USDA launches unified system to simplify farmer records and services
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a major modernization effort called “One Farmer One File” during the Commodity Classic Convention in San Antonio, Texas. The initiative aims to create one streamlined record for farmers that can be used across multiple USDA agencies, helping reduce paperwork and simplify how producers access programs and services.
“Every single day at USDA, our focus is on making life easier, more profitable and more rewarding for the American farmer. Our government for the people by the people should be modern, efficient, and respect taxpayer dollars,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins.
“This modernization of old, duplicative, wasteful systems has one goal in mind, improve our customer service so the people we serve are able to farm and feed America and the world. ‘One Farmer, One File’ prevents our farmers from duplicating tasks while increases their productivity and time in the field,” said Rollins.
According to USDA leadership, the project focuses on improving efficiency and customer service for farmers. Many producers currently work with several USDA agencies, including the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Risk Management Agency.
These agencies support farmers through programs such as farm registration, acreage reporting, conservation assistance, disaster recovery, and risk management. Under the new system, farmers will no longer need to repeatedly submit the same information to different offices.
The goal of the modernization effort is to reduce administrative burdens while allowing farmers to spend more time in the field. USDA also expects the project to improve internal operations by reducing outdated systems, lowering technology costs, and removing agency silos that slow program delivery. Work on the system began in 2025, with significant progress planned for 2026 and full completion expected by 2028.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize agricultural programs and simplify access for producers. USDA is also using secure digital tools to speed up payments and is working to streamline conservation programs, so farmers can more easily apply for multiple practices at once.
During the same visit to Texas, USDA officials highlighted a deregulatory agenda designed to reduce red tape and support innovation in agriculture. The administration stated that regulatory reductions are intended to lower costs and improve affordability for farmers, ranchers, and consumers.
Overall, the One Farmer One File initiative represents a significant step toward improving how USDA interacts with producers. By creating a unified system and modernizing technology, the department aims to make government services more efficient, reduce duplication, and help farmers focus on food production and long-term farm success.
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