Trump’s FY2027 budget cuts FSA staff by 25%
TL/DR –
President Trump’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget includes a 20% reduction in USDA discretionary spending and an over 25% workforce reduction in the Farm Service Agency. The budget also proposes a $4.9 billion reduction in total discretionary USDA funding, with significant cuts to a range of programs including research, rural programs, and international food aid. Some increases are also included in the proposal such as expansion in the USDA’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Coordination, and departmental reorganization and staff relocation.
Trump’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Proposal Includes Significant Cuts to USDA
On April 3, 2026, President Trump’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget was disclosed, revealing plans for a significant 20% reduction in the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) discretionary spending. However, it’s not just the total expenditure that is a concern, but also the projected reductions in workforce numbers within USDA’s agencies.
Workforce Reduction in Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service
The proposed plans forecast a drop in the workforce of the Farm Service Agency (FSA) from 8,135 employees in fiscal year 2025 to just 6,009 by 2027, which is a reduction of over 25%. The FSA staff process loan applications, administer disaster payments, and register farmers in conservation programs locally across rural America.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is already witnessing considerable staff reductions, with employee numbers dropping from 11,542 in 2025 to 9,241 in 2026. The FY2027 budget intends to maintain NRCS staffing at this decreased level rather than boosting it. These severe cuts could result in increased waiting times for program enrollment, delays in conservation planning assistance, and slower loan processing, especially critical at a time when farmers are grappling with high input costs and tight margins due to the planting season.
Proposed Cuts Extend Beyond Staffing
In terms of total discretionary USDA funding, the FY2027 budget proposes $20.8 billion, marking a $4.9 billion reduction from 2026 levels. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is looking at a $510 million cut, specifically to its formula grants, which are key to funding agricultural research at land-grant universities across all states. The budget suggests redirecting research funding towards competitively awarded projects, as opposed to pre-determined university allocations.
Several other key programs also face cuts. The Community Facilities grants could see a reduction of $659 million, the Rural Business Service may lose $82 million, and the Agricultural Marketing Service could potentially face a $61 million cut. The proposed budget also suggests completely eliminating discretionary Conservation Technical Assistance funding from the farm bill baseline, instead relying on Inflation Reduction Act funds. Each of these cuts could significantly impact rural communities, affecting rural hospitals, fire stations, water systems, and local businesses.
For additional context regarding this budget and its position within broader USDA policy direction, Agroinformacion has been covering White House farm policy announcements throughout this cycle.
International Food Aid Programs In Jeopardy Under Proposed Budget
Two critical international food assistance programs are at risk under the proposed budget. Food for Peace, an emergency food aid program, could see their budget slashed from $1.2 billion in 2026 to a mere $97 million. The McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program, a $240 million initiative that provides school meals in low-income countries, could be eliminated entirely.
These proposed reductions are distinct from the domestic farm program cuts and could have significant implications for agricultural trade and commodity markets. For instance, with Food for Peace being a significant buyer of U.S. surplus commodities, any reduction or elimination of the program would remove a significant demand from the market. This comes at an unfavorable time when U.S. farmers are already facing uncertain export conditions.
Some Increases Proposed Despite Overall Cuts
Despite the proposed cuts, some areas are slated for increases under the proposed budget. For instance, the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Coordination under the USDA would see an increase from a staff of four with a budget of $1.7 million to 38 positions and $15.3 million. Additionally, $50 million has been allocated for departmental reorganization, including relocation of staff from Washington to regional hubs, a move aimed at bringing USDA closer to the farmers and ranchers it serves.
It is important to note that these proposals are not final and the budget is subject to approval by Congress. The American Farm Bureau Federation responded cautiously, expressing their intention to work with congressional appropriators to ensure funding of critical programs. For a detailed understanding of the proposed budget, High Plains Journal’s report on April 7, 2026, provides a comprehensive overview.
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