In the High Plains agriculture is the true heartbeat of America, but we are experiencing heartburn, too.
President Donald Trump’s application of reciprocal tariffs as his belief to equalize trade and improve prosperity of all Americans is being tested. It is a high-stakes approach to trade we have not seen in many years. The late Kansas State University farm policy expert Barry Flinchbaugh told farmers and ranchers and ag policy students that, “If you want trade you have to accept trade.”
Agriculture was at the forefront of trade where United States beef, pork, wheat, corn, and soybeans were welcomed by other countries that need the food, fuel and fiber to help their countries. As we’ve learned over the years, the principle has had many detours. We’ve expanded trade to China the past 50 years—we must remember that China only started its journey to global trade following the visit of President Richard Nixon in the early 1970s. We also accepted trade from China though its motives are now rightfully questioned.
There is a reason for concern in the High Plains because our economies have been built around the expectation that global markets add value and opportunity. This will be put to the test.
Glynn Tonsor, a Kansas State University professor and Extension specialist for livestock and meat marketing, said, “In short, international trade is of elevated uncertainty with the most likely outcome being less trade (perhaps less exports and fewer imports) relative to expectations just six months ago. If realized that is particularly bearish for U.S. beef and pork industries and would ultimately lead to smaller domestic industries.”
Few economists have gone on the record to approve of the Trump approach because of its risks and potential damage to trade relationships. Other countries can also grow food and supply beef and pork in the global market.
Global trade supporters recognize that barriers have been arbitrary and were self-serving. Commodity groups are sensitive to those concerns, and they have invested time in building connections that can potentially open long-term benefits. That work has paid off in the Pacific Rim and Mexico. Still, trouble spots have remained. The European Union likes to export products but does not return in kind for most agricultural products.
What Trump apparently seeks to bring that back into balance. Time will tell and the ag economy is front and center on the topic.
Perhaps we need to remember two other commemorative events to keep perspective—Earth Day and Easter.
Earth Day, started in 1970, was the collective effort to clean up the nation’s water and air from pollution. Many 4-H, FFA and community organizations have spent countless hours cleaning and building small parks in rural communities. School and community parks have often been used by byproducts of agricultural and vehicle tires to build walking paths.
At Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. For Christians it is the miracle beyond miracles as Jesus fulfilled Old Testament scripture to take our many sins away and give us all hope in eternal life where there is no pain only joy.
As we consider what lies ahead, we need to remember whatever we have it comes as a gift from God, and he has tasked with us taking care of our less than-than-perfect world. With High Plains agriculture it starts on the farm and ranch.
We have a lot on our plate today. That story never ends.
Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or [email protected].
