Navigating USDA Disputes: Key Steps for Farmers Challenging Agency Decisions

Roger McEowen joins us to explain the USDA appeals process and how farmers should navigate adverse decisions and crop insurance disputes.

US Department of Agriculture Building, Washington, D.C.

eurobanks – stock.adobe.com

TOPEKA, KAN. (RFD NEWS) — Receiving an “adverse decision” from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can feel overwhelming, whether it’s a loan denial or payment rejection, as these rulings can have a direct impact on a farm’s future. However, there is a structured process available for producers to challenge those actions.

Farm legal expert Roger McEowen with Kansas’ Washburn University School of Law joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to offer guidance on navigating the USDA appeals process.

In his interview with RFD News, McEowen discussed the National Appeals Division (NAD) and the types of USDA decisions that can be appealed, including loan- and payment-related disputes.

He also explained how farmers can approach crop insurance disputes, noting the specialized nature of those cases.

McEowen walked through the step-by-step appeals process and outlined key takeaways for farmers facing an adverse decision.

Finally, Roger touched on the recent Supreme Court oral arguments in a glyphosate-related case and its potential implications moving forward.

READ MORE: Navigating USDA Disputes — Firm to Farm

Related Stories
For rural communities, this shift could mean new housing options for farmworkers and young families priced out of metro markets.
The modest cut should slightly reduce borrowing costs on operating loans, land notes, and equipment financing for agriculture, giving some relief to producers under heavy debt loads.
Sen. Roger Marshall, a founding member and chairman of the Make America Healthy Again caucus, joined us with his thoughts on the commission’s latest report and the key ag-related issues.
Katelyn joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss her upcoming episode of Dirt Diaries: The FarmHER + RanchHER Podcast and share her ag journey.

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.