By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking nominations from farmers and ranchers to serve on local county committees, pivotal in shaping federal farm policies and programs. Nominations are open until Aug. 1, 2024, with forms accepted via postmark or directly at the local FSA office.
Administrator Zach Ducheneaux emphasized the importance of county committee service in representing diverse agricultural interests and perspectives at the grassroots level.
Committee members, serving three-year terms, play critical roles in disaster recovery efforts, conservation initiatives, and implementing commodity support programs.
Eligible nominees must actively participate in USDA programs and reside within the Local Administrative Area (LAA) undergoing elections this year. This includes cooperating producers who have engaged with FSA, irrespective of benefit receipt.
Nominees can be self-recommended or nominated by qualifying organizations. USDA encourages participation from minority, women, urban, and beginning farmers to ensure diverse representation.
In response to the 2018 Farm Bill, USDA established urban county committees to advance urban agriculture and food access initiatives. These committees focus on promoting sustainable urban agricultural practices and supporting community engagement in composting and food waste reduction.
Interested producers should contact their local FSA office promptly to inquire about election details and access nomination forms at fsa.usda.gov/elections.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National