The farm economy is facing a crisis, as American Farmers & Ranchers (AFR) President Scott Blubaugh calls it, and it is the primary concern for the organization. In a recent interview with Farm Director KC Sheperd, Blubaugh described a dire situation for many producers and highlighted the need for swift action.
According to Blubaugh, the primary issue is that grain prices are currently about 50% below the cost of production. This, combined with low cotton prices and a large national corn and soybean crop from last year still in storage, is creating a difficult market for farmers. “The basis is widening dramatically, maybe the widest I’ve ever seen,” he explained, referring to the difference between local cash prices and the futures market. Even a bumper crop this fall will likely result in a financial loss for many.
A Call for Federal Action
With no new farm bill on the horizon, Blubaugh said the only viable option is for the White House to use Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) money for market facilitation payments to farmers. This is the central issue AFR will be taking to Washington, D.C., during their annual “fly-in” with the National Farmers Union, and a planned visit to the White House.
“It is the ag economy, it is the ag economy, it is the ag economy,” Blubaugh stated, emphasizing that AFR’s national lobbying staff has been directed to focus solely on this issue. “Either you have to make a deal with China so that we can actually sell to them, or you’re going to have to figure out a way to get money in the farmers’ hands to keep them from going out of business.”
Youth Programs and Leadership Development
Despite the economic challenges, AFR’s youth programs are thriving. Over 300 students attended a leadership camp this year, and a new youth coordinator, Cara Comstock, has joined the staff to bring fresh ideas. The organization is also preparing for its annual speech contests in November, which involve hundreds of students.
Blubaugh expressed immense pride in the success of young members who have gone on to become leaders and national champions. He mentioned one former camper, Coy Davidson, who attended AFR’s leadership camp for seven years before winning a national public speaking championship. “Maybe we’re doing something right,” Blubaugh commented, reflecting on the program’s impact on its participants.
The AFR president also noted that he and other staff members will soon be traveling the state to attend county meetings, where they will listen to members’ concerns and share updates from the Capitol and Washington, D.C. While these trips are challenging, Blubaugh said he always enjoys the opportunity to connect with the membership.
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