A West Virginia Senator has a strong message to consumers: “Stop taking farmers for granted.” Senator Jim Justice says a farm crisis has been brewing for some time now and warns it is coming to a head.
“Absolutely, we’re taking advantage of our small family farms, beyond belief. If you want a mile-long food in the grocery stores and pay 14 percent or whatever it is of your annual income towards food, quit taking advantage of these people, and quit taking ‘em for granted.”
Senator Justice says something has to be done to get younger farmers back to the farm. One researcher tells lawmakers that it is the largest issue right now.
“In 2025, more people will turn 65 than in any year in history. For every potential leader aged 35 to 50, two are preparing to retire. In agriculture, where many senior leaders have been in place for decades, this creates an acute succession challenge. And the next generation of leaders, especially those with agricultural backgrounds, is smaller than ever,” said Aaron Locker.
Locker and Senator Justice are both calling for a five-year Farm Bill. They also say more money is needed for ag research and career promotion.
New SDRP funding and expanded loss programs give producers additional tools to rebuild cash flow and stabilize operations after two years of severe weather losses.
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The new WOTUS proposal narrows federal jurisdiction, restores key agricultural exclusions, and gives farmers clearer permitting rules after years of regulatory uncertainty.
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Here is a regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture for the week of Monday, November 17, 2025.
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UMN Extension’s Emily Krekelberg outlines today’s top farm stressors, key signs of mental health distress in rural communities, and the resources available for support.
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National Pork Board Chief Sustainability Officer Jamie Burr shares a closer look at the Pork Checkoff’s Pork Cares Farm Impact Report, a research program to increase trust in the pork supply chain.
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Ethanol markets remain mixed — weaker production and blend rates are being partially balanced by stronger exports as winter demand patterns take shape.
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