Oct 25, 2025

Government shutdown impacts farmers and support programs

The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its 23rd day, is affecting farmers who rely on federal agencies for conservation support, operating loans and access to nutrition programs that help sustain local food markets.

Many Natural Resources Conservation Service offices have closed, delaying payments tied to conservation contracts and soil health projects. Programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program are paused, creating cash flow challenges for small and beginning farmers.

“With the government shutdown, we’re unable to be paid for two finished EQIP contracts worth a total of $30,000,” said Kjersten Oudman of Blue Sky Vegetable Farm in South Dakota. She said the payment was intended for equipment and operating expenses.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has partially reopened 2,100 Farm Service Agency offices to process some program payments and loans, but many services remain limited. Some farmers depend on FSA operating loans and reimbursements to support production planning.

Access to Affordable Care Act health plans is also at risk due to stalled negotiations over premium tax credits. Health coverage costs remain a key concern among young and beginning producers.

In addition, delays in processing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program transactions are affecting farmers who sell through farmers markets and CSA programs. Some have reported postponed payments for produce already sold.

Vanessa Garcia Polanco, government relations director at the National Young Farmers Coalition, said farmers need a functioning government to plan and manage operations.

More information on affected programs is available through USDA and state agencies.