Nick Levendofsky:
There is very little room for error.
You highlighted the ongoing cuts and hiring freezes, but the significant burden lies with the high-cost inputs—seeds, chemicals, fertilizers, and fuel that are essential for farming. The expense of farm equipment is also notably high. Currently, banks are hesitant to extend large loans to farmers.
In fact, banks are tightening their lending practices. On top of this, we have the complications of increased tariffs and a trade war, along with recent reductions in staff at USDA. Just last week, vital roles within the Farm Service Agency and NRCS offices across the nation were eliminated. These individuals play a crucial role in supporting American agriculture, and now, those left in the offices are faced with an increased workload.
