Press Releases Archives - National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition https://sustainableagriculture.net/category/press-releases/ Supporting the economic and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:19:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://sustainableagriculture.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/cropped-cropped-favicon-192x192-1-32x32.jpg Press Releases Archives - National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition https://sustainableagriculture.net/category/press-releases/ 32 32 Release: Hundreds Call for Strong Investments in Farmer-Led Research, Urban Agriculture, and Conservation in FY2027 Appropriations https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-hundreds-call-for-strong-investments-in-farmer-led-research-urban-agriculture-and-conservation-in-fy2027-appropriations/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=release-hundreds-call-for-strong-investments-in-farmer-led-research-urban-agriculture-and-conservation-in-fy2027-appropriations https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-hundreds-call-for-strong-investments-in-farmer-led-research-urban-agriculture-and-conservation-in-fy2027-appropriations/#respond Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:19:08 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=61134 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Tel. 347.563.6408 Release: Hundreds Call for Strong Investments in Farmer-Led Research, Urban Agriculture, and Conservation in FY2027 Appropriations Washington, DC, April 16, 2026 – Yesterday, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC), alongside hundreds of organizations, delivered letters calling for strong investments in Fiscal Year […]

The post Release: Hundreds Call for Strong Investments in Farmer-Led Research, Urban Agriculture, and Conservation in FY2027 Appropriations appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Tel. 347.563.6408

Release: Hundreds Call for Strong Investments in Farmer-Led Research, Urban Agriculture, and Conservation in FY2027 Appropriations

Washington, DC, April 16, 2026 – Yesterday, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC), alongside hundreds of organizations, delivered letters calling for strong investments in Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Agriculture Appropriations legislation. The letters, which focused on the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE), the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP), and Conservation Operations and Conservation Technical Assistance, arrive as Congressional Appropriators are drafting spending legislation, and several weeks after the Administration released its own FY2027 budget proposal.

The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program is the only regionally based, farmer driven, and outcome-oriented competitive research program that involves farmers and ranchers directly as the primary investigators in research and education projects. SARE provides grants directly to producers, which removes the financial risk of testing new ideas for making their operations more economically viable, productive, and sustainable. To meet the current demand for farmer driven research, stakeholders are requesting full funding for SARE at its authorized level of $60 million.

Farmers and ranchers are at the center of everything SARE does, from important leadership positions at the national level, to participating in the regional grant review process, to designing and implementing projects for on-farm research. This farmer led model that SARE champions ensures that funding continues to go to America’s most innovative farmers and ranchers,” said Nick Rossi, NSAC Policy Specialist. “Despite nearly 40 years of helping farmers develop and adopt cutting edge practices and systems, SARE has yet to receive its fully authorized funding, and every year more than half of eligible farmer/rancher grants go unfunded.”

The Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP) offers programs and services that support the unique needs of agricultural production in urban, suburban, and indoor settings, ensuring business success and an ample supply of nutritious foods in their communities. OUAIP grants, cooperative agreements, and programming have reached 43 states and Puerto Rico, despite being significantly underfunded. This year, stakeholders are requesting funding at the authorized level of $25 million.

“The combined effect of US Department of Agriculture (USDA) staff losses and cuts to nutrition programs makes OUAIP awards and timely implementation even more essential for organizations and local stakeholders to fill the gaps left in communities. Previous awards have funded incubator farms and community garden infrastructure, as well as producer training and youth education; all of which have been difficult for producers to access in traditional USDA service centers,” commented Hannah Quigley, NSAC Policy Specialist

Conservation Operations and Conservation Technical Assistance (CTA) funds facilitate the administration of USDA conservation programs by supporting our conservation workforce, conservation planning, and the extension of specialized technical assistance to producers. According to USDA, CTA funds supported over 4,400 full time NRCS positions in every state in the nation in 2025, as well as TA providers at third-party organizations. This year, NSAC partnered with the National Associations of Conservation Districts, as well as a long list of stakeholders, in requesting $1.05 billion for Conservation Operations.

