Report: Iowa lost 17% of USDA staff in 2025, impact felt at farmer-facing offices

In 2025, Iowa experienced a significant reduction in USDA staff, with a 19% cut in Natural Resources Conservation Service positions and an 8% decrease in the Farm Service Agency, according to a report from the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. This staffing reduction has left county-level service offices struggling to meet the needs of local farmers. The implications are serious, as these offices play a crucial role in providing essential services and support for agricultural practices, potentially affecting everything from crop management to financial assistance for farmers.