USDA's 2023 triumphs - Empowering farmers and enhancing rural life

Jan 02, 2024

The year 2023 has been a landmark year for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). With a focus on agriculture and rural development, the USDA has successfully assisted over 30,000 farmers and ranchers facing financial challenges. This was made possible through a substantial allocation of nearly $1.7 billion from the Farm Service Agency, following the Inflation Reduction Act.

Notably, the USDA has streamlined its loan application process, significantly benefiting farmers seeking financial assistance. The Risk Management Agency also played a crucial role, providing an unprecedented $207 billion farm safety net, the largest in history, safeguarding American agriculture.

The USDA’s impact extends beyond agriculture. It has been instrumental in connecting remote communities with the internet, bridging the digital divide and opening new avenues for growth and development. In the critical area of climate change, the USDA has made strides in implementing initiatives that contribute to global environmental efforts.

The agency also focused on empowering small businesses through strategic investments, thereby stimulating local economies and creating job opportunities. Additionally, the USDA took measures to reduce energy and other consumer costs, providing relief to households across the nation.

Source : wisconsinagconnection

Video: Veteran Farmers: A Legacy of Service in Rural America

Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have selflessly protected our freedoms and values. And for some, the transition from military service to civilian life brings them back to the farm.

At Farm Bureau, we believe it’s important to not only celebrate veterans but also those who continue to make a difference in agriculture and their community. We've partnered with Farm Credit to establish the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence to shine a light on those who have continued to go above and beyond to serve their communities.

This year, we recognize retired Colonel Joe Ricker as the inaugural Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence winner. Joe served over 30 years in the Army before retiring from the Pentagon and completing tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Since leaving the Army, his commitment to excellence in farming and enriching the lives of veterans has blossomed in a myriad of ways in both his local community of Wilkinson, Indiana, and across the country. Joe grows apples and raises bees on his farm in Indiana. Joe founded “Veterans IN Farming,” an organization, now with more than 1,100 members, dedicated to providing veterans in Indiana with the tools and training to succeed in agriculture.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is an independent, non-governmental, voluntary organization, comprised of and directed by farm and ranch families who engage in all types of food, fuel and fiber production.