By Jamie Martin
Agricultural leaders across the United States are urging Congress to quickly resolve the federal government shutdown, warning that the impact on farmers, rural communities, and food systems is significant.
The shutdown comes at a time when agriculture is already under financial pressure. Crop prices are near record lows, while operating expenses continue to rise. The most recent USDA Census of Agriculture showed that more than 141,000 farms disappeared between 2017 and 2022, and since then, another 20,000 have closed.
Industry leaders say that a shutdown worsens the strain by delaying payments, interrupting services, and creating uncertainty in rural areas. Farmers rely on timely federal programs, disaster assistance, and market data to keep their operations running. A halt in government services could slow planting decisions, restrict financial aid, and put additional stress on rural families.
The letter sent to congressional leaders was backed by major agricultural groups such as the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Milk Producers Federation, National Pork Producers Council, International Fresh Produce Association, and many others. Collectively, they called for swift bipartisan cooperation to reopen the government.
“Farmers, ranchers, and growers already face enough uncertainty. A shutdown places more burden on rural communities,” the groups emphasized.
Ending the shutdown will allow farmers to focus on feeding the nation, strengthen rural economies, and secure the stability of America’s food system. The agricultural community is urging leaders to act without delay.
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Categories: National