USDA announces reorganization of research leadership and facilities

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a major reorganization of its Research, Education, and Economics mission area to improve efficiency and align with department priorities.

The announcement, made on April 23, 2026, includes relocating certain positions from the National Capital Region to offices in Kansas City and St. Louis. Agencies affected include the Economic Research Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and National Agricultural Statistics Service. The Agricultural Research Service will begin decommissioning the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center in Maryland, which houses the Beltsville Bee Research Laboratory, and move programs to other facilities nationwide.

Related Articles

Georgia farmers receiving $500 million USDA relief aid after Hurricane Helene damage.
Image generated by AI

USDA announces over $500 million in Helene relief for Georgia farmers

Reported by AI Image generated by AI

U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced more than $500 million in aid for Georgia farmers affected by 2024's Hurricane Helene. The funds address gaps in standard disaster programs, covering replanting and equipment costs from the storm's $5.5 billion economic impact. Applications opened on March 16 and close April 27.

Several states led by Massachusetts have filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is imposing unconstitutional conditions on billions in funding for food programs and agricultural support. The suit claims these requirements, tied to immigration policies and opposition to diversity initiatives, hold critical aid hostage. New York Attorney General Letitia James joined the plaintiffs in condemning the move.

Reported by AI

Policy changes by the Trump administration have halted federal grants for rural solar energy and tightened tax credit deadlines, derailing projects for farmers and developers. The USDA's REAP program has awarded no grants or loans this fiscal year, leaving many in limbo. Farmers report lost opportunities to cut energy costs amid thin margins.

The Department of Agriculture has begun rolling out P10-billion cash assistance for about 4.17 million registered agricultural workers under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program. Farmers and fisherfolk nationwide are each expected to receive P2,325 amid rising production costs due to the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. described it as a lifeline for those hit by soaring petroleum prices.

Reported by AI

The Department of Agriculture will distribute an extra P25 million in fuel aid to at least 5,000 farmers.

This website uses cookies

We use cookies for analytics to improve our site. Read our privacy policy for more information.
Decline