Press Release
West Jordan, Utah — Jeanette Drake, owner of a sixth-generation goat dairy established in 1880, faces constant pressure from developers as housing demands rise in West Jordan. With new homes sprouting nearby, Drake receives daily offers to sell her family’s farm. “There’s a real housing shortage," she noted, reminding that without farms, there’s a risk to local food sources. Despite these pressures, she remains committed to serving her customers with goat milk and yogurt.
In response to challenges facing smaller farms like Drake’s, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a new initiative aimed at preserving family-run operations and ensuring they thrive amidst ongoing consolidation in the industry. House Speaker Mike Schultz, who advised on the initiative, stressed the importance of supporting smaller farms that face challenges competing with larger corporations.
The USDA’s initiative, titled "Make Agriculture Great Again," intends to address key issues, including access to credit, labor reform, and multi-generational sustainability. Supporting local agricultural processing is also a priority, which Schultz believes will benefit consumers and create jobs in rural areas. Drake supports the initiative, encouraging community members to shop local to keep money circulating within their area.
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