Monday, August 31, 2026 — The Menu: Increasing hurdles and uncertainty put strains on Native beef producers and farmers

Native American ranchers and beef producers are among those pushing back against President Donald Trump’s initiative to import cheap foreign beef to lower consumer prices. Critics of the plan say it will do little reduce prices and undercuts producers in this country who are already facing major industry headwinds including drought, unpredictable policies, and high operating costs. The American cattle herd numbers are slowly recovering after reaching a historic low. We’ll hear from industry experts about what would truly help them and consumers alike.

Beef producers aren’t the only agriculture industry having trouble getting traction. Staffing cuts at the U.S. Department of Agriculture are blamed for complications and delays in how existing and prospective producers get basic federal support in the form of low-interest loans, grants, and technical assistance that was once widely available. We’ll talk with one Native farmer who was forced to bypass USDA support after years of delay.

GUESTS

Marjorie Lantana (Navajo), northwest vice president of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association

Alexandra Carlisle (Navajo), assistant agent at the University of Arizona tribal extension program

Zachariah Ben (Diné), owner and co-founder of Bidii Baby Foods

Tom Paterson, president of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association