Dent: “Stay Home” Has Had A Deep Impact On Ag That Could Be Felt For Years

For nearly ten weeks, the state of Washington was under Governor Jay Inslee’s “Stay Home, Save Lives” order, which had a deep impact on the state’s economy; including the state’s farm economy.

But the question is how long will that negative impact be felt?

Moses Lake Republican Tom Dent said the coronavirus pandemic decimated the state’s potato industry. And while he believes it will bounce back, he’s concerned how long it will take.

“In June 2021, are we going to have enough potatoes to supply the demand of the folks in the world?  So, I’m concerned about that, I truly am.  I think it’s really important for all people in agriculture to take this seriously, and then deal with it.”

Dent said the fact that the Stay Home order stretched on so long for farm country is frustrating and confusing. He said those who live in more populated areas just don’t understand the struggles farmers are facing right now. In fact, Dent said during recent conversations with urban lawmakers, they had no idea how much central and eastern Washington is suffering.

“I tried to explain to them how important it is that we keep our farmers and growers and producers in business.  So, I don’t think that it’s widespread knowledge just what we do.  And what it is that we provide to them and how important it is.”

Dent said safety needs to be a top concern, as does allowing the Washington farm economy to get back to “normal” as soon as possible.

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