Agriculture leaders from across the country gathered in Maine, for the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s 2026 Annual Meeting. Roughly 460 people attended the meeting in person or virtually, where state agriculture commissioners, directors, and secretaries discussed challenges and opportunities facing farmers and ranchers. Maine Agriculture Commissioner and NASDA President Amanda Beal says bringing state leaders together helps them tackle shared challenges and identify opportunities to strengthen agriculture nationwide. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins also addressed the group, highlighting USDA’s work with states and announcing the new Stand-Up Program. The initiative will provide up to 50 million dollars to help states join or expand federal-state meat inspection programs. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney highlighted the new Data on Economic and Bankruptcy Trends Project, developed with the National Agricultural Law Center, which provides a more comprehensive look at agricultural bankruptcy trends across the country. Washington Agriculture Director Derek Sandison was elected NASDA president for 2026-27.
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