John Rich named USDA special envoy for American landowners
Country music singer and businessman John Rich has been named special envoy for American landowners at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, where he will advocate for farmers, ranchers and private landowners on issues involving private property rights and rural communities.
According to a USDA press release, Rich will meet with landowners across the country and work with department leadership and stakeholders on concerns related to federal policies, private property rights and other challenges that affect agricultural landowners.
The department said a priority for Rich will be working with landowners on issues related to large-scale solar and wind energy development on farmland and ranchland. USDA said he will advocate for landowners’ perspectives in discussions affecting their property and communities.
“America’s farmers, ranchers, and landowners are among the greatest stewards of our nation’s resources and the backbone of our rural communities,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. “John Rich has long been a champion for rural America, and I look forward to working alongside him as we continue fighting for the people who feed, fuel, and clothe our nation.”
Rich said he plans to focus on representing landowners and protecting private property rights.
“President Trump has afforded me the great honor of serving as special envoy for American landowners,” Rich said. “I look forward to representing and advocating for landowners’ rights and standing up for the farmers, ranchers and rural families who work every day to provide for our country. Protecting private property rights and ensuring that landowners are not harassed, intimidated, or pressured by outside interests will be at the heart of this mission.”
USDA said the appointment is intended to support the Trump administration’s efforts to ensure farmers, ranchers, foresters, and landowners are represented in federal policymaking.
Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].
