From corn and soybeans to pork and biofuels, Iowa farmers keep our country fed and fueled. Our state is the heart of American agriculture — and it’s the best place for USDA projects that drive innovation.
Zoom out: Farming covers more than 30 million acres across Iowa — nearly 82% of our land. We lead the nation in corn, soybeans, and pork production, while USDA research on crops, livestock health, and biofuels keeps our state on the cutting edge.
But here’s the challenge: Farmers are still waiting on new trade deals, and a USDA that’s stuck in Washington leaves rural America behind.
I want to hear from you: Take this short survey and tell me the biggest challenge facing Iowa farmers right now ⬇️
Why it matters: USDA programs for crop science, livestock health, and environmental resilience are critical. But when these programs are run out of Washington, they often lose touch with the heartland farmers they are meant to serve.
And right now – with a government shutdown adding new uncertainty – Iowa’s farmers need support that’s fast, local, and accountable. That’s why I joined the Iowa delegation and Governor Reynolds to send a letter urging USDA Secretary Rollins to bring more agricultural research projects to Iowa. Doing so would:
✅ Lower costs by placing researchers closer to the fields they serve
✅ Ensure programs reflect Iowa-specific challenges
✅ Strengthen partnerships between USDA scientists and local producers
Bottom Line: Moving USDA research to Iowa means more direct support for farmers and ensures the federal government works for rural America, not around it.