Producers across the country depend on the availability of on-the-ground technical assistance to implement effective conservation practices. These funds support conservation professionals providing detailed, unbiased agronomic advice to producers in every state, most often at the county level. It’s no surprise to see such strong support from organizations and producers alike for these investments at a time when producer access to TA is so dramatically reduced,” said Jesse Womack, NSAC Policy Specialist.

### 

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. Learn more: https://sustainableagriculture.net/

The post Release: Hundreds Call for Strong Investments in Farmer-Led Research, Urban Agriculture, and Conservation in FY2027 Appropriations appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-hundreds-call-for-strong-investments-in-farmer-led-research-urban-agriculture-and-conservation-in-fy2027-appropriations/feed/ 0
Release: Coalition Urges Congress to Bolster Domestic Markets, Fund Local and Regional Food Procurement in Farmer Relief Package https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-coalition-urges-congress-to-bolster-domestic-markets-fund-local-and-regional-food-procurement-in-farmer-relief-package/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=release-coalition-urges-congress-to-bolster-domestic-markets-fund-local-and-regional-food-procurement-in-farmer-relief-package https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-coalition-urges-congress-to-bolster-domestic-markets-fund-local-and-regional-food-procurement-in-farmer-relief-package/#respond Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:20:42 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=61114 For Immediate Release Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Release: Coalition Urges Congress to Bolster Domestic Markets, Fund Local and Regional Food Procurement in Farmer Relief Package  Washington, DC, April 15, 2026– Today, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC), National Farmers Union, American Farmland Trust, and National Association of State Departments of Agriculture led […]

The post Release: Coalition Urges Congress to Bolster Domestic Markets, Fund Local and Regional Food Procurement in Farmer Relief Package appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
For Immediate Release

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Release: Coalition Urges Congress to Bolster Domestic Markets, Fund Local and Regional Food Procurement in Farmer Relief Package 

Washington, DC, April 15, 2026Today, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC), National Farmers Union, American Farmland Trust, and National Association of State Departments of Agriculture led an agricultural coalition letter urging Congress to include funding for local and regional procurement of domestically produced agricultural products in any upcoming farmer economic relief package. 

“Reliable markets are foundational to farmers’ success – now is the moment to ensure that any agricultural economic relief package invests in stable domestic markets that will support farmers both today and well into the future,” said Mike Lavender, Policy Director for NSAC. “Congress can spur federal investments in locally-led procurement that will open market opportunities for small and mid-sized farmers – supporting their financial resilience, and solidifying their connectivity to their local communities.” 

As family farmers and ranchers continue to face severe economic pressure driven by market volatility, rising costs, trade disruptions, and extreme weather, the groups emphasized that additional assistance will be necessary. The letter argues that Congress should pair near-term relief with investments that build stronger domestic markets and create reliable demand for American-grown products. 

“Local and regional supply chains are not only a cornerstone of rural economic resilience—they are essential to national food security,” the letter states.  

The coalition pointed to bipartisan, bicameral legislation already introduced in Congress, including the Strengthening Local Food Security Act (S.2338) and the Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities Act (H.R. 4782), as models for implementation. 

The groups also highlighted USDA’s previous Local Food Purchase Assistance and Local Food for Schools programs as proof that the approach works. Those programs helped states, Tribes, and territories purchase approximately $850 million in locally grown food from over 15,000 farmers and ranchers, strengthening regional supply chains and expanding market opportunities for small and mid-sized producers. Together, these programs stimulated nearly $1.6 billion in economic activity. 

Family farmers are squeezed by low prices, rising costs, and deep uncertainty. Investing in local and regional food procurement isn’t just good policy — it’s how we keep family farms viable and rural communities strong,said Rob Larew, President of National Farmers Union. 

Congress has an opportunity to deliver both immediate relief and long-term resilience by including funding for local and regional food procurement in their upcoming farmer assistance package,said John Piotti, President and CEO of American Farmland Trust. “These investments create reliable demand for farmers and ranchers, provide nutritious food to communities across the country, keep more dollars circulating in rural communities, and help ensure that American agriculture can thrive well into the future.” 

