Farmers and organizations across the country are feeling uncertain about government contracts tied to USDA programs like EQIP, CSP, and REAP. With funding frozen as well as contract decisions unclear, producers are left wondering what to do next.
“We’ve been getting a lot of questions from farmers who already started projects or hired contractors,” said Rachel Armstrong, Executive Director and Attorney with Farm Commons. “Many fear they won’t get reimbursed as promised.”
Farm Commons is working to help farmers understand their legal options. Armstrong emphasized that communication is key. “The first step is to call your USDA contact and ask for an update,” she advised. “It’s important to document that conversation.”
If communication fails, Armstrong suggests filing an appeal through USDA’s National Appeals Division (NAD). “Filing an appeal may sound intimidating,” Armstrong said. “But it can be as simple as writing a letter explaining that your invoice hasn’t been paid and requesting a decision. It’s a low-effort step that could help protect your rights.”
Non-profits with paused or terminated grants may also be eligible to appeal. “Some grants may not fall under NAD’s authority,” Armstrong explained. “In those cases, sending a detailed letter of appeal directly to USDA is the best course of action.”
Farm Commons offers templates to guide farmers and organizations through these steps. “We’ve created resources that simplify the process,” Armstrong said. “It provides solutions to critical questions like, do farmers have a legal claim? Must farmers still fulfill the contract terms even if the funding has been frozen? As well as so much more.”
As farmers consider whether to continue work on projects, Armstrong urged caution. “Many USDA contracts require farmers to follow through with their planned improvements, even if funding is delayed,” she said. “It’s a tough decision, and each producer must weigh the risks.”
Armstrong acknowledged that USDA staff are also facing challenges. “They’re just trying to do their jobs and follow directives,” she said. “We’re working to make sure farmers know their options and can also move forward with confidence.”
For more information and access to legal resources, visit Farm Commons’ website.
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