U.S. barley farmers fear tariffs could take away key export markets. The industry has already been facing tight margins.
Beer drinking levels in the U.S. are at the lowest in 40 years. Barley farmer and Vice President of the Montana Grain Growers Association, Steve Sheffels says that farmers will ultimately pay for tariffs.
He says that the U.S. grows way more barley than can be consumed domestically and if key markets like Canada and Mexico disappear, farmers will be competing for a much more limited number of buyers.
Related Stories
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
NEFB President Mark McHargue recaps the Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention, producer sentiment in Nebraska, and discusses key issues facing agriculture.
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
Record ethanol production and improving blending demand continue to support corn usage despite rising short-term inventories.
Expanded school access to whole milk provides modest but reliable demand support for U.S. dairy producers.