Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on Ongoing Violence in America | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: May 25, 2022
Washington, May 25, 2022 - - “Another massacre in America. A statement that is all too common and one we all wish to never speak again. Last week it was a church in California and a grocery store in Buffalo. Yesterday, it was an elementary school in Texas. It’s enough. We cannot and should not be willing to live with this carnage.
“I know the pain that a family feels when a child is lost. My heart aches again at the news of so many young lives needlessly cut short. Time and time again parents and loved ones grapple with the heartbreaking, the unbearable, and the unthinkable in this country. One time is far too many.
“I know the contribution that a teacher can make and how tragic it is so many young lives will never be inspired to lea...
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Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on Ongoing Violence in America
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Statement from Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on President Biden's Actions to Address Infant Formula Shortage
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on President Biden's Actions to Address Infant Formula Shortage | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: May 18, 2022
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on President Biden's Actions to Address Infant Formula ShortageWashington, May 18, 2022 - - “We know that this situation is causing stress and anxiety for many families across the country and President Biden has said that this administration will do everything in its power to ensure babies and families have access to the formula that they need. As the President directed, the Department of Agriculture will immediately begin coordinating with the Department of Defense and expand its coordination with our Health and Human Services counterparts to get safe formula on store shelves as quickly as possible. "At USDA, we take seriously our role in saf...
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U.S. Department of Agriculture Continues Urgent Actions to Address Infant Formula Shortage
U.S. Department of Agriculture Continues Urgent Actions to Address Infant Formula Shortage | site |
Urges states to adopt flexibilities to support families amid recall
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: May 13, 2022
Washington, May 13, 2022 - - As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s coordinated drive to end the infant formula shortage, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is urging states to take advantage of flexibilities the department is offering in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, commonly known as WIC, to help families get the safe formula they need. “We’re acutely aware that the ongoing recall has left many parents and caregivers concerned about access to formula and how they will feed their babies,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Our team is committed to the health and safety ... -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Renews People’s Garden Initiative
U.S. Department of Agriculture Renews People’s Garden Initiative | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: May 3, 2022 Washington, May 3, 2022 - - Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack planted a tree to announce the reopening of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) People’s Garden Initiative. People’s Gardens across the country will grow fresh, healthy food and support resilient, local food systems; teach people how to garden using conservation practices; nurture habitat for pollinators and wildlife and create greenspace for neighbors. The garden at USDA headquarters in Washington, D.C. will be joined by 17 flagship gardens located in urban communities nationwide. “The simple act of planting a garden can have big impacts – from building a more diversified and resilient local food system to empowering communities to come together around healthy food access, cl... -
USDA Farmers Market Reopens for 25th Market Season
U.S. Department of Agriculture Farmers Market Reopens for 25th Market Season | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: April 18, 2022 Washington, Apr. 18, 2022 - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the reopening of the USDA Farmers Market for its 25th market season. The annual Friday market will reopen on Friday, May 6, 2022, and run through Friday, Oct. 28, 2022. The market will be open from 9 a.m. EDT to 2 p.m. EDT on Fridays. “The reopening of the USDA’s Farmer’s market for its 25th market season is an opportunity to celebrate the important role that farmers markets continue to play in meeting the growing demand for local fresh and healthy food produced by local farmers, ranchers and processors,” said Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewel Bronaugh. “The USDA Farmers Market provides an opportunity to highlight the agricultural diversity of the C... -
U.S Department of Agriculture Announces Intent to Establish Subcommittee on Rural Community Economic Development for its Equity Commission
U.S Department of Agriculture Announces Intent to Establish Subcommittee on Rural Community Economic Development for its Equity Commission | site |
USDA also seeks nominations for subcommittee
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: April 7, 2022
Washington, April 7, 2022 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it will establish a Rural Community Economic Development (RCED) Subcommittee as part of the recently launched Equity Commission. Nominations and applications for membership to the RCED Subcommittee are due on May 6.
The Federal Register Notice is another important step towards fully implementing President Biden’s commitment to create an Equity Commission and the American Rescue Plan Act provision that directs USDA to “address historical discrimination and disparities in the agriculture sector… [through] one... -
U.S. Department of Agriculture to Provide Payments to Livestock Producers Impacted by Drought or Wildfire
U.S. Department of Agriculture to Provide Payments to Livestock Producers Impacted by Drought or Wildfire | site |
New Emergency Livestock Relief benefits to be delivered through two-phased approach; compensation for 2021 forage losses
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: March 31, 2022
Washington - - March 31, 2022 – The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that ranchers who have approved applications through the 2021 Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) for forage losses due to severe drought or wildfire in 2021 will soon begin receiving emergency relief payments for increases in supplemental feed costs in 2021 through the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) new Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP). “Producers of grazing livestock experienced catastrophic losses of available forage as well as higher costs for supplemental feed in 2021. Unfortunately, the conditions ... -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Publishes Origin of Livestock Final Rule for Organic Dairy
U.S. Department of Agriculture Publishes Origin of Livestock Final Rule for Organic Dairy | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: March 29, 2022 Washington, March 29, 2022 - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the highly anticipated Origin of Livestock (OOL) final rule for organic dairy. This change to the USDA organic regulations will promote a fairer and more competitive market for all organic dairy producers, by making sure that certified USDA organic dairy products are produced to the same consistent standard. “This action demonstrates the USDA’s strong commitment to America’s organic dairy farmers,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “The Origin of Livestock final rule provides clear and uniform standards about how and when livestock may be transitioned to organic dairy production, and how transitioned animals are managed within the orga... -
Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Canada’s Suspension of Potatoes from Prince Edward Island, Canada, to the United States
Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Canada’s Suspension of Potatoes from Prince Edward Island, Canada, to the United States |site
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: November 22, 2021) Washington, Nov. 22, 2021 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) commends Canada for implementing the necessary plant health (phytosanitary) measures to safeguard against the transmission of potato wart disease from Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, to the United States. “I appreciate Canada’s action to suspend the movement of all potatoes from Prince Edward Island to the United States,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Our risk assessment demonstrated that this action is necessary to protect U.S. potato producers from possible exposure to the Federally designated select agent Synchytrium endobioticum, commonly known as potato wart. We look forward to working with the Can... -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: August 10, 2021)
Washington, August 10, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold key staff positions in Washington, D.C.
