Guam agriculture grows as Congress considers bill to expand rural development oversight

Guam’s agriculture has had steady growth over the past few years. According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture in Guam, the number of farms increased from 264 in 2018 to 583 in 2022. Additionally, the total value of sales increased from $3,842,853 in 2018 to $6,162,085 in 2022. The report also reflects growth in small-scale farming: the average farm size decreased from 9.2 acres in 2018 to 4.9 acres in 2023. These smaller farms tend to use more sustainable practices, leading to a more environmentally friendly Guam. However, it is important to note that many of the reported changes can be attributed to improved data collection methods. This increased accuracy enables officials to better address the needs of agricultural businesses in Guam. 

As such, HR 6063, the Designating the Guam and Western Pacific USDA Rural Development Office Act, sponsored by Representative James Moylan (R), was introduced on November 17, 2025, to dedicate a committee to oversee the agricultural and rural development of Guam. It was assigned to the  US House Committee on Agriculture, which will review it before it is sent to the House. The bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture and the Undersecretary for Rural Development to designate the Guam and Western Pacific United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development office. USDA is responsible for supplying states with resources for disaster, housing, business support, water/wastewater, energy, internet, and electricity infrastructure. The office would represent USDA Rural Development in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Palau, and the Federated States of Micronesia. This bill also ensures that the office will obtain the same rights and responsibilities as the USDA Rural Development office for any state. 

If passed, HR 6063 would strengthen the United States’ ability to address the agricultural and rural development issues and needs of the regions mentioned. Some issues include a lack of nutrients in the soil and erosion. According to soil scientist Christianah Oladoye, soil that has few nutrients “threatens our ability to grow nutritious food, maintain clean water, and support resilient, sustainable communities.” In addition, Guam faces climate vulnerability and limited infrastructure.  The committee’s help and funds to address these issues could mean a healthier and more nutrient-rich life for all Guam residents.