Joel Salatin Joins USDA as Advisor: What This Means for Homesteaders -

In an exciting turn of events for small farmers and homesteaders, Joel Salatin, often referred to as a “Christian libertarian environmentalist capitalist lunatic farmer,” has been appointed by Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky to serve as an “Advisor to the Secretary” at the USDA. This monumental shift brings one of regenerative agriculture’s most passionate voices into the heart of U.S. agricultural policy-making.

Salatin, a fierce advocate for food sovereignty and sustainable farming, has long challenged the industrial agriculture system, favoring local control and regenerative practices. This new role provides an unprecedented opportunity for him to influence policies that directly impact homesteaders and small farmers. But what could this mean for you and your homestead? Let’s break it down.

Why Joel Salatin?

Joel Salatin is no stranger to shaking up the agricultural world. His farm, Polyface Farms, is a beacon for sustainable and innovative practices, such as rotational grazing, composting systems, and prioritizing soil health. He has been a staunch critic of the USDA in the past, advocating for reform that empowers small farmers rather than perpetuating the dominance of industrial agriculture. His appointment was likely due to his proven success with regenerative farming and his vocal support for legislative changes like the PRIME Act, which would decentralize meat processing and give small-scale producers more opportunities Citizen Watch Report Sustainability Permies.

How His Role Could Help Homesteaders

Policy Reform for Local Food Systems
Salatin’s advocacy for the PRIME Act aligns perfectly with the needs of homesteaders. This act would support local meat processing facilities, reducing reliance on massive industrial processors. If advanced, it could make it easier for homesteaders to process and sell their own livestock, creating more self-sufficient and resilient local food networks.
Support for Regenerative Agriculture
As an advisor, Salatin is likely to push for USDA programs that promote regenerative practices such as rotational grazing, composting, and biodiversity. This could result in grants or incentives for homesteaders adopting these methods, improving soil health and sustainability on small-scale farms.
Decentralization of Agricultural Power
Salatin’s long-standing goal is to decentralize agriculture, giving power back to local farmers and homesteaders. By advocating for reduced bureaucratic hurdles and increased local control, he could make it easier for homesteaders to run direct-to-consumer operations, such as farm stands, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, and farmers’ markets.
Educational Outreach and Resources
With Salatin’s emphasis on education, the USDA could see an increase in resources and training opportunities for small farmers and homesteaders. This could include workshops, online tools, and partnerships with organizations that align with Salatin’s principles.
Empowerment Through Policy
Salatin’s influence could help reshape USDA policies to favor holistic, low-input farming. This could mean more accessible loans, grants, and insurance options tailored to the needs of small, diverse farms rather than monoculture operations.

A Hopeful Shift for Small Farmers

Joel Salatin’s appointment signals a potential shift in the USDA’s priorities, moving away from the industrial agriculture model and toward a future where small farms and homesteads thrive. It’s a huge win for those of us dedicated to producing food responsibly, nurturing the land, and building community connections.

As Salatin himself said, “Let liberty ring. Wouldn’t that be a change of fortune for Big Ag?” His entry into the USDA could represent the dawn of a new era for American agriculture—one that prioritizes independence, sustainability, and resilience.

Stay tuned for more updates on how this appointment unfolds. Here at Freedom Forest Farm, we’ll be closely watching—and cheering—for the policies that help all of us grow stronger together.

What do you think about this news? Share your thoughts in the comments!