Programs for Beginning, Limited Resource, Veteran, Socially Disadvantaged, and Tribal and Indigenous Farmers and Ranchers and for Small Farms and Ranches

February 27, 2024 – April 1, 2024 R47933

Programs for Beginning, Limited Resource,
Veteran, Socially Disadvantaged, and Tribal
and Indigenous Farmers and Ranchers and for
Small Farms and Ranches
Updated April 1, 2024
Congressional Research Service
https://crsreports.congress.gov
R47933

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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

istorically underserved farmers and ranchers represent a diverse share of all U.S.
agricultural producers.1 This includes socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers
H (SDFRs), who are producers belonging to a group whose members have been subjected to
racial, ethnic, or gender discrimination, including tribal and Indigenous agricultural producers. At
the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), historically underserved producers also include
beginning farmers or ranchers (BFRs), veteran farmers or ranchers (VFRs), and limited resource
farmers and ranchers (LRFRs). Many such operations tend to be considered small in size, whether
based on acreage or annual income. Although these producer groups are eligible for USDA
programs available to all U.S. farmers and ranchers, recent legislation has provided targeted
support for these groups referenced in authorized programs and policies in statute or regulation.
Terms and Definitions
Socially Disadvantaged Farmers or Ranchers
As defined in statute, SDFR commonly means “a farmer or rancher who is a member of a socially
disadvantaged group.”2 However, what constitutes a socially disadvantaged group is defined
differently in the U.S. Code. Two separate definitions exist: one covers race, ethnicity, and gender;
the other covers race and ethnicity only (excluding gender) (Figure 1, text box). Specifically,
7 U.S.C. §2279 defines a socially disadvantaged group as “a group whose members have been
subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice because of their identity as members of a group without
regard to their individual qualities.”3 Elsewhere (7 U.S.C. §2003), the definition also includes
women, regardless of race and ethnicity, defining a socially disadvantaged group as “a group
whose members have been subjected to racial, ethnic, or gender prejudice because of their identity
as members of a group without regard to their individual qualities.”4
Figure 1. Alternative Statutory Definitions of Socially Disadvantaged Group

Source: CRS. See CRS Report R46727, Defining a Socially Disadvantaged Farmer or Rancher (SDFR): In Brief.

1 USDA Farm Production and Conservation, “Get Started! A Guide to USDA Resources for Historically Underserved
Farmers and Ranchers,” July 2022.
2 7 U.S.C. §2279(a)(6) and 7 U.S.C. §2003(e)(2).
3 7 U.S.C. §2279(a)(5). Italics added for emphasis.
4 7 U.S.C. §2003(e)(1); §355(e) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. Italics added for emphasis. For
other related background, see Caitlin Joseph, Gabrielle Roesch-McNally, and Ariel Looser, “The State of Gender Equity
in U.S. Agriculture,” American Farmland Trust, 2024.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Terms and Definitions
Socially Disadvantaged Farmer or Rancher (SDFR)—“A farmer or rancher who is a member of a socially
disadvantaged group” where, depending on the program, a socially disadvantaged group means either “a group
whose members have been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice because of their identity as members of a group
without regard to their individual qualities” (7 U.S.C. §2279(a)(6)) or “a group whose members have been subjected
to racial, ethnic, or gender prejudice because of their identity as members of a group without regard to their
individual qualities” (7 U.S.C. §2003(e)(1)).
Indian—“A person who is a member of an Indian tribe” where an Indian tribe means “any Indian tribe, band, nation,
or other organized group or community, including any Alaska Native vil age or regional or vil age corporation as
defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (85 Stat. 688) [43 U.S.C. §§1601 et
seq.], which is recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians
because of their status as Indians” (25 U.S.C. §5304(d)-(e); Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act
(P.L. 93-638)).
Beginning Farmer or Rancher (BFR)—“Term as defined by the Secretary” whereas a qualified beginning farmer or
rancher means “an applicant ... who is eligible for assistance ... who has not operated a farm or ranch, or who has
operated a farm or ranch for not more than 10 years” among other requirements (7 U.S.C. §1991(a)(8) and (11)).
For the purposes of crop insurance, a beginning producer is “a farmer or rancher who has not actively operated
and managed a farm or ranch with a bona fide insurable interest in a crop or livestock as an owner-operator,
landlord, tenant, or sharecropper for more than 5 crop years.” (7 U.S.C. §1502(b)(3)).
Veteran Farmer or Rancher (VFR)—“A farmer or rancher who has served in the Armed Forces (as defined in
section 101(10) of title 38) and who - (A) has not operated a farm or ranch; (B) has operated a farm or ranch for
not more than 10 years; or (C) is a veteran” who has first obtained status as a veteran (as so defined) during the
most recent 10-year period (7 U.S.C. §2279(A)(7)). For the purposes of crop insurance, a veteran producer is “a
farmer or rancher who .. has operated a farm or ranch for not more than 5 years” (7 U.S.C. §1502(b)(14)). As
defined in statute (38 U.S.C. §101), the term “veteran” means a person who “served in the active military, naval, air,
or space service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable).”
Limited Resource Farmer or Rancher (LRFR)—As defined in USDA regulation (e.g., see 7 C.F.R. §§1470.3,
1465.3, 760.1901), refers to a farmer or rancher as (1) a person with direct or indirect gross farm sales not more
than the current indexed value in each of the previous two fiscal years (adjusted for inflation using Prices Paid by
Farmer Index as compiled by USDA) and (2) has a total household income at or below the national poverty level
for a family of four, or less than 50% of county median household income in each of the previous two years
(determined annually using Department of Commerce data). LRFRs include “a legal entity or joint operation if all
individual members independently qualify under paragraphs (1) and (2).” Practically, USDA directs producers to use
USDA’s Self-Determination Tool (https://lrftool.sc.egov.usda.gov/DeterminationTool.aspx) to determine an
operation’s status on an annual basis.
Currently, USDA regulations define historically underserved producer to mean “a person, joint operation, legal
entity, or Indian Tribe” who is a BFR, SDFR, LRFR, or VFR (e.g., see 7 C.F.R. §§1470, 1464). Since the 2008 farm bil ,
reference in statute to historically underserved producer was added to the Regional Conservation Partnership
Program, directing USDA “to the maximum extent practicable” to “conduct outreach” to BFRs, VFRs, SDFRs, and
LRFRs (16 U.S.C. §3871e(d)).
Historically Underserved Producer—Fol owing amendments in the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008
(P.L. 110-246, §2708), USDA issued regulations for certain conservation programs that included the term historically
underserved producers. The term was not specifically defined and remains undefined in statute. Rather, it described
the col ection of producer groups eligible for preference under USDA conservation programs. Currently, USDA
regulations define historically underserved producer to mean “a person, joint operation, legal entity, or Indian Tribe”
who is a BFR, SDFR, VFR, or LRFR (e.g., see 7 C.F.R. §§1470, 1464). Reference in statute to historically underserved
producers was added in the Agricultural Act of 2014 (P.L. 113-79, §2708) directing USDA “to the maximum extent
practicable” to “conduct outreach” to BFRs, VFRs, SDFRs, and LRFRs (16 U.S.C. §3871e(d)). The Agriculture
Improvement Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-334, Title XII, Subtitle C) included a separate subtitle for historically
underserved producers, which included USDA programs providing targeted support. The subtitle was alternatively
titled “Socially Disadvantaged Producers and Limited Resource Producers” in P.L. 110-246 (Title XIV, Subtitle A)
and in the Agricultural Act of 2014 (P.L. 113-79, Title XII, Subtitle B).
Underserved Producer—“An individual (including a member of an Indian Tribe) that is - (I) a beginning farmer or
rancher; (II) a veteran farmer or rancher; or (III) a socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher” (7 U.S.C.
§1508(a)(7)(A)(i )).
Source: CRS from various sources, including USDA’s Self-Determination Tool (https://lrftool.sc.egov.usda.gov/).
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

In practice, SDFR eligibility for USDA farm support programs may vary depending on which
definition is cited in statute for a particular program. While the definition most cited in USDA
programs includes race and ethnic groups, women (regardless of race and ethnicity) may be
included in the SDFR definition for fewer programs. SDFRs generally may belong to the
following race and ethnic groups: African Americans, American Indians, Alaskan Natives, Asians,
Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, refugees, immigrants, and groups as determined by the Secretary of
Agriculture.5
According to USDA, in 2017 (based on the most recent available Census of Agriculture data),6
SDFRs numbered about 193,000 farms, accounting for 9% of all U.S. farms (based on the
statutory definition at 7 U.S.C. §2279, excluding White, non-Hispanic women)7 or 604,000,
accounting for 30% of all U.S. farms (based on the definition at 7 U.S.C. §2003, including all
women, regardless of race and ethnicity).8 For more background, see CRS Report R46727,
Defining a Socially Disadvantaged Farmer or Rancher (SDFR): In Brief.9 Available data on the
number of SDFRs, regardless of the statutory definition referenced, may overlap with data for
other underserved producer groups (such as BFRs, LRFRs, and VFRs) and therefore are not
additive given the possibility that an SDFR is also a member of another underserved group (e.g.,
some SDFRs may also be BFRs, LRFRs, and/or VFRs).
Tribal and Indigenous Farmers and Ranchers
The statutory definition of SDFRs at 7 U.S.C. §2279 includes an Indian tribe (as defined at 25
U.S.C. §5304) or “a national tribal organization that has demonstrated experience in providing
agriculture education or other agriculturally related services to socially disadvantaged farmers and
ranchers in a region.” For purposes of this report, tribes refer to federally recognized tribes.
Indigenous entities include tribal organizations such as tribal utility companies,10 Native
Hawaiians, Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs),11 and state-recognized tribes. Various USDA
programs provide financial and technical assistance to tribes and Indigenous entities.12

5 USDA, Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), “Farming Opportunities Training and Outreach Grant
Program,” 2020, at https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2501_FactSheet.pdf; and USDA, “Frequently
Asked Questions 2501 Program,” at https://www.usda.gov/partnerships/frequently-asked-questions-2501-program. For
more background, see CRS In Focus IF12475, Outreach for Socially Disadvantaged Producers (2501 Program).
6 Communications between CRS and USDA personnel, February 16, 2024. Although USDA released preliminary 2022
Census of Agriculture data in February, data on the producer groups covered in this report are not yet available. Data on
these producer groups usually require additional special or custom tabulations of the data by USDA that are generally
released well after USDA releases census data for some of the leading national agricultural data categories.
7 CRS from a USDA custom tabulation of the 2017 Census of Agriculture (Inquiry 23627, March 5, 2021).
8 U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), Agricultural Lending, Information on Credit and Outreach to Socially
Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Is Limited, GAO-19-539, July 2019.
9 For related background, see CRS In Focus IF12096, Farm Bill Primer: Beginning and Underserved Producers, and
CRS In Focus IF12160, Farm Bill Primer: Support for Native Agricultural Producers.
10 Some statutes generally reference the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) definition
of tribal organization, which is an organization “recognized governing body of any Indian tribe; any legally established
organization of Indians which is controlled, sanctioned, or chartered by such governing body or which is democratically
elected by the adult members of the Indian community to be served by such organization and which includes the
maximum participation of Indians in all phases of its activities” (ISDEAA, 25 U.S.C. §5304).
11 The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. §§1601 et seq.) divided the state of Alaska into 12 geographic
regions and established Village and Regional ANCs, which are for-profit corporations. ANCs are not tribes, although
there are tribes located within ANC boundaries.
12 A federally recognized tribe is one that is generally eligible for the special programs and services provided by the
United States “because of their status as Indians” (25 C.F.R. §83.2). Some statutes use the term “Indian tribe,” which is
(continued...)
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

