Key Takeaways
- USDA and the Texas Department of Agriculture finalize a $280 million grant agreement for Rio Grande Valley producers.
- The funding addresses losses from Mexico’s ongoing noncompliance with the 1944 Water Treaty.
- USDA reports significant early progress in its strategy to combat avian influenza and stabilize egg prices.
- Dr. Jaye Hamby appointed as Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).
- New leadership appointed across USDA’s Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area.
USDA Latest News: Partners With Texas on $280 Million Grant for Rio Grande Valley Producers
On March 19, 2025, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a $280 million grant agreement between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) to assist farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley affected by Mexico’s failure to meet water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty. The announcement was made in McAllen, Texas, alongside Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Monica De La Cruz (TX-15).
“A lack of water has already ended sugarcane production in the Valley and is putting the future of citrus, cotton, and other crops at risk,” said Secretary Rollins. “Through this grant, USDA is expediting much-needed economic relief while we continue working with federal, state, and local leadership to push for long-term solutions.”
Under the treaty, Mexico is required to deliver 1.75 million acre-feet of water to the U.S. over five-year cycles. Persistent shortfalls have led to significant agricultural losses in the region.
Implementation and Eligibility Details
TDA will oversee the management of the funds, including the application process and distribution of payments. Eligible recipients are producers who held valid water diversion certificates in 2023 and/or 2024 from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and operate within the Lower Rio Grande River Valley Water District.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said, “This is exactly the kind of action we need to help our agriculture producers in the Valley weather this prolonged drought.”
Producers will be notified directly by TDA with further guidance.
USDA Reports Early Success in Avian Flu Response Plan
On March 20, USDA released a stakeholder update on its five-pronged strategy to address highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Less than one month since the plan was introduced, USDA reported the following progress:
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Wholesale egg prices have declined nearly 50% since February 26.
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More than 130 biosecurity assessments have been completed nationwide.
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Compensation for depopulated layer hens increased to $16.94 per bird.
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$100 million allocated for research on HPAI prevention and vaccine development.
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New egg import agreements secured with Turkey and South Korea to stabilize domestic supply.
“Egg prices are falling, farmers are getting the relief they need, and we are seeing meaningful progress in the fight against avian flu,” said Secretary Rollins.
USDA News: Appoints Dr. Jaye Hamby as Director of NIFA
USDA also announced the appointment of Dr. Jaye L. Hamby as the new Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Dr. Hamby brings decades of experience in agricultural education, research, and rural development.
“His commitment to advancing agricultural research, extension, and education will help drive solutions to the industry’s most pressing challenges,” Rollins stated.
Dr. Hamby will lead USDA efforts to support innovation, workforce development, and community outreach across the agricultural sector.
USDA News: Strengthens Leadership in Farm Production and Conservation
On March 21, USDA introduced several new presidential appointees to the Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area, which includes the Farm Service Agency, Risk Management Agency, and Natural Resources Conservation Service. These appointments are intended to streamline USDA service delivery to farmers, ranchers, and landowners:
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Brooke Appleton – Deputy Under Secretary for FPAC
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Andrew Fisher – Chief of Staff for FPAC
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Aubrey Bettencourt – Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service
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Bill Beam – Administrator of the Farm Service Agency
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Pat Swanson – Administrator of the Risk Management Agency
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Colton Buckley – Chief of Staff for NRCS
“These leaders will help ensure that support gets to farmers and ranchers without bureaucratic delays,” Secretary Rollins said.
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