Farmers, growers and ranchers are uncertain about commodity markets, the financial stability of their business and their labor force, according to a Farm Journal poll.
The Farm Journal Pulse Poll, conducted by sister publication to The Packer, tells the broader story about what people in agriculture are thinking and facing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“A Farm Journal Pulse Poll conducted earlier this month showed concerns across the board about coronavirus and its impact on farm and ranch businesses,” Charlene Finck, president of 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.”
While 30% of those surveyed said they fear becoming infected, three times as many said the pandemic is affecting their business, and are concerned about family and friends.
With agriculture being an essential industry during the pandemic, day-to-day work continues for growers, farmers and ranchers, 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,” she said in the release.
Farm Journal and The Packer continues to cover the pandemic through multiple channels, including:
Online at The Packer and Ag.web.com;
Weekday Farm Journal Live broadcasts hosted by AgDay’s Clinton Griffiths; and
Regular updates through The Packer and Farm Journal social media outlets, including LinkedIn and Facebook.
“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.”
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