Farmers worry about effects of lower subsidies.

By Tim Moran, The Modesto Bee, Calif. Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News

Feb. 19--A fear of the unknown is a natural emotion.

And the impact proposed cuts in federal farm subsidies would have on the Northern San Joaquin Valley is largely unknown, ag officials say.

Exactly what funding would come under the knife, how much would be cut and whether programs such as disaster aid might be part of the trimming are all up in the air -- and might not be known for several months.

In the meantime, farm organizations are preparing for battle to protect as much of the federal money as possible.

So what's at stake? Conventional wisdom has …