Central ND News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak, alongside Senator John Hoeven, welcomed Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to North Dakota for agriculture-centered engagements. The visit took in a roundtable discussion at North Dakota State University, as well as tours of the Grand Farm Innovation Campus and the American Crystal Sugar processing plant.

"Yesterday was an incredible opportunity to show Secretary Rollins how North Dakota is leading the way—not just in growing crops and raising cattle, but also in developing innovative technology to do it better," said Fedorchak. She stressed the need for strong federal support through trade agreements, the Farm Bill, and tax certainty for rural America to thrive.

Highlighting North Dakota's contribution to agriculture, Secretary Rollins stated, "North Dakota is rich in agriculture. Wheat, potato, sugar beet, and cattle farmers in the state are driving innovation and continuing the long legacy of feeding, fueling, and clothing the world." Rollins expressed eagerness to keep collaborating with North Dakotan leaders and farmers while prioritizing farmers' needs at the USDA.

During the discussions, the need for regulatory and market certainty was emphasized. Secretary Rollins announced disaster assistance funds exceeding $340 million, including $5 million for North Dakota to aid in rebuilding infrastructure.

At the Grand Farm Innovation Campus, Fedorchak and her delegation examined advancements in precision agriculture. "These new technologies hold great promise for solving workforce challenges, reducing inputs, improving yields, and so much more. Truly, it’s a new day in agriculture," Fedorchak commented.

Secretary Rollins concluded the visit by touring the American Crystal Sugar Company processing plant, seeing firsthand how North Dakota's sugar beet production benefits the local economy.