Commission backs EPA oversight and precision farming
The Kansas Corn Growers Association (KCGA) welcomed the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission’s new policy recommendations released today, noting they reflect a balanced, science based approach to agriculture and public health.
Corn growers were especially encouraged that the final report did not propose new restrictions on atrazine and glyphosate, two vital pesticides used to control weeds and support sustainable soil management. Earlier drafts had raised concerns, but Kansas farmers and the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) engaged quickly, meeting policymakers in Washington, D.C., and sending letters to explain responsible pesticide use and soil health practices.
In July, KCGA Secretary Brett Grauerholz joined a roundtable with U.S. Department of Agriculture and Health and Human Services officials hosted by Senator Roger Marshall. He shared how growers apply precision agriculture and stewardship methods, inviting leaders to see these practices on his farm.
“Sometimes it just takes corn farmers going to Washington DC to explain to the policymakers what is actually happening on our farms when it comes to soil health, sustainability and responsible pesticide use. That’s what the grower members of the Kansas and National Corn Growers Association did with in-person meetings and with many of our members sending letters to the administration,” said Grauerholz. “Our proactive efforts truly made a difference.”
The MAHA report urges continued improvements in precision agriculture, soil health, and land stewardship—areas where corn farmers already lead. It also calls for increasing public awareness of the Environmental Protection Agency’s pesticide review process, described as among the most comprehensive worldwide.
NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr. praised the findings, noting that EPA remains the correct authority for regulating crop inputs and that the report validates the sustainable practices farmers follow every day. Farmers plan to work with federal agencies and Congress to implement the recommendations while maintaining strong environmental protections.