By Jamie Martin
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently visited Texas to support farmers and promote healthy food policies. They met with producers and researchers at Texas A&M and toured Sawyer Farms to see how stewardship practices are helping produce healthy crops like barley, rye, corn, and wheat.
A major focus of their visit was fighting the spread of the New World Screwworm, an invasive species threatening U.S. livestock. Rollins announced she is negotiating with Mexico to allow aircraft operations that are essential for controlling the pest.
Secretary Rollins also secured a water-sharing agreement with Mexico under the 1944 Water Treaty, ensuring Texas farmers have access to crucial water supplies. She announced a $280 million USDA grant to help Rio Grande Valley farmers facing water shortages.
To further support agriculture, USDA launched the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program to help with rising costs and market expansion.
Over $521 million has already been given to 19,675 Texas farmers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) for the 2024 crop year.
“Making America Healthy Again starts with supporting America’s farmers and ranchers,” said Secretary Rollins.
Rollins and Kennedy also emphasized healthy food in schools and communities. Through the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission, USDA and HHS are working to improve nutrition guidelines and reform food programs like SNAP. They have committed to updating the Dietary Guidelines for Americans by the end of 2025.
Together, USDA and HHS are taking action to create a healthier food system and stronger rural communities.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National