USDA's Rural Development Invested Billions in FY26
Rural Development announced Tuesday it invested nearly $25 billion in rural America during fiscal year 2026, targeting infrastructure and services in small communities.
Infrastructure
USDA Looks To Improve Electricity Reliability In Rural America
Rural electric utilities can now apply for partially forgivable federal loans ranging from $1 million to $100 million to upgrade grid reliability using hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy sources.
Highway Reauthorization Bill Focuses on Rural Infrastructure
Support for the BUILD America 250 Act is growing, and it’s about more than just roads.
Oregon’s Wyden, Merkley Want To Update The Power Grid
With a hefty price tag looming, how can new grid technology help safeguard against wildfires?
How Should Idaho Address Large Electricity Users?
As the demand for power surges, Idaho's lawmakers are stepping up with new strategies to keep the lights on for everyone. Let’s see what’s brewing in Boise.
Rural Highways Must Become A Priority In DC
An often overlooked but vital aspect of rural life is the safety and maintenance of highways, roads and bridges. Minnesota Farm Bureau President Dan Glessing recently testified before the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, on the importance of maintaining rural roadways.
“I think o...
Parrott: State Is Addressing Water Issues
There are several on-farm issues the Snake River Sugarbeet Growers Association is working on this legislative session in Boise. And for Executive Director Samantha Parrott, no issue is bigger than water.
She said there were several challenges last year in the eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer, which put hundreds of thousands of acres of water in jeopardy. While an agr...
Oregon’s Infrastructure Needs Work, Report Says
The American Society of Civil Engineers gives Oregon a C-minus for infrastructure. The group’s Ana Tijerina Esquino said they graded 12 categories.
“Bridges and roads, for example, did get downgraded this time. That is because our road ...
USDA Investments to Strengthen the U.S. Meat Supply Chain
Last week, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced an investment of $9.6 million across the country to help farmers, ranchers, processors, and rural businesses diversify the meat supply.
“We’re putting the needs of farmers, ranchers, and consumers at the forefront of our work to strengthen the resiliency of America’s food supply chain while promoting competition,” he said. “USDA is working on an appr
USDA Invests in Infrastructure to Combat Climate Change in Rural
On Thursday, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the USDA is investing $285 million in critical infrastructure. The investment seeks to lower energy costs, expand access to clean energy for people across rural America, and combat climate change. USDA is...