Q&A
Logan Moss is an associate director of public policy at NASDA, where he leads work on natural resource and conservation issues, including water policy, conservation and natural disaster response. In this interview, Logan explains how the data collected by field enumerators helps shape key environmental policies—and why that work matters now more than ever.
Q: Tell us about your role at NASDA and the main policy areas you oversee.
At NASDA, I serve as an associate director of public policy. I lead policy for our Natural Resources and Environment and Animal Agriculture Committees. In the natural resources portfolio, I oversee work on water, conservation, forestry and a range of environmental policy issues. On the animal agriculture side, I lead policy related to livestock and domestic animals—from animal feed inspection to meat and poultry processing.
Q: Much of your work relates to conservation and protecting natural resources. What drew you to these issues, and what do you find most rewarding?
I’m a lifelong outdoorsman. When I’m not advocating for state departments of agriculture, I enjoy visiting parks, hunting, fishing, kayaking and hiking. I’ve always had a deep love for the outdoors, which makes advocating for America’s natural resources especially meaningful. I also grew up on a small family farm, so working on programs that support farmers—like my parents—in adopting conservation practices that restore and sustain ecosystems is incredibly rewarding.
Q: One challenge in agriculture is balancing environmental protection with the needs of farmers. How does NASDA help navigate that balance in areas like Waters of the U.S. and the Clean Water Act?
Our members—whether elected or appointed—represent the people of their states. Water use is a strong example of a shared priority that affects everyone, from New York City to rural Kansas to the Salinas Valley in California. Water is essential to agriculture, and NASDA works to ensure that water regulations balance environmental protection with the practical needs of farmers and ranchers who depend on it.
Q: How does NASDA use data from NASS surveys—like Agricultural Resource Management Survey or the chemical use survey—to support policy recommendations on conservation, water quality, or sustainability programs?
As an agricultural economist by training, I rely heavily on data to inform decision-making. My go-to resource is the NASS Quick Stats Database, which compiles information from a wide range of NASS surveys. It’s incredibly helpful for finding general “farm facts,” such as indicators of farm financial health and other regional or national trends. This kind of data is particularly useful when preparing for meetings with congressional offices, as it helps paint a clear picture of farm characteristics and production practices in their districts.
For more targeted policy development, surveys like the Agricultural Resource Management Survey are invaluable. One example is this USDA Economic Research Service report that used ARMS field-level data to assess issues in the Conservation Technical Assistance Program. That report has been widely cited by organizations like NASDA when addressing concerns around technical assistance funding and program implementation. Data from ARMS and other NASS sources ensures our policy positions are grounded in solid, empirical evidence.
Q: Can you share a recent example where NASS data played an important role in shaping policy or helping with advocacy efforts?
Groundwater usage is a great example of an issue where NASS—and particularly ARMS—data plays a critical role. This issue is especially important for our western states like California, Arizona, and New Mexico, where freshwater resources are scarce and crop production is often highly irrigation dependent.
Researchers frequently use ARMS data to analyze how different crops impact groundwater depletion and to inform environmental policy related to sustainable water use. These insights help shape both state and federal responses to drought and water access challenges. Frankly, I’m not aware of another dataset that captures this level of detail with the same level of accuracy. That’s a testament to the quality of data collected by NASDA enumerators—and why your work is so essential.
Q: What are some of the most pressing environmental or conservation issues facing farmers and agriculture today, and how is NASDA responding?
Our world is constantly changing, and we’re seeing extreme weather events—hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, and derechos—occur with greater frequency than a century ago. While the farm bill provides a strong safety net, USDA has increasingly relied on ad hoc programs, like the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, funded through the Commodity Credit Corporation to fill gaps. These programs help but are not guaranteed. Farmers need certainty that USDA will be there when natural disasters strike. NASDA is working closely with stakeholders to improve disaster mitigation and recovery tools so farmers can rebound more quickly and with confidence.
Q: How is NASDA working with federal agencies, states, and industry partners to address water quality and availability?
NASDA strongly supports cooperative federalism, which encourages federal agencies to engage with state and local governments in implementing key regulatory programs. One key issue our members have raised concerns about is the redefinition of Waters of the United States. NASDA has met with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to advocate for a WOTUS definition that respects state authority to regulate intrastate, non-navigable waterways. Local oversight allows for more targeted and responsive regulation based on regional needs and conditions—something federal rulemaking often misses.
Q: What future trends or shifts do you see coming in conservation and environmental policy, especially with climate change and renewable energy?
In the previous administration, USDA emphasized expanding conservation practices through initiatives like the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. Many of these programs have since been repealed or restructured to prioritize market access. With nearly 40% of U.S. land used for agriculture, it’s critical to ensure that farmers are part of the conversation on conservation. Moving forward, I hope voluntary conservation programs remain a key focus of federal policy. They play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving environmental health.
Q: What would you say to NASDA enumerators about why their work collecting data is important?
The United States has the most robust and reliable agricultural data system in the world—thanks in large part to the dedicated efforts of our NASDA and USDA NASS enumerators. Your work is foundational to trust in American agricultural data. By 2050, the world population is expected to reach nearly 10 billion, and every one of them will need food. The data you collect helps researchers, policymakers, and agricultural leaders identify challenges, find solutions and ensure a resilient and abundant food supply for the future.
