In mid-June, USDA announced the appointment of John Rich as special envoy for American landowners.
Rich is most notably known as one-half of the country music duo, Big & Rich, and has recently made headlines for his opposition to development on private lands. USDA said Rich’s role will be to advocate for landowners facing pressures related to large-scale solar and wind development.
“I look forward to representing and advocating for landowners’ rights and standing up for the farmers, ranchers, and rural families who work every day to provide for our country,” Rich said. “Protecting private property rights and ensuring that landowners are not harassed, intimidated, or pressured by outside interests will be at the heart of this mission.”