According to USDA, in 2017, more than 79,000 farmers and ranchers identified as American
Indian or Alaska Native, including producers who identified in combination with another race,
accounting for 2% of all U.S. producers.13 Agricultural sales were $3.5 billion in 2017, or about
1% of total U.S. farm-level sales. The largest share of producers who identify as American
Indian/Alaska Native (46%) are located in Arizona and Oklahoma. Other leading states were New
Mexico, Texas, California, Montana, Missouri, Utah, Arkansas, Alabama, Oregon, and South
Dakota. These operations cover 59 million acres of farm and grazing land. American
Indian/Alaska Native producers, however, may lack legal title to land often held in trust by the
federal government.14 As of 2023, there were 574 federally recognized Indian tribes.15
Available data on the number of American Indian/Alaska Native agricultural producers reflect a
subset of data on SDFRs, and therefore these data might not be additive, regardless of the statutory
definition referenced. In addition, data on the number of American Indian/Alaska Native producers
may further overlap with data for other underserved producer groups and might not be additive.
For example, some American Indian/Alaska Native producers may also be members of other
SDFR producer groups or may be considered BFRs, LRFRs, and/or VFRs.
Beginning Farmers or Ranchers
In statute, BFRs are producers who have operated a farm or ranch for not more than 10
consecutive years (7 U.S.C. §1991(a)(8) and (11)).
According to USDA, in 2017, there were more than 908,000 producers who identified as
beginning producers, accounting for 27% of all U.S. agricultural producers; overall, more than
597,000 farms have a beginning producer, accounting for 29% of U.S. farms.16 Agricultural
products sold by beginning producers totaled $60.4 billion or about 15% of total U.S. farm-level
sales in 2017. Land in farms operated by beginning producers accounted for about 16% of all land
in farming. Available data on BFRs may include SDFRs, LRFRs, and VFRs, and therefore these
data are not additive with those for other underserved producer groups.
Veteran Farmers or Ranchers
In the case of veterans who have served in the Armed Forces, for most USDA programs, VFRs are
generally defined as having engaged in farming for no more than 10 years and who have first
obtained status as veterans during the most recent 10-year period (7 U.S.C. §2279(A)(7)). For the
purposes of crop insurance, a veteran producer is “a farmer or rancher who ... has operated a farm

defined in the ISDEAA (25 U.S.C. §5304) as “any Indian tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community,
including any Alaska Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska
Native Claims Settlement Act (85 Stat. 688) [43 U.S.C. §§1601 et seq.], which is recognized as eligible for the special
programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians.”
13 USDA, American Indian/Alaska Native Producers, ACH17-7, October 2019.
14 For more background, see CRS Report R46727, Defining a Socially Disadvantaged Farmer or Rancher (SDFR): In
Brief, and CRS In Focus IF12160, Farm Bill Primer: Support for Native Agricultural Producers. Other background is in
CRS Report R46647, Tribal Land and Ownership Statuses: Overview and Selected Issues for Congress.
15 88 Federal Register 2112-2116, January 12, 2023.
16 USDA, New and Beginning Producers, 2017 Census of Agriculture Highlights, ACH17-23/November 2020,
https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights/2020/census-beginning%20-farmers.pdf, and CRS In Focus
IF11227, 2018 Farm Bill Primer: Beginning Farmers and Ranchers. Preliminary limited information indicates that
BFRs comprise a growing share of all U.S. farms and ranches: The number of BFRs increased a reported 11% between
the 2017 and 2022 census, and now accounts for 30% of all U.S. operations. See USDA, “USDA Releases 2022 Census
of Agriculture Data,” February 13, 2024; USDA, Farm Producers, 2022 Census of Agriculture Highlights, ACH22-
2/February 2024, https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights/2024/Census22_HL_FarmProducers_FINAL.pdf.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

or ranch for not more than 5 years” (7 U.S.C. §1502(b)(14)). As defined in statute (38 U.S.C.
§101), the term “veteran” means a person who “served in the active military, naval, air, or space
service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.”
Other USDA guidance clarifies that a VFR “means a person who served in the United States Army,
Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard, including the reserve components thereof, and
who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable and who also
meets the definition of beginning farmer or rancher (BFR).”17
USDA reports that there were nearly 371,000 producers who have served or are serving in the
military in 2017, accounting for 11% of all U.S. agricultural producers.18 This estimate includes
VFRs as defined in statute as well as other producers who have engaged in farming for more than
10 years (or more than 5 years) and who first obtained status as a veteran more than 10 years (or 5
years) ago. Available data on VFRs may include SDFRs, LRFRs, and BFRs, and therefore these
data are not additive with those for other underserved producer groups.
Limited Resource Farmers and Ranchers
As defined in USDA regulation, LRFR refers to a farmer or rancher with direct or indirect gross
farm sales not more than the current indexed value in each of the previous two fiscal years
(adjusted for inflation using the Prices Paid by Farmer Index compiled by USDA) and who have a
total household income at or below the national poverty level for a family of four, or less than 50%
of county median household income in each of the previous two years (determined annually using
Department of Commerce data). LRFRs include “a legal entity or joint operation if all individual
members independently qualify under paragraphs (1) and (2).”19 USDA’s Self-Determination Tool
allows for an individual producer to determine an operation’s status on an annual basis.20
USDA does not regularly report data on the number of LRFRs, as such operations are determined
on a case-by-case basis each year, thus enabling potential LRFRs to ascertain eligibility for various
USDA programs and benefits.21 Data from 2016 suggest that LRFRs accounted for about 7% of
principal operator farm households. According to USDA, LRFRs are smaller, on average, than
other farms.22 Available data on LRFRs may include SDFRs, BFRs, and VFRs, and therefore these
data are not additive with those for other underserved producer groups.
Small Farms and Ranches
Some USDA programs and provisions directly limit support to small farms and ranches. Other
programs explicitly include small producers in their lists of eligible entities. What constitutes a
small farm or ranch is not consistently defined in either statute or regulation. Instead, definitions of
small farming and ranching operations are variously defined by USDA for research and analysis
purposes to determine how benefits are distributed. For example, USDA-reported agricultural

17 See USDA, Self-Determination Tool, https://lrftool.sc.egov.usda.gov/. For other related background, see CRS Report
R47299, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Who Is a Veteran?
18 USDA, Producers with Military Service, 2017 Census of Agriculture Highlights, ACH17-22/November 2020,
https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights/2020/census-military-producers.pdf. See also CRS In Focus
IF11093, 2018 Farm Bill Primer: Veteran Farmers and Ranchers.
19 For example, see 7 C.F.R. §§1470.3, 1465.3, 760.1901.
20 USDA’s Self-Determination Tool is available at https://lrftool.sc.egov.usda.gov/.
21 See USDA, Self-Determination Tool, https://lrftool.sc.egov.usda.gov/.
22 As reported by USDA, “Farm Household Income and Characteristics: Table 11: Characteristics of Principal Farm
Operator Households, by Limited-Resource Farms, 2016,” https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/farm-household-
income-and-characteristics/.
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statistics collect data across broad economic class categories based on farm sales of agricultural
products, and USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) often refers to small
farms as those with annual gross cash farm income (GCFI) of $250,000 or less.23 Alternatively,
USDA’s Economic Research Service (ERS) farm typology bases size considerations on who owns
the operation and annual GCFI. ERS defines small family farms as those with a GCFI of less than
$350,000.24 Other farm size definitions, such as those in Small Business Administration (SBA)
regulations, define small farms as those with annual receipts of $2.25 million-$22 million,
depending on the type of operation (13 C.F.R. §121.201).
In addition, some USDA programs use terms or definitions that could be interpreted to encompass
small farmers and ranchers. Examples include the term family farm, which does not specifically
reference an operation’s size.25 Another example is the average $900,000 adjusted gross income
(AGI) limitation for payment eligibility that applies to most programs administered by USDA’s
Farm Service Agency and Natural Resource and Conservation Service.26
USDA Programs Supporting Underserved Producers
Table 1 and Table 2 provide a summary of selected USDA programs and policies that appear in
the U.S. Code that reference historically underserved and Native producer groups, respectively.
Both tables provide a brief description of the program or policy, and identify the administering
USDA agency or office following the program name. There may be overlap between Table 1 and
Table 2, as many tribal producers qualify under terms identified in Table 1. Search results are
current through year-end 2023.27 In some cases, although the law may contain the specific terms
searched, USDA’s internal priorities or its interpretation of the statutory language may affect
services being provided to these producer groups. Describing these implementation differences
falls outside the scope of this report.
Although these producer groups are as eligible for USDA programs as any other farmer or rancher,
recent legislation and omnibus farm bills have provided targeted support for these underserved
producer groups through permanently authorized programs. Ad hoc temporary pandemic-era
funding that provided various support to underserved producer groups is not included.

23 See USDA, 2022 Census of Agriculture, Table 3, https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/. Farm
sales include the sales of crops and livestock, fees for delivering commodities under production contracts, government
payments, and net change in Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) loans. See also USDA National Institute of Food
and Agriculture, “Small and Family Farms,” https://www.nifa.usda.gov/topics/small-family-farms.
24 See Christine Whitt, Katherine Lacy, and Katherine Lim, America’s Farms and Ranches at a Glance: 2023 Edition,
EIB-263, USDA, December 2023. See also Tony Dorn, “Family Farms Continue to Power U.S. Agriculture,” USDA
ERS, https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2021/01/27/family-farms-continue-power-us-agriculture. Gross cash farm
income (GCFI) includes the farm producer’s sales of crops and livestock, fees for delivering commodities under
production contracts, government payments, and farm-related income.
25 7 U.S.C. 1922 related to USDA farm loans. For other related background on small farming operations in the context of
USDA’s Farm Credit System, see CRS Report R46768, Agricultural Credit: Institutions and Issues.
26 For more background on adjusted gross income (AGI) limits, see CRS Report R46248, U.S. Farm Programs:
Eligibility and Payment Limits. Other examples are Whole Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm coverages under
federal crop insurance programs, which are restricted to operations with less than $17 million and $350,000 in approved
annual income, respectively.
27 Office of the Law Revision Counsel, “Currency & Updating,” https://uscode.house.gov/currency/currency.shtml.
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SDFRs, BFRs, LRFRs, VFRs, and Small Farms and Ranches
Table 1 provides a listing of statutorily authorized programs and provisions that reference specific
producer groups in the U.S. Code, including those who are beginning (B), socially disadvantaged
(SD), limited resource (LR), veterans (V), underserved (U), historically underserved (HU), or
considered to be small in size (S). Generally, these farmers and ranchers may be eligible for USDA
programs available to all U.S. farmers and ranchers. The exclusion of a program from Table 1
does not necessarily reflect a farmer or rancher’s ineligibility for a program, only that the statute
makes no direct reference to these categories.
As previously discussed, the term small is frequently not defined in statute and is subject to
interpretation. Table 1 includes citations whose establishing statute references small farmers and
ranchers and excludes citations involving a range of small businesses not directly engaged in
agricultural production. Excluded citations include, but are not limited to, small food
manufacturers,28 small-scale extension services, small capital projects, small communities, small
and emerging private business enterprises, small business investment companies, and small
cooperative producers, among other related terms.29 Table 1 also excludes references in statute that
invoke broad references to small operations as part of USDA’s broader programmatic objectives
but do not clearly specify what constitutes a small operation. Accordingly, excluded are USDA
research programs that broadly reference support for or analysis of small operations, among other
producer groups and production types.30 Similarly, Table 1 excludes USDA marketing and
promotion programs that invoke potential benefits to small-sized agricultural operations, such as
those attributed to generic commodity promotion (e.g., 7 U.S.C. §7401(b)(10)) or promotion
programs involving a specific agricultural commodity.31 Finally, Table 1 covers support for
domestic producers only and excludes USDA programs and any noted support for small-sized
foreign operations. Also excluded are statutory citations for inactive programs or temporary
programs in operation in response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

