Wisconsin producers urge rules based trade and market support
Farmers across Wisconsin voiced their growing concerns about falling crop prices, high input costs, and trade instability at a Westby listening session hosted by Farmers for Free Trade. The event was part of the group’s Motorcade for Trade, a two-month Midwest tour aimed at collecting farmer input before concluding in Washington, D.C., on November 5.
Executive Director Brian Kuehl emphasized the importance of consistent, rules-based trade agreements, citing the 2024 US-Mexico-Canada Agreement ruling that rejected Mexico’s GMO corn restrictions. “If markets are allowed to work, by and large things will be okay,” he said, noting that fair trade enforcement keeps farm economies stable.
Kuehl warned that tariff battles with allies weaken the U.S. position against real challenges like China. State Senator Brad Paff of Onalaska added that trade disruptions hurt both farmers and families, calling for renewed focus on domestic demand opportunities such as sustainable aviation fuel from soy oil.
Wisconsin Farmers Union President Darin Von Ruden said volatile prices and disrupted markets have increased farmer anxiety, urging Congress to complete the next farm bill.
Local farmer Craig Meyer highlighted transportation struggles as Mississippi River terminals near closure for winter, causing low basis levels and forcing producers to seek extra grain storage.
Wisconsin Soybean Association Director Sara Stelter shared that checkoff investments are helping expand soy-based industrial uses and fuels, building resilience in both domestic and international markets.
Despite the challenges, farmers agreed that strengthening North American trade partnerships and supporting new markets at home remain key to sustaining U.S. agriculture’s global role.
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