The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced they will release the first part of $20 million in funding paused under the Inflation Reduction Act review. Small farms, with limited margins and access to credit, are particularly vulnerable due to frozen federal grant programs. The National Young Farmers Coalition expressed concern that the uncertainty is causing farmers to cancel contracts and pull out of markets. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins criticized the previous administration’s regulation and inflation policies.
Brian Geier, a farmer in Indiana, is waiting for a $10,000 grant to expand his sheep grazing area, but the funds have not been released. Without the money, he had to secure a loan to care for his new lambs. Geier may have to scale back his plans if the grant is not received soon. Those receiving grants related to climate change are also worried, as the freeze could impact projects supporting climate resilience.
Pasa Sustainable Agriculture, with projects in 15 states, is owed close to $2 million in reimbursements from the USDA. Executive Director Hannah Smith-Brubaker fears staff layoffs if the freeze continues. Farmers like Roell, who sought funds after natural disasters, are now facing challenges without the promised support. The delay in funding is causing uncertainty for farmers and could have long-term impacts on their operations.
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