Frontline Season 17 Episode 3 The Farmer's Wife, Part 3
- September 23, 1998
The Farmer's Wife, Part 3 is the third and final installment of a powerful Frontline series exploring the struggles and triumphs of a farming family in rural America. The episode continues to follow Juanita and Darrel Buschkoetter, a Nebraska couple grappling with the harsh realities of modern agriculture and the toll it takes on their personal and professional lives.
The episode begins with Juanita and Darrel facing a devastating blow: their crops have been hit hard by a hailstorm, wiping out much of their potential income for the year. With mounting debt and no guarantee of financial security, the couple must find a way to keep their farm afloat while also caring for their three young children.
As they navigate the challenges of drought, debt, and bureaucracy, Juanita and Darrel are forced to confront the difficult choices that come with life on the farm. Should they continue to pour money into their land, hoping for a better harvest next year? Or should they cut their losses and find other sources of income?
Complicating matters further is the strain on their marriage. With long hours and high stress levels, Juanita and Darrel find themselves frequently at odds, struggling to communicate and support each other through the struggles they face. The episode digs deep into the emotional toll of farming, showing the toll it can take on even the strongest of relationships.
Despite the challenges they face, Juanita and Darrel continue to fight for their family and their way of life. They reach out to other farmers in their community, banding together to form a cooperative that helps them navigate the complexities of farm subsidies and government programs. They also turn to their faith, finding solace and strength in their shared belief in a higher power.
Through it all, The Farmer's Wife, Part 3 offers a poignant and powerful look at the realities of farming in America. It shows the deep connections between family, land, and community that drive people to keep fighting even in the face of adversity. It also raises important questions about the future of agriculture and the role of small family farms in our rapidly changing economy.
The final episode in this gripping series is a must-watch for anyone interested in the challenges facing rural America or the enduring strength of the human spirit. With stunning visuals, candid interviews, and a deep sense of compassion, The Farmer's Wife, Part 3 offers a powerful conclusion to one of Frontline's most compelling series to date.