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
Michael Kelsey of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association joined us with the latest on the Oklahoma wildfires, recovery efforts for ranchers, and the role agriculture leaders are playing in supporting rural communities.
House Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson says the 2026 Farm Bill is bipartisan, with 82% of the bills incorporated into it receiving bipartisan support.
Land equity protects solvency but does not replace profitability.
Reliable canal infrastructure supports long-term access to global agricultural markets.
Stephenville FFA students showcase robotics skills at the San Antonio Stock Show, blending teamwork, technology, and competition for the next generation.
It’s National FFA Week, and today we’re celebrating Alumni Day by highlighting some inspiring former FFA members making an impact in agriculture and beyond.

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:

Investigations are now ongoing following a massive explosion and fire at the Koch Foods poultry plant in Fairfield, Ohio, which claimed one life and injured at least three other workers at the plant.
Farmer Ed Bell shares how AGRAbility helped him return to his family’s strawberry farm and inspire resilience, legacy, and hope in rural life.
Weskan Grain CEO Will Bramblett discusses the antitrust lawsuit filed by grain farmers and agribusinesses, and its potential implications on rail competition and market access.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight into Canada’s trade push in Mexico and what it could signal for agriculture and the USMCA moving forward.
Jim Rothermich with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers joined us to share the latest on farmland real estate markets across the Midwest.
Lawmakers request information from CEO Scott Stump over sponsorship concerns and potential implications for the organization’s nonprofit status.