John Rapp was named Director of the Office of Budget and Program Analysis. Previously, he held the role in an acting capacity while simultaneously serving as the Budget Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Evaluation Office, and Performance Improvement Officer. Prior to being named in the acting role, Rapp served as the director of Strategic Planning, Budget and Accountability for the Forest Service. He also served as the Assistant Director for Formulation, Performance, and Strategic Planning and, before that, as the Performance Management Branch Chief. Prior to his career with the Forest Service,... -
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices Final Rule
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices Final Rule | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 17, 2021) Washington, June 17, 2021 - - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack released the following statement today in regard to the Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices (OLPP) final rule: “We intend to reconsider the prior Administration’s interpretation that the Organic Foods Production Act does not authorize USDA to regulate the practices that were the subject of the 2017 Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices (OLPP) final rule. I have directed the National Organic Program to begin a rulemaking to address this statutory interpretation and to include a proposal to disallow the use of porches as outdoor space in organic production over time and on other topics that were the subject of the OLPP final rule. We anticipate sen... -
Statement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Intent to Nominate Representative Xochitl Torres Small to Serve as Under Secretary for Rural Development
Statement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Intent to Nominate Representative Xochitl Torres Small to Serve as Under Secretary for Rural Development | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 18, 2021)
Statement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Intent to Nominate Representative Xochitl Torres Small to Serve as Under Secretary for Rural Development
Washington, June 18, 2021 – “Representative Xochitl Torres Small’s nomination to serve as Under Secretary for Rural Development reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to advancing rural prosperity. Her nomination is responsive to rural stakeholders and Congress; both have emphasized the importance of having a dedicated advocate for rural communities among the Department’s Subcabinet. As the daughter of migrant farm workers and a native of rural New Mexico, Torres Small represents the heart... -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Selects 2021 Class of E. Kika De La Garza Fellows
U.S. Department of Agriculture Selects 2021 Class of E. Kika De La Garza Fellows | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 17, 2021) Washington, June 17, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the selection of 25 faculty and staff from Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) across the nation as 2021 E. Kika De La Garza Fellows. This summer fellowship program offers experiences in policymaking and research through direct interaction with every USDA agency. “These fellowships have multiple benefits for minority-serving higher education institutions,” said Lisa Ramirez, director of USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement. “The fellows get valuable professional development, they meet federal staff for long-term collaboration opportunities, and then they share what they learned with students and colleagues at their home institutions.” The f... -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Expands Cooperative Interstate Shipment Program for Meat Processors to 9 States with Addition of South Dakota
U.S. Department of Agriculture Expands Cooperative Interstate Shipment Program for Meat Processors to 9 States with Addition of South Dakota | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: June 10, 2021) Washington, June 10, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the State of South Dakota have finalized a Cooperative Interstate Shipment (CIS) agreement, which provides an opportunity for selected state-inspected meat and poultry processors to ship their products across state lines. Under the CIS agreement, the State of South Dakota may inspect meat in selected establishments for shipment throughout the United States. The CIS program was launched in 2012 under Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack after being authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill. Currently, 9 states participate in the program to promote the expansion of business opportunities for state... -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 7, 2021)
Washington, June 7, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Sanah Baig was named Chief of Staff for Research, Education, and Economics. Baig most recently served as Chief of Staff at the Good Food Institute, a global non-profit, and also served as program director at the National Association of Counties. During the Obama-Biden Administration, she served for nearly six years in a variety of capacities at USDA including serving as an advisor in the Office of the Secretary, special advisor in Rural Development, and confidential assistant in the Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) mission area. Baig is a proud graduate of the University of Virginia...
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Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on Ongoing Violence in America | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: May 25, 2022 Washington, May 25, 2022 - - “Another massacre in America. A statement that is all too common and one we all wish to never speak again. Last week it was a church in California and a grocery store in Buffalo. Yesterday, it was an elementary school in Texas. It’s enough. We cannot and should not be willing to live with this carnage. “I know the pain that a family feels when a child is lost. My heart aches again at the news of so many young lives needlessly cut short. Time and time again parents and loved ones grapple with the heartbreaking, the unbearable, and the unthinkable in this country. One time is far too many. “I know the contribution that a teacher can make and how tragic it is so many young lives will never be inspired to lea...06-03-2022, 02:13 PM -
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on President Biden's Actions to Address Infant Formula Shortage | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: May 18, 2022
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on President Biden's Actions to Address Infant Formula ShortageWashington, May 18, 2022 - - “We know that this situation is causing stress and anxiety for many families across the country and President Biden has said that this administration will do everything in its power to ensure babies and families have access to the formula that they need. As the President directed, the Department of Agriculture will immediately begin coordinating with the Department of Defense and expand its coordination with our Health and Human Services counterparts to get safe formula on store shelves as quickly as possible. "At USDA, we take seriously our role in saf...
