Agriculture & Rural Affairs Policy Steering Committee
About the Committee
Rural America is the backbone of our nation. More than 70 percent of the nation's 3,069 counties are rural, home to 38.5 million Americans and covering over two-thirds of the nation's land mass. While each rural county has its own unique character, all rural county leaders share a common commitment to building a healthier, more vibrant, and prosperous Rural America.
NACo's Agriculture & Rural Affairs (AgRA) Policy Steering Committee is dedicated to advocating for policies that empower county officials to unlock the full potential of their communities. The AgRA committee addresses a wide range of issues crucial to rural communities, including agricultural policy, rural development, disaster resilience, food security, energy, conservation and more. By serving on this committee, members have the opportunity to collaborate with federal policymakers, thought leaders, and peers to overcome challenges and seize opportunities that can strengthen local economies and improve the quality of life in rural areas.
If you're passionate about supporting your county's agricultural sector and enhancing the vitality of rural communities, we encourage you to get involved and make a difference for Rural America!
Policy Platform 2023-2024
NACo is concerned about the impact of national, state and local policies and decisions affecting rural counties and counties with significant rural communities threated byurban and suburban development.
Competing frameworks emerge for 2024 Farm Bill as counties secure key wins
After months of negotiations and gridlock, lawmakers on the House and Senate Agriculture Committees have released competing frameworks for the 2024 Farm Bill. The $1.5 trillion legislative package authorizes a suite of programs that help counties make critical investments in infrastructure, economic development, workforce training, nutrition and conservation within some of our nation's most underserved communities.
Artificial intelligence teases agricultural “revolution”
A University of Florida researcher sees great potential for artificial intelligence to help overcome agriculture's labor shortage.
Most foreign-owned ag land remains in friendly hands
Despite cycles of concern about foreign ownership, less than 4% of U.S. private agricultural land is owned by foreign entities, and only 12 states have enacted laws limiting foreign ownership.
House, Senate Agriculture Committees release frameworks for 2024 Farm Bill Reauthorization
After months of negotiations and gridlock, lawmakers on the House and Senate Agriculture Committees have released competing frameworks for the 2024 Farm Bill.
Congress Passes Landmark Outdoor Recreation Package
Lawmakers passed the bipartisan EXPLORE Act (H.R.6492) on December 19 to boost outdoor recreation opportunities on public lands for county residents and visitors and aid gateway communities
Resource
Primer for Counties: 2025 Farm Bill Reauthorization
Resource
Legislative Analysis for Counties: Farm, Food, and National Security Act
Resource
NACo Primer for Counties: Foreign Ownership of U.S. Agricultural Land
Agriculture and Rural Affairs Policy Briefs
Committee Chair
View the full committee roster here.
Joshua Pedrozo
Committee Contact
Owen Hart
Joe Jackson
Join a NACo Committee
Join a committee and make a difference. Learn more about getting involved with NACo.