USDA proposes data modernization plan for agricultural reporting

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins has introduced a proposed data modernization plan designed to improve agricultural reporting through technological advancements. The plan, unveiled at the 2026 Farm Progress Show, aims to utilize satellite-based crop monitoring, geospatial analysis, cloud-based platforms, and improved online reporting tools to create more coordinated administrative data.

The initiative seeks to increase transparency and trust among producers by protecting privacy, clarifying how information is used, and allowing for producer feedback. Iowa farmer Lance Lillibridge noted that improvements to data collection are critical for food and national security, citing a previous lack of confidence in existing reporting methods within the industry.