By Blake Jackson
U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver II (D-Missouri) is raising concerns about proposed closures and service reductions at Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices across Missouri, arguing that the changes could place additional strain on farmers already facing significant financial challenges.
In a letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Cleaver requested details about the USDA’s plans to reduce FSA operations and questioned how the agency intends to maintain support for producers during a difficult period for agriculture.
Agriculture remains Missouri’s largest industry, employing more than 460,000 people and supporting nearly 88,000 farms across the state.
Soybeans and corn are Missouri’s leading commodities, but many producers have struggled in recent years due to declining profits and rising production expenses.
Higher costs for fertilizer, fuel, seed, labor, and equipment, combined with weak commodity prices, have increased financial pressure on farm operations. The situation has been reflected in a rise in farm bankruptcies nationwide, including in Missouri.
“American farmers are facing an economic crisis that’s made it nearly impossible for many of them to continue producing crops or raising livestock. The Midwest led the nation last year in the number of farmers declaring Chapter 12 bankruptcy, and Missouri alone saw sixteen farms reach that point in 2025. When you factor in all the families who don’t qualify for Chapter 12, the picture becomes even more dire. Given the current situation, it makes absolutely no sense for the USDA to start unexpectedly closing and reducing services at FSA County Offices," said Congressman Cleaver.
"In many respects, the wellbeing of this country depends upon the wellbeing of our farmers, and we know for a fact that Missouri farmers are struggling right now. The FSA is a lifeline to programs needed to keep midwestern farms afloat and reducing the agency’s presence in this state will add yet another burden to the long list of challenges that Missouri farmers are dealing with right now. Closing the local FSA office at a time like the present is akin to kicking our farmers when they’re down.”
The Farm Service Agency currently operates 97 county offices in Missouri and provides assistance through disaster relief programs, crop insurance support, farm loans, and income assistance initiatives.
Cleaver said he was informed that some Missouri offices may close or reduce services beginning October 1, 2026. Preliminary information indicates that certain locations could move to appointment-only operations, while staff at other offices may be reassigned.
Photo Credit: usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy