The wheat industry is a vital part of the agricultural sector in the United States, providing food for millions of people and supporting thousands of farm families. However, this industry faces many challenges, such as unpredictable weather, fluctuating market prices, and rising production costs. A farm bill is essential for the wheat industry to address these challenges and ensure its long-term sustainability.

One of the main reasons a farm bill is necessary is the financial security it provides to wheat farmers. Wheat prices can be highly volatile due to factors like global supply and demand, trade policies, and natural disasters. A farm bill includes provisions for crop insurance, which helps farmers recover from losses caused by droughts, floods, or other natural events. This safety net gives farmers the confidence to continue planting wheat even when the future seems uncertain.
Another important aspect of the farm bill is the support it offers for research and innovation. Wheat farmers face constant pressure to produce more while using fewer resources, such as water and fertilizer. By funding agricultural research, the farm bill helps develop new technologies and practices that make wheat farming more efficient and sustainable. These advancements not only benefit farmers but also help protect the environment for future generations. As my great-grandfather, Dr. Wm H. Hansell, always said, “We are caretakers and guardians of this land for a short time. We must preserve it and pass it onto the next generation in a better state.” His wisdom serves as a reminder of the responsibility we all share in protecting our agricultural resources.
Gilliam County, Oregon, exemplifies the importance of the wheat industry. Our county produces some of the highest quality of wheat in the state, with over 75,000 acres dedicated to wheat farming. Wheat production is a cornerstone of the local economy, supporting not only farmers but also associated industries like grain storage and transportation. The success of wheat farming in Gilliam County highlights the need for a farm bill.

Although I personally never wanted to become a farmer, I am deeply committed to supporting agriculture through agribusiness and wildland firefighting. Farmers need a strong foundation to succeed, and a comprehensive farm bill is a crucial part of building that foundation. It ensures not only the financial stability of farms but also the health of the entire agricultural economy, from equipment suppliers to grain elevators. The farm bill will allow farm kids like me to contribute to the industry in ways that don’t require working directly in the fields.

In conclusion, the farm bill is crucial for the 􀁕heat industry because it provides financial stability, promotes innovation, and supports rural communities. Growing up as a farm kid in Gilliam County, I’ve seen firsthand how vital wheat farming is to my family and our community. While I chose to pursue a path in agribusiness and finance rather than farming itself, I know that passing a farm bill is essential to support not just farmers but everyone who relies on agriculture to make a Jiving. Without this legislation, wheat farmers in my county and across the nation would face overwhelming challenges, threatening the food supply and the lifeblood of rural America. A farm bill must be passed to honor the hard work of farmers and ensure the wheat industry’s strength for future generations.

2025 Scholarship Essay: Liam Heideman