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Senate Democrats Raise Concerns Over USDA Research Reorganization Impact on Agriculture

Senate Democrats Raise Concerns Over USDA Research Reorganization Impact on Agriculture

Senator Amy Klobuchar, along with 23 other senators, has expressed concerns regarding the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) proposed reorganization of its Research, Education, and Economics mission area. The senators argue that the restructuring could potentially disrupt agricultural research and economic reporting. In a letter to USDA officials, they acknowledged the need for efficiency but warned that the changes might weaken the department's research capabilities, affecting the provision of scientific innovation and economic data crucial for farmers and rural communities. The senators have requested detailed plans from the USDA to mitigate disruptions during the transition and urged adherence to Government Accountability Office recommendations for federal agency reorganizations.

USDA Removes Lenders from Rural Development Program Over Delinquent Loans

USDA Removes Lenders from Rural Development Program Over Delinquent Loans

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced the removal of several lenders from the USDA Rural Development Lending program due to delinquent loans. The affected lenders hold portfolios with approximately $620 million in delinquent loans, accounting for about 47% of Rural Development's delinquent loans. The decision is part of an effort to ensure responsible lending practices and protect taxpayer dollars.

USDA Removes Lenders from Rural Development Program Due to Delinquent Loans

USDA Removes Lenders from Rural Development Program Due to Delinquent Loans

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has removed several lenders from its Rural Development Lending program due to significant delinquent loans. The lenders, including Bank of Montgomery, Byline Bank, and others, collectively hold approximately $620 million in delinquent loans, which account for about 47% of the program's total delinquent loans. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasized the Trump Administration's zero tolerance for noncompliance and irresponsible actions by these lenders. The USDA's decision aims to protect taxpayer funds and ensure that resources are directed towards projects that benefit rural America. This move is part of a broader effort to maintain responsible lending practices and program integrity, allowing the USDA to better support the remaining 750 lenders who continue to provide essential capital access to rural communities.

How the USDA rose from agency to Cabinet department

How the USDA rose from agency to Cabinet department

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has undergone significant changes since its inception in 1862. Initially established as an indep...

How Carlsbad Caverns became a U.S. treasure

How Carlsbad Caverns became a U.S. treasure

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, located in Eddy County, New Mexico, is renowned for its extensive cave system and stunning natural formations. Esta...

USDA Relocation Efforts Threaten Agricultural Research, Advocates Warn

USDA Relocation Efforts Threaten Agricultural Research, Advocates Warn

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition has raised concerns about the USDA's plans to relocate its workforce, which could negatively impact long-term agricultural research. The relocation involves moving employees from the National Capital Region to other states, including Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa. Critics argue that the lack of a clear plan and the potential loss of experienced researchers could disrupt ongoing projects and hinder future agricultural advancements.

Why Eddy County matters in U.S. geography

Why Eddy County matters in U.S. geography

This article explores the significance of Eddy County as the location of the park, highlighting its historical, geographical, and cultural importan...

New Mexico Tribes Sue Kalshi Over Alleged Illegal Gambling

New Mexico Tribes Sue Kalshi Over Alleged Illegal Gambling

Four New Mexico tribes have filed a lawsuit against Kalshi, a prediction market exchange, alleging that it offers illegal gambling services within Native American territories. The plaintiffs, including the pueblos of Isleta, Pojoaque, Sandia, and the Mescalero Apache Tribe, are seeking injunctive relief and civil penalties. The lawsuit is similar to a previous case filed by the Wisconsin Ho-Chunk Nation against Kalshi. The tribes argue that Kalshi's operations violate the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 and state-based gaming compacts. This legal action highlights the ongoing tension between tribal gaming rights and federal regulatory oversight.

163 Years Ago Today, the USDA was established

163 Years Ago Today, the USDA was established

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) was established during a pivotal time in American history. On May 15, 1862, President Abraham Li...

SNAP Enrollment Decline Puts Pressure on U.S. Food Banks

SNAP Enrollment Decline Puts Pressure on U.S. Food Banks

Food banks across the United States are experiencing increased pressure as participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) declines. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, SNAP enrollment fell by approximately 4.3 million people between January 2025 and January 2026. This decline is attributed to policy changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which tightened eligibility requirements and expanded work rules for recipients. As a result, more individuals are turning to food banks and local pantries for assistance.

Bipartisan Bill Introduces Tax Credit to Boost Water Recycling in Industrial Facilities

Bipartisan Bill Introduces Tax Credit to Boost Water Recycling in Industrial Facilities

A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers, led by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.), has introduced the 'Advancing Water Reuse Act'. This legislation aims to incentivize water recycling projects by offering a 30 percent investment tax credit to companies that install or expand water recycling systems at manufacturing sites, including food processing facilities and data centers. The initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce water consumption in industrial facilities and artificial intelligence data centers, particularly in regions facing water scarcity. The concept of water recycling involves treating wastewater so it can be reused for industry, irrigation, or even drinking. This approach is gaining traction across the United States, especially in the arid West and areas experiencing a resurgence in manufacturing or an increase in data center projects.

US Senate Hearing Highlights Fertilizer Price Surge Impact on Farmers

US Senate Hearing Highlights Fertilizer Price Surge Impact on Farmers

A recent US Senate Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry committee hearing addressed the significant challenges faced by farmers due to soaring fertilizer prices. Witnesses at the hearing pointed to industry consolidation, lack of transparency, and dominant market players as key factors contributing to the price surge. The hearing highlighted the need for increased competition and transparency in the fertilizer market. A new bill, The Fertilizer Transparency Act of 2026, was discussed, which aims to require the USDA to collect and report detailed fertilizer pricing and market data. The hearing also explored potential solutions, including precision agriculture tools and bio-based alternatives, although these are not yet sufficient to replace traditional fertilizers.