Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says farmers and agribusinesses across the state are facing growing pressure from multiple directions, including higher operating costs, workforce challenges, and continued uncertainty in the broader farm economy.
Speaking this week in Des Moines, Naig said many operations are feeling squeezed as expenses remain high and margins tighten, a situation he described as feeling like death by a thousand cuts. He said those pressures extend beyond the farm gate and impact the businesses that help move products to, around, and off the farm.
Naig said those challenges are part of the reason behind a broader policy push at the Statehouse this year, including what he calls the Iowa Farm Act. The proposal includes a range of ideas aimed at addressing tax concerns, workforce development, and regulatory issues that affect both farmers and agribusinesses.
Along with state-level policy discussions, Naig pointed to year-round access to E15 as one of the most immediate opportunities to strengthen demand and provide some economic relief. He said expanded availability of higher ethanol blends could help lower fuel costs while also supporting markets for Iowa-grown commodities.
Naig said the coming months will be important as lawmakers debate policy priorities and federal discussions continue around trade, regulatory certainty, and long-term market access. He added that maintaining a strong voice for agriculture will be critical as producers and agribusinesses make decisions about the future in a challenging economic environment.