28 SBA regulations include size definitions for food and beverage manufacturers expressed in terms of the number of
employees, ranging from 500 to 1,400 employees depending on the type of operation (13 C.F.R. 121.201).
29 Such terms are often cited in 7 U.S.C. Chapter 50 (Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act programs) and 7
U.S.C. Chapter 31 (Rural Electrification Act programs), among other statutes.
30 These include, for example, USDA research programs and initiatives that more broadly support marketing resources,
education, and analysis (e.g., 7 U.S.C. §1632a, §2271 and §3121), advisory, partnerships and coordination (e.g., 7
U.S.C. §3124a), research, development, and technology transfer (e.g., 7 U.S.C. §§5925-5926, §6971 and §7313), and
survey and data collection (e.g., 7 U.S.C. §2204h and §3003).
31 For example, soybeans (7 U.S.C. §6304(q)(1)(A)), pork (7 U.S.C. §4801(a)(1)(A)), dairy products (7 U.S.C.
§4534(a)(2)(ii)), and honey (7 U.S.C. §4601(a)(5)), among other product groups that may invoke benefits to small and
medium-sized producers as part of their statutory citation. For program examples, see USDA, “Research & Promotion
Programs,” https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/research-promotion.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Table 1. Selected Programs and Policies Addressing Beginning, Veteran, Socially
Disadvantaged, and Limited Resource Farmers and Ranchers or Small Farms and
Ranches
Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Type
Description
Office)
Citation
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B
Provides insurance products through the Federal Crop Insurance Program
(USDA/RMA)
§1502(b)(3)
(FCIP) to indemnify producers against losses in yield, crop revenue, margin, and
whole farm revenue, among other areas. Defines a beginning farmer or rancher
(BFR) to mean “a farmer or rancher who has not actively operated and
managed a farm or ranch with a bona fide insurable interest in a crop or
livestock as an owner-operator, landlord, tenant, or sharecropper for more
than 5 crop years, as determined by the Secretary.”
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
V
For purposes of FCIP, defines a veteran farmer or rancher (VFR) to mean a
(USDA/RMA)
§1502(b)
farmer or rancher who has served in the Armed Forces (as defined in 38 U.S.C.
(14)
§101(10)) and has operated a farm or ranch for not more than 5 years, or who
first obtained veteran status during the most recent 5-year period.
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B, V
Provides that USDA/FSA assist the Board of the Federal Crop Insurance
(USDA/RMA)
§1507
Corporation (FCIC) in sharing information on BFRs and VFRs, among other
activities.
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
U
For purposes of FCIP, defines an underserved producer to mean an individual
(USDA/RMA)
§1508(a)(7)
(including a member of an Indian tribe) who is a BFR, VFR, or socially
disadvantaged farmer or rancher (SDFR).
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B, LR,
For purposes of FCIP, waives administrative fees for catastrophic risk
(USDA/RMA)
§1508(b)(5)
V
protection (also known as CAT fees) for LRFRs, BFRs, and VFRs.
(E)
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B, V
Provides that, with certain exceptions, BFRs and VFRs shall receive a premium
(USDA/RMA)
§1508(e)(8)
subsidy that is 10 percentage points greater than premium subsidy that would
otherwise be available.
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B, V
For purposes of FCIP, provides that a BFR or VFR who was previously involved
(USDA/RMA)
§1508(g)(2)
in a farming or ranching operation and meets certain requirements may obtain
an assigned yield that is the higher of (1) the actual production history of the
previous producer of the crop or livestock on the acreage if there are sufficient
acceptable records or (2) 65% of the applicable transitional yield, unless the
acceptable records warrant a higher yield. A transitional yield is an estimated
yield calculated by RMA to be used when a producer has less than four
consecutive crop years of actual or assigned yields.
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B, V
For purposes of determining FCIP eligibility, BFRs and VFRs may replace
(USDA/RMA)
§1508(g)(4)
historical yields that are eligible to be excluded with 80% of the applicable
(B)
transitional yield. In contrast, other farmers may use only 60% of the applicable
transitional yield.
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B, U,
Provides that FCIC carry out research and development to maintain or improve
(USDA/RMA)
§1522(c)
S
existing policies or develop new policies to increase participation of
and 1522(d)
“underserved agricultural commodities and areas.” Waives certain
requirements for “small and beginning farmers” in some cases.
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, In providing crop insurance education and awarding grants for risk management
(USDA/RMA)
§1524
V, U
education, the Secretary of Agriculture shall place special emphasis on risk
management strategies, education, and outreach specifically targeted at BFRs,
VFRs, and SDFRs who are underserved by the FCIP, among other targeted
groups.
Congressional Research Service

8

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Type
Description
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
U
For purposes of Whole Farm Revenue Protection policies, a BFR is defined as
(USDA/RMA)
§1522(c)(7)
not having actively operated or managed a farm or ranch with a bona fide
insurable interest in a crop or livestock as an owner-operator, landlord, tenant,
or sharecropper for more than 10 crop years.
Local Agriculture Market
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides grants to support production of locally sourced agriculture and food
Program (LAMP)
§1627c
V, U,
products through the Farmers’ Market and Local Food Promotion Program and
(USDA/AMS)
S
the Value-Added Agricultural Product Market Development Grant Program.
Provides priority to applications that benefit underserved communities and
operators of small- and medium-sized farms and ranches structured as a family
farm. Reserves 10% of available funds for BFRs, VFRs, and SDFRs (as defined at
7 U.S.C. §2003).
Agricultural Marketing
7 U.S.C.
B, V,
Establishes a pilot project within LAMP to develop a resource center with
Resource Center Pilot
§1632a
U, S
electronic capabilities to coordinate and provide to independent producers and
Project (USDA/AMS)
processors of value-added agricultural commodities and products of agricultural
commodities information regarding research, business, legal, financial, or
logistical assistance.
Real Estate Loans, Direct
7 U.S.C.
B, V
Provides that status as a BFR is one of several qualifying criteria for receiving a
(USDA/FSA)
§1922 (b)(1)
direct farm real estate loan. Allows USDA to waive or reduce the three-year
experience requirement for beginning farmers under certain circumstances,
including combinations of education, experience, or veteran status.
Conservation Loans, Both
7 U.S.C.
B, SD
Specifies a priority for BFRs and SDFRs to receive direct conservation loans and
Direct and Guaranteed
§1924 (d)
guarantees (7 U.S.C. §1924(d)). For guaranteed loans, provides for a higher
(USDA/FSA)
and (e)
guarantee proportion of 90% for BFRs and SDFRs, rather than the general 80%
guarantee limit (7 U.S.C. §1924(e)).
Real Estate Loans,
7 U.S.C.
B
Establishes an Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund. Allows a higher loan
Guaranteed (USDA/FSA)
§1929(h)(6),
guarantee proportion of 95% for BFRs, rather than the general 90% guarantee
(i) and (j)
limit. Allows USDA to coordinate with state-level programs for BFRs, including
guaranteeing loans.
Assistance For Rural
7 U.S.C.
SD
Provides grants to nonprofit institutions to establish and operate centers that
Entities (USDA/RD)
§1932(e)
facilitate the development of new rural cooperatives. If the total amount
appropriated for grants exceeds $7.5 mil ion for a fiscal year, then 20% is
reserved for grants for cooperative development centers, cooperatives, and
groups of cooperatives that serve SDFRs (as defined at 7 U.S.C. §2003).
Low-Income Farm
7 U.S.C.
S
Authorizes USDA to make and insure loans to farmers and ranchers who meet
Ownership Loan
§1934
certain criteria, including “owners or operators of small or family farms
Program; Eligibility;
(including new owners or operators)” and “farmers or ranchers with a low
Repayment Requirements
income,” among other conditions.
(USDA/FSA)
Down Payment Loan
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides a down payment loan program as part of the farm real estate loan
Program (USDA/FSA)
§1935
V
program for BFRs, VFRs, and SDFRs.
BFRs and SDFR Contract
7 U.S.C.
B, SD
Provides a loan guarantee program for BFRs and/or SDFRs that covers seller-
Land Sales Program
§1936
financed land contracts, with USDA as the guarantor.
(USDA/FSA)
Relending Program to
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Creates a relending program for farm ownership loans to assist heirs (via
Resolve Ownership and
§1936c
LR
cooperatives, credit unions, and nonprofit organizations) with undivided
Succession on Farmland
ownership interests to resolve ownership and succession issues on land that
(USDA/FSA)
has multiple owners.
Operating Loans, Direct
7 U.S.C.
B
Provides that status as a BFR is one of several qualifying criteria for receiving a
(USDA/FSA)
§1941 (c)(1)
direct farm operating loan.
Congressional Research Service

9

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Type
Description
Interest Rate on
7 U.S.C.
B, LR,
Limits the interest rate charged on direct operating microloans to BFRs and
Operating Loans, Direct
§1946 (a)(2)
V
VFRs, and “low-income, limited resource borrowers.”
(USDA/FSA)
Individual Development
7 U.S.C.
B
Establishes an individual development account program for BFRs (using a
Accounts (USDA/FSA)
§1983b
definition of low assets and either 80% of median state income or 200% of
poverty), offering matching contributions via a USDA grant to organizations
that deliver a savings account program for certain farming purposes.
Sale of USDA-Acquired
7 U.S.C.
B, SD
Gives first priority, for the first 135 days, to BFRs and SDFRs when USDA sells
Property (USDA/FSA)
§1985
or leases property that is acquired, usually from foreclosure on other loans.
(c)(1)(B),
(c)(5)(B)
Definitions (USDA/FSA)
7 U.S.C.
B
For purposes of farm credit, defines the term “qualified” BFR to mean an
§1991(a)(11)
applicant who has not operated a farm or ranch, or who has operated a farm or
ranch for not more than 10 years, among other qualifying conditions.
Loan Authorization
7 U.S.C.
B, LR
Reserves proportions of direct and guaranteed real estate and operating loans
Amounts (USDA/FSA)
§1994
for BFRs for a period of each fiscal year: 75% of direct real estate, 50% of direct
(b)(2), and
operating loans, 40% of guaranteed loans, and two-thirds of the down payment
(d)
loan program, until April or September of the fiscal year, depending on the
program (7 U.S.C. §1994(b)(2)). Requires at least 25% of the farm loan program
to be for “low-income, limited resource borrowers” (7 U.S.C. §1994(d)).
Interest Rate Reduction
7 U.S.C.
B, V
Reserves 15% of funding for reduced-interest guaranteed loans for BFRs and
Program (USDA/FSA)
§1999
VFRs for the first five months of the fiscal year.
(e)(2)(B)
Homestead Protection
7 U.S.C.
SD
Allows SDFRs and their immediate families to have a right of first refusal at any
(USDA/FSA)
§2000
time to reacquire at market payment rates property that USDA has
(c)(4)(B)
repossessed.
Target Participation Rates
7 U.S.C.
SD
Directs USDA to establish county-level target participation rates and to reserve
(USDA/FSA)
§2003
farm loan funding for SDFRs. SDFRs are defined as people belonging to a
“socially disadvantaged group,” to mean “a group whose members have been
subjected to racial, ethnic, or gender prejudice because of their identity as
members of a group without regard to their individual qualities.” Differs from
SDFR definitions at 7 U.S.C. §2279 in that it includes White, non-Hispanic
women.
Reports on Land Access
7 U.S.C.
B, SD
Requires USDA to submit to Congress a report on land access and farmland
and Ownership
§2004i
ownership by BFRs and SDFRs, and to address regulatory, operational, or
(USDA/FSA)
statutory changes that would improve these individuals’ ability to acquire or
access farmland.
Market Placement
7 U.S.C.
B
Requires USDA to establish a market placement program for qualified BFRs and
(USDA/FSA)
§2006d
other farm loan borrowers that have a reasonable chance of qualifying for
commercial credit with a guarantee.
Reporting (USDA/FSA)
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Directs USDA to report to Congress annually with data summarizing
§2008x
U
demographic information about farm loans and borrowers (including age, race,
ethnicity, and gender), including assessments of loans made and guaranteed
compared with target participation among beginning and socially disadvantaged
borrowers by state. Directs USDA to comprehensively evaluate and identify
trends and actions (every five years) to improve the program for underserved
producers.
SDFRs; Qualified BFRs
7 U.S.C.
B, SD
Allows loan guarantees of 95% of the principal for BFRs and SDFRs.
(USDA/FSA)
§2008b
Congressional Research Service

10

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Type
Description
Farming Opportunities
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides outreach and competitive grants to support training, education,
Training and Outreach
§2279
V
outreach, and technical assistance of SDFRs, BFRs, and VFRs through the
(FOTO) (USDA/OPPE,
Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Grant Program (BFRDGP) and the
USDA/NIFA)
Outreach and Assistance to Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers (aka
2501 Program). Differs from SDFR definitions at 7 U.S.C. §2003(e) in that it
excludes White, non-Hispanic women. Defines a BFR as a person who has
operated a farm or ranch for not more than 10 years (thus differing from BFR
definitions at 7 U.S.C. §1502(b)(3)). Defines a VFR as a person who has served
in the Armed Forces (as defined at 38 U.S.C. §101(10)) and who has operated a
farm or ranch for not more than 10 years (differing from definitions at 7 U.S.C.
§1502(b)(14)). Reserves 5% of available funds under BFRDGP for LRFRs and
SDFRs that are BFRs. Reserves 5% of available funds under BFRDGP for VFRs.
Transparency/
7 U.S.C.
SD
Requires the compilation and disclosure of data related to SDFR participation in
Accountability for SDFRs
§2279-1 et
USDA programs.
(USDA/DA)
seq.
Fair and Equitable
7 U.S.C.
SD
Authorizes changes to farm program and loan administration in favor of socially
Treatment of SDFRs
§2279a et
disadvantaged producers and requires additional reporting. Defines a socially
(USDA/DA)
seq.
disadvantaged producer as “a producer who is a member of a group whose
members have been subjected to racial, ethnic, or gender prejudice because of
their identity as members of a group without regard to their individual
qualities.”
Competitive, Special, and
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides grants to promote research in food, agriculture, and related areas.
Facilities Research Grants
§3157
V
Priority areas include research addressing “barriers and bridges to entry and
(USDA/NIFA)
farm viability for young, beginning, socially disadvantaged, veteran, and
immigrant farmers and ranchers, including farm succession, transition, transfer,
entry, and profitability issues.”
Next Generation
7 U.S.C.
B
Establishes a next-generation agriculture technology challenge competition to
Agriculture Technology
§3158
incentivize the development of innovative mobile technology that removes
Challenge (USDA/NIFA)
barriers to entry in the marketplace for BFRs.
Study of animal care
7 U.S.C.
LR, S
Directs USDA to commission National Academy of Sciences study of the
delivery system
§3193
delivery system used to provide farmers, including small and limited resource
(USDA/DA)
farmers, and ranchers with animal care and veterinary medical services,
including animal drugs.
Sustainable Agriculture
7 U.S.C.
LR, S
Supports research and education programs concerning integrated resource
Research and Extension
§5821
management and integrated crop management, including the facilitation and
(SARE) (USDA/NIFA)
adoption of whole-farm integrated crop and livestock management systems
through demonstration projects on individual farms, including small and limited
resource farms.
National Organic
7 U.S.C.
S
Establishes compliance requirements for labeling and selling an agricultural
Program, Compliance
§6505(d)
product as organically produced if such product is produced and handled in
Requirements
accordance with USDA regulations. Exempts small producers defined as
(USDA/AMS)
“persons who sell no more than $5,000 annually in value of agricultural
products.”
Greenhouse Gas
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Defines term used to carry out the voluntary program that establishes
Technical Assistance
§6712
LR, V
protocols, qualifications, and registration process for private-sector carbon
Provider and Third-Party
markets that involve agriculture and forestry participants. Establishes certain
Verifier Program
assistance for BFRs, VFRs, SDFRs (as defined at 7 U.S.C. §2003), and LRFRs (to
(USDA/DA)
have the meaning at 7 C.F.R. §1470.3). Establishes advisory council membership
to include, among others, BFR, SDFR, LRFR, and VFR participants.
Office of Partnerships and
7 U.S.C.
B, LR,
Directs USDA to establish the Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement to
Public Engagement
§6934
SD, V, improve access of department programs and improve the viability of small farms
(USDA/DA)
S
and ranches, BFRs, VFRs, SDFRs (defined at 7 U.S.C. §2279(a)), and LRFRs.
Congressional Research Service

11

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Type
Description
Beginning Farmer and
7 U.S.C.
B
Directs USDA to establish BFR coordinators, in consultation with state food
Rancher Coordination
§6934a
and agriculture councils and directors of state offices. Each state has a BFR
(USDA/OPPE)
coordinator to support training and outreach, as administered through the
USDA Service Centers. BFRs have the meaning as defined at 7 U.S.C. §2279(a).
Agricultural Youth
7 U.S.C.
B
Establishes an Agricultural Youth Organization Coordinator position at USDA
Organization
§6934b
to, among other things, provide information and resources to youth involved in
Coordinator (USDA/DA)
food and agriculture organizations, with particular emphasis on BFR programs.
Military Veterans
7 U.S.C.
V, S
Establishes a Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison position at USDA and
Agricultural Liaison
§6919
provides for related contracting and cooperative agreements. Provides that the
(USDA/DA)
liaison may enter into contracts or cooperative agreements to conduct
“regional research on the profitability of small farms,” among other research.
Noninsured Crop
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Offers payments to producers of eligible crops to protect against low yields,
Disaster Assistance
§7333(b)(4),
LR, V, loss of inventory, or prevented planting due to a natural disaster. Requires a
Program (NAP)
(k)(2) and
S
streamlined submission of records and acreage reports for, among other topics,
(USDA/FSA)
(l)(3)
“other small-scale production systems.” Waives the service fee and allows for
reduced premium for additional coverage for LRFRs, BFRs, SDFRs, and VFRs.
Food Safety Outreach
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides competitive grants giving priority to projects that target small- and
Program (USDA/NIFA)
§7625
V, S
medium-sized farms, BFRs, VFRs, SDFRs, and small-sized processors, or fresh
fruit and vegetable merchant wholesalers. Enacted as part of the FDA Food
Safety Modernization Act (P.L. 111-353, §209), amending the Agricultural
Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-185).
Biomass Crop Assistance
7 U.S.C.
B, SD
Provides financial assistance to owners and operators of agricultural and
Program (USDA/FSA)
§8111
nonindustrial private forestland who wish to establish, produce, and deliver
biomass feedstocks. In selecting project areas, the Secretary of Agriculture shall
consider the participation rate of BFRs or SDFRs.
Payment Acres
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides an exception for SDFRs, BFRs, VFRs, and LRFRs with less than 10 base
(USDA/FSA)
§9014(d)(2)
LR, V
acres that would otherwise be prohibited for receiving price loss coverage
payments or agriculture risk coverage payments.
Administrative Fee for
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Exempts SDFRs, BFRs, VFRs, and LRFRs from the $100 administrative fee
Dairy Operations in
§9054(c)(4)
LR, V
required to participate in the Dairy Margin Coverage program that supports
Dairy Margin Coverage
milk producers when the difference between feed costs and milk prices
(USDA/FSA)
dropped below a certain level. Enacted as part of the Bipartisan Budget Act of
2018 (P.L. 115-123, §60101(b)(2)).
Supplemental Agriculture
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, For the purposes of USDA disaster programs, defines a “covered producer” as
Disaster Assistance
§9081(a)(1)
LR, V
an SDFR, BFR, VFR, and LRFR. This definition applies to the Livestock Indemnity
(USDA/FSA)
Payments; the Livestock Forage Disaster Program; the Emergency Assistance
for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program; and the Tree
Assistance Program.
Emergency Assistance for
7 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides assistance to producers who have incurred catastrophic losses of
Livestock, Honey Bees,
§9081(d)(4)
LR, V
production and infrastructure because of natural disasters. Provides
and Farm-Raised Fish
reimbursement of 90% of the cost for covered losses to SDFRs, BFRs, and
(USDA/FSA)
LRFRs (“as determined by the Secretary”) and VFRs (as defined at 7 U.S.C.
§2279(a)).
Tree Assistance Program
7 U.S.C.
B, V
Provides financial assistance to qualifying orchardists and nursery tree growers
(USDA/FSA)
§9081(e)(5)
to replant or rehabilitate eligible trees, bushes, and vines damaged by natural
disasters. BFRs and VFRs may be eligible for increased reimbursement rates for
replanting and rehabilitation costs.
Young, Beginning, and
12 U.S.C.
B, S
Within the Farm Credit System (FCS), establishes a lending program (focus) to
Small Farmers and
§2207
serve and support young, beginning, and small (YBS) farmers and ranchers,
Ranchers (FCS)
including documenting and reporting program achievements.
Congressional Research Service

12

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Type
Description
Powers and Duties (FCA)
12 U.S.C.
B, S
Requires the Farm Credit Administration (FCA) to publish annual reports that
§2252
summarize FCS lending to YBS farmers and ranchers.
Standards for Qualified
12 U.S.C.
S
Provides that Farmer Mac shall “not discriminate against small originators or
Loans (Farmer Mac)
§2279aa–8
small agricultural mortgage loans that are at least $50,000.” Requires Farmer
Mac to “promote and encourage the inclusion of qualified loans for small farms
and family farmers in the agricultural mortgage secondary market.”
State, County, and Area
16 U.S.C.
SD, S
Establishes USDA/FSA state, county, area, and local committees, including
Committees (USDA/FSA)
§590h(b)(5)(
required representation levels for consolidated committees and outreach
B) and
efforts for SDFRs (as defined at 7 U.S.C. §2003). Requires that USDA in
(b)(5)(F)
carrying out the committee requirements, among other actions, “protect the
interests of small producers.”
Emergency Conservation
16 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides emergency funding to producers to rehabilitate farmland damaged by
Program (USDA/FSA)
§2202a(b)
LR
natural disasters. Cost-share rates are increased for LRFRs, SDFRs and BFRs.
Conservation Definitions
16 U.S.C.
B, SD
Establishes definitions related to all conservation programs under Title XII of
(USDA/NRCS,
§3801(2)
the Food Security Act of 1985 (P.L. 99-198) that provide conservation financial
USDA/FSA)
and (23)
and technical assistance to agricultural producers, including BFRs and SDFRs (as
defined at 7 U.S.C. §2279).
Conservation Reserve
16 U.S.C.
B, LR,
CRP provides annual rental payments to producers to replace crops on highly
Program (CRP), Soil
§3831c(b)(3)
SD, V
erodible and environmentally sensitive land with long-term resource-conserving
Health and Income
(E)
plantings. This pilot program provides an increased payment rate for
Protection Pilot Program
establishing cover crops and higher annual rental rates for SDFRs, BFRs, VFRs,
(USDA/FSA)
and LRFRs.
CRP, Duties of the
16 U.S.C.
B
Allows for the grazing of CRP land by BFRs without the reduction of the rental
Secretary (USDA/FSA)
§3833(b)(5)
rate if grazed outside of the primary nesting season.
CRP Contracts
16 U.S.C.
B, SD
Allows for modification of existing CRP contracts to facilitate the transfer of
(USDA/FSA)
§3835(c)(1)
land from retiring farmers and ranchers to BFRs and SDFRs and for its return
(B)(i i)
to production.
CRP Transition Incentive
16 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides payments to existing CRP contract holders who voluntarily transfer
Program (USDA/FSA)
§3835(f)
V
land to a BFR, VFR, or SDFR to return land to production. Provides priority
enrol ment for such land to participate in other conservation programs.
Environmental Quality
16 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides assistance to agricultural producers to address natural resource
Incentives Program
§3839aa-
LR, V
concerns. Establishes additional support for SDFRs, BFRs, VFRs, and LRFRs,
(EQIP), Establishment,
2(d)(4)(A)-
who may receive up to 90%, and not less 25%, of the applicable cost to
Administration
(B)
implement conservation practices “associated with planning, design, materials,
(USDA/NRCS)
equipment, installation, labor, management, maintenance, or training,” and who
may receive up to 50% of the estimated payment in advance of the completion
of an approved practice for materials and contracting.
CRP, Commodity Credit
16 U.S.C.
B, SD, Allocates $50 mil ion to the CRP Transition Incentive Program, which facilitates
Corporation (USDA/FSA)
§3841(a)(1)
V
the transfer of CRP land from existing CRP contract holders to a BFR, VFR, or
(B)
SDFR. Limits outreach and technical assistance to not more than $5 mil ion.
EQIP and Conservation
16 U.S.C.
B, SD, Allocates 5% of funding for both programs to BFRs, and another 5% to SDFRs.
Stewardship Program
§3841(h)
V
Requires preference be given to veterans.
(CSP) (USDA/NRCS)
Conservation Programs,
16 U.S.C.
B, SD, Authorizes incentives to encourage participation SDFRs, BFRs, VFRs, and LRFRs
Administrative
§3844 (a)
LR, V
when administering USDA conservation programs.
Requirements

