Secretary Rollins Announces Major Investment in Tennessee’s Rural Communities

Aug 19, 2025

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced nearly $89 million in Congressionally directed investments for 13 rural development projects in communities across the State of Tennessee. These projects, coordinated by USDA Rural Development (RD), will promote strong partnerships and invest in critical infrastructure as well as educational opportunities for rural Tennesseans.

“We are working every day at USDA to ensure our family farmers have the tools and markets to keep farming for generations to come. Rural Tennessee helps feed and fuel America and the world, and President Trump is committed to investing in these communities so they continue to be productive and fulfilling places to live for generations to come. If our farmers and ranchers do not have the resources to continue to farm, then we cannot feed ourselves. President Trump understands how important it is to have a safe, secure, and resilient farm economy,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins.

“What happens in rural Tennessee matters to all Tennesseans, and this significant investment in our rural communities will strengthen farmland preservation, enhance infrastructure, and expand educational opportunities for the next generation of farmers. I’m grateful for Secretary Rollins’ partnership to create greater opportunity for families across Tennessee,” said Tennessee Governor Bill Lee.

Source : usda.gov

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.