NOFA Vermont, farmers press committee for $20 million Farm Security Fund and $500,000 for market programs

NOFA Vermont policy director Maddie Kempner and four farmers told the Agriculture Committee that recent extreme weather has left many farms financially vulnerable and asked the committee to establish a Farm Security Fund and restore state support for market-access programs.

The request was framed as a budget and program ask: Maddie Kempner said the FY2026 request is a one-time appropriation of $20,000,000 to seed a Farm Security Fund, and Joanna Doran of NOFA Vermont asked for $500,000 to reinstate Crop Cash Plus and FarmShare supports that direct state funds to low-income customers and farmers.

The proposal aims to provide rapid, equitable recovery aid after disasters. “The proposed Farm Security Fund isn't just about emergency response. It's an investment in Vermont's future,” said Jacob Pausner, a fourth‑generation farmer who also serves on the board of the Vermont Sugarmakers Association. Presenters said federal programs and private fundraising have not met the need: speakers described long waits for FSA and other aid and…