JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (RFD-TV) — U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins visited Missouri last week to unveil a new five-step plan aimed at supporting the farm economy during a time of high input costs and challenging markets. While in the state, Rollins toured local operations, including Missouri producer Marty Richardson’s farm, and met directly with producers to hear their concerns.
Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share highlights from the visit and her perspective on USDA’s new initiatives.
In her conversation with RFD-TV News, Chinn described the value of bringing Secretary Rollins to Missouri to witness firsthand the work being done by the state’s producers. She also recapped the announcement of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Justice Department to examine fertilizer and seed costs, emphasizing how those rising expenses have put pressure on Missouri farmers.
Chinn underscored the importance of open dialogue between producers and federal leaders, sharing her insights into the broader conversations that took place during the farm tour — from harvest progress to the ongoing challenges farmers are facing this season.
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.
March 12, 2026 04:15 PM
·
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.
March 12, 2026 03:57 PM
·
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.
March 12, 2026 03:31 PM
·
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.
March 12, 2026 03:04 PM
·
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.
March 12, 2026 12:54 PM
·
A man accused of orchestrating a nationwide cattle investment fraud scheme has been arrested in California after being on the FBI’s wanted list.
March 12, 2026 11:33 AM
·