Oppose Sec. 5216: Protect USDA Farm Operating Loans for Aquaculture Producers
The United States Trout Farmers Association (USTFA) encourages all members, aquaculture businesses, and industry partner organizations to sign on to a collective letter from the National Aquaculture Association (NAA) to Congress opposing Sec. 5216 of the Senate Agricultural Act of 2026.
If passed, this provision would open USDA Farm Operating loans to commercial fishing operations.
Why This Action Matters
There is a growing effort in Washington to extend traditional USDA agricultural programs to commercial fisheries. USDA Farm Operating loans were specifically designed to support terrestrial and aquaculture farmers who face distinct operational risks, overhead, and land-based production costs.
Congressional offices place significant weight on letters that carry the direct signatures of affected farm owners and businesses.
Who Should Sign
Sign-ons are actively being sought from:
- Individual aquaculture farms and businesses (Producer signatures carry particular weight with lawmakers)
- Aquaculture and agricultural associations
How to Participate
- Review the Letter: View a PDF version of the complete draft letter here.
- Add Your Name/Organization: Add your name to the letter.
Deadline: The sign-on portal will close on Monday, October 26.
For questions regarding the letter or the legislative issue, please contact ustroutfarmersassociation@gmail.com.