Conservation Clips is a weekly collection of articles distributed by NACD that provides our members and partners with the latest news in what’s driving conservation. These articles are not indicative of NACD policy and are the opinions of their authors, unless otherwise noted. If you have a relevant submission or need assistance accessing articles, please contact the NACD Communications Team.
Farm Progress: Farm bill extension included in potential deal to end shutdown
By Joshua Baethge
11/10/2025
On Monday evening, the Senate approved a budget deal that would reopen the federal government. The bill passed by a margin of 60 to 40, with eight Democrats joining the Republican majority. Kentucky’s Rand Paul was the lone GOP lawmaker to oppose the resolution. The bill now moves to the House where it is expected to be considered on Wednesday.
CBS News: Losing the farm is a real fear for American farmers facing severe financial hardship
11/10/2025
American farmers have struggled for years with high costs and low prices. A trade war with China worsened conditions and, while a deal between the countries offers some hope, it may not be enough.
Farm Progress: Trump signs bill ending historic 43-day shutdown as USDA operations resume
By Joshua Baethge
11/13/2025
After 43 days, the longest government shutdown in American history has ended. By a 222-209 vote, the House of Representatives approved a Senate bill passed earlier this week to end the government shutdown. All but six House Democrats opposed the bill. Two Republicans voted against it as well. President Trump officially signed the bill into law late Wednesday night.
NPR: The government shutdown is over, but not everything is back to normal
By Rachel Treisman
11/13/2025
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history is officially over after President Trump signed a bill passed by Congress on Wednesday night. The federal government is reopening. But after 43 days on pause, things may not return to business as usual right away. For instance, federal workers are still awaiting backpay and air travel disruptions are expected to linger.
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Brownfield Ag News: MIFarmLink partners with conservation districts to keep Michigan farms in production
By Nicole Heslip | Michigan | North Central Region
11/07/2025
The Director of MIFarmLink says conservation districts statewide will soon be better equipped to help landowners and beginning farmers preserve farmland as the program expands next year. Jill Dohner tells Brownfield the Washtenaw County pilot project has transitioned to the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts for broader implementation.
High Plains Journal: Jimmy Emmons—‘Mr. Soil Health’—a lifetime commitment to conservation
By Tom Lucas | Oklahoma | South Central Region
11/10/2025
When you meet Jimmy Emmons, you will be shaking a hardworking hand and you will feel the warmth of that unique smile coming from under his wide-brimmed cowboy hat. It’s a moment that you will never forget because you have shaken hands with a true living legend. His close friends call him “Mr. Soil Health.” It’s a title he deserves.
FOX28: From destruction to production: Spokane’s Veterans find a new mission
By RWright | Spokane, WA | Pacific Region
11/11/2025
One of these programs: a unique farm in Eastern Spokane. Vets on the Farm is a place where former service members like Grant Weber, Joshua Lewis and Jessica Brown are transitioning from military life to farming. Operating in partnership with the Spokane Conservation District, the farm is entirely organic–from fertilizer to pesticides. But Vets on the Farm is more than just a place to grow veggies.
Ludington Daily News: Fall harvest reveals wildlife benefits of soil health
By Shanna Avery | Michigan | North Central Region
11/12/2025
During the federal shutdown, people were surprised to find the Mason-Lake Conservation District up and running, continuing to provide local conservation work in the area, but with conservation districts being local government units, their efforts were able to continue. Dani McGarry, Executive Director for the Mason-Lake Conservation District, explained in a press release how clients were surprised to see them still working during the shutdown.
Lynden Tribute: Whatcom Farm Circle educates students on agriculture
By Racquel Muncy | Lynden, WA | Pacific Region
11/12/2025
(Edited) Students from Whatcom County’s schools visited the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds to learn about local agriculture through the annual Whatcom Farm Circle field trip. This event was hosted by Whatcom Family Farmers. The Whatcom Conservation District also taught students about the water cycle and how to conserve water.