Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue told National Farmers Union members this morning that the toughest days in agriculture are behind us, but it may not feel like it. He referenced the Market Facilitation Program, saying farmers want trade not aid. “Despite a bad weather year and a tough trade environment, last year, net farm income increased 11.7 percent. Looking at 2020, there’s another expected three percent increase,” said Perdue. “I doesn’t feel that way, because we know most of that revenue came from the mailbox, not from across the scales. When the president asked if the farmers and ranchers appreciate the MFP payments, I said they do Mr. President, but it’s not as fulfilling as earning it.” Perdue said there won’t be a 2020 MFP, because it’s not a price support program. “I don’t anticipate one, but if the trade doesn’t materialize, we’ll be ready to get another one out.” Perdue also talked about sustainable agriculture. He sat down with the Red River Farm Network before this morning’s address to talk about disaster aid, trade aid and farm program sign-up. Listen to that interview.
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