behind high beef prices, asserts former NCBA President.
August 26–28, 2025 – Tune in to “Market Day Report“ and “Rural Evening News” for all the highlights!

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard joins Market Day Report for his insight on the USDA’s plan to strengthen the U.S. beef industry.
For our Countdown to Convention with Culver’s, we explore how the sea of FFA blue impacts local businesses.
Until a phased reopening is inked, plan for tighter feeder availability, firmer basis near border yards, and continued reliance on domestic and Canadian sources.
Despite calm, sunny conditions to start the morning, the veteran duo quickly deciphered the bite – then shifted gears perfectly when the fish changed.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.