Welcome to AgriWatch, your weekly roundup of the latest from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. I’m your host, and this week’s headline: USDA opens enrollment for its flagship Conservation Reserve Program, or CRP, marking 40 years of conservation partnerships with America’s farmers. As of today, agricultural producers and landowners nationwide can submit their offers for both the General and Continuous CRP—but don’t wait, the deadline is June 6.

Celebrating four decades, CRP has helped producers put unproductive or marginal land under contract for up to 15 years, converting it to vegetative cover that boosts water quality, prevents soil erosion, and supports wildlife. Thanks to the 2025 American Relief Act, the program’s provisions extend through September. But with only 1.8 million acres available this year and the 27-million-acre cap looming, competition is tight. As FSA Administrator Bill Beam puts it, “Now more than ever, it’s important that the acres offered by landowners address our most critical natural resource concerns. We’re prioritizing mindful conservation to maximize returns both for the environment and the economy.”

In other news, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced a $14.5 million boost for state meat and poultry inspection programs, aiming to strengthen food safety at the local level. For families relying on assistance, changes to SNAP definitions are rolling out in Indiana and Iowa next year, streamlining eligibility and available foods to meet regional needs.

Internationally, the USDA is moving to open new markets for U.S. producers. With Costa Rica greenlighting the first American dairy facility under a new process and a push for trade missions to Vietnam, Japan, and other markets, Secretary Rollins affirmed, “We’re putting farmers first. These programs are a crucial step in sustaining long-lasting economic growth in rural America.”

Meanwhile, the National Agricultural Statistics Service is seeking feedback from nearly 92,000 producers on 2025 crop acreage and stocks. The data, collected throughout June, will shape commodity outlooks and inform everything from farm policy to market forecasts. Growers are urged to respond—online, by phone, or by mail—with the results shaping reports due out at June’s end.

All these developments have direct impacts. Citizens can expect ongoing support for cleaner waterways and resilient food supplies, while producers benefit from conservation incentives and expanded export opportunities. Local governments get increased inspection funding, and international collaborations mean more robust trade channels.

Looking ahead: Watch for the June 30 release of national crop and grain stock reports, upcoming trade visits, and ongoing program enrollment deadlines. For more details or to provide input, visit USDA’s website or contact your local FSA office. And if you’re a producer, don’t miss your chance to shape farm policy—respond to the NASS survey and consider applying for CRP before June 6. Your voice and your acres matter.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI