As part of the continuing series of policy papers aimed at examining various ideas of how to potentially strengthen the U.S. farm economy, American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Daniel Munch takes a look at the role government food purchases play.

“For nearly a century, federal food purchasing and nutrition programs have played a dual role, feeding Americans while providing dependable markets for U.S. farmers and ranchers.” Munch writes.  “These policies, from the earliest Buy American statutes of the 1930s to modern federal procurement rules, reflect a long-standing belief that public dollars should reinforce U.S.-grown food production.”

Munch uses this Market Intel report to offer an overall background view of the history of the program of buying U.S. – grown products, but also covers some specific areas where opportunities remain to strengthen oversight and do more to emphasize American ag. products. He cites an April 2023 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report entitled “School Meal Programs – USDA Could Enhance Implementation of the Buy American Provision.”

U.S. Senator Mike Lee from Utah and chair of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources lead a committee hearing/discussion on the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) operations of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA). Those testifying before the committee were:

• Derek Brown, Attorney General, Utah
• Jim Kenna, Retired BLM State Director (California and Arizona)
• Micah Christensen, Natural Resources Counsel for Wyoming County Commissioners Association
• Adam Cramer, Chief Executive Officer for Outdoor Alliance
• Greg Sheehan, President and CEO for Mule Deer Foundation

Nevada U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto is also a member of this Senate Committee and specifically sought comment on the impact of lost capacity of local BLM offices. It was noted that conducting effective Resource Management Planning Amendment planning requires a multi-disciplinary working group to address specific needs and under current circumstances not all BLM offices have those personnel resources. 

It is uncertain whether the Senate Committee has intentions for addressing changes in FLPMA and BLM resource planning actions, but much of the discussion and statements by those testifying were focused on ways in which FLPMA might be improved on in order for local input could be effectively heard and incorporated into land management plans.

Over the course of many years of contentious views on how to properly manage wetlands, the November 17^th release of the pre-publication version of a proposed rule for the definition of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) has American Farm Bureau Federation (ABFB) President Zippy Duvall offering his positive feedback

“Clean water is a top priority for farmers and ranchers – we depend on it. We are pleased that the new rule protects critical water sources while respecting the efforts of farmers to protect the natural resources they’ve been entrusted with” President Duvall said in reaction to the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed Waters of the United States rule.

“The Supreme Court clearly ruled several years ago that the government overreached in its interpretation of what fell under federal guidelines.” Duvall said, noting “We are still reviewing the entire rule, but we are pleased that it finally addresses those concerns and takes steps to provide much-needed clarity. We look forward to providing comments to EPA to ensure farmers can continue to safeguard the environment while growing the food America’s families rely on.”

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economists, Faith Parum, Ph.D. and Samantha Ayoub presented the details of the 40^th Annual Farm Bureau Thanksgiving Dinner Survey in this edition of Market Intel. This year’s average cost for a meal to feed a table of 10 is an average of $55.18 across the entire country. This compares with an average of $61.17 in 2023.

Sorting through different areas of the United States, Southern Thanksgiving meals have the lowest cost - $50.01 for a 10-person table. This compares with the highest region with a $61.75 average…that occurs in the West.

The authors for this Market Intel conclude their piece by writing – “Though this is the third straight annual decline, consumers have not fully recovered from the sharp increases that pushed the classic dinner to a record high in 2022.”

“These consumer savings come as many farmers enter 2026 facing a poor farm economy marked by falling crop prices, persistently high input costs, and lingering weather and disaster losses. Fresh produce prices are especially sensitive to these pressures, with growers navigating continued labor challenges and ongoing supply-chain disruptions. Farmers carry much of the food system’s risk to keep groceries plentiful and affordable, and when conditions tighten, timely and effective support remains critical for helping them stay in business and maintaining a secure, stable food supply.”

The November issue of the Agu-cation Gazette is here! Stay up to date on what’s happening with Nevada Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom, from new programs to upcoming events and exciting classroom moments.

Click the link here to read the latest issue, and if you’d like the Gazette delivered straight to you each month, you can also subscribe here!

The Nevada Heritage Foundation (NHF), a 501(c)(3) company, is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural and historical heritage of Nevada. One of the key ways it achieves this mission is through its scholarship programs, which provide financial assistance to students pursuing trades and higher education in fields related to Nevada’s agricultural history, culture, and natural resources. These scholarships not only help students achieve their academic goals but also ensure that the state’s heritage is studied, preserved, and celebrated by future generations.

Why Support NHF Scholarship Programs?

1. Empowering Future Leaders: By contributing to NHF’s scholarship programs, you are investing in the education of future leaders who will continue to preserve and promote Nevada’s unique agricultural heritage. These students often go on to become farmers, ranchers, ranger managers, economist, agriculture bankers, veterinarians, mechanics, machinists and fabricators.
2. Promoting Education: Scholarships make higher education and trade programs more accessible to students who might otherwise struggle to afford it. Your donation can help reduce the financial burden on students and their families, allowing them to focus on their studies and achieve their full potential.
3. Preserving Nevada’s Heritage: The scholarship recipients often engage in education, research and projects that directly contribute to the understanding and preservation of Nevada’s agricultural history and culture. By supporting these students, you are playing a crucial role in maintaining the state’s farming and ranching heritage for future generations.
4. Community Impact: Education has a ripple effect on the community. As scholarship recipients graduate and enter the workforce, they bring their knowledge and skills back to their communities, fostering growth and development.

How to Give

Giving to the Nevada Heritage Foundation’s scholarship programs is easy and impactful. Here are a few ways you can contribute:

• Online Donations: click here
• Matching Gifts: Check if your employer offers a matching gift program. Many companies will match your donation, doubling the impact of your contribution.
• Fundraising Events: Participate in or organize fundraising events to support NHF. Events like charity auctions, and community gatherings can raise significant funds and awareness for the scholarship programs.
• Planned Giving: Consider including NHF in your estate planning. Planned gifts, such as bequests or charitable trusts, can provide long-term support for the foundation’s mission.

Conclusion

When considering this month of generosity and giving, take a moment to reflect on the importance of agriculture education and heritage preservation. By supporting the Nevada Heritage Foundation’s scholarship programs, you are making a meaningful investment in the future of Nevada and its rich cultural legacy. Your generosity can help empower students, promote education, and ensure that Nevada’s heritage continues to be celebrated for generations to come.

Join the global movement of giving and make a difference in the lives of students and the preservation of Nevada’s history. Every donation counts, and together, we can create a brighter future for all.