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A mediator has been trained to work with individuals and organizations in identifying mutually acceptable solutions to shared problems. The mediator is not a judge, but is there to direct the mediation process and stimulate communication between the involved parties. Through the process, there is no finding of right or wrong and the mediator does not impose a solution. The mediator will work with the parties to develop mutually acceptable and feasible options.

Many of our agricultural mediators have additional training related to the kinds of problems related to agricultural production. The process is based on fairness, integrity and the mediator’s skill in helping agricultural producers, agencies, companies and Rhode Island citizens to arrive at their own solutions to their problems.

Conflicts among the above mentioned involving at least one of the following issues:

  • Wetlands determinations
  • Compliance with farm programs, including conservation programs
  • Agricultural loans, either guaranteed by the USDA or a third party (such as lines of credit as suppliers)
  • Rural Water loan programs, rural housing loans, rural housing business loans
  • Grazing on national forest system lands
  • Pesticides
  • USDA crop insurance programs
  • Other issues considered appropriate by the Secretary

Examples of covered cases: John Deere Credit Dispute, Divorce case with involved joint ownership of FSA\FLP loan security.

HOWEVER: Most of the State’s mediation offices also mediate cases that are not covered by the USDA grant. Please contact them!