NASDA members are advocating for Congress to include robust funding for procurement of regionally produced food in any upcoming farmer economic relief package,” NASDA CEO Ted McKinney said. “Strategic investments in these programs directly support small and medium-sized American farmers and ranchers, strengthen local and regional supply chains and expand access to a variety of nutritious foods in communities across the country. Prioritizing procurement of local products can help deliver meaningful economic relief to U.S. farmers while advancing food security, improving nutrition outcomes and building a more resilient food system for the future.” 

Read the full letter here

 ###

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Release: Coalition Urges Congress to Bolster Domestic Markets, Fund Local and Regional Food Procurement in Farmer Relief Package appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-coalition-urges-congress-to-bolster-domestic-markets-fund-local-and-regional-food-procurement-in-farmer-relief-package/feed/ 0
Release: FY2027 USDA Budget Proposal is a Historic Setback for Farmers and Rural Communities https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-fy2027-usda-budget-proposal-is-a-historic-setback-for-farmers-and-rural-communities/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=release-fy2027-usda-budget-proposal-is-a-historic-setback-for-farmers-and-rural-communities https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-fy2027-usda-budget-proposal-is-a-historic-setback-for-farmers-and-rural-communities/#respond Fri, 03 Apr 2026 20:48:31 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=61054 For Immediate Release Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Release: FY2027 USDA Budget Proposal is a Historic Setback for Farmers and Rural Communities  Washington, DC, April 3, 2026 –  Today, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) responded to the Trump Administration’s release of the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 […]

The post Release: FY2027 USDA Budget Proposal is a Historic Setback for Farmers and Rural Communities appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
For Immediate Release

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Release: FY2027 USDA Budget Proposal is a Historic Setback for Farmers and Rural Communities 

Washington, DC, April 3, 2026 –  Today, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) responded to the Trump Administration’s release of the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Budget Proposal. The Administration’s FY2027 discretionary funding request for USDA is more than $2 billion below the Administration’s FY2026 USDA request.

“The Administration’s USDA budget proposes one of the most staggering disinvestments from farmers and rural communities in recent memory. Amidst rising farm bankruptcies and unprecedented instability in American agriculture, this budget proposal would double down on the damage and radically reduce USDA’s ability to serve farmers. The budget entirely eliminates funding for farmer-led agriculture research, conservation support that helps farmers build productivity and resilience, and investments in urban agriculture and rural small businesses alike,” said Mike Lavender, NSAC Policy Director.

The budget proposal includes significant staffing cuts at the Farm Service Agency, a USDA agency that is essential to supporting farmer viability in county offices across the country. Similarly, the budget would siphon significant funding directly from farmers by using popular conservation programs – such as the Conservation Stewardship Program and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program – to pay for Natural Resources Conservation Service staff. 

Additionally, the following programs would receive zero discretionary funding in FY2027 under this budget proposal:

  • Conservation Technical Assistance
  • Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program
  • Farming Opportunities Training and Outreach Program:
    • Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program
    • Outreach and Assistance to Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program
  • Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production
  • Local Agriculture Market Program:
    • Farmers Market Promotion Program
    • Local Food Promotion Program
    • Value Added Producer Grants
  • Organic Transitions Research, Education, and Extension Program
  • Healthy Food Financing Initiative
  • Rural Energy for American Program
  • Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program
  • Rural Business Development Grants

Stay tuned to the NSAC blog for deeper analysis of the FY2027 USDA budget in the coming days.

###

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. 

Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Release: FY2027 USDA Budget Proposal is a Historic Setback for Farmers and Rural Communities appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-fy2027-usda-budget-proposal-is-a-historic-setback-for-farmers-and-rural-communities/feed/ 0
Release: Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship Now Accepting Applications https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-cynthia-hayes-memorial-scholarship-now-accepting-applications-3/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=release-cynthia-hayes-memorial-scholarship-now-accepting-applications-3 https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-cynthia-hayes-memorial-scholarship-now-accepting-applications-3/#respond Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:42:34 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=61050 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Release: Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship Welcomes Applications for its Eighth Cycle The Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship honors the co-founder of the first network for African American organic farmers in the United States Washington, DC, April 3, 2026 – Last week, the National Sustainable Agriculture […]

The post Release: Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship Now Accepting Applications appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Release: Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship Welcomes Applications for its Eighth Cycle

The Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship honors the co-founder of the first network for African American organic farmers in the United States

Washington, DC, April 3, 2026 – Last week, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) and the Southeastern African American Farmers Organic Network (SAAFON) opened applications for the eighth cycle of the annual scholarship honoring Cynthia Hayes, the late co-founder and former director of SAAFON. 

