How Legal Battles over Public Trust Doctrine, ‘Product of USA’ Labels Could Reshape Ag Policy

Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.

TOPEKA, Kan. (RFD NEWS) — The countdown continues on the Top 10 Agricultural Law Developments in 2025, highlighting a range of legal issues that could have lasting impacts on farmers and ranchers. From property rights to input regulations, the cases on the list underscore growing legal uncertainty across the ag sector.

Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to break down the next developments on his list.

In an interview with RFD-TV News, McEowen discussed the issue ranked seventh: erosion of the fence line. He explained that the case involves the public trust doctrine and why it could threaten agricultural property rights. McEowen also outlined the negative impacts the ruling could have on agricultural operations and the broader implications if the decision stands.

McEowen also turned to number six on his list, a high-stakes legal battle over the “Product of USA” label. He provided a recap of the case and discussed the potential industry impact if the Eighth Circuit sides with the ranchers involved.

READ MORE: FIRM TO FARM

Related Stories: Firm to Farm
When the stakes are high, proactive preparation and a firm command of the process are your most powerful tools for effective advocacy.
As federal policy shifts toward greater tribal sovereignty, farmers and ranchers (and their legal counsel) must prioritize clear, written contracts and stay engaged with state legislative developments and tribal council updates.
Roger McEowen breaks down the EPA’s updated dicamba regulations and shares what farmers need to do to remain compliant under the new rules this growing season.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Geopolitical risk is rapidly increasing fertilizer price volatility before planting.
China may no longer serve as a consistent anchor market for U.S. cotton exports. Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the factors influencing planting decisions, river conditions, and what producers are considering as they finalize acreage plans for the season.
Falling commodity prices and rising costs continue to squeeze farm margins. Kip Jacobs with The Mosaic Company addresses fertilizer market pressures, nutrient use efficiency, and strategies growers can consider to protect their fertilizer investment this season.
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.