It has been just over 40 days since Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack returned to USDA. In that timeframe, three major plans influencing American agriculture have come out; Pandemic Assistance for Producers, the American Rescue Plan and the American Jobs Plan. In a one-on-one interview with the Red River Farm Network, Secretary Vilsack remained optimistic that this trifecta will help get the U.S. on the other side of the coronavirus pandemic. “All of that essentially gets us not just past the pandemic and economic crisis, but actually helps build the economy back in a much stronger way.” While some aspects in agriculture are certain, others are not. The drought impacting farmers and ranchers across the western half of the United States, including the Northern Plains, are an example. “We’re going to continue to focus on getting farmers and ranchers through these difficult times. That involves doing everything we can to make sure programs are fully available and providing whatever assistance or help is needed.” Listen to the interview.