1. United States
2. N.D.
3. Letter

Prioritizing the well-being of the agriculture community and preserving vital programs is crucial for sustaining our state's farmers, ranchers, and rural economies. The recent funding freezes, layoffs, and terminations imposed by the Trump administration have disrupted initiatives aimed at promoting soil health, combating food insecurity, supporting local food systems, and advancing climate-smart practices. These abrupt actions have undermined years of collaborative efforts, eroding partnerships and momentum built across organizations and communities. Notably, the termination of the Local Food Purchase Assistance program and the Local Food for Schools and Child Care initiatives has dealt a significant blow to efforts addressing food insecurity and strengthening local food supply chains. The freezing of funds for the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program and the Rural Energy Assistance Program has stalled progress on sustainable agriculture practices and energy efficiency projects crucial for long-term agricultural resilience. Furthermore, the layoffs and potential loss of critical research positions at institutions like the USDA's Agricultural Research Service jeopardize our ability to stay ahead of evolving crop diseases and maintain our competitive edge in the global market. These disruptions not only represent financial losses but also undermine the hard work and dedication of farmers, ranchers, and rural organizations striving to build a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future. It is imperative that our state leaders take a strong stance, advocating for the reinstatement of these vital programs and safeguarding the interests of our agricultural community. By raising awareness and pushing back against these detrimental policies, we can ensure that North Dakota's farmers and ranchers have access to the resources and support they need to thrive, innovate, and contribute to the state's economic prosperity while promoting sustainable practices that protect our natural resources for generations to come.