The scholarship welcomes applications from Black and Indigenous undergraduate and Masters students from all Tribal Nations, US states, and territories. In their application essay, students should describe their interest in and experiences with food justice and sustainable agriculture with a focus on Black farmer communities in the United States or the interconnected futures of Black and Indigenous farmers. The Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship will offer one graduate and two undergraduate students a $5,000 award

“The Southeastern African American Farmers Organic Network is proud to announce another year of the Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship, honoring our co-founder and visionary organizer. As SAAFON celebrates our 20 year anniversary this year, we are reminded of the importance of investing in the next generation of leadership in the sustainable agriculture sector, and we look forward to joining NSAC in welcoming our new scholars to the movement,” said Whitney Jaye, Co-Executive Director at SAAFON. 

“It is an honor to help administer the Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship. The applicants represent the best and brightest of the upcoming class of Black and Indigenous leaders in sustainable agriculture, and I am so grateful that NSAC and SAAFON are able to invest in them in memory of Cynthia Hayes,” says Tyler Edwards, Grassroots Advocacy Coordinator at NSAC.

To be considered, undergraduate students must be either entering their third year of enrollment or the first semester of their fourth year during the Fall semester of 2026. Graduate students must have completed at least 4 courses by Fall 2026. All applicants must have at least one semester left before graduation. Applicants will be evaluated on their interest in sustainable agriculture, policy, and grassroots organizing, and must have demonstrated knowledge or experience in racial equity and an interest in pursuing leadership or a career in the sustainable food and farm movement.

The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026. To apply, visit our job website. 

Questions related to the Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship should be directed to scholarship@sustainableagriculture.net.

###

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities.

Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Release: Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship Now Accepting Applications appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-cynthia-hayes-memorial-scholarship-now-accepting-applications-3/feed/ 0
Comment: NSAC Condemns USDA’s Withdrawal of Support For Next Generation Farmers https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/comment-nsac-condemns-usdas-withdrawal-of-support-for-next-generation-farmers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=comment-nsac-condemns-usdas-withdrawal-of-support-for-next-generation-farmers https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/comment-nsac-condemns-usdas-withdrawal-of-support-for-next-generation-farmers/#respond Wed, 01 Apr 2026 20:19:33 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=61047 For Immediate Release Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Comment: NSAC Condemns USDA’s Withdrawal of Support For Next Generation Farmers Washington, DC, April 1, 2026 – The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) issued the following comment, attributable to Nick Rossi, NSAC Policy Specialist, in response to the termination of the Increasing Land, Capital, […]

The post Comment: NSAC Condemns USDA’s Withdrawal of Support For Next Generation Farmers appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
For Immediate Release

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Comment: NSAC Condemns USDA’s Withdrawal of Support For Next Generation Farmers

Washington, DC, April 1, 2026 – The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) issued the following comment, attributable to Nick Rossi, NSAC Policy Specialist, in response to the termination of the Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access (ILCMA) Program.

“Reliable access to land, capital, and markets is among the biggest challenges facing beginning and other underserved farmers. USDA’s summary termination of investments to expand access to these crucial resources not only undercuts years of locally-led work to support the next generation of farmers, but entirely contradicts the administration’s stated goal of supporting American family farms and rural communities. Farmer-serving organizations have spent years hiring staff, building partnerships, and recruiting farmers, only to have their funding cut just as projects were preparing to launch. At such a pivotal moment for American agriculture, the decision to terminate these projects is reckless and puts the future of farming and farm  communities at further risk.”

Over the last decade, farmland prices have significantly increased, nearly doubling in some parts of the Midwest, and risen far higher in areas with pressure due to real estate development or commodity prices. The ability to access land is a crucial component of ensuring land remains in agriculture and that new farmers can build economically viable businesses. ILCMA was intended to help address this problem by increasing access to farm ownership opportunities, increasing access to markets and capital that affect the ability to access land, and increasing land ownership, land succession, and agricultural business planning. 

