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
American Farmland Trust shares guidance, research, and policy solutions to help farmers navigate the growing threat of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” contaminating U.S. farmland.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, president of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss winter safety reminders and preparedness.
ASFMRA’s Dennis Reyman discusses farmer sentiment, land values, and how global and financial pressures are shaping decision-making in the ag land market.
Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association discusses the EPA’s new decision on over-the-top Dicamba and what it means for growers this year.
Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance discusses the importance of grain bin safety and joint efforts with Nationwide to provide farmers and first responders with access to critical, life-saving rescue tubes.

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:

University of Nebraska-Lincoln President Dr. Jeffrey Gold talks about heart health and preventive care for viewers in rural communities.
Jeramy Stephens of National Land Realty breaks down current trends in the farmland real estate market and how landowners should consider water availability and its impact on land values as they plan for the year ahead.
As cattle markets show renewed strength, producers gathering at CattleCon are focused on protecting operations, managing risk, and positioning for opportunity in the year ahead.
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo continues through Saturday, showcasing livestock, youth involvement, and agricultural talent, with the Junior Sale of Champions serving as the culmination of the 23-day event.
We caught up with John Deere’s Hay & Forage Got-To Market Manager Kaylene Ballesteros to learn how tech is evolving how producers make hay, from baling efficiency to operator confidence.
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas discusses expected changes to the 45Z tax credit and what they could mean for agriculture and rural America.