1800 30th Street
Bakersfield, California 93301
Kern County recently had the opportunity to welcome U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for a visit.
Hosted by Congressman David Valadao at Allied Potato in Bakersfield, the visit brought together agricultural leaders, growers, processors, and industry organizations from across California to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing specialty crop agriculture. Prior to the roundtable discussion, Secretary Rollins toured Allied Potato’s operation, learning firsthand about the production, processing, and export systems that help move California-grown products to consumers around the world.
The roundtable provided a valuable opportunity for agricultural leaders to share their perspectives directly with USDA leadership. Conversations centered around rising production costs, labor availability, regulatory challenges, international trade, market access, and the importance of maintaining a reliable food supply. Participants also discussed the unique role California agriculture plays in feeding the nation and the world, particularly through specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, citrus, dairy products, and potatoes.
A key topic of discussion was USDA’s announcement finalizing the Assistance for Specialty Crops Farmers (ASCF) program, which will provide financial assistance to eligible specialty crop producers impacted by rising input costs and market disruptions. The program represents a significant investment in specialty crop agriculture and recognizes the economic pressures many growers continue to face.
For Kern County and the broader Central Valley, visits such as this are important because they create a direct connection between policymakers and the people responsible for producing food, fiber, and fuel. Agriculture in California faces unique challenges that often differ from other regions of the country, making it critical that federal leaders hear directly from those working in the industry every day.
The visit also highlighted the importance of collaboration between growers, agricultural organizations, elected officials, and government agencies. Meaningful conversations and strong partnerships are essential to ensuring that agriculture remains viable, competitive, and capable of meeting the needs of future generations.
Kern County Farm Bureau appreciates the opportunity for agricultural leaders to engage directly with Secretary Rollins and discuss the issues impacting our farms, ranches, and rural communities. Continued dialogue between industry and policymakers helps ensure that the voices of California agriculture are represented as decisions are made at the national level.
As the nation’s leading agricultural-producing region, Kern County remains committed to advocating for policies that support growers, strengthen food security, and sustain the future of American agriculture.
The Kern County Farm Bureau stands as a pillar of support for local agriculture and our community. Through collaboration and steadfast advocacy, we stand alongside farmers and ranchers, ensuring they have the support needed to keep agriculture thriving.
Our mission is to preserve agriculture as a cornerstone of our community, safeguarding its future and educating the next generation on the vital role it plays in all our lives.