USDA terminated 49 of the 50 ILCMA projects; projects ranging from the creation of a Land Access and Farm Academy Program in the Southeast to projects improving access to affordable, geographically appropriate farmland and assistance with the removal of barriers to urban farmers participating in agricultural grant and loan programs in the Midwest. NSAC condemns this decision, which undermines creative solutions to some of our farmers’ most pressing challenges, setting back American farmers and the very future of our food system. Read more about the projects that USDA terminated here.

###

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Comment: NSAC Condemns USDA’s Withdrawal of Support For Next Generation Farmers appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/comment-nsac-condemns-usdas-withdrawal-of-support-for-next-generation-farmers/feed/ 0
Release: USDA Halts Rural Energy Efficiency Investments https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-usda-halts-rural-energy-efficiency-investments/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=release-usda-halts-rural-energy-efficiency-investments https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-usda-halts-rural-energy-efficiency-investments/#respond Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:54:07 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=61045 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Tel. 347.563.6408 Release: USDA Halts Rural Energy Efficiency Investments Washington, DC, April 1, 2026 – On March 31, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Business Cooperative Service announced a halt to all awards for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) until […]

The post Release: USDA Halts Rural Energy Efficiency Investments appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Tel. 347.563.6408

Release: USDA Halts Rural Energy Efficiency Investments

Washington, DC, April 1, 2026 – On March 31, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Business Cooperative Service announced a halt to all awards for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) until updated regulations are developed to ensure compliance with Executive Order (EO) 14315. The second Trump Administration has yet to announce new REAP grants – the most recent grants made public were awarded in early January 2025.

“At a moment when farmers and rural small businesses face converging financial pressures, bringing the Rural Energy for America Program to a standstill only increases that pressure. Countless small businesses have invested significant time and resources in this popular, bipartisan program to reduce their energy costs. USDA should implement the REAP program as quickly as possible and provide more clarity on when farmers can expect the program to resume,” said Richa Patel, NSAC Policy Specialist, in response to the USDA announcement.

The USDA announcement did not indicate when the program would resume, while separately confirming that farmers and rural small businesses who applied under the previous 2024 notice will need to reapply once new regulations are in place, and that application processing has stopped immediately. 

In 2025, REAP funding was frozen – and then somewhat reopened – however, the program has still not returned to its pre-2025 standard operating cadence. Since its inception, REAP has funded more than 19,000 grants directly supporting farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses, helping them improve energy efficiency and produce on-farm renewable energy. The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition has long advocated for REAP’s ability to support farmers and ranchers in implementing their own projects to produce energy on their farms and cut operational costs.

### 

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. Learn more: https://sustainableagriculture.net/

The post Release: USDA Halts Rural Energy Efficiency Investments appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-usda-halts-rural-energy-efficiency-investments/feed/ 0
Comment: Without Investments and Reforms, House Bill Rings Hollow https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/comment-without-investments-and-reforms-house-bill-rings-hollow/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=comment-without-investments-and-reforms-house-bill-rings-hollow Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:34:58 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=60998 For Immediate Release Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Tel. 347.563.6408 Comment: Without Investments and Reforms, House Bill Rings Hollow Washington, DC, March 5, 2026 – The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) released the following statement attributable to Mike Lavender, NSAC Policy Director, following the House Agriculture Committee’s 34-17 passage of the Farm, […]

The post Comment: Without Investments and Reforms, House Bill Rings Hollow appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
For Immediate Release

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Tel. 347.563.6408

Comment: Without Investments and Reforms, House Bill Rings Hollow

Washington, DC, March 5, 2026 – The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) released the following statement attributable to Mike Lavender, NSAC Policy Director, following the House Agriculture Committee’s 34-17 passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

Almost any farmer will tell you that farm policy is fundamentally broken – but instead of taking real strides toward a better future, the House farm bill doubles down on a system that simply isn’t working. The bill offers unfunded authorizations and more status quo instead of meaningful reforms or bold investments in infrastructure, markets, and proven programs for farmers. We appreciate lawmakers on both sides of the aisle who offered amendments to rectify the shortcomings of the bill. But for the countless farmers struggling to make ends meet, the scattered policy improvements in this bill ring hollow without the resources to fuel them. 

