U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, alongside prominent North Dakota political figures, embarked on a visit to the state, engaging directly with local agriculture leaders. The delegation included Senator John Hoeven, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak, Governor Kelly Armstrong, and North Dakota Commissioner of Agriculture Doug Goehring.
The visit's purpose was twofold: to gather feedback from North Dakota's farmers for the upcoming farm bill and to observe the state’s advancements in precision agriculture technologies. Rollins also toured the American Crystal Sugar facility.
“North Dakota is rich in agriculture,” remarked Secretary Rollins. “Wheat, potato, sugar beet, and cattle farmers in the state are driving innovation and continuing the long legacy of feeding, fueling, and clothing the world. It was great to see the next generation of agricultural leaders and ingenuity of American agriculture at North Dakota State University. I look forward to continuing to work with leaders like Senator Hoeven, Congresswoman Fedorchak, and Governor Armstrong and hear from farmers in North Dakota as we put Farmers First at USDA.”
Senator Hoeven emphasized the importance of innovation and effective farm policies. “North Dakota is an ag powerhouse today, and we’re making sure that, through innovation and good farm policy, our leadership in this vital sector continues to grow,” he stated.
Congresswoman Fedorchak highlighted North Dakota's role in agriculture innovation. “Today was an incredible opportunity to show Secretary Rollins how North Dakota is leading the way—not just in growing the crops that feed and fuel the world, but also in developing innovative technology to do it better," Fedorchak said.
Governor Armstrong expressed appreciation for the visit, noting, “North Dakota farmers and ranchers are the best in the world, and we appreciate Secretary Rollins coming to Fargo to hear firsthand about the challenges and opportunities facing our ag producers as they feed and fuel the world.”
As part of the Trump Administration's Farmers First initiative, Secretary Rollins announced a $340.6 million aid package through the USDA Rural Development Disaster Assistance Fund. North Dakota will receive $5 million to rebuild electric infrastructure following severe storms and wildfires. Additionally, products with over 65% sugar content will face extra tariffs until September 30, 2025.
The trip included a roundtable discussion at North Dakota State University, a lunch with members of the Student Ag Ambassadors, and a visit to Grand Farm for agricultural technology demonstrations.
Secretary Rollins participated in events highlighting collaborations between NDSU and the Grand Farm, focusing on precision agriculture advancements.
