Farmers Bet on War Profits
Anticipating conflict between Japan and Russia, Walla Walla valley farmers hold onto wheat supplies in expectation of a global price surge.
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Walla Walla valley farmers are closely monitoring war preparations between Japan and Russia, believing that an outbreak of hostilities will drive the price of grain to record highs. Already, Japan is reportedly increasing its imports of American flour and wheat to ration for its troops. Local dealers suggest that Pacific ports, including those in Washington, are prioritizing these shipments due to lower freight rates and rapid dispatch. Farmers who previously resisted selling when prices were lower are now being vindicated, as the market anticipates a massive demand for food supplies for armies and horses in the Orient.
“If war does break out... it means that the farmers of the United States will be able to get any price for their grain.”
The reliance of Walla Walla's agricultural economy on global trade routes and the volatility of international conflict remains a persistent theme in local economic history.
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