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Washington, D.C., June 10th, 2026 — U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today welcomed President Donald J. Trump’s appointment of John Rich as Special Envoy for American Landowners.
As Special Envoy, Rich will serve as a leading advocate for America’s farmers, ranchers, and private landowners, helping ensure their concerns are heard and their rights are protected. He will engage directly with landowners across the country and work to address challenges posed by government overreach, activist pressure campaigns, and outside interests that threaten private property rights and the long-term viability of rural communities.
A key focus of Rich’s work will be advocating for landowners facing pressure related to large-scale solar and wind development that may impact productive farmland, ranchland, and rural livelihoods. He will work closely with USDA leadership and stakeholders to ensure landowners have a strong voice in decisions affecting their property and communities.
“America’s farmers, ranchers, and landowners are among the greatest stewards of our nation’s resources and the backbone of our rural communities,” said Secretary Rollins. “President Trump understands that private property rights are fundamental to the American way of life. John Rich has long been a champion for rural America, and I look forward to working alongside him as we continue fighting for the people who feed, fuel, and clothe our nation.”
“President Trump has afforded me the great honor of serving as Special Envoy for American Landowners,” said Special Envoy Rich. “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. 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.”
The appointment reflects President Trump’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that America’s farmers, ranchers, foresters, and landowners have a strong voice in Washington and a federal government that supports, rather than hinders, their success.
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One Response
I am requesting your assistance regarding a serious landowner safety issue affecting my brother’s property in Henderson County, Kentucky.
An abandoned coal exploration core hole on his property has been found to be releasing methane gas. The 50 % methane migration was reported to local emergency responders and to the Kentucky agency responsible for mine reclamation. He was informed that the bond originally intended to cover plugging or remediation of the core hole expired years ago, and he has been left without a clear path to have this hazard corrected.
As a private landowner, I believe he should not be responsible for bearing the full cost of correcting a potentially dangerous condition created through historical mining activity. My family is concerned about the safety of his home, his property, and nearby residents. He is currently dealing with his wife that has cancer and is traveling back and forth to Indianapolis In for treatment. Therefore I am requesting your help in this matter.
I respectfully request assistance in:
Determining which government agency or company is legally responsible for correcting this abandoned core hole.
Reviewing whether federal or state funding is available for plugging or relocating the core hole.
Ensuring that all appropriate public safety agencies have investigated the methane migration and documented the incident.
Helping coordinate a long-term solution that protects my family and property.
I have assembled documentation that includes photographs, a timeline of events, agency contacts, and other information regarding this matter. I would be grateful for the opportunity to provide these materials for your review.
Thank you for your time and your commitment to protecting America’s landowners. I respectfully request any assistance or guidance your office can provide.
Sincerely,