Farmers Struggle to Access Services From Understaffed Agriculture Department

The New York Times – August 24, 2026

Mary and Zachariah Ben, farmers in New Mexico, were excited about purchasing their dream property—47 acres for their organic baby food business. However, their plans were derailed by delays in securing a low-interest loan from the Agriculture Department (U.S.D.A.).

The challenges they faced are not isolated; farmers and rural residents across the country report struggles obtaining essential services from the U.S.D.A., including:

• Loans and grants: Delayed or denied access to financing for business expansion or property purchases.
• Technical assistance: Limited support for agricultural practices and business development.
• Infrastructure support: Aid in funding housing, utilities, and other basic services.

The Ben family’s experience highlights the impact of a significantly reduced U.S.D.A. workforce under the Trump administration. Many local offices now operate with minimal staff or even no one on site, leading to:

• Longer wait times: For farmers seeking loans or grants, the process takes much longer.
• Reduced assistance: Fewer resources for new and existing farmers who need guidance and support.
• Barriers to entry: Increased challenges for aspiring farmers in gaining access to necessary services.

These issues are particularly concerning given the described "dire" state of the farm economy and the U.S.D.A.’s role in providing critical aid, especially in remote and impoverished areas. Senator Peter Welch of Vermont raises a crucial point:

"All these practical things that make the wheels go around in a community were facilitated by U.S.D.A., and it was with staff who knew how to navigate and had the trust of the local community."