It is officially National Agriculture Day in Washington D.C. and leaders across the industry are gathered to celebrate this morning at the USDA.

Deputy Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation Brooke Appleton greeted attendees at the department Tuesday morning with the news that Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins would be making a big announcement.

“Secretary Rollins will be announcing that USDA is expediting up to 10 billion dollars in direct assistance payments through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program for the 2024 crop year,” said Appleton. “That means relief is coming and farmers will have the resources necessary to manage rising expenses and secure financing for next season. President Trump and Secretary Rollins have made it clear we are cutting through the red tape and getting these payments out the door as quickly as possible. Farmers and ranchers need certainty, and we’re making sure they have it so you can focus on what you do best, feeding, clothing and fueling America.”