05-25-2022, 12:29 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Continues Urgent Actions to Address Infant Formula Shortage | site |
Urges states to adopt flexibilities to support families amid recall
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: May 13, 2022
Washington, May 13, 2022 - - As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s coordinated drive to end the infant formula shortage, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is urging states to take advantage of flexibilities the department is offering in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, commonly known as WIC, to help families get the safe formula they need. “We’re acutely aware that the ongoing recall has left many parents and caregivers concerned about access to formula and how they will feed their babies,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Our team is committed to the health and safety ...05-17-2022, 01:23 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Renews People’s Garden Initiative | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: May 3, 2022 Washington, May 3, 2022 - - Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack planted a tree to announce the reopening of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) People’s Garden Initiative. People’s Gardens across the country will grow fresh, healthy food and support resilient, local food systems; teach people how to garden using conservation practices; nurture habitat for pollinators and wildlife and create greenspace for neighbors. The garden at USDA headquarters in Washington, D.C. will be joined by 17 flagship gardens located in urban communities nationwide. “The simple act of planting a garden can have big impacts – from building a more diversified and resilient local food system to empowering communities to come together around healthy food access, cl...05-05-2022, 03:38 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Farmers Market Reopens for 25th Market Season | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: April 18, 2022 Washington, Apr. 18, 2022 - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the reopening of the USDA Farmers Market for its 25th market season. The annual Friday market will reopen on Friday, May 6, 2022, and run through Friday, Oct. 28, 2022. The market will be open from 9 a.m. EDT to 2 p.m. EDT on Fridays. “The reopening of the USDA’s Farmer’s market for its 25th market season is an opportunity to celebrate the important role that farmers markets continue to play in meeting the growing demand for local fresh and healthy food produced by local farmers, ranchers and processors,” said Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewel Bronaugh. “The USDA Farmers Market provides an opportunity to highlight the agricultural diversity of the C...04-29-2022, 08:54 PM -
U.S Department of Agriculture Announces Intent to Establish Subcommittee on Rural Community Economic Development for its Equity Commission | site |
USDA also seeks nominations for subcommittee
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: April 7, 2022
Washington, April 7, 2022 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it will establish a Rural Community Economic Development (RCED) Subcommittee as part of the recently launched Equity Commission. Nominations and applications for membership to the RCED Subcommittee are due on May 6.
The Federal Register Notice is another important step towards fully implementing President Biden’s commitment to create an Equity Commission and the American Rescue Plan Act provision that directs USDA to “address historical discrimination and disparities in the agriculture sector… [through] one...04-13-2022, 01:44 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture to Provide Payments to Livestock Producers Impacted by Drought or Wildfire | site |
New Emergency Livestock Relief benefits to be delivered through two-phased approach; compensation for 2021 forage losses
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: March 31, 2022
Washington - - March 31, 2022 – The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that ranchers who have approved applications through the 2021 Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) for forage losses due to severe drought or wildfire in 2021 will soon begin receiving emergency relief payments for increases in supplemental feed costs in 2021 through the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) new Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP). “Producers of grazing livestock experienced catastrophic losses of available forage as well as higher costs for supplemental feed in 2021. Unfortunately, the conditions ...04-11-2022, 11:56 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Publishes Origin of Livestock Final Rule for Organic Dairy | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) press release dated: March 29, 2022 Washington, March 29, 2022 - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the highly anticipated Origin of Livestock (OOL) final rule for organic dairy. This change to the USDA organic regulations will promote a fairer and more competitive market for all organic dairy producers, by making sure that certified USDA organic dairy products are produced to the same consistent standard. “This action demonstrates the USDA’s strong commitment to America’s organic dairy farmers,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “The Origin of Livestock final rule provides clear and uniform standards about how and when livestock may be transitioned to organic dairy production, and how transitioned animals are managed within the orga...04-04-2022, 11:30 PM -
Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Canada’s Suspension of Potatoes from Prince Edward Island, Canada, to the United States |site
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: November 22, 2021) Washington, Nov. 22, 2021 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) commends Canada for implementing the necessary plant health (phytosanitary) measures to safeguard against the transmission of potato wart disease from Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, to the United States. “I appreciate Canada’s action to suspend the movement of all potatoes from Prince Edward Island to the United States,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Our risk assessment demonstrated that this action is necessary to protect U.S. potato producers from possible exposure to the Federally designated select agent Synchytrium endobioticum, commonly known as potato wart. We look forward to working with the Can...11-24-2021, 11:45 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: August 10, 2021)
Washington, August 10, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold key staff positions in Washington, D.C.
John Rapp was named Director of the Office of Budget and Program Analysis. Previously, he held the role in an acting capacity while simultaneously serving as the Budget Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Evaluation Office, and Performance Improvement Officer. Prior to being named in the acting role, Rapp served as the director of Strategic Planning, Budget and Accountability for the Forest Service. He also served as the Assistant Director for Formulation, Performance, and Strategic Planning and, before that, as the Performance Management Branch Chief. Prior to his career with the Forest Service,...08-14-2021, 11:13 AM -
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices Final Rule | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 17, 2021) Washington, June 17, 2021 - - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack released the following statement today in regard to the Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices (OLPP) final rule: “We intend to reconsider the prior Administration’s interpretation that the Organic Foods Production Act does not authorize USDA to regulate the practices that were the subject of the 2017 Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices (OLPP) final rule. I have directed the National Organic Program to begin a rulemaking to address this statutory interpretation and to include a proposal to disallow the use of porches as outdoor space in organic production over time and on other topics that were the subject of the OLPP final rule. We anticipate sen...06-23-2021, 05:52 AM -
Statement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Intent to Nominate Representative Xochitl Torres Small to Serve as Under Secretary for Rural Development | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 18, 2021)
Statement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Intent to Nominate Representative Xochitl Torres Small to Serve as Under Secretary for Rural Development
Washington, June 18, 2021 – “Representative Xochitl Torres Small’s nomination to serve as Under Secretary for Rural Development reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to advancing rural prosperity. Her nomination is responsive to rural stakeholders and Congress; both have emphasized the importance of having a dedicated advocate for rural communities among the Department’s Subcabinet. As the daughter of migrant farm workers and a native of rural New Mexico, Torres Small represents the heart...06-22-2021, 02:09 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Selects 2021 Class of E. Kika De La Garza Fellows | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 17, 2021) Washington, June 17, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the selection of 25 faculty and staff from Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) across the nation as 2021 E. Kika De La Garza Fellows. This summer fellowship program offers experiences in policymaking and research through direct interaction with every USDA agency. “These fellowships have multiple benefits for minority-serving higher education institutions,” said Lisa Ramirez, director of USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement. “The fellows get valuable professional development, they meet federal staff for long-term collaboration opportunities, and then they share what they learned with students and colleagues at their home institutions.” The f...06-18-2021, 04:30 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Expands Cooperative Interstate Shipment Program for Meat Processors to 9 States with Addition of South Dakota | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: June 10, 2021) Washington, June 10, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the State of South Dakota have finalized a Cooperative Interstate Shipment (CIS) agreement, which provides an opportunity for selected state-inspected meat and poultry processors to ship their products across state lines. Under the CIS agreement, the State of South Dakota may inspect meat in selected establishments for shipment throughout the United States. The CIS program was launched in 2012 under Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack after being authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill. Currently, 9 states participate in the program to promote the expansion of business opportunities for state...06-16-2021, 01:58 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: June 7, 2021)
Washington, June 7, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Sanah Baig was named Chief of Staff for Research, Education, and Economics. Baig most recently served as Chief of Staff at the Good Food Institute, a global non-profit, and also served as program director at the National Association of Counties. During the Obama-Biden Administration, she served for nearly six years in a variety of capacities at USDA including serving as an advisor in the Office of the Secretary, special advisor in Rural Development, and confidential assistant in the Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) mission area. Baig is a proud graduate of the University of Virginia...06-10-2021, 05:48 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Launches 2021 Feds Feed Families Nationwide Food Drive | site |
Website makes it easy to participate, measure donations, and share success stories
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: June 1, 2021) Washington, June 1, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today kicked off the 12th annual government-wide Feds Feed Families (FFF) campaign, which encourages employees from all federal departments and agencies to give in-kind contributions -- food, services, and time -- to food banks and pantries. This year’s campaign highlights a summer of giving in June through August, along with seasonal reminders to donate throughout the year. “Feeding the hungry is perhaps the most critical job we have,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “As the lead agency for this federal-wide food drive, I encourage all federal employees across the country to participate ...06-08-2021, 10:16 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Releases 90-Day Progress Report on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: May 20, 2021)
Washington, May 20, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today published the 90-Day Progress Report on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry. The report represents an important step toward in President Biden’s Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad and shift towards a whole-of-department approach to climate solutions. The Order, signed January 27, states that, “America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners have an important role to play in combating the climate crisis and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, by sequestering carbon in soils, grasses, trees, and other vegetation and sourcing sustainable bioproducts and fuels.” “With the right tools and partnerships, American agriculture an...05-28-2021, 07:45 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Leadership in Natural Resources and Conservation Areas | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: May 19, 2021)
Washington, May 19, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today the appointment of Meryl Harrell as Deputy Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) and the appointment of Terry Cosby as Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). They will begin their positions on Monday, May 24. Meryl Harrell most recently served as the Executive Director of the Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards. She has also served as a consultant, advising non-profits, foundations, and government agencies working to conserve America's public and private working lands. During the Obama-Biden Administration, Harrell spent eight years in the Office of Natural Resources and Environment at USDA, including serving as Chief of...05-20-2021, 02:59 AM -
USDA says Interior and Agriculture Departments Outline Wildland Fire Preparedness, Climate Resiliency Plans | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: May 13, 2021)
Washington, May 13, 2021 - - Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack today shared their vision for the Biden-Harris administration’s wildland fire preparedness and response, including supporting science and research into the effects of climate change on wildland fire.
Secretaries Haaland and Vilsack outlined their goals for wildland fire management in a joint memo to wildland fire leadership. Paramount to this issue is promoting climate resiliency across landscapes and communities, modernizing the firefighter workforce while creating good jobs, and protecting the safety and long-term wellbeing of our wildland firefighters and incident responders. “With so little r...05-19-2021, 12:44 AM -
Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Confirmation of Dr. Jewel Bronaugh as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: May 13, 2021) Washington, May 13, 2021 - - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack issued the following statement on the confirmation of Dr. Jewel Bronaugh as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture: “I am grateful for today's confirmation of Jewel Bronaugh as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dr. Bronaugh’s confirmation is historic, as she will serve as the first Black woman and woman of color to serve as Deputy Secretary. Dr. Bronaugh has a long, distinguished career as an educator and champion for farmers and rural communities. Most recently as the 16th Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services she worked to expand opportunities...05-13-2021, 10:46 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: May 11, 2021)
Washington, May 11, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold key staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Kate Waters was named Press Secretary in the Office of Communications. Recently, Waters served as the Communications Director on the re-election campaign of Senator Mark Warner. She previously served as the traveling Press Secretary for Kamala Harris for the People and as Digital Director and Deputy Press Secretary in the office of Senator Kamala Harris. Additionally, she has held roles with Abby Finkenauer for Congress, Hillary for America, and in the office of Senator Tom Harkin. Waters is a graduate of James Madison University.
