Tag: United States Department Of Agriculture

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing over $11 million to modernize water infrastructure in rural Kansas, enhancing public health and economic development. The funding supports various projects across several cities, including emergency generators, water line installations, and system upgrades to build resilience against disasters and improve service delivery.

On February 19, 2026, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the USDA's plan to buy up to $263 million in dairy and agricultural products to support food banks and nutrition programs. This initiative aims to strengthen American agriculture while aiding producers and rural communities in need of nutrition assistance.

A Kansas legislative hearing discussed Senate Bill 428, which mandates the Department for Children and Families to provide personal data to federal agencies within 90 days. Attorney General Kris Kobach argues for data sharing to prevent fraud, while Governor Laura Kelly's administration cites legal concerns about privacy violations. There's ongoing tension regarding compliance and the potential impact on food assistance programs.

In a December 31, 2025, announcement, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins revealed that eligible farmers will receive pre-filled FBA program applications and $11 billion in one-time payments by February 28, 2026. This initiative aims to support farmers amid economic challenges caused by previous policies and enhance farm safety.

In April 2025, Governor Jim Pillen signed a waiver to exclude soda and energy drinks from SNAP purchases in Nebraska, aimed at promoting healthier choices, particularly for the 67,690 child recipients. Effective January 1, 2026, this initiative responds to studies highlighting the adverse effects of these beverages on youth health and development.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced per-acre payment rates under the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, providing support for eligible producers based on 2025 planted acres. Sorghum farmers will receive $48.11 per acre. Payments are expected by February 28, 2026, helping stabilize growers facing economic uncertainty and trade disruptions.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced significant updates to federal crop insurance on December 5, 2025. The Expanding Access to Risk Protection Final Rule aims to reduce regulations, modernize policies, and enhance farmers' access to risk protection, starting with the 2026 crop year, reflecting producer feedback and policy improvements.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has reported the first occurrence of the Asian longhorned tick in Kansas, found on a dog in Franklin County. This invasive species poses risks to both human and animal health, prompting increased monitoring and awareness efforts among veterinarians. Tick bite prevention measures are advised.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications for an agribusiness trade mission to Mexico City from November 3–6, 2025. With a July 31 deadline, the mission will connect U.S. exporters with key buyers and expand opportunities in Mexico’s agricultural market, supporting economic growth and competitiveness.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced $16 billion in assistance for agricultural producers affected by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 through the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP). The first stage of applications begins on July 10, with significant support aimed at expediting relief for farmers.

Mexico's SENASICA reported a new New World Screwworm case in Veracruz, prompting the U.S. to suspend livestock trade through southern ports to safeguard American agriculture. Despite plans for phased port reopenings, the detection raises concerns about pest control efforts in Mexico. USDA is stepping up measures to combat NWS and protect livestock.

On May 6, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced Gimmie Jo Jansonius's appointment as the USDA Rural Development State Director for Kansas by President Trump. Jansonius, a sixth-generation rancher, aims to prioritize farmers' needs and advance the administration's agenda, enhancing rural development and community prosperity in Kansas.