On Monday, a coalition of farmers and environmental groups filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over its decision to remove climate-related data from its official website. The plaintiffs argue that the USDA unlawfully erased important climate and agricultural resources without following legal procedures, including providing advance notice as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act and failing to adhere to guidelines under the Administrative Procedure Act. The lawsuit also asserts that the USDA violated the Freedom of Information Act by not proactively making this information accessible to the public.
Represented by groups like Earthjustice and the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, the lawsuit includes the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Environmental Working Group. These organizations contend that the USDA’s actions left out valuable resources on climate-smart farming practices, forest conservation, and rural clean energy investments—critical tools that American farmers rely on to navigate the growing challenges posed by climate change.
Anne Schechinger of the Environmental Working Group voiced concern over the potential harm to farmers, saying that the removal of these climate resources would hurt farmers and ranchers who need accurate data to combat severe weather events like droughts and floods. According to Schechinger, the USDA’s decision strips farmers of the necessary tools to protect their operations and ensure food security.
Stephanie Krent from the Knight First Amendment Institute also stressed the broader implications of the USDA’s actions, which go beyond just agriculture. “The USDA’s policies shape our economy and influence the food we consume,” Krent explained. The elimination of important resources not only impacts those in agriculture but undermines transparency and public access to information regarding government priorities and program administration.
This lawsuit highlights the need for accountability in government actions and underscores the importance of keeping vital data accessible for the benefit of the American people, especially those who work tirelessly to feed the nation.