How Does Daylight Saving Time Affect Agriculture?
Contrary to popular belief, DST was NOT invented to help farmers — and farmers have historically been among its strongest opponents.
The Myth
DST was introduced during World War I to save coal, not to help farmers. The American Farm Bureau Federation opposed it from the start.
Why Farmers Oppose DST
- Livestock don't follow clocks. Cows need milking at regular biological intervals. DST disrupts schedules, reduces milk production, and stresses animals.
- Market timing. Farmers selling at morning markets must have produce ready by a specific time — DST shifts this.
- Crop dew. Morning dew evaporates based on solar time, not clock time. DST can push harvest into wetter conditions.
- Hired labor. Farm workers have clock-based schedules; farm work is solar-based.
Historical Record
Congress repealed DST in 1919 partly due to farm lobby pressure. It was only reinstated during WWII.
Quick Answer
DST affects agriculture negatively. Livestock follow solar time, not clock time. Farmers have historically opposed DST for these reasons.