Farm security is national security, and it is an effort the FBI takes seriously.
One agent tells us it is important for small farms to make it a priority.
According to Special Agent Scott Mahloch, “If you have a small family farm, and maybe you’re holding that milk for a couple of days before it’s picked up, how do you safeguard that milk? And a lot of times, I think these discussions really hit home, because when you’re a small family farm, security is often an afterthought, if a thought at all. So, it’s great to have these one-on-one conversations and let them know and understand what those vulnerabilities are, but most importantly, that they have an advocate for them in the field, and that we’re there for them as a resource if they have any questions.”
Dr. Gary Schnitkey from the University of Illinois discusses farmers’ sentiment toward industry consolidation, especially in the fertilizer sector, where costs remain historically high.
The dairy industry is encouraged by potential H-2A reforms while supporting renewal of the USMCA.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension is helping ranchers navigate grazing and herd management strategies.
Experts note that economic growth, fuel demand, and energy diversification are opening new opportunities for U.S. grain and ethanol exports in Southeast Asia.
The Potter Valley Project has provided irrigation water and hydroelectric power for over 100 years in Northern California, serving agriculture and municipal users.
The USDA’s new cotton initiative comes as policymakers continue to focus on stabilizing farm income across major row crops while balancing export exposure with domestic supply chain resilience.
