By Blake Jackson
As families across America gather for Thanksgiving, the Wisconsin Farmers Union is raising its voice to address the urgent need for a new farm bill. While the recent one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill has brought temporary relief, the long-term stability of family farmers still hinges on a comprehensive five-year farm bill.
The challenges facing family farmers are multifaceted, ranging from growing concentration in the agricultural sector to dairy oversupply, the decline of small and mid-sized farms, soil and water health concerns, and the looming threats of climate change. These issues demand a comprehensive legislative approach.
One key aspect of the problem is the meager share of the food dollar that actually reaches family farmers. For Thanksgiving staples like turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet corn, stuffing, boneless ham, pumpkin pie filling, and cranberries, the farmer's share is often less than 1%. This disparity underscores the need for stronger antitrust enforcement and greater transparency throughout the supply chain.
In collaboration with the National Farmers Union's Fairness for Farmers campaign, the Wisconsin Farmers Union is actively addressing monopoly power in food and agriculture. They believe that dismantling the barriers that impede fair compensation for farmers is crucial to fostering a more equitable relationship between producers and consumers.
The call for a new, comprehensive farm bill is an opportunity for lawmakers to acknowledge the challenges faced by family farmers and chart a course toward a more resilient, sustainable, and just agricultural future. By supporting initiatives that prioritize the well-being of family farmers, we can ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the rich harvests that have come to define Thanksgiving.
Categories: Wisconsin, Business