Lenexa, Kan., (March 30, 2020) — Direct responses from farmers, growers and ranchers show uncertainty about commodity markets, the financial stability of their businesses, and the health of their families, themselves and agriculture’s labor force are among the top issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on production agriculture. This survey data, collected recently on AgWeb.com, tells the bigger and broader story of what people throughout agriculture are thinking and facing today.
“A Farm Journal Pulse Poll conducted earlier this month showed concerns across the board about coronavirus and its impact on farm and ranch businesses,” said Charlene Finck, President, Producer Media for Farm Journal. “This new survey digs deeper into what those concerns really are, how farmers are reacting to new developments each day and how they are looking to us and trusted service providers for leadership and guidance in the days to come.”
Survey results show 90 percent of farmers and ranchers say they expect COVID-19 to impact their business. While only 30 percent have a fear of becoming sick themselves, many expressed concerns about family and friends in higher risk categories. One third of respondents said they’ve been directly impacted by the disease.
“Agriculture’s role as an essential industry that provides and secures our nation’s food supply means U.S. farmers, ranchers and growers continue day-to-day work and operation of their businesses through this pandemic,” said Portia Stewart, Content Strategy Director for Farm Journal. “Engagement with our audiences during this time has increased on all platforms – confirming that people in agriculture are looking for news, information and industry leadership to benefit their business.”
Farm Journal continues to serve as a trusted resource to all ag sectors through multiple channels:
- Online at com/coronavirus, which includes the latest news and resources, market information and analysis, tools to address coronavirus and advice on what to watch as the pandemic continues to impact all of agriculture.
- Farm Journal Live broadcasts hosted by Clinton Griffiths, each weekday at noon CST, featuring live updates, interviews and stories that directly impact agriculture.
- Social media engagement with the latest news and information for all agricultural sectors via LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Farm Journal is working closely with its agribusiness partners to identify and address the needs and concerns of our nation’s farmers via Farm Country Updates, one-hour digital events that feature Farm Journal editors sharing news and insights from the field. A day-long Farm Country Forum is set for April 16 and will provide a deeper look at how agribusinesses can stay connected with dealers, distribution systems and farmer customers during the pandemic, as well as other issues — such as ongoing privacy regulations — that are impacting the industry in other ways. The Farm Country Forum is presented with the support of Agri Marketing.
“Planting crops, maintaining dairy operations and other agricultural work is critical to our national security and social well-being,” Finck said. “Producers have always stepped up in tough times, and Farm Journal has always been there to help guide them along the way. We will get through these uncertain times together.”
About Farm Journal
Farm Journal is the nation’s leading business information and media company serving the agricultural market. Started 143 years ago with the preeminent Farm Journal magazine, the company serves the row crop, livestock, produce and retail sectors through branded websites, eNewsletters and phone apps; business magazines; live events including conferences, seminars and tradeshows; nationally broadcasted television and radio programs; a robust mobile text marketing business; and an array of data-driven paid information products. Farm Journal also is the majority shareholder of the online equipment marketplace, Machinery Pete LLC. In 2010, the Company established the non-profit, public charity Farm Journal Foundation dedicated to sustaining agriculture’s ability to meet the vital needs of a growing population through education and empowerment.