EPA Restructures to Refocus on Core Mission and Science Priorities
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a major reduction in force (RIF) as part of its broader restructuring strategy, marking a significant shift in the agency’s approach to science, research, and regulatory support. This realignment is projected to save $748.8 million and will primarily affect the Office of Research and Development.
The reduction comes as the EPA continues to implement its newly established Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions. According to the agency, this new office will place science and research at the forefront of federal rulemaking and technical assistance to states, aligning EPA functions more closely with statutory obligations and environmental outcomes.
Administrator Zeldin: “Responsible Stewards of Tax Dollars”
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin emphasized the Trump Administration’s leadership in driving efficiency across the agency.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, EPA has taken a close look at our operations to ensure the agency is better equipped than ever to deliver on our core mission of protecting human health and the environment while Powering the Great American Comeback,” said Zeldin. “This reduction in force will ensure we can better fulfill that mission while being responsible stewards of your hard-earned tax dollars.”
Workforce Reduction and Departmental Changes
As of January 2025, the EPA had 16,155 employees. That number has since been reduced to 12,448, achieved through a combination of voluntary retirements, separations, and formal RIF actions.
In an earlier phase of restructuring this year, the EPA terminated its Environmental Justice and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offices. That decision removed 280 positions, while 195 additional employees performing statutory and mission-essential functions were reassigned to other divisions.
What This Means for Agriculture
While the RIF is primarily targeted at internal restructuring, agricultural stakeholders should pay close attention. The emphasis on applied science and streamlined rulemaking may accelerate EPA regulatory timelines, particularly those affecting water quality, pesticide approvals, and climate-related programs in rural and farming regions.
The agricultural community—often impacted by EPA decisions on herbicide and pesticide use, air quality standards, and conservation compliance—could see changes in how quickly new science influences regulation.
Stay informed with Southeast AgNet as this story develops and as EPA’s new framework takes shape.
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