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Let’s support livestock growers
Published 7:28am Monday, July 2, 2007The recent action by the Clay County Commissioners to deny a hog production permit is certainly not an isolated case. Because of the concern raised by environmentalists and animal rights groups, it is increasingly difficult for livestock production.
Even in the state of Iowa which is the number one state in hog production, farmers are currently under extreme pressure to curtail livestock facilities not only for hogs but other livestock as well. In Iowa the livestock and poultry operations are me number one market for Iowa soybeans.
Recently to address the challenges facing farmers, the “Coalition to Support Iowa Farmers” was formed. The group consists of the Iowa Soybean Assn., Iowa Cattleman’s Assn., Iowa Corn Growers Assn., Iowa Farm Bureau, Iowa Pork Producers and Iowa Poultry Assn. Their intent is to defend and support livestock development of all kinds and sizes.
In the 60s, 70s and 80s and even into the 90s there were dozens of surrounding counties. In a manner similar to the dairy industry, the vast majority of these operators have ceased raising hogs. There are just a few such farms remaining. Thankfully, we are still able to purchase bacon, pork chops and ham.
Someone must still be raising hogs. In most cases these operations are much larger than those of my generation. They are taking the place of 10, 20 or even more farmers of a couple decades ago.
Livestock raising is a tough job. The daily year-long time commitment with little or no time off, the total dependence on market forces with no governmental benefit and support and the huge financial investment are enough to keep most farmers from even considering livestock production.
Shouldn’t we support those who are willing to take on the challenges?
Land values have increased 15 to 20 times what they were when I started farming in the early 1960s. Young farmers are facing impossible odds to begin a crop production operation. Livestock production, however, has good potential. By having access to some acreage and having the freedom to develop a livestock operation, there are still opportunities to make a viable living.
Within several months there will be two new ethanol plants in the region, one in Casselton and one here in Fergus Falls. The main by-product in the production of ethanol is “distiller grain.” This is an excellent feed source for cattle and to a lesser degree even for hogs. Much of this product will be loaded on rail cars and shipped to feedlots elsewhere in the United States and oversees. Wouldn’t it be great if the product could be used locally?
With the numerous young people eager to get into farming, the need for meat and poultry products, and the available food supply, it seems that rural communities such as ours should be more accommodating to
livestock development. The economic spin off from ethanol plants and livestock operations will keep more of our younger generation in our rural areas rather than migrating to the larger cities.