(USDA/NRCS,
USDA/FSA)
Congressional Research Service

13

link to page 7 link to page 17 Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Type
Description
Regional Conservation
16 U.S.C.
B, SD, Provides financial and technical assistance for state, multistate, or watershed-
Partnership Program
§3871e(d)
LR, V, scale agricultural conservation projects. Directs USDA and partners to conduct
(USDA/NRCS)
HU
outreach under the program to historically underserved producers, which are
defined as SDFRs, BFRs, VFRs, and LRFRs.
Cooperative Interstate
21 U.S.C.
S
For participating states, allows small state-inspected meat and poultry
Shipment Program
§683(b)(2);
processors to ship products across state lines. Limited to processors with 25 or
fewer employees.
(USDA/FSIS)
21 U.S.C.
§472(b)(2)
Sources: Compiled by CRS from a search of the U.S. Code referencing search terms related to socially
disadvantaged farmers or ranchers (SDFRs), new or beginning farmers or ranchers (BFRs), veteran farmers or
ranchers (VFRs), limited resource farmers and ranchers (LRFRs), small-sized producers (except for certain
operations, as discussed in “Small Farms and Ranches”), and underserved or historically underserved farmers or
ranchers. Text in quotations is statutory language.
Notes: NA = Not applicable. Excludes supplemental, temporary, and/or ad hoc non-farm bil assistance, such as
provisions ncluded in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA, P.L. 117-7), FY2021 Consolidated
Appropriations Act (P.L 116-260), and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES, P.L. 116-
136). Excludes code citations that reference these entities within programs and policies that have been repealed
or superseded.
Group Abbreviations: B = Beginning; LR = Limited Resource; SD = Socially Disadvantaged; V = Veteran; U =
Underserved; S = Small; and HU = Historically Underserved. Agency and office abbreviations: U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) includes Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
(APHIS), Departmental Administration (DA), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), Farm Credit System (FCS), Food
and Nutrition Service (FNS), Forest Service (FS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), Food Safety and Inspection Service
(FSIS), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Office
of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), Rural Development (RD), and Risk Management Agency (RMA).
Tribal and Indigenous Farmers and Ranchers
Table 2 provides a listing of programs and provisions that specifically address Indian tribes, tribal
governments, and other tribal entities in their authorizing federal statutes or accompanying
statutory notes.32 The list was derived from a search of the U.S. Code referencing search terms
including Indian tribe, tribal groups, Indian tribal organizations, Alaska Native, Native Alaskan,
Native Hawaiian, Hawaiian native, Native American, American Indian, and Underserved Trust
Areas.33 The list includes statutes or reference text that may be relevant to a program’s authorizing
statute or that further clarify the specification of Indian tribes in the statute. Other program and
policy information is identified in USDA’s Resource Guide for American Indians & Alaska
Natives, 2022,34 and the University of Arkansas Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative.35

32 Many of the federal farm programs and policies identified use the definition of Indian tribe provided in the ISDEAA
(P.L. 93-638, 25 U.S.C. §5304): “Indian tribe” or “Indian Tribe” means any Indian tribe, band, nation, or other
organized group or community, including any Alaska Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in or
established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (P.L. 92-203, 43 U.S.C. §§1601 et seq.), which is
recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their
status as Indians.
33 Native Hawaiians and Alaska Natives may also be eligible for some programs designated for “Native Americans,”
depending on the statutory language and context.
34 Updated in 2022. Available at https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-resource-guide-american-
indians-alaska-natives.pdf.
35 Steven Garasky et al., Feasibility of Tribal Administration of Federal Nutrition Assistance Programs, prepared by
IMPAQ International for USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, July 2016, p. 4.
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Table 2 includes programs and policies administered by USDA that pertain to Indian tribes but are
not necessarily about farmers (e.g., rural development, nutrition).
In some cases, federally recognized Indian tribes are directly eligible for federal programs.36 In
general, tribal and Indigenous producers may qualify for federal farm programs along with all
other eligible producers, while also qualifying for programs available to residents living in rural
areas. Similarly, individual tribal members that meet eligibility rules for certain programs, such as
federal nutrition assistance programs, receive benefits as other eligible citizens do. Non-federally
recognized tribes and other Indigenous groups may also be eligible for some federal programs. In
some cases, state-recognized tribes or other Indigenous communities and producers might not be
explicitly listed as eligible entities in statute but might satisfy the requirements for other listed
eligible entities, or they might be eligible for farm programs based on USDA’s interpretation of
statutory language or its internal priorities in providing service to Indian tribes and Indigenous
producers. For example, some statutory definitions of Indian tribe include Alaska Native
Corporations.37 Native Hawaiians may also be eligible for certain programs. In addition,
authorized tribal organizations, as defined at 25 U.S.C. §5304(l), may be eligible to apply for some
federal programs. In addition, Indian tribes or other Indigenous groups may also be recognized by
state governments.38
Many Indian tribes and individual tribal members live on tribal lands, which may qualify them for
specific federal programs. There are several types of tribal lands, including trust, restricted fee,
allotted, and privately owned (fee) lands.39 Tribal reservations are lands reserved for an Indian
tribe under treaty, statute, or other agreement. Reservations can include a mix of tribal land types.
In Alaska, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA, 43 U.S.C. §§1601 et seq.) divided
the state into 12 geographic regions and established Alaska Native Corporations that manage land
distributed under ANCSA.40 Table 2 generally excludes programs and policies addressing Indian
tribes within executive branch agencies other than USDA and may exclude citations in other U.S.
Code titles (e.g., Title 25, Chapter 46, Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance).
Table 2. Selected Programs and Policies Addressing Tribal and Indigenous Farmers
and Ranchers, Rural Development, and Nutrition Access
Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Powers of Secretary of
7 U.S.C.
Provides federal agencies may enter into contracts with any state or public agency for
Agriculture (USDA/DA)
§178g
research or economic development. References in text include the Indian Self-
Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA; P.L. 93-638, 25 U.S.C. §5304).

