Big Sky Times

Montana farmers may see recovery in 2020 if regional economists are right in their predictions.

After suffering setbacks from uncertainty in international markets and poor weather last year, Montana’s producers are keeping an eye on commodity markets and trade relations.

The USMCA and the Phase 1 deal with China has given some optimism for a less volatile year to farmers and economists alike.

"I think it was maybe just right in the nick of time," Montana Wheat and Barley Committee bureau chief Cassidy Marn said. Ongoing negotiations such as those to restore trade with Japan also offer hope.

Montana State University professor Anton Bekkerman noted recent increases in the price of spring and winter wheat.

"I think a lot of farmers are finding some optimism in that and we may see some spring wheat come back," Bekkerman said to MTPR. 

There is still uncertainty, such as over trade with India or whether other deals will fulfill their promises. Those concerns have been edged with uncertainty over how coronavirus will affect trade with China.