Commissioner Miller Applauds Rollins, Hegseth for Prioritizing Farm Security (2/11/2026) – Texas Agriculture (.gov)

Report on the Memorandum of Understanding to Enhance Farm Security in the United States

Introduction

On February 11, 2026, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of War formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening the security of American agriculture. This collaboration focuses on sharing information about security vulnerabilities, developing innovative technological solutions, and exchanging personnel to better protect the nation’s agricultural sector.

Key Objectives of the MOU

1. Information sharing regarding security vulnerabilities in agriculture.
2. Collaboration to develop novel technological solutions addressing major agricultural challenges.
3. Exchange of personnel to enhance capabilities in protecting American agriculture.

Statement from Commissioner Miller

Commissioner Miller expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of safeguarding American farms and rural lands. The Commissioner emphasized that agricultural land is vital to national security, food security, and economic stability, aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger – by protecting food production resources.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – through technological collaboration.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by securing rural lands.
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – by enhancing national security frameworks.

Commissioner Miller also noted Texas’ leadership in farm security, particularly its legislation banning sales of farmland to foreign adversaries, and welcomed the federal government’s efforts to expand such protections nationwide.

Significance for Sustainable Development Goals

The MOU represents a significant advancement in achieving the following SDGs:

• SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Ensuring the protection of agricultural land contributes directly to food security and sustainable agriculture.
• SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): The focus on developing novel technological solutions supports innovation in agriculture.
• SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): Strengthening national security institutions safeguards resources critical to the nation’s well-being.
• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): The interdepartmental cooperation exemplifies effective partnerships to achieve sustainable development.

Conclusion

The collaboration between the USDA and the Department of War marks a proactive step in securing American agricultural resources. By prioritizing farm security, the initiative supports the resilience of food systems, promotes sustainable rural development, and enhances national security. This aligns with the broader global agenda to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by protecting critical resources and fostering innovation.

Additional Resources

To view the USDA’s livestream of the MOU signing event, please click here.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • The article emphasizes protecting agricultural land and food supply, which directly relates to ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • The collaboration to develop novel technological solutions for agriculture’s challenges aligns with fostering innovation and resilient infrastructure.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Addressing security vulnerabilities and protecting agricultural land from adversaries relates to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies and building effective institutions.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Protecting agricultural land and stewardship of natural resources supports sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • Target 2.3: By 2030, double the agricultural productivity and incomes of small-scale food producers.
   • Target 2.4: Ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade technological capabilities of industrial sectors including agriculture.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.3: Combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil.
   • Target 15.9: Integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicators for SDG 2
   • Proportion of agricultural land under productive and sustainable agriculture (Indicator 2.4.1).
   • Average income of small-scale food producers (Indicator 2.3.2).
2. Indicators for SDG 9
   • Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP (Indicator 9.5.1).
   • Number of patents filed related to agricultural technologies.
3. Indicators for SDG 16
   • Proportion of the population who feel safe walking alone around the area they live (Indicator 16.1.4, implied through security concerns).
   • Number of institutions with formal agreements for collaboration on security (implied by the MOU).
4. Indicators for SDG 15
   • Proportion of land that is degraded over total land area (Indicator 15.3.1).
   • Integration of ecosystem values into planning (qualitative indicator implied).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: texasagriculture.gov