The path to a farm bill remains through a true bipartisan process. More than seven years removed from the last farm bill, NSAC encourages Senate and House policymakers to work together toward delivering a new farm bill that invests in healthy communities, levels the playing field for small and mid-sized farmers, equips farmers with the tools and resources they need to build resilient and viable operations, and fosters the next generation of farmers and ranchers.

Stay tuned to the NSAC blog in the days ahead for deeper analysis of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

###

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Comment: Without Investments and Reforms, House Bill Rings Hollow appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
Comment: In Moment of Need, House Farm Bill Underdelivers with Empty Promises https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/comment-in-moment-of-need-house-farm-bill-underdelivers-with-empty-promises/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=comment-in-moment-of-need-house-farm-bill-underdelivers-with-empty-promises Sat, 14 Feb 2026 20:29:05 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=60962 For Immediate Release Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Comment: In Moment of Need, House Farm Bill Underdelivers with Empty Promises Washington, DC, February 14, 2026 – The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) released the following statement attributable to Mike Lavender, NSAC Policy Director, in response to the Farm, Food, and National Security […]

The post Comment: In Moment of Need, House Farm Bill Underdelivers with Empty Promises appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
For Immediate Release

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Comment: In Moment of Need, House Farm Bill Underdelivers with Empty Promises

Washington, DC, February 14, 2026 – The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) released the following statement attributable to Mike Lavender, NSAC Policy Director, in response to the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, House Agriculture Committee Republican’s draft farm bill text released yesterday:

More than seven years since the last farm bill, and in a moment of need for farmers, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act lacks the robust investments and reforms necessary to propel American agriculture forward. The bill takes no meaningful steps toward building a fair, responsible, and accessible farm safety net while needlessly siphoning funding away from popular and effective conservation programs. 

It does, however, create opportunities for important steps forward, particularly for local and regional food systems – by connecting local farmers to nearby communities and expanding meat processing capacity. Unfortunately, these investments lack mandatory funding, severely stunting their potential to improve farmer viability and community health.

Moreover, dozens of critical programs, including those that support beginning farmers and ranchers, organic agriculture, and vital farmer-driven research, are both unimproved and level-funded, representing a roughly twenty percent cut due to seven years of inflation. NSAC will continue its review of legislative text in the days ahead. Farmers deserve a farm bill that delivers a fair farm safety net, builds climate resilience, and invests in strong local supply chains – anything less would fall short of what American agriculture actually needs.”

Stay tuned to NSAC’s blog for deeper analysis and coverage of the farm bill reauthorization, including the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

###

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. 

Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Comment: In Moment of Need, House Farm Bill Underdelivers with Empty Promises appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
Release: Farmers and Advocates Converge in DC for NSAC Lobby Day https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-farmers-and-advocates-converge-in-dc-for-nsac-lobby-day/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=release-farmers-and-advocates-converge-in-dc-for-nsac-lobby-day Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:12:40 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=60954 For Immediate Release Contact: Laura Zaks National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition press@sustainableagriculture.net Release: Farmers and Advocates Converge in DC for NSAC Lobby Day  Washington, DC, February 12, 2026 – Yesterday, nearly 150 farmers, ranchers, and food system advocates from Alaska to Florida, joined the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) in Washington, DC to press for action […]

The post Release: Farmers and Advocates Converge in DC for NSAC Lobby Day appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
For Immediate Release

Contact: Laura Zaks

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

press@sustainableagriculture.net

Release: Farmers and Advocates Converge in DC for NSAC Lobby Day 

Washington, DC, February 12, 2026 – Yesterday, nearly 150 farmers, ranchers, and food system advocates from Alaska to Florida, joined the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) in Washington, DC to press for action on federal agriculture and food policy. Participants held more than 150 meetings with members of Congress, congressional staff, and USDA, nearly doubling farmer participation from recent years and underscoring mounting frustration across farm country.

Farmers and ranchers representing a wide range of regions, production types, and farm sizes met with decision-makers to share firsthand accounts of how they’re leveraging federal programs to build thriving farm businesses and feed their communities.  

