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Northey reflects on time at USDA
A Trump administration USDA official is reflecting on two programs born out of disruptions that have had a major impact on farm income.
Bill Northey served as undersecretary for farm production and conservation at USDA from early 2018 to the beginning of 2021. In that time, the U.S. waged a trade war with China and navigated a global pandemic.
The government responded by launching the Market Facilitation Program to offset losses caused by the trade dispute and Coronavirus Food Assistance Program to help during the COVID outbreak.
“Everything is easier in hindsight, but there was no idea to know exactly what was going to get hurt worse.”
He tells Brownfield the goal was simple as variations of CFAP and MFP were rolled out.
“Make it simpler while still making it fair between producers.”
Northey says government can be complicated and he learned a lot the past two years.
“Certainly if we could’ve learned a little faster that would’ve been beneficial as well.”
Northey has returned home to Iowa as he considers next steps.
Tags: Bill Northey, CFAP, China, COVID-19, Crops, Farm Income/Prices, Iowa, MFP, Trade, USDA
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I loved your comment, Bill, “Allow yourself to learn.” Good luck and godspeed in your new endeavors. Thanks for all you do for American farmers!
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Thank you very much for your service to agriculture.
Bill, I enjoyed your reflection on your time at USDA. I wish you the best in the next chapter.