2021 Spring Farm

2021 Logan County Farm Outlook LINCOLN DAILY NEWS March 18, 2021 Page 11 farmers as ‘some of the best stewards of our land, air, and water.’ How could they be otherwise? The environment is their workplace, after all. But that doesn’t mean you – or the president – should expect to hear farmers define themselves as environmentalists. Unfortunately, the word has become associated with bureaucrats who would limit their freedom – and farmers very much value freedom. That’s something Biden should be aware of and keep in mind if he’s tempted to toss too many rules their way. Farmers are wary of regulations and limitations, not because they don’t want to do their part for the environment and not because they don’t care. They care deeply. But they also care about preserving their spirit of independence. They are pretty good at detecting anything that threatens their liberty to think for themselves. They don’t want orders. They want explanations. Once they understand why something is needed or important, they can be trusted to do what’s right. So, the Biden administration must find a way to explain its plans well if it wants to work successfully with the agriculture community.” Goff went on to write, “If Biden is truly able to make good on his promises to agriculture, he could win many friends in America’s heartland who otherwise might be reluctant to support him.” So, what can producers expect in the Biden administration? Still within the first 100 days of the new administration, we can see some definite returns to the old and tossing out of the new. There is also going to be some blending of policy between the former Obama and Trump administrations, and possibly some new and original ideas that come from the Biden administration. In the end though, what we will see is what we will get, and as has always been the case, the American farmer will adjust and move on. [Nila Smith] Sources What those in agriculture can expect under a Biden administration (farmprogress.com) Biden administration: Will farmers see another WOTUS redo? (farmprogress.com) Biden administration: Tide shifting on climate change discussion (farmprogress.com) Vilsack pushes for new farm income streams | Farm Progress What A Biden Administration Means For The Future Of Agriculture | Agriculture | greenevillesun.com