RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — As the government remains in shutdown mode, frustrations are mounting for farmers across the country who are finding it increasingly challenging to continue their operations.
“It’s really tough,” said North Carolina farmer Patrick Brown. “If I wanted to apply for an operating loan through my local Farm Service Agency supported by the USDA, I’m not able to apply for those programs.”
Patrick Brown, owner of Brown Family Farms in Warren County, recently wrapped up his corn harvest. The government shutdown has made it difficult for him to receive federal support. To supplement his farm income, Brown has been holding speaking engagements at local universities and beyond.
He is among hundreds of farmers across the country who gathered in Raleigh for the annual Harvest Ball, an agriculture-centered networking event where farmers discuss the challenges they face.
“One of the biggest issues affecting Black and Brown farmers is a lack of access to capital. It’s a lack of understanding of farm operations,” said Harvest Ball Founder and Chairman Darrell Tennie.
Farmers told ABC11 News that due to the government shutdown, they are not receiving federal subsidies and technical assistance—funds they rely on to pay contractors working on their land.
“They don’t want to work unless they get paid and right now, they don’t know if they will get paid,” explained Louisiana farmer Willis Nelson.
Concern is growing among many farmers nationwide. Sixth-generation farmer Todd Western of Iowa noted the added strain the shutdown causes.
“We already have all the other stresses like weather, mechanics, and prices. If you add this one, it’s something you don’t anticipate,” Western said. He emphasized that without federal money, farmers have trouble planning future operations.
U.S. Virgin Islands farmer Yvette Brown expressed uncertainty about how much longer farmers like her can survive amid rising costs.
“Shipping stuff out and shipping stuff in—it’s continuing to grow,” Brown said.
Despite the challenges, farmers remain determined to continue operating as long as they can.
https://abc11.com/post/harvest-ball-nc-farmers-country-share-frustrations-impacts-government-shutdown/18096667/
