WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — Local landscapes and forests continue to play a vital role in Western agriculture, as lawmakers and industry leaders highlight growing support for federal land management reform.
Sen. John Curtis (R-UT) joined us on Champions of Rural America to discuss the growing support for the Fix Our Forests Act, which aims to give rural communities additional tools to improve forest and land management.
In his interview with RFD News, Curtis said the bipartisan legislation would return forest management decisions closer to local communities, emphasizing that those nearest to the land are best positioned to manage it effectively. He also pointed to backing from Western governors and said the goal is to shift the focus toward preventing wildfire conditions rather than reacting after fires begin.
He added that the bill would streamline regulatory processes, reduce legal delays, and support rural economies by improving access to forest resources and creating local job opportunities tied to land management and logging.
The Fix Our Forests Act also drew support from rural electric cooperatives, which say wildfire risk continues to threaten power infrastructure. Industry leaders note that utilities need better access to manage rights-of-way and remove hazard trees near power lines to reduce fire risk and maintain reliability.
The issue was a key focus during this week’s electric cooperative fly-in to Washington, where leaders also emphasized the need to modernize the electric grid and expand infrastructure to meet growing rural energy demand while continuing to deliver reliable power across rural America.
William Lee Golden joined us to talk about his farming roots, his storied career with the Oak Ridge Boys, and how his new book and music continue to reflect the values that have guided him throughout his life and career.
February 24, 2026 01:33 PM
·
Glyphosate and phosphorus are deemed critical to U.S. national defense, ensuring farmers’ access while signaling a shift toward regenerative agriculture. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight on the Trump Administration’s move and what it could mean for U.S. farmers moving forward.
February 24, 2026 01:30 PM
·
Claire Woeppel, Central Region Vice President with the National FFA Organization, joined us to discuss Alumni Day, the lasting impact of FFA supporters, and why honoring that legacy matters during National FFA Week.
February 24, 2026 01:21 PM
·
UNL Extension’s Troy Walz discusses the Nebraska Ranch Practicum, where sessions are held, how producers can get involved, and what ranchers can gain from participating in the program.
February 24, 2026 01:16 PM
·
The Ranger Road Fire in the Oklahoma Panhandle is now 65% contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres over the past week. Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance Agency discusses wildfire recovery, livestock insurance considerations, and the importance of preparedness for producers across the Southern Plains.
February 24, 2026 12:28 PM
·
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
February 24, 2026 11:57 AM
·
