NCBA says the new Interior Department’s Deputy Secretary brings new certainty to rangelands

Ag groups are applauding the Senate’s confirmation of Kate MacGregor as Deputy Secretary of the Interior.

She is returning to the role after previously serving in the first Trump Administration. They say that her experience and understanding of land management issues could help shape future policy. The Public Lands Council points to MacGregor’s knowledge of how grazing reduces wildfire risk and her support for balanced range management.

“She’s coming into this position knowing that grazing reduces the risk of wildfire by 45 to 80 percent. She knows that more than two-thirds of western livestock spend time grazing on federal lands. She knows how to manage that complex multiple-use profile and what a careful hand it takes to keep that balance,” said NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover.

The Public Lands Council says MacGregor’s confirmation will help move key policies forward, including grazing reform and clarity over the Endangered Species Act.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tariffs are pushing up input costs, with fertilizer prices rising $100 per ton and machinery costs climbing due to steel and parts duties.
Year-round sales of E-15 are another major topic on Capitol Hill, which, according to Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), is one issue up for debate this session with significant bipartisan support.
Lawmakers have until September 30 to shore up federal spending for next year, or risk a government shutdown. The Farm Bill is also set to expire the same day.
American Soybean Association President Caleb Ragland joins us to share his reaction to September’s WASDE and discuss the trade uncertainty between China and his industry.
Bottom line: Despite all the efforts advocates make, workers are still making less money.