Local farmers already feeling effects of tariff trade war

BLUE MOUND, Ill. (WAND) — The White House announced that 25% tariffs would be placed on goods from Canada and Mexico and 20% tariffs on goods from China, late Monday night. Both Canada and China have also announced tariffs on American goods. However, local farmers are left in the middle of the tariff trade war scuffle.

Alex Head, with Head Bros. Land & Cattle in Blue Mound, says that his family anticipated the negative effects tariffs would have on their farm, but weren't sure the lengths these trading giants would go to. "We knew back in November -- when President Trump was running -- that this was his plan. Now did we know it's going to be this aggressive, and affect the markets as fast?" he explained "We didn't really know how severe it would affect us. And and we still don't know." Head says they are prepared to roll with the punches, but aren't sure what to expect.

"Farmers are resilient." Head remarked "We can't control our own destiny, it's kind of the tough part about being a farmer." Head Bros. Land & Cattle have already seen a distinct monetary loss because of the tariffs. "In the last week or so since we've been talking about them[tariffs], we have seen the market drop...there's no doubt it's impacting us already."

Since the commodity prices have dropped as a result of the tariffs, farmers have a few options for their product. Those who have access, can utilize their crop insurance. However, others will either be forced to sell their product for a significantly lower price, or wait idly until prices improve. "It's kind of a wait and see game. It's impacted our bottom line already." said Head.

Head and his family -- like many other farmers across the country -- are weighing their options. He says in the meantime, there are ways the community can support their local farmers. "If you can buy local and fill your freezer with a neighbor's [goods] or something like that, that always helps out the local cattle producers for sure."