By Blake Jackson
Recent trade negotiations between the United States and the United Kingdom are under pressure as the UK stands firm on banning hormone-treated beef. Despite efforts to finalize a trade deal, UK officials, including Treasury Secretary Darren Jones, stress that their food safety standards remain unchanged. Border checks are planned to enforce the ban, but food researchers warn that testing imported beef is costly and complicated.
Meanwhile, U.S. soybean farmers are sounding alarms. Kentucky farmer Caleb Ragland testified before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, warning that tariffs and lost markets could push farming into a crisis. In 2018, tariffs on soybeans soared above 30%, and today, duties still add up to 34%. Though some tariffs have been reduced, a 10% base rate and new retaliatory duties are hurting farmers. China, the largest soybean buyer due to its pork industry’s demand for soy protein, remains nearly impossible to replace.
In rural northeastern California, concerns about wolf attacks are rising. Counties like Modoc and Plumas have passed resolutions citing wolves as threats to livestock and even public safety. Local leaders shared stories of wolves roaming near homes and killing livestock just feet from families. Research from the University of California, Davis confirms cattle depredation in the area.
Natural disasters are adding to the burden. For the first time ever, the National Weather Service issued a dust storm warning for the Chicago area on May 16, recalling storms from the 1930s Dust Bowl era.
To support small farmers, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins introduced the “Farmers First” policy, focusing on credit access and simpler USDA tools. Small farms make up 86% of U.S. farms but only 24% of total production. However, new loan rules now require more federal approvals, raising concerns about delays.
With trade tensions, environmental threats, and policy shifts, farmers across America are watching closely as decisions unfold that may shape their future.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Corn, Soybeans