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Farmer’s Union calls for better policy, stronger antitrust enforcement

A National Farmers Union leader says the twelve-billion dollar Farmer Bridge Assistance Program will help, but it’s not the solution to the real problem. Vice President of Advocacy Mike Stranz says, “We’ve got to have stronger policy that prevents this sort of thing from being needed in the first place.”

Stranz tells Brownfield better federal policy is needed to help lower the cost of inputs, and that can be addressed in a farm bill. “Tariffs and trade have a big impact, but also supply does a lot, too, and there’s some ideas out there related to soil conservation and soil enhancement that might work well as a way to also address some of those concerns about supply.”

Stranz says conservation efforts that can cut down on the need for additional nutrients are being discussed by several state Farmers Union groups. 

He says National Farmers Union’s Fairness for Farmers effort is gaining traction in Washington DC on ag consolidation issues. “The concentration in fertilizer, in seed, in retail, transportation, all of these are taking on more and more interest, especially as there is increased pressure on the administration to tackle affordability issues.”

Stranz says there are many steps between fertilizer and grocery prices, but he expects lawmakers will push for more enforcement of antitrust laws to bring down prices for farmers, retailers, and consumers.

Stranz spoke to Brownfield during the recent Wisconsin Farmers Union convention in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.

Audio: National Farmers Union Vice President of Advocacy Mike Stranz discusses policy goals with Brownfield’s Larry Lee during the Wisconsin Farmers Union convention