USDA Launches “Make Agriculture Great Again” Initiative to Support Small Family Farms

On Monday, during a visit to Nebraska, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins unveiled the “Make Agriculture Great Again” initiative, emphasizing the critical role of small family farms in American communities and the nation’s economy. The initiative aims to address various challenges these farms face, ensuring their sustainability and growth.

The Heart of Agriculture

According to policy documents, small family farms—defined as farms with an annual gross cash farm income of less than $350,000—compose about 86% of all farms in the U.S. Rollins stated, “The defense of the family farm is a defense of everything America has been—and everything we will be.” This initiative aims to prioritize the needs of these farms, reflecting their essential place in the agricultural landscape.

Identified Challenges and Solutions

USDA has outlined key challenges facing small family farms along with proposed solutions:

1. Access to Capital

Many small farms struggle with securing reliable access to capital. To combat this, the USDA is reforming the Farm Service Agency (FSA) loan program to streamline delivery and increase efficiency.

2. Land Acquisition Issues

With rising real estate costs and increased solar development on productive farmland, acquiring land has become more difficult for new farmers. To address this, the USDA is proposing disincentives for solar developments on agricultural land, alongside expanding permitting for the leasing of federal land for small farms.

3. Infrastructure Needs

New farmers frequently face challenges related to inadequate infrastructure, including cold storage and processing facilities. The USDA plans to provide state-level grants aimed specifically at addressing these infrastructure needs.

4. Digitization of Applications

The application process for USDA programs can be overly complex, deterring participation. Rollins announced that by the end of 2025, all applications for farmer-focused programs will be available for electronic submission, simplifying the process for small family farms.

The Rollins Op-Ed: A Call to Action

In a recent op-ed, Rollins emphasized the importance of small family farms, stating, “Small family farms are the backbone of our nation.” She cited the historical significance of these farms in preserving liberty and community values, highlighting that continued investment and support are essential for their survival.

Rollins underscored the necessity of multi-faceted collaboration involving government entities, non-profits, and the private sector to help small farms thrive. This initiative, announced in Nebraska, reflects a commitment to enhance rural prosperity and ensure that small farms are not relegated to history.

Conclusion

The “Make Agriculture Great Again” initiative represents a pivotal step toward addressing the unique challenges faced by small family farms in the U.S. Through targeted support and reform, the USDA aims to fortify the foundation of rural America while preserving the agricultural heritage that has shaped the nation.

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