TOPEKA, Kan. (RFD NEWS) — We continue our countdown of the Top 10 Agricultural Law Developments from 2025, highlighting key legal issues that could impact farmers and ranchers in the year ahead. From property rights to input regulations, several developments rose to the top of the list.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to break down his #3 and #2 top legal issues heading into the new year.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, McEowen explained issue #3 — the growing concept of “lawfare” in American agriculture — and how legal strategies increasingly used to influence policy and land use became a central theme in 2025. He also discussed what that trend could mean for farmers, ranchers, and land management agencies moving forward.
Coming in at #2 on McEowen’s list is a familiar issue for the ag community—the ongoing saga surrounding the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) ruling. He reviewed the major developments from 2025 and shared his expectations for how the final rule could take shape.
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USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans a farm visit in Missouri, hinting at a possible fertilizer relief announcement on RFD-TV earlier this week. USDA also restructures its research infrastructure and launches new food-safety centers.
April 24, 2026 11:57 AM
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April 24, 2026 09:00 AM
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As part of this effort, USDA will establish a new National Food Safety Center (NFSC) in Urbandale, Iowa, which will serve as the primary hub for FSIS administrative, technical, and support operations.
April 24, 2026 06:00 AM
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Kansas row crop farmer Brad Keeler joins us to discuss drought conditions, planting decisions, input costs, and overall farmer sentiment in his region.
April 23, 2026 04:35 PM
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AFBF Economist Danny Munch joined us to discuss snowpack levels in the Colorado River Basin, water supply concerns, and the potential impact on agricultural production.
April 23, 2026 04:22 PM
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Congressman Gary Palmer of Alabama joined us to discuss federal overreach, transparency efforts, and legislative solutions impacting agriculture on this week’s Champions of Rural America.
April 23, 2026 04:01 PM
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