Farmers across the country attend Harvest Ball in NC, share impacts of shutdown: 'It's tough'

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- As the government remains in shutdown mode, frustrations are mounting for farmers across the country as they find it challenging to continue operations.

"It's really tough," said North Carolina farmer Patrick Brown. "If I wanted to apply for an operating loan through my local farm service agency supported by the USDA, I'm not able to apply for those programs."

Patrick Brown owns Brown Family Farms in Warren County and just wrapped up corn harvest. The government shutdown has made it difficult for him to receive federal support. He is now using agriculture to supplement his income for farm operations by holding speaking engagements at local universities and beyond.

He is among hundreds of farmers across the country who are convening in Raleigh for the annual Harvest Ball. The ball is an agriculture-centered networking event where farmers discuss challenges they face.

"One of the biggest issues affecting Black and brown farmers is a lack of access to capital. It's a lack of understanding of farm operations," said Harvest Ball Founder and Chairman Darrell Tennie.

Farmers told ABC11 News that because of the government shutdown, they aren't getting federal subsidies and technical assistance. It's money from the government that they rely on to pay contractors working on their land.

"They don't want to work unless they get paid and right now, they don't know if they will get paid," said Louisiana farmer Willis Nelson.

Concern is growing among many farmers across the country. Sixth-generation farmer Todd Western lives in Iowa.

"We already have all the other stresses like weather, mechanics, and prices. If you add this one, it's something you don't anticipate," said Western.

He said farmers have had trouble planning future farm operations without the federal money. U.S. Virgin Islands farmer Yvette Brown doesn't know how much longer farmers like her can survive, as costs have also increased.

"Shipping stuff out and shipping stuff in," said U.S. Virgin Islands farmer Yvette Brown. "It's continuing to grow."

Despite the challenges, farmers said they will continue operating as long as they can.

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