Eddie Shimkus was named Legislative Advisor in the Office of...05-12-2021, 04:48 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press released dated: February 22, 2021)
Washington, Feb. 22, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Maribel Duran was named Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations in the Office of the Secretary. Duran recently served as Managing Director for Equity and Inclusion for the Aspen Institute, as well as Chief of Staff for its Leadership Division. From 2018-2019, she was co-chair of the Institute’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council. Previously, Duran served eight years in the Obama Administration, first as Special Assistant to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, then as Chief of Staff for the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics, and ultimately as Chief of Staff...02-25-2021, 07:06 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Leadership in Farm Production and Conservation Mission Area | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: February 19, 2021) Washington, Feb. 19, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today the appointment of Gloria Montaño Greene as Deputy Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) and the appointment of Zach Ducheneaux as Administrator of the Farm Service Agency (FSA). They will begin their positions on Monday, Feb. 22. Montaño Greene is a former State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency in Arizona from 2014-2017, a position she was appointed to by President Obama. With FSA in Arizona, Montaño Greene led implementation of the 2013 Farm Bill programs across the state. Currently, she serves as Deputy Director for Chispa Arizona, a program of the League of Conservation Voters focused on the empowerment of Latino voices in Ari...02-22-2021, 09:49 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture extends General Signup for Conservation Reserve Program | site |
Biden Administration Considers Changes to Bolster Effectiveness of Program and Recommits to Making CRP a Cornerstone of Conservation Programming
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: February 5, 2021)
Washington, Feb. 5, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is extending the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General Signup period, which had previously been announced as ending on Feb. 12, 2021. USDA will continue to accept offers as it takes this opportunity for the incoming Administration to evaluate ways to increase enrollment. Under the previous Administration, incentives and rental payment rates were reduced resulting in an enrollment shortfall of over 4 million acres. The program, administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), provides annual rental payments...02-09-2021, 09:54 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: February 4, 2021)
Washington, Feb. 4, 2021 - - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Anne Knapke was named Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations. Most recently, Knapke was a Senior Program Officer focusing on nutrition at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Prior to working at the Gates Foundation, Knapke served as Legislative Director for Senator Amy Klobuchar. Knapke holds a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University and master’s degrees in public policy and social service administration from the University of Chicago.
Liz Archuleta was named Director in the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. Archuleta served as a County Supervisor for...02-08-2021, 09:33 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 27, 2021)
Washington, Jan. 27, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold key staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Rebecca Piazza was named Senior Advisor for Delivery in the Office of the Under Secretary for the Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Program Delivery at Nava Public Benefit Corporation. Previously, Piazza was the Acting Executive Director of 18F, a digital services agency within the General Services Administration (GSA), and was a technology consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton. Piazza holds a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University in Louisiana.
Steffanie Bezruki was named Chief of Staff in Rural Business Services. During nearly seven...01-29-2021, 01:58 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Heather Dawn Thompson as Director, Office of Tribal Relations | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 25, 2021) Washington, Jan. 25, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the appointment of Heather Dawn Thompson as Director of the Office of Tribal Relations (OTR) reporting to the Secretary of Agriculture. Thompson is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, a Harvard Law School graduate, and an expert in American Indian law, tribal sovereignty, and rural tribal economic development. With Thompson in place, USDA will return OTR directly under the Secretary, restoring the office’s important government-to-government role. Most recently, Thompson served a member of the American Indian Law Practice Group at Greenberg Traurig, where she worked on federal Indian law and Tribal agriculture. Thompson has a long record of public...01-26-2021, 03:51 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Three Deputy Under Secretaries in the Areas of Nutrition, Rural Development and Marketing and Regulatory Programs | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 21, 2021)
Washington, Jan. 21, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced three senior appointments today.
