By Jamie Martin
Farmers across the U.S. are reeling from a sudden freeze on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) funds, which has put millions of dollars in grants and loans on hold. This move came after the President's executive order to halt funding approved under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.
The freeze affects key programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Rural Energy for America Program, which support sustainable agriculture and renewable energy initiatives.
Laura Beth Resnick, a Maryland farmer, is particularly hard hit. She had invested in solar panels expecting a USDA grant to cover half of the $72,900 cost. However, her reimbursement was rejected following the funding pause. "I really don’t know what we would do," Resnick said, highlighting the desperation felt by many in her position.
The funding halt has also stopped payments for scientific research and climate-smart agriculture, undermining efforts to enhance sustainability in U.S. farming. This has prompted outcry from House Democrats and concern among farmers who rely on federal support for critical improvements.
For farmers like Skylar Holden, the freeze means unable to complete contracted improvements, potentially leading to significant financial losses. "If I sell them out to make this payment, I’m hurting myself years down the line," Holden explained, voicing the tough choices many farmers face.
As the administration reviews the funding decisions, the agricultural community watches anxiously, hoping for a resolution that restores their financial lifelines and allows them to continue feeding America sustainably.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National