John Boyd Jr., a fourth-generation farmer from Virginia and president of the National Black Farmers Association, is facing a financial crisis due to soaring diesel prices. Diesel now costs him about $7 a gallon, nearly double from last year, as he harvests corn on his farm. This increase is part of a global fuel shortage worsened by geopolitical tensions, including the U.S. and Israel’s conflict with Iran. Boyd, who doesn’t store diesel on his farm, must frequently transport fuel, adding to his expenses. With corn selling at $5 per bushel, the high fuel costs are straining his budget, forcing him to reallocate funds from other farm needs. Many Black farmers are at risk of losing their farms and are seeking financial aid, feeling let down by the current administration. This situation highlights the broader challenges farmers face amid global economic shifts.
QUESTION: How might rising fuel costs impact the future of farming and food prices in your community?
How a national farm leader is dealing with record diesel prices
