Patrick Smith

Patrick Smith, a fourth-generation apple and hops farmer from Loftus Ranches, shares his firsthand experience with the impact of trade policies and climate conditions on agriculture. He discusses the pressing challenges such as labor regulations and fluctuating export markets that threaten the stability of farming in central Washington. Additionally, he highlights the broader implications of these agricultural issues, including supply chain unpredictability and the effects of wage increases in related sectors, painting a vivid picture of the real costs facing today’s economy.

In this episode, Patrick Smith, a fourth-generation apple and hops farmer from Loftus Ranches, shares his insights on the economic trials facing agricultural producers in central Washington. He discusses the impacts of a hot and dry summer, including reduced water deliveries and labor challenges. Patrick highlights the complexities of seasonal planning amidst unpredictable trade policies and the ongoing pressures from inflation. His perspective sheds light on how these broader economic shifts affect everyday farming operations.

Patrick Smith, a fourth-generation apple and hops farmer from Loftus Ranches in Yakima, Washington, discusses the current economic turmoil affecting agriculture. He shares insights on navigating uncertainties such as inflation, labor shortages, and evolving trade policies. The conversation dives into the complexities of the Consumer Price Index, market trends contrasting a rising stock market with economic challenges, and the critical role of reliable data for business decisions. Smith’s personal experiences shed light on the real costs and pressures faced by farmers today.