USDA Program Cuts Cause Ripple Effects in Iowa, Job Losses

USDA program cuts cause ripple effects in Iowa, job losses

The USDA eliminated a grant program last week that aimed to help underserved producers grow resources. The now-cancelled Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program began funding 50 projects in 2023, including the New Century Farm Fellowship at the Iowa Valley Resource Conservation and Development Program. Executive Director Jason Grimm says he’s had to lay […]

USDA cancels $300M grant program, affecting projects for underserved Minnesota farmers

In cancellation letters shared with MPR, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said that the cancelled projects engaged in discriminatory diversity, equity and inclusion practices and did little to improve land access for farmers.

USDA Ends $300M Program Aiding Black Farmers And Other Underrepresented Groups In Land Purchases

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has canceled grants that were intended to help farmers secure land. Politico reports about $300 million in federal aid was awarded to tribes, farmer associations, and universities starting in 2023 through the Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program. It was established to “help underserved producers by increasing land, capital, and market access,” according to the USDA. Created under the Infla…