Tell Congress: Don't Freeze Farmer Programs

Threat to Federal Agricultural Conservation Funding Under the Trump Administration

January 29, 2025

On Monday, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) announced a pause on all federal agency grants and loans, sparking legal challenges and widespread concern. The National Council of Nonprofits, represented by Democracy Forward, sued to block the action, and within a day, U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan temporarily halted its implementation, citing potential "irreparable harm."

This freeze threatens essential public services, from medical research and education funding to food aid and shelter support. At Wild Farm Alliance, we are deeply alarmed by its potential impact on nonprofits, technical assistance providers and academic institutions across the country who support farmers to implement agricultural conservation practices. The pause could disrupt U.S. Department of Agriculture programs that fund critical conservation efforts, harming farmers and ranchers working to improve soil, air, water, plants, and wildlife.

Additionally, Wild Farm Alliance and other organizations reliant on federal funding may face direct consequences. Amid this uncertainty, it will be critical in the coming months and years to stay engaged and focused on the issues that matter most to you.

If you are concerned about this action, please contact your members of Congress and let them know how it will impact you and your community. You can find their contact information by searching here. Below is a sample message that you can email or leave on a voice message.

“My name is _______ and I live in your district in [town or city]. I am alarmed by the recent attempt by the Trump administration to pause federal funding for agricultural conservation, including financial assistance to farmers for improving soil health and biodiversity on their operations, at a time when almost three of every four farmers who apply are turned away. I urge you to defend funding for programs such as the Environmental Quality Improvements Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).”

Thank you for taking action!