The fight against climate change is being waged not only in fields and farms but also in courtrooms. A coalition of farmers and environmental groups has sued the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) after the agency removed vital climate-related tools, data sets, and services from its website—resources that countless farmers and climate researchers depend on.
At a time when climate-driven disasters are reshaping agriculture—with worsening droughts, floods, and shifting growing seasons—farmers need science-backed strategies and financial assistance to adapt. Yet, the USDA’s decision to take down these resources has left many struggling to access the critical information needed to make informed, climate-smart decisions.
If you’re a farmer, an agricultural business owner, or someone passionate about sustainable farming, this guide will help you:
- Understand the lawsuit and what’s at stake
- Identify alternative sources for climate-smart agricultural resources
- Take proactive steps to adapt to climate change despite policy setbacks
Why Are Farmers Suing the USDA?
The lawsuit—filed by Earthjustice on behalf of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York (NOFA-NY), the Environmental Working Group, and the Natural Resources Defense Council—claims that the USDA’s actions violate several federal laws, including the Freedom of Information Act and the Administrative Procedure Act.
According to Wes Gillingham, a New York farmer and NOFA-NY board president, the removal of climate data is a direct attack on farmers who rely on these resources for decision-making and financial assistance. Many USDA grants and loans that support climate adaptation in agriculture have also been frozen under an executive order, further compounding the challenges farmers face.
"This isn’t a political agenda," Gillingham emphasized. "We’re trying to feed the country, and taking away science and funding is ludicrous."
What Does This Mean for Farmers and Businesses?
By removing tools such as the U.S. Forest Service’s climate-risk viewer and climate funding program details, the USDA has made it significantly harder for:
- Farmers to access technical guidance on climate-smart agriculture
- Agricultural businesses to apply for sustainability grants and investments
- Climate researchers to study and predict climate risks to agriculture
- Environmental advocates to push for effective climate policies
But despite these setbacks, there are concrete actions you can take to ensure that your farming practices remain climate-resilient.
Climate Action Tips: How Farmers and Businesses Can Adapt
1. Find Alternative Sources for Climate-Smart Agriculture Resources
With the USDA removing key climate data, farmers must turn to alternative platforms for guidance on sustainable agriculture. Here are a few trusted sources:
- Climate.gov – Provides climate risk data, seasonal forecasts, and adaptation strategies.
- NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) – Offers technical assistance and conservation planning outside the USDA's main website.
- National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) – Shares policy updates and funding opportunities for climate-focused farmers.
- Local Extension Services – Universities and agricultural extension offices often have climate adaptation resources tailored to regional needs.
Actionable Tip: Bookmark these sites and sign up for their newsletters to stay informed on the latest climate research and funding opportunities.
2. Document Climate Impacts on Your Farm or Business
With climate-driven disasters increasing in frequency, documenting their impact on your farm or business can strengthen your case for financial assistance.
Keep detailed records of:
- Changes in planting and harvesting cycles
- Crop damage due to extreme weather
- Increased costs from drought mitigation or flood recovery
- Any business losses linked to climate change
Actionable Tip: Use smartphone apps like FarmLogs or AgriSync to track weather trends, record field conditions, and plan better for climate uncertainties.
3. Seek Alternative Climate Funding & Grants
Although some USDA grants are now frozen, other sources of climate funding are still available.
Where to look:
- Private Sector Grants – Many corporations offer sustainability grants to farmers and agri-businesses. Check out the Patagonia Foundation, General Mills’ Regenerative Agriculture Program, and the Rockefeller Foundation.
- State and Local Climate Programs – Many state governments provide funding for farmers transitioning to sustainable practices.
- Nonprofit Organizations – Groups like The Carbon Trust and The Nature Conservancy offer financial support for climate adaptation.
Actionable Tip: Explore funding directories like Grants.gov or the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program for current grant opportunities.
4. Join Advocacy Groups Fighting for Climate-Resilient Agriculture
Farmers and environmental organizations are pushing back against policies that threaten climate-smart farming. By joining these groups, you can amplify your voice and help restore access to vital climate data and funding.
Join movements like:
- Regenerative Organic Alliance (Supports farmers transitioning to climate-friendly practices)
- American Farmland Trust (Advocates for sustainable agriculture policies)
- The National Young Farmers Coalition (Fights for climate adaptation support for small farmers)
Actionable Tip: Follow these groups on social media and participate in their advocacy campaigns.
Final Thoughts: The Fight for Climate-Smart Farming is Far From Over
The USDA’s removal of climate tools and data is a major setback, but it doesn’t mean farmers and climate-conscious businesses are powerless. By seeking alternative resources, documenting climate impacts, exploring new funding avenues, and joining advocacy efforts, farmers can continue to build resilience against climate change.
As Wes Gillingham rightly said:
"Taking climate science off a website won’t fix anything—it only makes the problem worse. Climate change is real, and we have to act now."
What do you think about the USDA’s removal of climate resources? How are you adapting your farming or business practices to climate change? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Thank you for reading!