36 A federally recognized Indian tribe is an American Indian or Alaska Native entity that is recognized as having a
government-to-government relationship with the United States, which makes the entity eligible for certain programs and
services.
37 For example, the ISDEAA’s (P.L. 93-638, 25 U.S.C. §5304) definition of “Indian tribe” has been interpreted to
include Alaska Native Corporations (see Yellen v. Chehalis, 594 U.S. ___ (2021)).
38 For a listing of state recognized tribes, see the National Conference of State Legislatures, https://www.ncsl.org/quad-
caucus/state-recognition-of-american-indian-tribes.
39Trust lands are lands or interests in land owned by a federally recognized tribe or individual tribal member that are
held in trust by the federal government. Restricted fee lands are lands restricted from being sold or transferred. Allotted
lands or allotments were established by the General Allotment Act of 1887, which divided tribal reservations into
parcels of 40-160 acres and allotted the parcels to individual tribal members. For information on tribal lands, see CRS
Report R46647, Tribal Land and Ownership Statuses: Overview and Selected Issues for Congress.
40 For more information on Alaska Native Corporations, see CRS Report R46997, Alaska Native Lands and the Alaska
Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA): Overview and Selected Issues for Congress.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Equity in Educational Land
7 U.S.C.
Defines 36 named “1994 Institutions,” a group of tribal col eges and universities
Grant Status Act
§301
considered land-grant col eges in accordance with the Morril Act of 1862 (12 Stat. 503),
(USDA/NIFA)
except for how they are funded. Reauthorizes 1994 Institution endowment funding,
capacity-building grants, and research grants.
Smith-Lever Community
7 U.S.C.
Includes 1994 Institutions (which are all tribal col eges) as eligible for competitive grant
Extension Program
§343
funding programs for agricultural extension under the Smith-Lever Act (38 Stat. 373): the
(USDA/NIFA)
Children, Youth and Families at Risk (CYFAR) program and the Federally Recognized
Tribes Extension Program (FRTEP).
Rural Electrification and
7 U.S.C.
Chapter definitions include the term “Indian tribes,” defined as in 25 U.S.C. §5304. The
Telephone Service
§913
definitions apply to Rural Utilities Service electrical programs.
(USDA/RD)
Expansion of 911 access
7 U.S.C.
Allows USDA to make loans for facilities and equipment to expand or improve 911
(USDA/RD)
§940e
access in rural areas. Indian tribes are eligible entities to receive grants. An “Indian tribe”
is defined as in 25 U.S.C. §5304.
Precision Agriculture
7 U.S.C.
Creates a task force (led by the Federal Communications Commission, FCC) with a
Connectivity (USDA/FSA)
§901
position for an agriculture producer representing tribal agriculture to look at gaps in
broadband connectivity for precision agriculture.
Substantially Underserved
7 U.S.C.
Provides USDA the discretion to adjust or waive program requirements for certain Rural
Trust Areas (USDA/RD)
§936f
Utilities Service programs for applications with projects that serve communities in
substantially underserved trust areas, including land held in trust by the United States for
Native Americans. These can be applications from tribal entities or non-tribal entities.
USDA may take actions such as waiving nonduplication restrictions, matching
requirements, or credit support requirements; giving the highest priority funding to
designated projects in substantially underserved trust areas; or making financing available
with an interest rate as low as 2% and with extended repayment terms.
Access to Broadband
7 U.S.C.
Provides that USDA may make loans, loan guarantees, and grants to provide funds for
Telecommunications
§950bb
broadband service in rural areas. Indian tribes are listed among the eligible borrowers.
Services in Rural Areas
Directs USDA to prioritize applications that were developed in participation of two or
(USDA/RD)
more stakeholders, including “tribal governments.”
Community Connect Grant
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to establish a program to provide grants to eligible entities to finance
Program (USDA/RD)
§950bb-3
broadband transmission in rural areas. “An Indian tribe or tribal organization” is an
eligible applicant. An “Indian tribe” is defined as in 25 U.S.C. §5304.
Rural Broadband Integration
NA
Establishes a Rural Broadband Integration Working Group to consult with stakeholders,
Working Group
including “tribal governments,” to identify and assess possible actions relating to barriers
(USDA/RD)
and opportunities for broadband deployment in rural areas.
Federal Crop Insurance
7 U.S.C.
Establishes a definition of underserved producer to mean “an individual (including a member
Program (USDA/RMA)
§1508(a)(7) of an Indian Tribe)” that is an SDFR, BFR, or VFR. Requires USDA to review and report
on whether there is adequate federal crop insurance coverage and make
recommendations to increase participation of underserved producers.
National Sheep Industry
7 U.S.C.
Requires that USDA establish a National Sheep Industry Improvement Center. Listed
Improvement Center
§1627b
eligible entities include Indian tribes.
(USDA/AMS)
Local Agriculture Market
7 U.S.C.
Combines and expands the Farmers’ Market and Local Food Promotion Program and the
Program (LAMP)
§1627c
Value-Added Agricultural Product Market Development Grants to create LAMP with
(USDA/AMS)
expanded funding and administrative functions. Specifies that “Tribal governments” are
eligible under the program.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Hemp Production Program
7 U.S.C.
Directs USDA to establish a national regulatory framework for U.S. hemp cultivation that
(USDA/AMS)
§1639o-q
authorizes a state or tribal government to develop and regulate hemp production in
compliance with USDA regulation. Provides that no state or Indian tribe may prohibit the
transportation or shipment through its territory of hemp or hemp products, if produced
in accordance with an approved state or tribal plan. “Indian tribe” is defined in 25 U.S.C.
§5304. The term “tribal government” means the governing body of an Indian tribe.
Water and Waste Facility
7 U.S.C.
Provides that USDA may make or insure loans to provide for the application or
Loans and Grants
§1926
establishment of soil conservation practices; shifts in land use; the conservation,
(USDA/RD)
development, use, and control of water; and the installation or improvement of drainage
or waste disposal facilities, recreational developments, and essential community facilities.
“Indian tribes on federal and state reservations and other federally recognized Indian
tribes” are listed as eligible applicants.
Water and Waste Facility
7 U.S.C.
Provides that USDA may make or insure loans and make grants to provide water and
Loans and Grants to
§1926c
waste facilities to communities whose residents face significant health risks, as
Alleviate Health Risks
determined by USDA. “Indian tribes on federal and state reservations and other federally
(USDA/RD)
recognized Indian tribes” are listed as eligible applicants.
Tribal Col ege and
7 U.S.C.
Provides that USDA may make grants to a “Tribal Col ege or University,” as defined in 20
University Essential
§1926(a)(2
U.S.C. §1059c, to develop Tribal Col ege or University essential community facilities in
Community Facilities
5)
rural areas. 20 U.S.C. §1059c defines a “Tribal Col ege or University” as “an institution
(USDA/RD)
that a) qualifies for funding under the Tribally Control ed Col eges and Universities
Assistance Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. §§1801 et seq.) or the Navajo Community Col ege Act
(25 U.S.C. §640a note); or b) is cited in section 532 of the equity in Educational Land-
Grant Status Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. §301 note).”
Water Systems for rural and
7 U.S.C.
Provides that USDA may make grants for the development and construction of water and
Native vil ages in Alaska
§1926d
wastewater systems to improve the health and sanitation conditions in Alaska Native
(USDA/RD)
vil ages.
Water and Waste Disposal
7 U.S.C.
Requires that the interest rate on real estate loans to public bodies, including “Indian
Facility Loans; Community
§1927
tribes on federal and state reservations and other federally recognized Indian tribal
Facility Loans (USDA/RD)
groups,” for water and waste disposal facilities and community facilities must fol ow
certain rules (markup from market rate, subject to a maximum-allowed rate).
Farm Operating Loans
7 U.S.C.
Establishes an Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund. Allows a higher loan guarantee
(USDA/FSA)
§1929(h)(7) proportion of 95% for farm operations on tribal lands, rather than the general 90%
guarantee limit.
Assistance for Rural Entities
7 U.S.C.
Provides for loan eligibility for “Indian tribes on federal and state reservations or other
(USDA/RD)
§1932
federally recognized Indian tribal groups” among a list of public, private, or cooperative
organizations. “Indian tribes” are eligible for rural business development grants, along
with government entities and nonprofit entities.
Intermediary Relending
7 U.S.C.
Provides for loans and loan guarantees to eligible entities to relend for projects that
Program (USDA/RD)
§1936b
promote community development, establish new business, support microlending
programs, and create or retain employment opportunities in rural areas. “Indian tribes”
are eligible applicants.
Farm Operating Loans
7 U.S.C.
Waives term limits (that otherwise would prevent loans of more than six years) on direct
(USDA/FSA)
§1941
farm operating loans for producers whose farms are on tribal land.
Farm Loan Program,
7 U.S.C.
Protects the rights of the Indian tribe if USDA acquires property on an Indian tribe’s
Borrowers Rights
§1985(e)
reservation because of a bankruptcy or loan default. Requires that USDA sell the
(USDA/FSA)
acquired property back to either the Indian tribe, an Indian corporate entity, or members
of the tribe, or transfer the property to the Department of the Interior (DOI) to be held
in trust for the benefit of the tribe.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Loan Program,
7 U.S.C.
Requires USDA to make loans only to entities that cannot qualify for a loan elsewhere,
Administrative Provisions
§1992
but provides an exception that allows USDA to make loans to public bodies, including
(USDA/RD)
“Indian tribes on federal and state reservations or other federally recognized Indian tribal
groups,” without proving that credit is unavailable.
Rural Business-Cooperative
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to make grants for the purpose of providing or obtaining technical
Service programs technical
§2008c
assistance and training to support funding applications for USDA Rural Business-
assistance and training
Cooperative Service programs. “Federally recognized Indian tribes” are eligible applicants.
(USDA/RD)
Rural Microentrepreneur
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes certain entities to receive funds as a microenterprise development
Assistance Program
§2008s
organization. Entities include “an Indian tribe, the tribal government of which certifies to
(USDA/RD)
the Secretary that I) no microenterprise development organization serves the Indian
tribe, and II) no rural microentrepreneur assistance program exists under the jurisdiction
of the Indian tribe.” “Indian tribe” is defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304.
Strategic economic and
7 U.S.C.
Directs USDA to provide assistance to rural communities in developing strategic
community development
§2008v
community investment plans and to give priority for certain rural development programs
(USDA/RD)
to applications that support the implementation of a strategic community investment
plan. States that have strategic community investment plans shall include investment from
strategic partners such as “Indian tribes.” The Secretary of Agriculture is directed to
coordinate with “Indian tribes” and other partners to develop strategic community
investment plans.
Rural Innovation Stronger
7 U.S.C.
Directs USDA to provide grants to eligible entities to establish job accelerators that
Economy Grant Program
§2008w
improve the ability of distressed rural communities to create high-wage jobs and help
(USDA/RD)
communities identify and maximize local assets and connect to regional opportunities,
networks, and industry clusters. Includes “Indian tribes” as defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304 and
“a consortium of Indian tribes” as eligible lead applicants for a rural jobs accelerator
partnership.
Rural Community
7 U.S.C.
Requires USDA to direct each of the Directors of Rural Economic and Community
Advancement Program,
§2009c
Development State Offices to prepare a strategic plan for each “federally recognized
Strategic Plans (USDA/RD)
Indian tribe” for the delivery of financial assistance under the Rural Community
Advancement Program.
Rural Business Investment
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes the Rural Business Investment Program to include a “for-profit or nonprofit
Program, Definitions
§2009cc
business control ed by an Indian tribe on a federal or state reservation or other federally
(USDA/RD)
recognized Indian tribal group” as a potential rural business company for investment.
Definitions (Supplemental
7 U.S.C.
Defines “state agency” for purposes of Food and Nutrition Act programs to include “the
Nutrition Assistance
§2012
tribal organization of an Indian tribe determined by the Secretary to be capable of
Program (SNAP) and other
effectively administering a food distribution program” under 7 U.S.C. §2013(b) or a
programs authorized by the
supplemental nutrition assistance program under 7 U.S.C. §2020(d). Defines “state” to
Food and Nutrition Act)
include “the reservations of an Indian tribe whose tribal organization meets the
(USDA/FNS)
requirements of this Act for participation as a state agency.” Defines “reservation” and
“tribal organization.”
Food Distribution Program
7 U.S.C.
Establishes a food distribution program for households on Indian reservations, and
on Indian Reservations
§2013(b)
authorizes a fund for traditional and locally grown food. (The vast majority of FDPIR’s
(FDPIR) (USDA/FNS)
policies, including eligibility rules, are in regulation and not in statute.) The Agriculture
Improvement Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-334, §4003(a)) and the Agricultural Act of 2014 (P.L.
113-79, §4004(a)) reauthorized the locally grown food fund. P.L. 115-334 increased
funding for tribes’ administrative costs and authorized a demonstration project (7 U.S.C.
§2020(d)).
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Feasibility Study;
Not
The Agricultural Act of 2014 (P.L. 113-79, §4004) requires USDA to conduct a feasibility
Demonstration Project for
codified,
study of tribal administration of federal food assistance programs (see Steven Garasky et
Indian Tribes (USDA/FNS)
available in al., Feasibility of Tribal Administration of Federal Nutrition Assistance Programs, prepared by
notes of 7
IMPAQ International for USDA/FNS, July 2016, p. 4) and authorizes, subject to
U.S.C. §20
appropriations, a traditional and local foods demonstration project.
13
Demonstration Project for
Not
The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-334, §4003(b)) authorizes USDA to
Tribal Organizations
codified,
develop a demonstration project for one or more tribal organizations to procure foods
available in for FDPIR packages under ISDEAA “638 contracts” (i.e., Indian tribes may contract with
notes of 7
USDA to purchase foods with federal funds instead of only distributing federally
U.S.C. §20
purchased foods).
13
SNAP, Issuance and Use of
7 U.S.C.
Requires a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) state agency, if requested
Program Benefits
§2016(g)
by a tribal organization, to stagger the issuance of benefits for eligible households on
(USDA/FNS)
reservations.
SNAP, Administration
7 U.S.C.
Allows Indian tribes to administer SNAP under certain circumstances (i.e., USDA must
(USDA/FNS)
§2020(d)
find that the state agency has failed to administer the program properly and that the
Indian tribe is capable of administering SNAP as a state agency). A state agency that
operates SNAP on all or part of an Indian reservation is required to consult with the
tribal organization about the relevant portion of the SNAP state plan.
Community Food Projects
7 U.S.C.
“[T]ribal organization” is listed as an eligible entity for this competitive grant program.
(USDA/NIFA)
§2034
Prohibition on Slaughter of
7 U.S.C.
Prohibits the slaughter/transportation of dogs and cats for the purpose of human
Dogs and Cats for Human
§2160
consumption, with a religious ceremony exception provided for Indian tribes.
Consumption (USDA/FSIS)
Council on Rural
7 U.S.C.
Establishes a Council on Rural Community Innovation and Economic Development to
Community Innovation and
§2204b-3
enhance and improve coordination of federal investments in rural communities. Directs
Economic Development
the Council to coordinate and increase the effectiveness of engagement with rural
(USDA/RD)
stakeholders, including “tribal governments.”
Water Management for
7 U.S.C.
Provides that USDA directly or in coordination with an “Indian tribe” or other entities to
Rural Areas (USDA/RD)
§2204c
assist rural areas in making better and more efficient use of water resources.
Farming Opportunities
7 U.S.C.
Combines and expands the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Grant Program
Training and Outreach
§2279
and the Outreach and Assistance to Social y Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers.
(FOTO) (USDA/OPPE and
Authorizes competitive grants to support training, education, outreach, and technical
USDA/NIFA)
assistance. Eligible entities include Indian tribes (as defined at 25 U.S.C. §5304), Indian
tribal community col eges and Alaska Native cooperative col eges, and national tribal
organizations that have demonstrated experience in providing agricultural education or
other agriculturally related services to SDFRs in a region.
Rural Firefighters and
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to award grants to eligible entities to provide for improved emergency
Emergency Medical Service
§2655
medical services in rural areas. “Indian tribes,” as defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304, are among
Assistance Program
those eligible to receive a grant.
(USDA/RD)
Rural Development and
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes rural development extension programs, research, and special grants to
Small Farm Research and
§§2661 and address problems and needs in rural development. “Indian tribes on federal and state
Education (USDA/RD)
2662
reservations or other federally recognized Indian tribal groups,” among others, are
eligible to participate.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Establishment of technical
7 U.S.C.
Directs USDA, in coordination with USDA’s Office of Tribal Relations, to provide
assistance program
§2671
technical assistance to improve access by “tribal entities” to USDA Rural Development
(USDA/RD)
programs. The technical assistance is to address the “unique challenge of tribal
governments, tribal producers, tribal businesses, tribal business entities, and tribally
designated housing entities in accessing Department of Agriculture-supported rural
infrastructure, rural cooperative development, rural business and industry, rural housing,
and other rural development activities.”
Education Grants to Alaska
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to make competitive grants to Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian
Native Serving Institutions
§3156
serving institutions for the purpose of promoting and strengthening the ability of Alaska
and Native Hawaiian Serving
Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions to carry out education, applied research,
Institutions (USDA/NIFA)
and related community development programs.
New Beginning for Tribal
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes a competitive grant program for tribal students at land-grant col eges. Land-
Students (USDA/NIFA)
§3222e
grant col eges may apply for grants, with 100% matching funds requirement, to support
tribal students through recruiting, tuition and fees, tutoring, counseling, and other
services.
Rangeland Management on
25 U.S.C.
Provides for management of Indian tribal agricultural lands and for the development and
Indian Land (DOI/BIA)
§3711
implementation of an Indian agriculture resource management and monitoring plan.
International Agricultural
7 U.S.C.
Promotes coordination and cooperation of U.S. land-grant and other institutions
Research, Extension, and
§3292
(including 1994 tribal col eges) with partner institutions in developing countries, to build
Teaching Partnerships
capacity and strengthen agricultural research, teaching, and extension. Establishes NIFA
(USDA/NIFA)
internship and fellowship programs for students from the U.S. institutions to be placed,
or study, in developing countries.
National Genetic Resources
7 U.S.C.
Adds a 1994 tribal col ege representative (along with other new additions) to the
Program (USDA/NIFA)
§5843
National Genetic Resources Advisory Committee, which advises and makes
recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture and Director of the National Genetic
Resources Program.
Farm and Ranch Stress
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes competitive grants, in coordination with HHS, to designated eligible entities,
Assistance Network
§5936
which include Indian tribes. Authorizes training and workshops for farmers and ranchers,
(USDA/NIFA)
and authorizes the Network to contract with community-based direct service
organizations.
Foreign Trade
7 U.S.C.
Requires (1) USDA to support tribal representation on trade missions and (2) the
Missions (USDA/FAS)
§5608
inclusion of tribal agricultural and food products in federal trade-related activities.
Sustainable Agriculture
7 U.S.C.
Provides competitive grants on projects that promote a range of sustainable agriculture
Research and Education
§5801 et
practices. Definitions include Indian tribes (7 U.S.C. §5801(b)(7)).
(USDA/NIFA)
seq.
Reservation Extension
7 U.S.C.
Establishes extension education programs within tribal jurisdictions, including Indian
Agents (USDA/NIFA)
§5930
reservations.
Farm and Ranch Stress
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to make grants to state departments of agriculture (or such equivalent
Assistance Network
§5936a
department) to expand or sustain stress assistance programs for individuals who are
(USDA/NIFA)
engaged in farming, ranching, and other agriculture-related occupations. Provides that
USDA may issue guidance to encourage state departments of agriculture to use funds to
support programs that are operated by Indian tribes (as defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304) and
also state cooperative extension services and nongovernmental organizations.
Pecan Promotion and
7 U.S.C.
Provides for the creation of the Pecan Promotion and Research program. As part of the
Research (USDA/AMS)
§6001 et
congressional findings and declaration of policy, the provision states the importance of
seq.
pecans as a Native American crop.
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Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Office of Tribal Relations,
7 U.S.C.
Requires the Secretary to maintain an Office of Tribal Relations within the Office of the
Tribal Advisory Committee
§6921
Secretary to advise the Secretary on policies related to Indian tribes and carry out such
(USDA/DA)
other functions as the Secretary considers appropriate. Creates a new Tribal Advisory
Committee to provide advice to the Secretary of Agriculture on tribal-related issues and
policies throughout the department.
Office of Urban Agriculture
7 U.S.C.
Establishes the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production and Advisory
and Innovative Production
§6923
Committee. Specified that “tribal governments” are among the eligible entities for grants
and Advisory Committee
under the office. Tribal government is not further defined.
(USDA/DA)
Office of Partnerships and
7 U.S.C.
Changes the name of the Office of Advocacy and Outreach to the Office of Partnerships
Public Engagement
§6934
and Public Engagement (OPPE); there is a specific reference to tribal producers, as the
(USDA/OPPE)
SDFR definition includes tribal producers. Tribal producers are included in the program
under the definition of SDFR.
Rural Health Liaison
7 U.S.C.
Establishes a Rural Health Liaison position to work in consultation with HHS regarding
(USDA/DA)
§6946
the integration of USDA and HHS programs to support rural health, including outreach
to tribal governments, on the availability of grants, information, and programs.
The Gus Schumacher
7 U.S.C.
“Tribal agency” is listed as an eligible entity for this competitive grant program. (Tribal
Nutrition Incentive Program
§7517
agency is not further defined.) The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-334,
(USDA/FNS, USDA/NIFA)
§4205) reauthorized the program, including renaming it in memory of Gus Schumacher
(previously, it was named the Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive Program), increasing
funding, and including a carve-out for produce prescription programs. Regarding produce
prescription programs, USDA may allow a tribal agency to use funds “provided to the
Tribe through a Federal agency or other Federal benefit” to satisfy all of part or the
nonfederal matching requirement.
Micro-Grants for Food
7 U.S.C.
Provides money to eligible states to award grants of up to $5,000 to individuals and up to
Security (USDA/AMS)
§7518
$10,000 to eligible entities, including Indian tribes and tribal organizations, for small-scale
gardening, herding, and livestock operations directed to food insecure communities.
Eligible states and territories include Alaska, Hawaii, American Samoa, Northern Mariana
Islands, Puerto Rico, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Marshall Islands, Palau, and
the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Wood Innovation Grant
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes 50% cost-share grants to eligible entities to advance the use of innovative
program (USDA/FS)
§7655d
wood products to expand and accelerate wood energy and wood product markets.
Indian tribes are included in the definition of “eligible entity.”
Noxious Weed Control and
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to establish a program to provide financial and technical assistance to
Eradication (USDA/APHIS)
§§7781-
control or eradicate noxious weeds. Gives priority to projects that maximize the
7784
involvement of state and local governments and, where applicable, Indian tribes (as
defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304).
Definitions (Renewable
7 U.S.C.
For the purposes of USDA Renewable Energy Research and Development programs,
Energy Research and
§8101
defines (1) Indian tribe in accordance with 25 U.S.C. §5304 and (2) renewable biomass to
Development) (USDA, EPA)
include, in part, any organic matter that is available on a renewable or recurring basis
from nonfederal land or land belonging to an individual tribal member or Indian tribe.
Biorefinery, Renewable
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes the development of new and emerging technologies for advanced biofuels,
Chemical, and Biobased
§8103
renewable chemicals, and biobased product manufacturing. Eligible entities include an
Product Manufacturing
“Indian tribe.”
Assistance Program
(USDA/RD)
Biomass Crop Assistance
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP). Defines eligible material to
Program (USDA/FSA)
§8111
include material col ected or harvested by the eligible material owner directly from land
owned by an individual tribal member or Indian tribe.
Congressional Research Service

