As lawmakers decide on emergency support payments, Amreica’s barley growers are asking for a more permanent solution.
They are calling for Congress to pass a new five-year Farm Bill. Many are holding out hope that one can pass during the lame-duck session. The Idaho Barley Commission says a lack of a Farm Bill means uncertainty and less money for America’s producers.
Despite the challenges, barley growers say they will bounce back.
“Farmers are the most resilient people on the planet. They farm because they love the lifestyle, and they love growing crops and food to feed the world and provide beverages. It’s in their DNA, and they love what they do. They don’t want to stop farming,” said Laura Wilder.
It has been a rough year for barley growers. Beer consumption in the United States hit 50-year lows because more consumers are putting down beer steins in favor of malt beverages like seltzers. U.S. malt barley prices were $7 per bushel last year.
