U.S. Agriculture Secretary Announces Specialty Crop Grants During MSU Dairy Farm Tour

Rollins touts $275 million in annual investments, addresses fertilizer costs and Forest Service office closures.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:05am

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A minimalist studio photograph featuring a collection of premium agricultural tools and equipment, including a tractor gear, a soil sample jar, and a pair of pruning shears, arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background to represent the abstract concepts of modern farming technology, sustainability, and crop research.A conceptual still life highlighting the USDA's investments in cutting-edge farming technology and research to support Michigan's specialty crop producers.Lansing Today

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins visited Michigan State University's dairy farm on Monday, where she announced the release of the Specialty Crop Research Initiative and a block grant for specialty crop farmers. Rollins also addressed challenges facing farmers, including labor shortages and rising fertilizer costs due to the war in Iran, as well as the planned closure of U.S. Forest Service offices in Michigan.

Why it matters

The USDA's investments in specialty crop research and grants are crucial for supporting Michigan's diverse agricultural industry, which includes key crops like cherries, asparagus, and nursery/floriculture products. Rollins' visit and announcements highlight the federal government's efforts to aid farmers facing labor shortages and rising input costs, while also addressing concerns over the consolidation of Forest Service offices.

The details

During her visit, Rollins sat for a roundtable with farmers and Congressman Tom Barrett before announcing the $275 million in annual investments for the Specialty Crop Research Initiative and block grants. She said these funds will help specialty crop producers in Michigan and across the country. Rollins also discussed the USDA's plans to provide $20 million to fund research into automation and mechanization technologies that could help reduce farmers' reliance on labor. Additionally, Rollins addressed the issue of rising fertilizer costs, stating that the USDA has opened up a line of fertilizer from Venezuela and that some American companies are delaying certain actions to keep fertilizer prices stable.

  • Rollins visited the MSU dairy farm on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • The USDA is releasing the Specialty Crop Research Initiative and block grants for specialty crop farmers.

The players

Brooke Rollins

The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, who is leading the USDA's efforts to support farmers and the agricultural industry.

Tom Barrett

A U.S. Congressman who joined Rollins for the roundtable discussion with farmers.

Ben LaCross

The president of the Michigan Farm Bureau, who welcomed the USDA's announcement of research investments.

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What they’re saying

“These two announcements represent an annual $275 million investment into America's specialty crop producers. Michigan is ground zero for specialty crops - cherries, asparagus, nursery, floriculture, and so many other fruits and vegetables.”

— Brooke Rollins, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

“Research investments from USDA and our federal government will provide advancements that our farmers are implementing on the ground to continue to provide safe, abundant, affordable, and nutritious food for all consumers to enjoy.”

— Ben LaCross, President, Michigan Farm Bureau

What’s next

The USDA plans to continue supporting specialty crop producers through the new research initiative and grant program, as well as efforts to address labor shortages and rising input costs. The future of the U.S. Forest Service offices in Michigan remains uncertain as the agency consolidates operations.

The takeaway

The USDA's investments in Michigan's diverse agricultural industry, including specialty crops, demonstrate the federal government's commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring the continued production of safe, affordable, and nutritious food. However, challenges like labor shortages and rising input costs remain, requiring ongoing collaboration between the government, farmers, and industry stakeholders.