USDA faces staffing issues amid halted reorganization plan and budget cuts

Changes at the USDA took center stage during the Templeton Agricultural Commission meeting on June 2, 2025, as a former USDA employee highlighted significant shifts under the new administration. The discussion revealed that a major reorganization plan has been temporarily halted due to a lawsuit, leaving many in the agricultural community concerned about the future of USDA services.

The speaker, who returned to the USDA after a 40-year career, noted that Secretary Rollins is aiming to restructure the agency to focus more on field operations rather than national oversight. However, this plan remains unconfirmed, and the agency is currently experiencing a significant reduction in staff. This downsizing, referred to as a "smart sizing," has resulted in lower staffing levels at various offices, raising concerns about potential delays in service.

One of the most impactful changes discussed was the cut of over a billion dollars from a federal program that previously supported partnerships between nonprofits and small farmers. This program provided fresh food boxes to low-income families, with several farms in Templeton participating. The future of this initiative remains uncertain, as the speaker refrained from speculating on whether it would resume.

The meeting underscored the importance of staying informed about these developments, as the agricultural community navigates the implications of the USDA's restructuring and funding cuts. As the commission moves forward, the focus will be on monitoring these changes and their effects on local farmers and agricultural programs.