Consolidation, immigration, farm bill - WI farmer woes

By Blake Jackson

Wisconsin's $104.8 billion agricultural industry, a crucial pillar of the state's economy, faces significant challenges heading into 2024. Local dairy farmer Hans Breitenmoser highlights three key concerns:

1. Farmland Consolidation: Large farms acquiring land from smaller ones has shrunk the number of farms nationwide by 13% in four decades, squeezing out mid-sized farms and creating an "exclusive club" for a select few. This harms consumers with higher prices and weakens rural communities.
2. Immigration Reform: 73% of agricultural workers are foreign-born, and Wisconsin relies heavily on undocumented Hispanic workers. Lack of immigration reform hinders farm operations and leaves farms struggling to find and retain workers. Undocumented workers lacking driving privileges further complicate matters.
3. Farm Bill Shortcomings: The extended 2018 Farm Bill fails to address crucial issues like market imbalance, overreliance on subsidies, and the growing gap between farm prices and consumer costs. Wisconsin Farmers Union President Darin Von Ruden calls for a new Farm Bill that tackles these challenges and supports small and mid-sized farms.

Beyond these concerns, Wisconsin farmers also grapple with:

• Climate change and soil health: Sustainable practices and policies are needed to address environmental concerns.
• Dairy oversupply: Strategies to stabilize the dairy market and ensure fair prices for farmers are crucial.
• Rising input costs: Fertilizer, fuel, and other costs are straining farm budgets, necessitating cost-saving solutions.

Wisconsin farmers are resilient and resourceful, but they need effective policies and support to thrive in the face of these challenges. By addressing farmland consolidation, immigration reform, and Farm Bill shortcomings, we can ensure a sustainable and equitable future for Wisconsin's agricultural industry.