21

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Animal Health Protection
7 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to seize, quarantine, and dispose of any animal, article, progeny of any
(USDA/APHIS)
§8302,
animal, or means of conveyance in order to prevent, detect, control, and eradicate
§8306, and diseases and pests of animals from the United States. Authorizes USDA to consult and
§8310
cooperate with state authorities, Indian tribal authorities (as defined at 25 U.S.C. §5304),
or other persons in the administration of regulations for the improvement of livestock
and livestock products. USDA is also authorized to cooperate with Indian tribes, among
other domestic and foreign entities, organizations, and government officials to produce
and sell sterile screwworms, if USDA determines that the livestock industry and related
industries of the United States wil not be adversely affected by the production and sale.
Animal Disease
7 U.S.C.
Includes Indian tribes, as defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304, as eligible entities for a National
Preparedness and Response;
§8308a
Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program. The Secretary can enter into
National Animal Vaccine and
cooperative agreements with Indian tribes regarding the prevention, detection, and rapid
Veterinary
response to animal pests and diseases.
Countermeasures Bank
(USDA/APHIS)
National Aquatic Animal
7 U.S.C.
Provides that USDA may enter into a cooperative agreement with an eligible entity to
Health (USDA/APHIS)
§8322
carry out a project under a national aquatic animal health plan. Eligible entities include
Indian tribes.
Losses of Livestock due to
7 U.S.C.
Directs USDA to provide grants to states and Indian tribes to compensate livestock
Depredation by Federally
§8355
producers for losses, and to conduct research and carry out activities that reduce the
Protected Species
risk of livestock loss due to depredation by federally protected species that occurs on
(USDA/APHIS)
federal, state, or private land or land owned by, or held in trust for, an Indian tribe. The
term “Indian tribe” has the meaning given at 25 U.S.C. §5304.
Agriculture and Food
7 U.S.C.
State and regional strategic response plans must “describe the appropriate interactions
Defense (DHS)
§8914
among, and roles of … federal, state, tribal, and units of local government” and “plant or
animal industry partners.”
Supplemental Agricultural
7 U.S.C.
Indian tribes or tribal organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304, are defined as an
Disaster Assistance
§9081(a)(1) “eligible producer on a farm” for USDA disaster assistance programs. These include the
(USDA/FSA)
(B)
Livestock Indemnity Payments, the Livestock Forage Disaster Program, the Emergency
Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program, and the Tree
Assistance Program.
McIntire-Stennis
16 U.S.C.
Provides funding to schools of forestry for research and extension activities. Adds “1994
Cooperative Forestry
§582a-1
Institutions” (tribal land-grant col eges) that offer associate or baccalaureate degrees in
Research Act (USDA/NIFA)
forestry as eligible to participate under terms determined by the Secretary of Agriculture.
Watershed Protection and
16 U.S.C.
Assists local organizations with addressing watershed resource concerns. “Indian tribe”
Flood Prevention
§1002
and “tribal organization” (as defined in 25 U.S.C. §5304) are included in the definition of
(USDA/NRCS)
“local organization.”
Soil and Water Resources
16 U.S.C.
Requires USDA to work with entities, including “tribal agencies,” “tribal governments,”
Conservation Act
§§2003-
and “tribal organizations,” to conduct and develop a broad natural resource strategic
(USDA/NRCS)
2005
assessment and planning document to guide the Department’s administration of
conservation activities.
Forest Stewardship Program
16 U.S.C.
Provides financial, technical, and other assistance to state foresters or equivalent state
(USDA/FS)
§2103a(c)
officials to assist landowners in managing nonindustrial private forest land. The definition
of “nonindustrial private forest land” includes eligible land owned by Indian tribes.
Community Forest and
16 U.S.C.
Provides financial assistance to local governments, Indian tribes, and nonprofit
Open Space Conservation
§2103d
organizations for preventing the conversion of forestland to non-forest uses, such as crop
Program (USDA/FS)
production or residential construction. The term “Indian tribe” is defined as the term is
used in 25 U.S.C. §5304. No land acquired using a grant provided under this program can
be converted to land held in trust by the United States on behalf of any Indian tribe.
Congressional Research Service

