This browser does not support the Video element.
Rising fuel costs hit Washington farmers amid global tensions
Farmers in Snohomish County say rising fuel and fertilizer costs are straining operations as global tensions disrupt oil markets. Local growers warn the increasing expenses could threaten the long-term sustainability of farming in Washington.
ARLINGTON, Wash. - Rising fuel prices are squeezing farmers across Washington state, according to the advocacy group Save Family Farming, adding new strain as they head into a critical growing season.
Fuel costs hit WA farms
At a farm in Arlington, Andrew Albert said the timing could not be worse.
"Right now, as we come into the farming season with these super high fuel prices, it’s not good," said Albert.
Fuel is central to nearly every part of his operation, from planting to shipping. Albert said the impact goes far beyond what he pays at the pump.
"Fuel is the lifeblood of the farm," he said, adding that anything transported to or from his business becomes more expensive as costs rise.
Albert, who grows crops including cabbage seed that is shipped internationally, said the farther goods have to travel, the more those costs add up.
Andrew Albert
Global issues, local impact
Albert said international developments, including tensions affecting shipping routes, are contributing to higher diesel and fertilizer costs. He expressed hope the increases will be temporary, especially as farmers like him are preparing to use more fuel in the coming weeks as the season ramps up.
Regulation and rising expenses
Beyond fuel, Albert pointed to regulations and labor costs as ongoing challenges. He said farmers have little control over the prices they receive for their products while facing increasing expenses.
"It’s a difficult state to farm in on top of all the normal farming challenges, weather, markets and all that," he said, adding that regulation and labor issues are constant hurdles.
Albert said policies set in the state Capitol, such as environmental and labor regulations, have added to the burden on farmers.
Andrew Albert's farm
"It’s all being dictated by people in Olympia who really have no understanding or connection to any farms in any way," he said.
He also said farmers lack political influence.
What they're saying:
"Farmers don’t have a lot of voice. There’s not very many of us. We have no voting power at all," he said.
A generational legacy at risk
Albert’s family has farmed the land for three generations, transitioning from dairy to hay and other crops as markets changed. He said the operation once played a major role in hay exports.
He worries that increasing costs and challenges could threaten that legacy.
"There’s a saying that as generations get removed from the farm, the understanding of the farm disappears too," he said.
Balancing challenges with opportunity
Despite the difficulties, Albert said Washington offers strong farming conditions, including favorable weather and infrastructure such as nearby ports.
Albert said he believes solutions are possible through cooperation.
"I think there’s a balance that can be reached, working together," he said.
Still, he said rising fuel costs remain a major concern as farmers work to stay competitive.
"It’s become so difficult for farmers in this state to compete against other states and the world," said Albert.
MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE
Gov. Ferguson signs bill changing WA legal language away from 'alien'
More than 100 Kent, WA workers to be laid off by Rise Baking
WA AG joins lawsuit against OneMain Financial, alleging bait-and-switch scheme
Chateau Ste Michelle Summer 2026 concert lineup announced
Former WA resident says she was victim of alleged License Express flaw
FBI adds WA double-murder suspect Samuel Ramirez Jr. to Most Wanted List
Loved ones still reeling after deadly Key Peninsula, WA stabbings: ‘Never saw that coming from him’
To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter.
Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news.