By Blake Jackson
Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell, along with 11 other state agriculture officials from across the country, has signed a letter of support for the newly announced National Farm Security Action Plan by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The joint letter, issued by members of the America First Agriculture Commissioner Council, emphasizes the importance of protecting U.S. farmland and securing the nation’s food systems.
Agriculture commissioners, secretaries, and directors from Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas joined Kentucky in endorsing the USDA's comprehensive plan.
“American farmland is a strategic asset,” the letter states. “It sustains our food supply, powers rural economies, and contributes directly to the health and sovereignty of our nation.”
The Plan addresses growing concern over foreign entities acquiring U.S. farmland, especially near sensitive sites such as military bases and critical infrastructure.
It includes enhanced enforcement of the Agricultural Foreign Investment and Disclosure Act (AFIDA), tougher penalties for noncompliance, and improved oversight to safeguard ownership of agricultural land.
Beyond land security, the Plan calls for a review of all USDA programs - including those related to rural development, nutrition, and research to ensure they align with the “America First” approach.
Additional steps aim to protect supply chains, plant and animal health, and defend against biosecurity threats such as foreign diseases and invasive species.
“The USDA’s leadership in developing this comprehensive Plan, and working across other federal Departments, shows a clear commitment to putting American farmers and ranchers first,” Commissioner Shell said.
“Protecting our farmland and food systems from foreign influence and biosecurity threats is critical not only to our agricultural economy but to the national security of the United States. I’m proud to join colleagues from across the nation in supporting this important work.”
The letter also described USDA as a “load-bearing wall” in national security, playing a key role in collaboration with federal, state, local, and intelligence partners to protect agricultural infrastructure.
Kentucky’s Department of Agriculture remains committed to working alongside producers and stakeholders to ensure farmland remains protected for future generations and to build a resilient and secure agricultural economy.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy