USDA Cuts Leave U.S. Farmers Struggling with Conservation Funding

USDA conservation cuts have left U.S. farmers struggling to access technical assistance and federal cost-share funding, exacerbating soil erosion and other environmental issues.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) lost nearly a quarter of its nationwide workforce in 2025 due to federal budget reductions under the Trump administration.

According to Harvest Public Media's reporting, 144 counties are now without NRCS personnel, making it difficult for farmers to implement soil and water conservation projects on their land.

In Minnesota, corn and soybean producer Adam Griebie had his NRCS specialist leave the agency, forcing him to restart conversations with unfamiliar staff in nearby counties.

The staffing contraction comes as producers are showing increased interest in conservation assistance, with a 11% increase in applicants for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) between 2024 and 2025, but a 38% decline in grants awarded.