U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins hosted the first Farmers First roundtable at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Washington, D.C., today. The event included Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, members of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), and over 20 farmers and ranchers from 11 states with smaller-scale, family-owned operations.
The roundtable aimed to address the economic challenges faced by these independent farming operations. Secretary Rollins emphasized the importance of ensuring their viability for the future. "America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers are the backbone of our country," she stated, reiterating the Trump Administration's commitment to supporting small farms.
During the event, Secretary Rollins signed a Memorandum of Understanding with NASDA President Wes Ward to enhance collaboration between USDA and state agriculture departments. This agreement is part of a broader initiative to improve support for American agriculture.
The USDA's Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) has distributed over $7.3 billion to 487,177 farmers across 49 states. This program was implemented within three months, contrasting with longer timelines under previous administrations. The department updates its payment portal weekly for transparency.
In response to recent natural disasters affecting farms nationwide, Secretary Rollins announced plans to expedite $21 billion in disaster assistance payments. Relief for livestock affected by drought and wildfire is expected by month's end. Some aspects of this assistance may take longer due to specific Congressional requirements.
Secretary Rollins expressed her dedication to improving conditions for small family farms: "While there are many programs to assist our farmers, we feel strongly that it takes government entities, non-profits, and the private sector working together." She added that efforts are ongoing to bolster the farm economy.
A new online resource will track USDA's disaster aid rollout progress regularly.
The timeline for upcoming disaster assistance programs includes:
- Emergency Livestock Relief Program for drought/wildfire: Payments begin May 30.
- Supplemental Disaster Relief Program: Sign-up starts July 7.
- Emergency Livestock Relief Program for flooding: Sign-up begins August 18.
