Future of Agriculture Resiliency for Mississippi (F.A.R.M.)

Future of Agriculture Resiliency for Mississippi (F.A.R.M.) Strategic Plan

Agriculture is Mississippi’s largest industry and the backbone of small towns and rural communities across the state. At a time when farmers face historic challenges, the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, under the leadership of Commissioner Gipson, is developing the Future of Agriculture Resiliency for Mississippi (F.A.R.M.) Strategic Plan to secure the future of farming in our state.

The F.A.R.M. Plan will focus on locally driven policies and action items that support producers, strengthen markets, protect resources, and improve quality of life in rural Mississippi communities. Commissioner Gipson has appointed the F.A.R.M. Council to explore critical issues farmers and the agriculture industry are facing in order to develop practical, forward-looking policy recommendations.

Five stakeholder meetings will be held across key regions of the state to obtain input for the F.A.R.M. Plan from farmers; producer organizations; ag industry representatives; policymakers; research, outreach and education representatives; and government officials. Farmers, industry leaders, and community members are encouraged to attend these regional meetings and share their insights. The five regional meetings will take place:

• December 11, 2025 – Stoneville, MS
• January 21, 2026 – Hattiesburg, MS
• February 4, 2026 – Verona, MS
• February 26, 2026 – Brookhaven, MS
• March 6, 2026 – Jackson, MS

Following the regional meetings, the F.A.R.M. Council will prepare a plan of action for policy recommendations to aid and strengthen Mississippi’s agriculture industry. The finalized Strategic Plan is expected to be presented to the Mississippi Legislature and Congressional delegation by the fourth quarter of 2026, with interim recommendations provided along the way.

The F.A.R.M. Strategic Plan is about more than policy — it’s about keeping Mississippi agriculture strong, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.