Open letter to Senators Hoeven, Cramer and Representative Fedorchak,
As owners of a medium sized ranch and farm in Northeast North Dakota, we feel it is our responsibility to request that USDA staff cuts are rescinded. Right now, producers are experiencing uncertainty over new tariffs. We are also currently planning 2025 crops. Staff cuts could force producers to drive five counties away and wait in line to go over onerous paperwork without the experts we rely on locally. Farmer’s most important capital is humans, ourselves and support directly in our USDA community.
There is real fear in Farm Country regarding our current inputs, markets, and program assistance. The bulk of reassurance comes from dedicated USDA employees who help us navigate through trying times. Cutting staff delays certainties that are needed to assist farmers in person.
Speaking of in-person support, farmers need our federal representatives to come home to answer questions as soon as possible. Please Senators Hoeven, Cramer and Representative Fedorchak, come home and talk to us at real town halls. Even if you don’t have concrete answers to our questions, please come in person to reassure us that you are in this with us.
Respectfully respond to our request,
Travis and Karen Anderson, Benson County, Warwick, ND.
Verified by phone April 3, 2025 – LAO
