“I think there’s a false narrative by those who benefit from conflict that it’s an either or situation. So I’d be looking at anybody who sues and settles as fostering that conflict where it really doesn’t need to exist, and the history shows it differently. Some of our greatest partners are organizations that are working actively with farmers and ranchers and working lands to develop habitat for critical species, or for flyway protection, or for migratory game corridors. Who do you think is going to do that? It’s got to be people on the landscape.” – USDA NRCS Chief Aubrey Bettencourt
In Episode 546 of District of Conservation, Gabriella went to USDA HQ in Washington D.C., to interview Aubrey Bettencourt- the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief. Aubrey is a third-generation California farmer, sportswoman, and passionate conservationist.
Chief Bettencourt discusses her background, USDA’s priorities, what the NRCS does, changes to the food pyramid, how agriculture isn’t at odds with conservation, how Secretary Brooke Rollins is making her department more functional and efficient, the value of hobby farms and agribusinesses, if USDA needs a Farm Bill to survive going forward, and more.
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