22

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Landscape Scale Restoration
16 U.S.C.
Competitive grant program to provide technical and financial assistance to encourage
Program (USDA/FS)
§2109a
col aborative, science-based restoration of priority forest landscapes, which must include
state or nonindustrial forest land. Eligible projects must have a 50% cost-share match and
must be submitted through the state forest agency or equivalent, among other criteria.
The term “Indian tribe” is defined as the term is used in 25 U.S.C. §5304, and
“nonindustrial private forest land” includes eligible land owned by Indian tribes.
Good Neighbor Authority
16 U.S.C.
Under an approved good neighbor agreement, states, counties, and Indian tribes are
(USDA/FS, DOI/BLM)
§2113a
authorized to do restoration work on FS and BLM lands to restore or improve forest,
rangeland, and watershed health. The term “Indian tribe” has the meaning given in 25
U.S.C. §5304.
Stewardship Contracting
16 U.S.C.
Authorizes FS and BLM to enter into multiyear, dual service, and timber sale contracts or
Authority (USDA/FS,
§6591c
agreements to achieve specified land management goals. The agencies can use the value of
DOI/BLM)
the harvested timber to offset the cost of service activities (i.e., trade goods for services).
In addition to entering contracts, “tribal governments” (among other cooperating
governmental agencies) may participate in monitoring and evaluation.
National Aquaculture Policy,
16 U.S.C.
Establishes a national policy to promote U.S. aquaculture and to establish and implement
Planning, and Development;
§2802(5)
a national aquaculture development plan at USDA. The term “person” who may be
Definitions (USDA/NIFA)
interested in the development and implementation of the plan includes “any Indian tribe.”
Conservation Definitions
16 U.S.C.
The term “Indian tribe” is defined as in 25 U.S.C. §5304 for all conservation programs
(USDA/NRCS, USDA/FSA)
§3801(14)
under Title XII of the Food Security Act of 1985 (P.L. 99-198) that provide conservation
financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers.
Conservation Reserve
16 U.S.C.
The term “Indian tribe” is defined as in 25 U.S.C. §5304. This authority allows USDA to
Enhancement Program
§3831a
enter into cost-share agreements with Indian tribes and other partners to enrol eligible
(USDA/FSA)
land in the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program.
CLEAR 30 (USDA/FSA)
16 U.S.C.
Authorizes a pilot project for a 30-year conservation contract called Clean Lakes
§3831c
Estuaries and Rivers (CLEAR 30) practices. Allows USDA to enter into one or more
agreements with Indian tribes and other entities to carry out necessary maintenance of
the CLEAR 30 contract.
Environmental Quality
16 U.S.C.
Provides assistance to agricultural producers to address natural resource concerns.
Incentives Program
§3839aa(2) Describes one of the purposes of the program as avoiding the need for resource and
(USDA/NRCS)
regulatory programs by assisting producers to meet environmental quality criteria
established by federal, state, tribal, and local agencies.
Conservation Stewardship
16 U.S.C.
Assists agricultural producers in advancing conservation efforts on eligible land. Defines
Program (USDA/NRCS)
§3839aa-
“eligible land” as private or tribal land on which agricultural commodities, livestock, or
21(4)
forest-related products are produced.
Conservation Stewardship
16 U.S.C.
Excludes funding arrangements with Indian tribes from the program’s $200,000 aggregate
Program (USDA/NRCS)
§3839aa-
payment limit between FY2019 and FY2023.
24(f)
Conservation of Private
16 U.S.C.
Funds partnership activities related to conservation practice implemented on private
Grazing Land (USDA/NRCS)
§3839bb(b) grazing lands. Defines “private grazing land” to include tribally owned land.
Voluntary Public Access and
16 U.S.C.
Lists “tribal governments” as eligible for grants to encourage owners and operators of
Habitat Incentive Program
§3839bb-5
private land to voluntarily make that land available for access by public hunting or fishing
(USDA/NRCS)
programs administered by states and “tribal governments.”
Administrative
16 U.S.C.
Authorizes incentives to encourage the participation of Indian tribes in USDA
Requirements for
§3844(a)
conservation programs.
Conservation Program
(USDA/NRCS and FSA)
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23

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Administrative
16 U.S.C.
Limits the release of information related to conservation programs to select federal,
Requirements for
§3844(b)
state, or local agencies or to Indian tribes working with USDA.
Conservation Program
(USDA/NRCS and FSA)
Administrative
16 U.S.C.
Requires, under specified conditions, alternative funding arrangements with Indian tribes
Requirements for
§3844(m)
for carrying out the Conservation Stewardship Program and the Environmental Quality
Conservation Program
Incentives Program.
(USDA/NRCS)
Administrative
16 U.S.C.
Specifies conditions under which USDA may provide technical and programmatic
Requirements for
§3844(p)
information to federal, state, and local agencies and to Indian tribes, if it would provide
Conservation Program
regulatory certainty, regulatory predictability, safe harbor, or other similar regulatory
(USDA/NRCS, USDA/FSA)
assurances.
Agricultural Conservation
16 U.S.C.
Funds easements for wetland, grassland, and farmland protection. Includes Indian tribe as
Easement Program
§3865a(3)
an eligible entity and tribal land as eligible land under the program.
(USDA/NRCS)
and (4)
Agricultural Conservation
16 U.S.C.
Provides Indian tribes with the option for a 30-year contract rather than an easement
Easement Program
§3865c(b)
when enrol ing in a wetland reserve easement under the program.
(USDA/NRCS)
Agricultural Conservation
16 U.S.C.
Allows USDA to enter into one or more agreements with Indian tribes and other entities
Easement Program
§3865c(d)
to carry out necessary restoration, enhancement, or maintenance of a wetland reserve
(USDA/NRCS)
easement.
Agricultural Conservation
16 U.S.C.
Allows USDA to enter into one or more agreements with Indian tribes and other entities
Easement Program
§3865c(e)
to carry out a special wetland reserve enhancement option under the program.
(USDA/NRCS)
Agricultural Conservation
16 U.S.C.
Lands held in trust for Indian tribes by an agency of the United States are eligible for the
Easement Program
§3865d(a)
program.
(USDA/NRCS)
Regional Conservation
16 U.S.C.
Provides financial and technical assistance for state, multistate, or watershed-scale
Partnership Program
§3871a(4)
agricultural conservation projects. Indian tribes are included in the definition of an
(USDA/NRCS)
“eligible partner” under the program.
Healthy Forest Restoration
16 U.S.C.
Authorizes various public and private forestland activities. Defines “Indian tribe” as in 25
Act of 2003 (USDA/FS,
§6502(2)
U.S.C. §5304 for the Healthy Forest Restoration Act of 2003 (P.L. 108-148).
USDA/NRCS)
Cross-Boundary Hazardous
16 U.S.C.
Authorizes grants to states to support hazardous fuel reduction projects on both federal
Fuel Reduction Projects
§6513(e)
and nonfederal land. Includes “tribal land” in the definition of “Non-Federal land.”
(USDA/FS)

Water Source Protection
16 U.S.C.
Establishes a program to carry out watershed protection and restoration projects on
Program (USDA/FS)
§6542
National Forest System land through water source investment partnership agreements
with water end users. An “Indian tribe” is included in the definition of “end water user,”
and “Tribal governments” may cooperate in developing water source management plans.
Watershed Condition
16 U.S.C.
Establishes a Watershed Condition Framework for National Forest System land that
Framework (USDA/FS)
§6543
evaluates and classifies watershed condition and authorizes development of action plans
to restore priority watersheds. Specifies that the Secretary shall coordinate with
“interested non-Federal landowners and State, Tribal, and local governments within the
relevant watershed.”
Healthy Forest Restoration
16 U.S.C.
Establishes a separate enrol ment method for acreage owned by Indian tribes, including a
Program (USDA/NRCS)
§6572(e)(2) 30-year contract, a 10-year cost-share agreement, a permanent easement, or any
combination thereof.
Congressional Research Service

24

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Program (Agency or
U.S.C.
Office)
Citation
Description
Service of Traditional Foods
25 U.S.C.
In specified programs and settings, requires USDA and FDA to allow the donation and
in Public Facilities
§1685
service of foods that are traditionally prepared and consumed by an Indian tribe.
(USDA/FNS)
Tribal Forest Management
25 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA and the Department of the Interior to enter into ISDEAA “638
Demonstration Project
§3115a(b)
contracts,” on a demonstration basis, whereby an Indian tribe or tribal organization may
(USDA/FS, DOI, BLM)
perform the administrative and management functions of programs implementing the
Tribal Forest Protection Act.
Management on Indian
25 U.S.C.
Provides for the management of Indian agricultural lands consistent with ISDEAA
Rangeland and Farmland
§3711
provisions (25 U.S.C. §§5301 et seq.) through approved Indian agriculture resource
(DOI/BIA)
management plans.
Native American Business
25 U.S.C.
Provisions include community development initiatives and economic enterprise
Development, Trade
§4301
development activities related to tribal employment and products; a mentor-protégé
Promotion, and Tourism
program; and outreach, training, procurement management, consultation, reporting and
(USDA in consultation with
feasibility studies requirements. Requires a USDA study to assess current “federal
other federal agencies)
capitalization and related programs and services that are available to assist Indian
communities with business and economic development,” including a review to “assess
and quantify the extent of assistance provided to non-Indian borrowers and to tribal (and
individual) borrowers . . through the loan programs, the loan guarantee programs, or
bond guarantee programs” of several federal agencies, including USDA. Other enacted
provisions (P.L. 115-334) set criteria for USDA, in consultation with several federal
agencies, to designate Tribal Promise Zones (TPZs) nominated by one or more Indian
tribes. TPZs are areas designed to provide federal agency resources and technical
assistance to work with local leaders to boost economic activity and job growth, improve
educational opportunities, reduce crime, and leverage private investment to improve the
quality of life. Related provisions were enacted in the Indian Community Economic
Enhancement Act of 2020 (P.L. 116-261), as amended by P.L. 117-286.
Agricultural Credit
25 U.S.C.
Authorizes USDA to make loans to Indian tribes and tribal corporations to acquire land
(USDA/FSA)
§5136
within reservations, including highly fractionated land.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable
42 U.S.C.
A state agency operating FFVP is required to inform “the schools within the state with
Program (FFVP)
§1769a
the highest proportion of free and reduced price meal eligibility, including Native
(USDA/FNS)
American schools,” of their FFVP eligibility and priority consideration.
Source: Compiled by CRS from a search of the U.S. Code referencing the fol owing search terms: Indian tribe,
Tribal groups, Indian Tribal Organization, Alaska Native, Native Alaskan, Native Hawaiian, Hawaiian native, Native
American, and Underserved Trust Areas. Other information is from “All the Tribal-Specific Provisions in the
Enacted 2018 Farm Bil ,” compiled by the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI) at the University of
Arkansas School of Law (January 31, 2019). Text in quotations is statutory language.
Notes: NA = Not applicable; SDFR = socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher; BFR = beginning farmer or
rancher; VFR = veteran farmer or rancher. ISDEAA 638 contracts provide that an Indian tribe or tribal organization
may enter into contracts and with USDA to administer and transfer funding for specified programs that, in the
absence of such contracts, would be administered by USDA for the tribe or tribal organization pursuant to P.L.
93-638 (Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, ISDEAA). 638 contracts must conform to
statutory and regulatory standards, including specific performance and recordkeeping requirements. For more
information about ISDEAA authorities, see CRS In Focus IF11877, Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance
Act (ISDEAA) and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Agency and office abbreviations: U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) includes Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS),
Departmental Administration (DA), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), Farm Credit System (FCS), Food and
Nutrition Service (FNS), Forest Service (FS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), Food Safety and Inspection Service
(FSIS), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Office
of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), Rural Development (RD), and Risk Management Agency (RMS);
other Departments and agencies include Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of the Interior
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Department of Justice (DOJ), U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Department of
Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO).
Congressional Research Service

25

Selected USDA Programs and Policies That Address Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

Author Information

Renée Johnson, Coordinator
Lisa S. Benson
Specialist in Agricultural Policy
Specialist in Agricultural Policy

Megan Stubbs
Stephanie Rosch
Specialist in Agricultural Conservation and Natural
Analyst in Agricultural Policy
Resources Policy

Jim Monke
Christine Whitt
Specialist in Agricultural Policy
Analyst Agricultural Policy

Randy Alison Aussenberg
Kelsi Bracmort
Specialist in Nutrition Assistance Policy
Specialist in Natural Resources and Energy Policy

Lena A. Maman
Anne A. Riddle
Senior Research Librarian
Specialist in Natural Resources Policy

Carol Canada
Joel L. Greene
Senior Research Librarian
Analyst in Agricultural Policy

Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
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copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

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