President Trump’s decision to revoke the Biden administration’s actions against the lower Snake River dams is drawing mixed reactions.
The original memorandum of understanding was signed with Washington state, Oregon, and four tribes to boost tribal clean energy and restore salmon populations.
While conservation groups have criticized the move, one lawmaker has called it welcome news.
Congressman Dan Newhouse says that he has been fighting to keep the dams, but there is work to be done in protecting salmon populations.
“I’m sure there will be continued discussions and conversations with the proponents of dam breaching, but the bottom line is, and I’ve said this all along and I’m glad the administration agrees, that we can have the dams but also continue to work very hard on making sure that salmon can not only survive but thrive. And we have some work to do there, no doubt!”
The Columbia River Basin is roughly the size of Texas and was once the world’s largest salmon-producing river system.
Today, twelve of the sixteen original stocks of salmon remain, seven of which are considered endangered.
From projected drops in input costs to biofuel expansion and the USDA’s new “One Farmer, One File” initiative, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins shared key policy priorities at Commodity Classic that put farm issues back in the spotlight.
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NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart discussed the legal process behind delisting the prairie chicken, the challenges ranchers faced under the bird’s previous protections, and the benefits of cooperative habitat management for both livestock and wildlife.
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U.S.-Mexico agricultural trade faces uncertainty in 2026 as tariffs and cartel violence threaten farmers and ranchers. Congressman Henry Cuellar and Texas leaders weigh in on impacts and risks.
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Through “One Farmer, One File,” USDA’s mission is to create a single, streamlined record that follows the farmer — no matter where they go in the USDA system.
February 26, 2026 05:13 PM
USDA headquarters downsizing reflects cost pressures and may reshape agency operations.
February 26, 2026 03:45 PM
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At Commodity Classic in San Antonio, growers explore new herbicide options, John Deere’s latest 8 Series tractors, and cutting-edge ag technology shaping the 2026 planting season. Here are some of RFD NEWS’ highlights from the event so far.
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