Packers were making more profit per pig than the producer was grossing on the same animal. Yet, within one month of the public forums, the price for hogs increased from 8 cents per pound live weight to 29 cents, without a marked change in the supply. Agricultural North Dakota anticipates negative growth in 1999, while South Dakota budgets predict a weak year from sales tax revenue. This is but one example of the economic stress experienced by today's family farmers and ranchers. Tobacco farmers, African-American farmers who have lost their land, and seasonal farm workers also face extraordinary challenges.
Farmers know and accept the fact that farming is an inherently risky business.
They accept that risk and don't necessarily want to be guaranteed a large profit, but they would like the playing field to be level. We seek your support and pray that the economic concerns of family farmers and ranchers will be a priority for you today and in the future.