USDA Announces New Research Priorities to Support American Farmers
(Washington, D.C., December 30, 2025) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins has signed a Secretary’s Memorandum aimed at reorienting research and development funding within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to bolster American agriculture for both farmers and consumers.
The American agricultural sector has faced significant challenges attributed to the policies of the Biden-Harris Administration, which have led to heightened inflation, a stagnant trade agenda with no new agreements for U.S. commodities, and overwhelming regulatory burdens. Moreover, initiatives emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) alongside environmental justice in agricultural research have distorted focus and resources away from addressing the pressing issues confronting U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Since taking office, the Trump Administration has prioritized strengthening the farm safety net, creating new export channels for American goods, reducing essential agricultural input costs, and eliminating DEI-focused initiatives within USDA programs. Strategic investments in agricultural research are anticipated to enhance farmer profitability while ensuring a consistent supply of safe and affordable food and fiber for consumers for generations to come.
“President Lincoln had a vision for American agriculture centered around innovation and education when he established the People’s Department and the land-grant university system in 1862,” stated Secretary Rollins. “The priorities we unveil today further underscore President Trump’s commitment to putting Farmers First, providing our agricultural researchers with a strategic roadmap to keep our producers leading in productivity.”
Key Research and Development Priorities
Moving forward, USDA-funded research and development activities will focus on the following key areas that emphasize supporting American farmers:
- Increasing Profitability of Farmers and Ranchers: Developing strategies to enhance profitability—such as reducing costs or embracing automation—will provide financial stability for producers amidst market volatility.
- Expanding Markets and Creating New Uses for U.S. Agricultural Products: Research dedicated to removing trade barriers and finding new applications for U.S. commodities is essential, particularly as producers experience high yields this season.
- Protecting American Agriculture from Invasive Species: With threats like the New World Screwworm and the Spotted Lanternfly, research focused on prevention and management of invasive pests is a top priority to safeguard agriculture and natural resources.
- Promoting Soil Health: By fostering soil health practices, water-use efficiency, and sustainable input-reduction techniques, we can ensure that U.S. farms retain their productivity for future generations.
- Improving Human Health through Precision Nutrition: Research exploring how dietary patterns can impact individual health is critical, alongside initiatives aimed at enhancing the nutritional content and quality of food.
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