Farmers concerned about COVID-19: survey

Soybean farmers in a recent survey reported high levels of stress and anxiety during the coronavirus pandemic. The report was compiled by the American Soybean Association’s COVID-19 task force. It collected 86 responses from 26 of the country’s 30 primary soybean-producing states.

“We were struck immediately by how many respondents talked openly about the high levels of stress and anxiety on their farms,” said Ryan Findlay, the association’s CEO. “Fear at smaller operations that critical workers will get sick, concerns over taking care of elderly parents and children not able to attend bricks-and-mortar classrooms right now, worries over workers scared they will get sick not showing up—and that’s only the important human aspect.” Other concerns include soybean prices, aid relief questions, and worries about related industries like beef, pork, poultry and dairy.

Eighty-two percent of the respondents said they practice social distancing, hand washing and other practices to minimize exposure. Seventy-three percent said they were moderately or extremely concerned about their farm being affected by COVID-19. Forty-four percent said their farms have already been affected, and 33% said trouble is likely to come. More than a quarter said they’re uncertain how to respond to exposure, but most are making plans to ensure employee safety and to continue operations if employees do become ill.