This apple farmer in Washington is taking an axe to his trees to save money

Farmers across the U.S. are dealing with business inputs and outputs that are beyond their control. With supply chain hangups and oil shortages, farmers have seen prices for diesel and fertilizer skyrocket, while on the back end still receiving lower prices for their crops.

At the end of the day, farmers have to find ways to break even.

“Marketplace” host Kai Ryssdal checked in with Patrick Smith, owner of Loftus Ranches in Yakima, Washington. In 2024, Washington ranked last in financial returns for farmers, according to the USDA.

As farmers continue to be price takers, and not price makers, Smith has had to get creative cutting costs. In fact, he’s actually taking a chainsaw to some of his orchards.

To hear their full conversation, click the audio player above.