Department of Agriculture seeks federal grants for tractor services to support local farmers

The Northern Marianas Commonwealth Legislature held a meeting on July 14, 2025, focusing on the Department of Agriculture's funding and equipment services. A significant discussion centered on the challenges faced by the department in providing equipment services to local farmers, particularly those outside the department's direct control.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the limitations of revolving funds allocated for various agricultural services. Legislators questioned whether these funds could be combined to enhance service delivery. However, it was clarified that specific funds, such as those for animal services, cannot be used for unrelated expenses, like leasing heavy equipment.

A key point of discussion was the lack of equipment, particularly trailers needed to transport tractors to community farm plots. The department expressed a desire to offer tractor rental services to outside farmers but highlighted that without the necessary equipment, they could not meet this demand. The current inability to mobilize tractors effectively limits the department's capacity to support the broader farming community.

Legislators emphasized the importance of addressing these equipment shortages to boost local agriculture and the economy. The department acknowledged the need for additional funding and indicated that they are exploring federal grants to support equipment purchases, which could alleviate some of the financial constraints.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for improved funding and resources within the Department of Agriculture to enhance services for all farmers in the Northern Mariana Islands. The discussions highlighted a commitment to seeking federal assistance to better support the agricultural sector and ultimately benefit the local economy.