Local farmers react to proposed Farm Bill changes

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by Dara Newson

Story Created: Jun 13, 2012 at 7:45 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jun 13, 2012 at 8:03 PM CDT

These days, farming isn't a bad career choice--agriculture revenues are booming.
Meanwhile, the federal budget constraints are increasing.
It's one reason U.S. senators are looking to phase out direct farm subsidy payments handed out to producers.
Those producer say the farming industry is much like the housing market. It's a slippery slope; you never know when the prices are going to go up or down.
"The demand for corn is risen, the price is risen and we're in a lot better overall shape as far as demand for our product so that we really don't need those direct payments now," explained Henderson farmer Curt Friesen.
Friesen says due to the current federal deficit, many corn and soybean farmers won't be affected.
"But, we would like to see that what is passed is based more on economic conditions rather than just a direct payment, whether we've planted any corn or not," Friesen said.
Lawmakers are seeking to kill a $23 billion deficit.
Some of the reductions will come from direct payments, food assistance and crop insurance subsidies.
"Currently we have good crop insurance in place and as long as senators realize that insurance is working and don't tinker with it I think, the federal crop system that's currently in place protects us," Friesen added.
But, the safe haven doesn't change the reality.
Looking ahead, these crops could face a showery future.
"If they would put an export embargo like they did in the seventies that would be a catastrophe," said Friesen. "That's where I feel like the farm program or direct payments or something like it would be beneficial."

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