As seen in the Tried & True Summer 2025 issue
There’s a lot we don’t know yet.
A recent budget proposal from the White House has sparked uncertainty throughout the ag community, especially around the future of USDA field offices and conservation programs. The plan includes potential staffing reductions and restructuring at key agencies like the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). While nothing is final, as these proposals still need congressional approval, the possibility alone has stirred concern in our industry, as these reductions could impact vital water management practices.
The value of local, on-the-ground support can’t be overstated for those who work directly with landowners and producers. NRCS staff provide more than technical knowledge—they bring trust, continuity and an understanding of the land that only comes from being part of the communities they serve.
That’s why people across the ag and drainage industries are paying attention even in a “wait and see” moment like this. Any reduction in local capacity could have real consequences for conservation efforts, especially when it comes to implementing systems like controlled drainage or saturated buffers—solutions that rely on collaboration between landowners, contractors and field staff. Keegan Kult, Executive Director of the Agricultural Drainage Management Coalition (ADMC), noted that even the possibility of reduced field staffing could disrupt momentum around key water quality initiatives. “Programs that promote conservation drainage systems, like saturated buffers and controlled drainage, rely heavily on technical support from NRCS staff at the local level,” said Kult. “Reducing that footprint could slow adoption and limit producers’ access to the tools and guidance they need to make impactful conservation decisions. Even privately designed systems by Technical System Providers rely on timely reviews and approvals from NRCS.”
We don’t know how this will unfold. But we do know that the industry has weathered uncertain times before. And it will again.
At Fratco, we’re not in the business of politics or predicting policy, but we are in the business of showing up. For over a century, we’ve worked alongside contractors, farmers and engineers to keep fields productive and projects moving. That doesn’t change when things get complicated.
As an industry and a community, we have to band together. We all want clean water. So whatever happens, we will have to work together to fill in the gaps. In the meantime and as always, we’ll keep doing what we do best: providing reliable pipe, dependable service and a partnership you can count on—no matter what lies ahead.