USDA announced that nutrition policy expert Stacy Dean has been named Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services (FNCS). Prior to joining USDA, Dean served as Vice President for Food Assistance Policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities in Washington, D.C. She directed the Center’s food assistance team, which publishes frequent reports on how federal nutrition programs affect families and communities and develops policies to improve them. She joined the Center in 1997 and has deep experience understanding the delivery of health...01-23-2021, 11:41 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 20, 2021)
Washington, Jan. 20, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Katharine Ferguson was named Chief of Staff in the Office of the Secretary. Most recently, Ferguson served as Associate Director of the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group. Before joining the Aspen Institute, Ferguson served in the Obama Administration as Chief of Staff for the White House Domestic Policy Council and as Chief of Staff for Rural Development at USDA. Ferguson also worked on the Senate Agriculture Committee and as staff to several U.S. Senators. Other work experience has focused on topics ranging from racial equity, community economic development, conservation, food and agriculture,...01-20-2021, 08:27 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture says Trump Administration Invests $4.6 Million in High-Speed Broadband in Rural Georgia | site |
ReConnect Funding to Connect 1,326 Rural Georgia Households to High-Speed Internet e-Connectivity
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release: January 7, 2021)
Claxton, Ga., Jan. 7, 2021 - - The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $4.6 million to provide broadband service in unserved and underserved rural areas in Georgia. This investment is part of the $550 million Congress allocated to the second round of the ReConnect Program. “The need for rural broadband has never been more apparent than it is now – as our nation manages the coronavirus national emergency. Access to telehealth services, remote learning for school children, and remote business operations all require access to broadband,” U.S. Secret...01-07-2021, 03:57 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Announces Groundbreaking Proposal to Transfer Agricultural Animal Biotechnology Regulatory Framework to USDA| site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release: December 21, 2020)
(Washington, D.C., December 21, 2020) – Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced a significant step in modernizing regulations of agricultural animals modified or produced by genetic engineering. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be moving forward with an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) to solicit public input and feedback on a contemplated regulatory framework that would modernize our system into a scientifically-sound, risk-based, and predictable process that facilitates the development and use of these technologies for U.S. farmers and ranchers under USDA’s authorities. This initiative follows President Donald Trump’s Executive Order on agricultural biotechnology...12-22-2020, 01:29 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture and NASA Sign Agreement to Improve Agricultural, Earth Science Research | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release: December 17, 2020) (Washington, D.C., December 17, 2020) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture and NASA have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening their longstanding partnership on space-based assets benefitting life on Earth. The agreement brings together NASA’s experience with technology development and space-borne Earth science measurements and USDA’s scientific experience and knowledge of agricultural production, resource conservation, food security and safety, and forests and working lands. USDA and NASA will explore research gaps of importance to the agricultural community that could be addressed through innovative Earth observation systems and technologies developed over the next decade. The collaboration also will address recommendations m...12-18-2020, 09:13 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Joint Final Rule Regarding Equal Treatment of Faith-Based Organizations USDA-Supported Social Service Programs | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release: December 14, 2020) (Washington, D.C., December 14, 2020) – Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a joint final rule with eight other Agencies—the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Labor, the Department of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Agency for International Development, and the Department of Veterans Affairs—to implement President Trump’s Executive Order No. 13831, on the Establishment of a White House Faith and Opportunity Initiative (May 3, 2018). This rule ensures that religious and non-religious organizations are treated equally in USDA-supported programs, and it clar...12-15-2020, 07:17 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Chief Economist Dr. Robert Johansson to Depart site |
USDA says Dr. Seth Meyer Picked as New Chief Economist
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release: December 14, 2020)
(Washington, D.C., December 14, 2020) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced that U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Chief Economist, Robert Johansson, will be leaving USDA to become Associate Director of Economics and Policy Analysis for the American Sugar Alliance at the end of January. Additionally, the Secretary announced Dr. Seth Meyer will return to USDA to be the new Chief Economist. “There is no doubt that I as well as the whole USDA family will miss Rob’s experience, preparedness, and direct economic analyses,” said Secretary Perdue. “During his tenure as Chief Economist, Rob has been an upstanding public servant. Rob helped set up and serve as Ac...12-15-2020, 06:56 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Shares Easy At-Home Advice for Handling Food Safely this Thanksgiving | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release: November 23, 2020) (Washington, D.C., November 23, 2020) – This week, Americans will enjoy a delicious meal on Thanksgiving Day with family and friends – either in person or virtually. Taking the necessary steps toward safe food handling and sanitation will help protect you and your loved ones this year. To make sure your Thanksgiving meal is prepared safely, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering food safety advice to reduce foodborne illness, including on Thanksgiving Day. “Our data shows that consumers can reduce their likelihood of foodborne illness by focusing on good hand hygiene and other food safety practices,” said Dr. Mindy Brashears, USDA’s Under Secretary for Food Safety. “As home chefs nationwide prepare their Thanksgiving meals, proper handwashi...11-23-2020, 06:26 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Opens Registration for the 2021 Agricultural Outlook Forum| site |
The 2021 Forum Will Be Virtual and Registration Is Free
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release: November 18, 2020)
Washington, D.C., November 18, 2020 - - Registration is now open for the 97th annual Agricultural Outlook Forum (AOF), the largest annual meeting and premiere event of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The two-day Forum will take place on Feb. 18-19, 2021. Due to COVID-19 and current restrictions on large gatherings in the Washington, D.C. area, USDA will hold the 2021 Forum virtually for the first time and registration will be free for the event.
