When the Odds are Stacked Against You

When the odds are stacked against you, what do you do? Throughout our history the answer has been to try again and find a better way. As agriculturists that statement still rings true. From the first seed in the ground to the last kernel harvested, the work never stops. The ability to provide food for families across the world is critical not only to agriculturists but for every human being. With the addition of new regulations each year, it’s time to make the Oregon agriculturist be heard.

Oregon wheat accounts for five percent of total production in the United States. Over 2,000 growers and 725,000 acres. A whole organization of farmers doing their best, but even that is not enough. For the traditional farmer in Oregon they are barely breaking even or facing negative balances as they continue into the new year. Increasing input costs due to inflation, tariffs, and changing labor standards have not made this lifestyle easy. Costs are rising yet the return on investment continues to plummet. The introduction of the Farmer Bridge Assistance program, aid from the government to help compensate for these low prices, brought a glimmer of hope. However, with the recent release of the payment rates this will leave growers receiving approximately thirty nine dollars per acre. With farmers spending upwards of $400 per acre to produce the crop, this does little to make up the losses. These federal aid checks can offer support now, but the future demands a reliable market. How is this achieved? Together. As a group working towards a shared purpose, a livelihood that provides for the agriculturalist not just the consumer.

The 100th anniversary of the Oregon Wheat Growers League is a time to celebrate, commemorate, and continue its founding purpose. To, “cooperate and enhance the profitability of Oregon Wheat Growers by communicating with and educating ourselves and the public.” The time is now for Oregon agriculturists and supporters to band together to preserve their way of life. This is not a one man show, but a group effort to speak up and out for all to hear. In the face of opposing regulations there is a silver lining to be found. This is not the end of a century but the beginning of a brighter future.

When the odds are stacked against you, what do you do? Try again. Oregon Wheat Growers are not alone in this fight, let’s make all of our voices heard this year.

2026 Scholarship Essay: Addie Saunders