In a troubling turn for small-scale farmers in Iowa, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has withdrawn crucial funding for a fellowship programme designed to nurture new agricultural talent. As the Biden administration’s initiatives face backlash from the Trump administration, farmers like Lawrencia Rogers are left grappling with the uncertainty of their futures.
A Dream Deferred
For 33-year-old Lawrencia Rogers, the small plot of land she cultivates at the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm represents a hard-won dream. Nestled in a state renowned for its agricultural prowess, Rogers’ journey into farming has been anything but easy. With no familial ties to the industry, she has relied on her passion and determination to carve out a niche for herself.
Earlier this year, Rogers embarked on a two-year fellowship with Iowa Valley Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D), a non-profit organisation funded by the USDA. The fellowship was a lifeline, providing her with access to land, equipment, and expert guidance. “It was honestly like school for farmers,” she remarked, highlighting the invaluable support she received, which included a living wage and health insurance.
However, just weeks into her fellowship, the USDA abruptly cancelled the programme’s $2.5 million grant, labelling it “wasteful spending” and a violation of its new policy against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This decision has put Rogers’ aspirations—and those of many others—on hold.
The Fallout from Policy Changes
The cancellation of funding has sent shockwaves through the farming community, particularly among those who rely on small-scale operations. Jason Grimm, executive director of Iowa Valley RC&D, described the situation as “a slingshot,” reflecting the frustration of being continually pushed back as they attempted to make progress.
Trump’s administration, despite its previous promises to champion rural America, has been a source of growing concern for small farmers. The USDA has seen staffing cuts and programme terminations that favour large corporate farms over small producers. Anna Pesek, a member of the Iowa Valley RC&D board, expressed her dismay, stating, “The continued cancelled funding… is the cherry on top for many organisations and farmers that are already up against really hard times.”
As the midterm elections loom, Democrats hope to leverage these grievances to win over voters in a state that has increasingly leaned Republican. The political landscape in Iowa is precarious, with key races that could shift the balance of power.
Economic Strain on Small Farmers
Agriculture is a critical pillar of Iowa’s economy, accounting for one-third of its output and one-fifth of its jobs. However, the economic strain on small farmers is palpable. Many are still reeling from the impacts of tariffs and rising costs due to global conflicts, which have made it increasingly difficult to sustain their operations.
James Nisly, a local farmer, reported losing 20% of his cash flow after the USDA scrapped a programme that provided local produce to schools and food banks. “All of the policy activity that I’ve seen is hugely beneficial to the very large corporations, and detrimental to the small-business operators,” he lamented.
The fallout from these policies is evident as Iowa has witnessed a spike in farm bankruptcies. In 2025, the state recorded 18 farm bankruptcies, marking a staggering 220% increase from the previous year.
The Fight for Inclusion and Support
The fellowship programme that Rogers was part of aimed to support “underserved producers” and was a key component of the Biden administration’s efforts to diversify the agricultural landscape. Former USDA official Matt Russell emphasised the importance of expanding opportunities for new farmers and addressing historical inequities in the sector.
Rogers’ experience with the fellowship was not just about farming; it was about empowerment and seizing opportunities in an industry often dominated by established interests. Being laid off due to the administration’s hostility towards DEI initiatives felt like “an extra slap in the face” to her, particularly as she and her colleagues were selected based on merit, not background.
With the funding cuts now in place, Rogers will continue to work her small plot until December, albeit without the guidance that could have maximised her yield. “I have never had a decision on such a level impact my life literally overnight in such a drastic way,” she reflected, urging others to pay closer attention to the political decisions that affect their lives.
Why it Matters
The ongoing challenges faced by small farmers in Iowa highlight the broader implications of agricultural policy and governance. As funding for vital support programmes is stripped away, the future of small-scale farming hangs in the balance. The plight of farmers like Lawrencia Rogers serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for policies that prioritise inclusivity and sustainability in agriculture. With upcoming elections, the opportunity to advocate for change is upon us, and it is crucial that we listen to the voices of those who feed our communities.
