ALBERTA, CANADA (RFD NEWS) — The Trump Administration is moving to designate glyphosate and phosphorus as critical to national defense, a controversial step highlighted this week by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy. Kennedy acknowledged the toxicity of these chemicals in a recent post on X, but said their availability is essential to maintaining U.S. crop yields and supporting the nation’s agricultural system.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the implications for farmers.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Haney explained why the designation is being made, including the strategic importance of certain chemicals to food production, and addressed the significance of Kennedy—a longtime critic of pesticides—supporting the move.
Haney also discussed what this could mean for producers as the government and ag leaders accelerate the transition to regenerative agriculture, noting that while the designation preserves immediate access to chemicals like glyphosate, it also underscores a push toward reducing long-term reliance on synthetic inputs.
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney shares insights from new Real Agri-Studies research surrounding the relationship between farmers and their lenders and what it reveals about the current farm economy.
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Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum explains how geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East could further tighten fertilizer movement, increase fuel costs, and complicate planting decisions for U.S. farmers this spring.
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Farm CPA Paul Nieffer explains the Farmer Bridge Assistance payment limits, provides clarity on new legislation, and offers advice for producers considering business structure adjustments.
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Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins discusses the potential impact of data center growth on farmland, the Landowner Fairness Act, and key priorities for Missouri farmers heading into planting season.
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Dr. David Anderson with Texas A&M University AgriLife Extension discusses how geopolitical tensions and the Middle East, along with export disruptions in the Chinese market, will shape cattle markets in the months ahead.
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A man accused of orchestrating a nationwide cattle investment fraud scheme has been arrested in California after being on the FBI’s wanted list.
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