Farmers warn lawmakers about the fragile state of the ag economy

“It really hamstrings our availability of financing to get loans when everything is costing 30-60% more.”

Farmers are on Capitol Hill this week, warning lawmakers about the state of the ag economy. Profits are tight, and one specialty crop grower warns it could significantly impact when he goes to the bank this year.

“The land cost, all of our input costs, the way they’ve escalated over the past 4-5 years has been nothing like I’ve ever seen before,” said Ryan Talley. “It really hamstrings our availability of financing to get loans when everything is costing 30-60% more. The available funds are no longer available.”

Prop-12 was also a big topic at the hearing.

Related Stories
Global markets react to events in the Middle East as world leaders gather at the G7 Summit, affecting agriculture, energy, and trade. RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney joins us to discuss the developments and their potential impact on agriculture.
A written Plan B can help producers protect repayment capacity before cash shortages become urgent.
The Agri Stats settlement may prove to be one of the most consequential agricultural antitrust cases in decades.
Oklahoma State University extension specialist Todd Hubbs joins us for an update on wheat harvest conditions in his state and the key factors shaping marketing decisions.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

United Soybean Board Director and Missouri farmer Kyle Durham joins us to discuss farmer sentiment, alternative revenue programs, conservation incentives, domestic demand trends, and conditions on his farm this spring.
Secretary Rollins says the first U.S. calf infected with screwworm responded to treatment and is back to full health.
United Sorghum Checkoff’s Lanier Dabruzzi joins us to discuss National Sorghum Month, consumer awareness, and the increasing demand for sorghum used in gluten-free snacks.