WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — Concerns are continuing to grow over USDA’s reorganization efforts, as union leaders warn many federal researchers may choose not to relocate from Washington, D.C. to regional hubs across the country.
The union representing government researchers says a recent poll found 76 percent of members have no plans to relocate.
The concerns mirror USDA’s 2019 relocation effort to Kansas City, when many employees either resigned or accepted retirement instead of moving. USDA officials have said the reorganization is intended to improve efficiency and strengthen service to farmers and rural communities.
Union leaders, however, argue the relocations could be devastating to federal agricultural research efforts and are calling on Congress to intervene.
Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the distribution of a comprehensive memorandum on Friday in Fort Worth, at RFD-TV’s Rural Town Hall presented by the Western Caucus Foundation.
The special presentation by RFD-TV and the Western Caucus Foundation will feature keynote remarks by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins.
Producers using farm entities should review ownership, labor contributions, and FSA paperwork before September 15.
AFBF Economist Bernt Nelson discusses biosecurity to prevent New World Screwworm and financial tools to support livestock as eradication efforts continue.
Dr. Stephanie Mercier, Senior Policy Adviser for the Farm Journal Foundation, discusses USDA’s New World Screwworm eradication, sterile fly production, trade restrictions, biosecurity, and the path ahead for U.S. cattle producers.
The most notable crop changes came in wheat.