“We came directly to Capitol Hill to educate lawmakers on issues important to our farm and the farms of our neighbors. We shared personal stories that highlight the impact recent and current investments in conservation and local food systems have made in our community and why continued support for these programs is needed” said Ed Dubrick of DuChick Ranch, LLC and the Illinois Stewardship Alliance, an NSAC member. 

Participants emphasized the need for a farm bill that meets the moment by making long overdue, robust investments in farmers and their communities. They called on Congress and USDA to restore stability to and funding for federal food and agriculture programs that support conservation efforts, local food access, and the economic health of farmers and the communities they call home.

Storytelling has the power to bridge divides, change minds, and inspire real progress. Today, we saw this power in action as 50+ farmers took precious time away from their farms and families to travel to DC and share how federal food and farm policies have hit home. These farmers aren’t just articulating hardships they’ve faced, they are offering Congress a roadmap for practical solutions and opportunities that would benefit all farms,said Stef Funk, NSAC Grassroots Co-Director. 

Earlier in the day, a letter signed by 500 farmers and ranchers from across the country, some of whom attend NSAC’s Lobby Day, was delivered to key members of Congress urging immediate action to address the ongoing financial crisis facing America’s farmers and ranchers. The letter outlined the severe challenges facing farmers, including high production costs, volatile markets, low prices, and overproduction, and warns that without meaningful congressional action, more farmers will be forced out of business, putting rural communities at risk.

NSAC has been a leader in agricultural policy for more than 35 years and has been instrumental in helping to develop some of our nation’s most successful agricultural programs for conserving natural resources, advancing the next generation of farmers, supporting agricultural research, and creating sustainable market connections. 

NSAC is grateful to all of the farmers and advocates for taking time out of their busy lives to join Lobby Day, as well as the Senators, Representatives, USDA officials, and staff members.

###

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. 

Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Release: Farmers and Advocates Converge in DC for NSAC Lobby Day appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
Release: 500 Farmers Urge Congress to Act Amid Growing Farm Crisis https://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-500-farmers-urge-congress-to-act-amid-growing-farm-crisis/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=release-500-farmers-urge-congress-to-act-amid-growing-farm-crisis Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:48:55 +0000 https://sustainableagriculture.net/?p=60951 Release: 500 Farmers Urge Congress to Act Amid Growing Farm Crisis Washington, DC, February 11, 2026 – Today, a letter signed by 500 farmers and ranchers from across the country was delivered to key members of Congress urging immediate action to address the ongoing farm crisis. The letter outlines the severe challenges facing farmers, including […]

The post Release: 500 Farmers Urge Congress to Act Amid Growing Farm Crisis appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>
Release: 500 Farmers Urge Congress to Act Amid Growing Farm Crisis

Washington, DC, February 11, 2026 – Today, a letter signed by 500 farmers and ranchers from across the country was delivered to key members of Congress urging immediate action to address the ongoing farm crisis.

The letter outlines the severe challenges facing farmers, including high production costs, volatile markets, low prices, and overproduction. Signatories warn that without meaningful congressional action, more farmers will be forced out of business, putting rural communities at risk.

Farmers want an honest opportunity to build their business while supporting their community. Congress can provide that opportunity by making urgently needed farm assistance investments that build reliable domestic markets and local supply chains for wholesome food, and expanding access to conservation practices that help farmers reduce persistently high input costs. As these investments take root, financial assistance should be designed to stave off foreclosures and reflect a farmers’ expected revenue,” said Mike Lavender, Policy Director at the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

In the letter, farmers call on Congress to deliver comprehensive farm and ranch assistance that keeps producers on the land, strengthens domestic markets and local supply chains, expands access to conservation practices that reduce costly inputs, and prevents another wave of farm foreclosures. The letter emphasizes that short-term relief alone is insufficient and urges investments that support long-term viability and resilience.

Read the full letter here.

###

About the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is a grassroots alliance that advocates for federal policy reform supporting the long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability of agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities.

Learn more and get involved at: https://sustainableagriculture.net

The post Release: 500 Farmers Urge Congress to Act Amid Growing Farm Crisis appeared first on National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

]]>