Pork producers from Minnesota were in Washington D.C. this past week advocating for policy priorities. Transportation, farm labor and more top the priority list.
Minnesota Pork Producers Association President Greg Boerboom says everyone is worried about trade. “After the Chinese tariffs were announced, hog prices dropped about $9-per-head. Also, NAFTA discussions are still taking place. It’ll be real positive if something was agreed upon before the Mexican elections.”
When it comes to farm labor, Minnesota hog farms need foreign labor. “We need something longer than just seasonal workers; a long-term workforce,” says Boerboom. “Another ask is a Foot and Mouth Disease vaccine bank. We’re asking for $150 million for the bank, $30 million for the National Animal Health Laboratory and $70 million for state and national animal agencies.”
