Lawfare in Agriculture: The Hidden Threat to American Ranchers with Heather Maude

Lawfare in Agriculture: The Hidden Threat to American Ranchers with Heather Maude

From The Heart of Rural America by Amanda Radke

May 6, 2026 · 39 min · Season 1 · Episode 149

About this episode

Amanda Radke interviews rancher Heather Maude about her family's legal battle with federal agencies over land disputes and the implications of lawfare in agriculture.

Takeaways Lawfare is a growing issue impacting farmers and ranchers across America Government overreach can have devastating personal and financial consequences Civic engagement is essential to protect property rights and rural communities In this powerful season premiere, Amanda Radke sits down with rancher Heather Maude to discuss her family’s legal battle with federal agencies over a land dispute that escalated into felony charges. Heather shares how their case became a national example of lawfare in agriculture, the emotional toll it took on her family, and how they ultimately fought back. The episode also explores broader concerns about government accountability, property rights, and the importance of staying engaged in policy decisions that impact rural America. Key Topics Covered: Heather Maude’s legal battle with the USDA and US Forest Service The concept and real-world impact of lawfare in agriculture Property rights and federal overreach The role of political leadership and accountability Advocacy efforts to protect rural landowners The importance of civic engagement in shaping policy Rebuilding life and finding normalcy after a public legal battle Follow Amanda Radke…

People in this episode

Host: Amanda Radke

Guest: Heather Maude

Topics covered

  • lawfare in agriculture
  • government overreach
  • property rights
  • civic engagement
  • rural communities
  • legal battles
  • advocacy efforts

Keywords

  • lawfare
  • agriculture
  • ranchers
  • government accountability
  • property rights
  • civic engagement
  • legal battle
  • federal overreach
  • rural America

Sponsors

Bid on Beef, CK6 Consulting, CK6 Source, Real Tuff Livestock Equipment, Redmond RealSalt, Dirt Road Radio, All American A

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: USDA, US Forest Service

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