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UA Undersecretary Fordyce Engages with Michigan Farmers
On April 7, 2026, the agricultural community of Michigan gathered at Star of the West Milling Company in Frankenmuth for a critical roundtable dialogue with Richard Fordyce, the USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. The discussion featured prominent leaders from various sectors of the state's farming community, including specialists in specialty crops and other agricultural commodities. This meeting sought to address pressing challenges faced by farmers, with a focus on improving federal support through the Farm Service Agency (FSA).
Understanding the Needs of Michigan's Specialty Crops
During the session, Benjamin Sklarczyk, the 2026 President of the National Potato Council and co-owner of Sklarczyk Seed Farms, highlighted significant disparities in federal funding for specialty crops in the U.S. He advocated for reforms similar to the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2) to create a more responsive safety net for these producers. Sklarczyk emphasized, “Having the opportunity to sit down directly with Undersecretary Fordyce for an extended, meaningful conversation was incredibly valuable for growers.” Such discussions are crucial for ensuring that agricultural policies are aligned with the realities of specialty crop production in Michigan.
Highlighting Financial Requirements and Challenges
Despite the urgency for coordinated assistance, farmers continue to face challenges, particularly with the slow rollout of funds from the recently announced Agricultural Specialty Crop Farmers program, which reserves $1 billion for specialty crops. A report from The Packer indicates that while the USDA has increased funding for specialty crop grants to $275 million in 2026, farmers have yet to actually receive this financial relief. “The system for specialty crop funding is complicated and needs to be simplified,” Sklarczyk pointed out. “Continuing engagement with USDA is crucial to evolve federal programs that better address our needs.”
The Role of Modern Technology and Reporting Infrastructure
Discussions during the roundtable also spotlighted USDA’s efforts to modernize reporting infrastructure to facilitate better digital data sharing among agencies. These updates aim to improve the efficiency of federal programs and make them more accessible to farmers, particularly for those growing specialty crops that often remain underfunded and undervalued.
Collaboration Builds a Supportive Network
The roundtable featured participation from numerous agricultural organizations, including the Michigan Farm Bureau and Michigan Agri-Business Association. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of unity among farmers advocating for better funding and policy frameworks that consider the distinct needs of various agricultural sectors, including the important niche of specialty crops.
The Vital Connection Between Farmers and USDA Leadership
This meeting with Undersecretary Fordyce represents an ongoing commitment from USDA to engage directly with farmers on the ground. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, establishing a solid support system with responsive federal policies will be instrumental in ensuring the sustainability and success of Michigan’s agriculture. Continued dialogues are essential for bridging the gap between farmers and federal resources, ultimately helping to identify and address the evolving needs of the agricultural community in Michigan.
Call to Action: Engage and Advocate for Change
Michigan farmers are encouraged to stay engaged with federal initiatives and actively communicate their needs. Understanding the importance of USDA's role in agriculture can empower farmers to advocate for reforms that positively impact their livelihoods. Joining state-level agricultural organizations can provide additional resources and support for all farmers as they navigate these complex challenges.
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