The 2021 Forum, themed “Building on Innovation: A Pathway to Resilience,” builds on USDA’s Agriculture Innovation Agenda, launched earlier this year to align USDA’s resources, programs, and research toward the goal of increasing...11-21-2020, 02:40 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture: USDA Forest Service Announces Key Changes to NEPA Procedures | site |
(November 18, 2020) - - On November 18, 2020 the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the following information: WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2020 – The USDA Forest Service today announced the publication of a final rule implementing key changes to its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations. The changes include new tools and flexibilities to tackle critical land management challenges as part of a broader agency effort to better serve the American people through timely, high-quality management decisions affecting infrastructure, permitting and restoration of natural resources on their national forests and grasslands. “These changes will ensure we do the appropriate level of environmental analysis to fit the work, locations and conditions,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. “The new categorical exclusions will ultimately improve...11-19-2020, 12:50 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture announces OneUSDA Internship Program for Summer 2021 | site |
(November 9, 2020) - - On November 9, 2020 the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: (Washington, D.C., November 9, 2020) – Get the first leg up on your career ladder with a summer 2021 internship at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). As part of the federal Pathways Program, USDA offers paid federal internships at USDA agencies and offices around the country. USDA is hiring interns from high school to graduate level for a broad range of occupational fields, from veterinary science, to engineering, to natural resources management, and finance. This developmental program gives students experience to enhance their educational goals and shape their career choices. USDA internships involve on-the-job experience, mentorship, and training tailored to the student’s education, experience, and interests. The program is available to student...11-09-2020, 05:52 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on DOL's H2A Wage Rule | site |
(November 2, 2020) - - Today, November 2, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the following information:
(Washington, D.C., November 2, 2020) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today praised the Department of Labor’s (DOL) new H2A Wage Rule, which delivers on President Trump’s promise to stabilize farm labor costs and reform the H-2A wage rate. “This rule shows once again President Trump’s commitment to America’s farmers by delivering lower costs when they need it the most,” said Secretary Perdue. “Over the past several years farm wages have increased at a higher pace than other industries, which is why this DOL rule could not come at a better time. This is an example of good government that will ensure greater stability for farmers and help them make long term business decisions rather than facing uncertainty year after ...11-05-2020, 01:57 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Exempts Tongass National Forest from the 2001 Roadless Rule | site |
(October 28, 2020) - - Today, October 28, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: WASHINGTON, Oct. 28, 2020 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced a final Alaska Roadless Rule that exempts the Tongass National Forest from the 2001 provision that prohibited road construction, road reconstruction and timber harvests. The Record of Decision identifies the selected alternative, provides the rationale for the decision, and explains that the exemption does not authorize any specific projects in Alaska. Proposed projects must continue to comply with the 2016 Tongass Land Management Plan and be analyzed under the National Environmental Policy Act. The official notice is scheduled for publication in the Federal Register on Oct. 29, 2020. A copy of the final Alaska Roadless Rule and the Record of Decision als...10-30-2020, 09:11 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on President Trump’s Trillion Trees Executive Order| site |
(October 13, 2020) - - Today, October 13, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: (Washington, D.C., October 13, 2020) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue issued the following statement following President Trump signing the Executive Order Establishing the One Trillion Trees Interagency Council: “The Trillion Tree Executive Order signed today by President Trump further demonstrates the Administration’s commitment and leadership in ensuring our national forests are healthy and productive so they can continue to meet the needs of citizens and communities, both now and into the future,” said Secretary Sonny Perdue. “When I was growing up on my family farm, my father always taught me to appreciate that ‘when it comes to the land, we want to leave it better than we found it.’ The President’s Executive Order will do...10-14-2020, 07:49 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Approval of D-SNAP for Alabama Disaster Areas| site |
(September 30, 2020) - - Today, September 30, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the following information: WASHINGTON, September 30, 2020 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that low-income Alabama residents recovering from Hurricane Sally could be eligible for a helping hand from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Secretary Perdue said that households who may not normally be eligible under regular Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) rules may qualify for D-SNAP – if they meet the disaster income limits and have qualifying disaster-related expenses. “D-SNAP will be critical in our ongoing, on-the-ground food assistance for our neighbors on the Alabama Gulf Coast,” Secretary Perdue said. “USDA is committed to ensuring Alabamians...10-07-2020, 11:46 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Approval of D-SNAP for California Disaster Areas | site |
(September 29, 2020) - - Today, September 29, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the following information:
WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2020 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that low-income California residents dealing with the ongoing wildfires could be eligible for a helping hand from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Secretary Perdue said that households who may not normally be eligible under regular Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) rules may qualify for D-SNAP – if they meet the disaster income limits and have qualifying disaster-related expenses. “USDA is committed to ensuring Californians affected by these wildfires have enough to eat and will be here to help throughout their entire recovery. D-SNAP will be a vital ...10-07-2020, 05:25 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Launches New, Streamlined Process for Private Lenders to Invest in Rural America | site |
USDA says "Trump Administration Keeps Promise to Cut Red Tape and Increase Private Investment in America’s Rural Communities"
(October 1, 2020) - - Today, October 1, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the following information: WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2020 – The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting applications for the department’s four key loan guarantee programs under the OneRD Guarantee Loan Initiative. “Rural America needs a mix of public and private partnerships and investments to build stronger, healthier communities,” USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand said. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is cutting red tape and streamlining private investment so w...10-05-2020, 03:50 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Contracts for Round 3 of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program | site |
(September 17, 2020) - - Today, September 17, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information:
(Washington, D.C., September 17, 2020) – Following President Donald Trump’s approval to include up to an additional $1 billion in the Farmers to Families Food Box Program, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved up to $1 billion in contracts to support American producers and communities in need through the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Program. Earlier this week, USDA reached a milestone of having distributed more than 90 million food boxes in support of American farmers and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. “These contract awards will go to vendors who submitted the strongest proposals in support of American agriculture and the Ame...09-21-2020, 09:21 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Extends Free Meals for Kids Through December 31, 2020 | site |
Summer meal programs can continue operating as funding allows
(August 31, 2020) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture published today (August 31, 2020) the following information:
(Washington, DC, August 31, 2020) – Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will extend several flexibilities through as late as December 31, 2020. The flexibilities allow summer meal program operators to continue serving free meals to all children into the fall months. This unprecedented move will help ensure – no matter what the situation is on-the-ground – children have access to nutritious food as the country recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. USDA has been and continues to be committed to using the Congressionally appropriated funding that has been made available.
