Legislative Matters

Legislative Matters:

BLACK SWANS OF POLITICS

Successful farming operations take much more than getting up in the morning and starting a tractor, yet those are actions that are typical in the everyday start of a day in the life of a farmer.

A number of factors contribute to prosperity, including having a solid set of values and policies both on the farm and off the farm. Every operation defines for itself the action formula for success. Yet on top of all that, even more preparations for black swan events need to be taken.

A black swan is an unpredictable event that is beyond what is normally expected of a situation and has potentially severe consequences. For this reason, farmers may take many steps to diversify and protect their financial value, including crop diversification, multiple locations, risk management like crop insurance, and technology adoption. Even with sound management actions, we must be on alert for black swans.

Enter the element of politics, and it can be difficult to predict the impact on agriculture. Current studies indicate that we have a vast division in politics and policy. Jersey color of political party seems to matter more and more. This requires some keen mental evaluation for some people, while for others it becomes clear quickly. With some clear thinking and overcoming political biases, it becomes apparent what is best for agriculture operations and rural communities. Yet some elections results have and may continue to provide black swan events which could change the life of an operation. Imagine being a rancher on the Texas border, or a nursery in Michigan during the pandemic when you are shuttered from selling plants. Unimaginable events set from politics - black swans - change lives. Agriculture and rural community values are identified, recognized, and appreciated as a common bond across the country. These values should not be forgotten as issues are sorted out through the campaign process. Sorting through the noise and discovering the truth may take some courage. Why courage? Things may not always be apparent on the face of the matter and deeper examination may be called for. Deeper examination is demanded to understand where policies may find foundation in values. Sometimes doing the right thing will create unwanted stress, but action is always required. Fortunately, we all have the privilege of voting and with that vote we can influence outcomes. We tend to be shy about our values and vote our conscience. In these geopolitical times, it can feel like the best course of action may be to quietly go about our business, vote and pray the outcome does not produce a black swan. Courage may require a more active voice to avoid those black swans of politics. Hoping is waiting for someone to do something, and hope may no longer be the plan of action required. We may have to talk about things that matter. Agriculture matters, our communities matter, and our values matter. Even if we do not muster up the courage to speak, and we may not see all the black swans of political policy making until they arrive at our farm gate, we certainly can vote. Your vote matters. ■