Letter to the Editor: Family farms are always adapting to feed the world

Iowa’s proud farming tradition spans generations. Agriculture is more than a livelihood here – it’s a way of life. Our family farms and small businesses continually adapt and innovate, making farming more sustainable and efficient, while feeding both our nation and the world. But to preserve this legacy, farmers need access to the modern tools that keep their operations viable and competitive.

For family farms across Iowa, the availability of domestically produced herbicides is critical. Protecting Iowa farmers’ access to American-made glyphosate is a non-negotiable priority. This essential tool sustains our farms and ensures robust crop yields year after year. Our agricultural policies must reflect this reality, and lawmakers in Des Moines must prioritize safeguarding access to these products.

Unfortunately, special interest groups threaten the future of farming in Iowa by using fearmongering tactics to push an agenda that undermines access to critical crop protection tools. These efforts jeopardize our state’s agricultural foundation and put the livelihood of Iowa’s farmers at risk. Our state legislators must act quickly to ensure that the interests of Iowans’ are put above the rhetoric of special interest groups.

Let’s get the facts straight. Glyphosate is EPA-approved, extensively regulated and has been considered safe and effective for more than 50 years. It is one of the most thoroughly studied herbicides globally, with approvals from leading regulatory agencies around the world. Farmers and consumers alike depend on the integrity of these regulatory standards. Yet trial lawyers and frivolous lawsuits aim to undermine confidence in these tools, opening the door to unreliable and potentially harmful alternatives from overseas competitors like China.

A disruption in farmers’ access to glyphosate poses a serious threat to our national security. Without glyphosate, crop yields would be hurt, and production costs would increase - potentially increasing crop protection expenses. This would force many farmers out of business and devastate rural economies.

This impact wouldn’t stop at the farm. Consumers would face price increases as well, with average grocery bills rising. At a time when inflation is already straining family budgets, these price hikes could push many households to the breaking point.

Modern agriculture is a testament to constant innovation. Iowa’s farmers are leaders in adopting practices that protect the environment, keep soil healthy, and ensure clean water. These advancements secure a brighter future for the next generation of farmers. However, modern agriculture requires modern tools. Protecting access to American-made glyphosate is essential for maintaining this progress.

Our state legislature has an opportunity to lead the nation in championing the tools that drive agricultural success. By safeguarding domestically produced herbicides, lawmakers can stabilize costs for consumers, bolster Iowa’s economy, and preserve the state’s proud agricultural heritage.

It’s time for our legislators to act. Commonsense protections for glyphosate are not just about preserving the tools farmers rely on - they’re about ensuring Iowa’s leadership in agriculture and securing a strong, sustainable future for our state. Let’s build on the momentum from last year’s legislative session and pass these critical measures in 2025. Iowa’s farms – and Iowa’s families are counting on it.

Thad Nearmyer

Monroe