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Farmers talk NAFTA, new trade agreements

Many farmers are concerned about existing trade relationships and don’t want to lose out on foreign markets.

Central Indiana farmer Mike Beard says the North American Free Trade Agreement continues to be a top priority for corn and soybean farmers.

“There are rumors everyday about which direction our president is leaning or what (NAFTA) negotiators are accomplishing so that priority is one we’ll keep an eye on,” he says.

Audio: Mike Beard, Indiana farmer

Doug Schroeder raises corn and soybeans in central Illinois and says the US needs to maintain current agreements and pursue new ones.

“If there are any opportunities to increase trade in any country, we need to be there and we need to be meeting what our customers want,” he says. “We’re listening and we’re trying to provide what they need.”

Audio: Doug Schroeder, Illinois farmer 

Southwest Ohio farmer Rachael Vonderhaar tells Brownfield it helps to have leaders in place who support trade…

“I know in southwest Ohio congressman Warren Davidson, who represents us, is on board and supports trade and sees the value of it and we appreciate him doing that,” she says.

Audio: Rachael Vonderhaar, Ohio farmer 

She says farmers should continue to reach out to congressional leaders in support of trade.