Anyone who’s spent any time around farmers knows that they are strong, independent and courageous, often in the face of overwhelming odds. Year after year, farmers and ranchers deal with a wide range of issues over which they have no control, including droughts, floods and storms, market disruption from trade disputes, labor shortages, low commodity prices — and the list goes on. 

This year, the COVID-19 pandemic multiplied the impact of all of these issues and added to the already high stress levels farmers are carrying.

Despite these continuing pres­­sures that build throughout the year, we look forward to the holidays as a time to unwind, relax and spend time with family and friends. There’s a certain comfort in tradition, seeing loved ones...