Congressman Adrian Smith and Governor Jim Pillen recently welcomed U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to Nebraska. The visit included tours of the Cargill Bioscience Complex in Blair, the Wholestone Farms pork facility in Fremont, and the Ohnoutka family farm in Valparaiso. During this visit, Secretary Rollins introduced the Farmers First: Small Family Farms Policy Agenda, a new initiative aimed at supporting family agriculture operations.
The officials expressed their support for the new policy agenda through a series of statements. Congressman Smith emphasized the importance of Nebraska’s agricultural sector, stating, “Welcoming Secretary Rollins to Nebraska alongside Governor Pillen provided a tremendous opportunity to showcase Nebraska’s world-leading livestock, crop, and biofuels producers.” He further highlighted that agriculture continues to be a key economic driver in both Nebraska and the broader Heartland region.
Secretary Rollins acknowledged Nebraska’s leadership role in agriculture and reiterated her commitment to returning USDA to a Farmers First department. She remarked, “Nebraska is helping to lead the nation in agriculture! Great to meet with the farmers, ranchers, and producers from the Cornhusker State who are working to feed, fuel, and clothe the world.”
Governor Pillen also praised family-owned farms as integral to America’s agricultural landscape. He said, “Our family-owned farms and ranches are at the heart of agriculture in America and are the backbone of the economy in states like Nebraska.” Governor Pillen expressed enthusiasm for Secretary Rollins’ focus on small operations within her new initiative.
This visit underscores ongoing efforts by government officials to engage with local producers and address their needs through targeted policy initiatives.