“As...08-31-2020, 11:09 AM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Announces New Food Safety and Inspection Service Leadership| site |
(February 25, 2020) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: (Washington, D.C, February 25, 2020) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the appointment of Paul Kiecker to serve as Administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). Mr. Kiecker will be assuming the role following the departure of Administrator Carmen Rottenberg, who is departing federal service after a career spanning two decades. “Ensuring the safety of America’s food supply is USDA’s most important responsibility, and one that Carmen carried out with dedication and vision. I know she will continue her passion for food safety in the private sector,” said Secretary Perdue. “Carmen is a true public servant and ushered in an era of modernization at the Food Safety and ...02-27-2020, 08:40 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue: China Phase I Deal is a Bonanza for American Agriculture| site |
(January 15, 2020) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published (today) the following information:
(Washington, D.C., January 15, 2020) – U.S. Secretary Perdue issued the following statement after President Donald J. Trump signed the historic Phase One Trade Agreement between the United States and China: “This agreement is proof President Trump’s negotiating strategy is working. While it took China a long time to realize President Trump was serious, this China Phase I Deal is a huge success for the entire economy. This agreement finally levels the playing field for U.S. agriculture and will be a bonanza for America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers,” said Secretary Perdue. “China has not played by the rules for too long, and I thank President Trump for standing up to their unfair trading practices and for putting America fir...01-16-2020, 06:16 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on President Trump’s Nomination of Lipps for FNCS Under Secretary| site |
(January 7, 2020) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information:
(Washington, D.C., January 7, 2020) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today applauded President Donald J. Trump’s nomination of Brandon Lipps as Under Secretary of the Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services (FNCS) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Secretary Perdue issued the following statement: “It is critically important to have someone as qualified and experienced as Brandon Lipps to run our nation’s nutrition policy. I thank President Trump for nominating Brandon who has already been serving in an FNCS leadership position as Deputy Under Secretary,” Perdue said. “I encourage the Senate to swiftly confirm Brandon to lead such an important part of USDA’s duty to the American people, even though...01-10-2020, 01:40 AM -
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says it Takes Steps to Provide Needed Clarity and Certainty for U.S. Agriculture | site |
(December 19, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency published the following information: WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing two important actions that will help the agricultural sector protect crops from pests and weeds. Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is approving the use of 10 pesticide products on hemp in time for the 2020 growing season. Nine of these products are biopesticides and one is a conventional pesticide. EPA is also issuing a proposed interim decision on atrazine — a widely used herbicide. Both actions provide regulatory certainty and clarity on how these tools can be used safely while also helping to ensure a strong and vibrant agricultural market. “With common-sense actions, we are protecting the health o...12-23-2019, 11:34 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Applauds USDA’s 2019 Accomplishments| site |
(December 19, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: (Washington, D.C., December 19, 2019) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today applauded the accomplishments made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over the past year. USDA has continued enacting President Trump’s goals of regulatory reform, streamlining government, and refocusing USDA to be customer oriented. “At USDA it is our honor to work on behalf of America’s farmers, ranchers, foresters, and producers. This was a tough year with historic weather damage and unjustified trade retaliation. Our goal was to ‘Do Right and Feed Everyone’ by implementing much needed farm bill programs, enacting President Trump’s Support Package for Farmers, and continuing to feed and clothe this nation and the world,” said Secretary Perdue. “As we look to 2020, ...12-23-2019, 03:31 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture to Make $550 Million in Funding Available in 2020 to Deploy High-Speed Broadband Internet Infrastructure in Rural America | site |
Announcement Made at Round One Investment in Iowa
(December 12, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information:
STANTON, Iowa, Dec. 12, 2019 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the availability of a second round of $550 million in United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Reconnect Pilot Program funding appropriated by Congress. The application window for this round of funding is set to open Jan. 31, 2020. Secretary Perdue made the announcement alongside Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds while congratulating the Farmers Mutual Telephone Company of Stanton, Iowa, for receiving $6.4 million in first-round Reconnect Pilot Program funding to connect 477 households, 35 farms and 21 businesses in Montgomery and Page counties. ...12-12-2019, 10:10 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture says With Record Low Unemployment, USDA Finalizes Rule to Promote Work | site |
(December 6, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: (Washington, D.C., December 6, 2019) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue released the following statement regarding the latest jobs report released today by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The jobs report shows the economy added 266,000 new jobs in November with an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which remains at a record 50 year low. Earlier this week, at the direction of President Donald J. Trump, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a rule to help move more able-bodied recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) towards self-sufficiency and into employment. The rule restores the system to what Congress intended: assistance through difficult times, not a way of life. “Today’s jobs report is further ...12-06-2019, 06:31 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Invests $62.3 Million in Rural Broadband Infrastructure for Alabama Families | site |
(December 5, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information:
HAMILTON, Ala., Dec. 5, 2019 – Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Donald “DJ” LaVoy announced USDA has invested $62.3 million in high-speed broadband infrastructure that will create or improve e-Connectivity for more than 8,000 rural households, 57 farms, 44 businesses, 17 educational facilities, 14 critical community facilities and three health care facilities in rural Alabama. This is one of many funding announcements in the first round of USDA’s ReConnect Pilot Program investments. “Beyond connecting us to our friends and family, high-speed broadband internet connectivity, or e-Connectivity, is a necessity, not an amenity, to do business, access opportunities in educatio...12-05-2019, 11:52 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture says USDA Restores Original Intent of SNAP: A Second Chance, Not A Way of Life | site |
With record low unemployment, USDA finalizes rule to promote work
(December 4, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the following information: (Washington, D.C., December 4, 2019) – At the direction of President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced a final rule to move more able-bodied recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) towards self-sufficiency and into employment. The rule restores the system to what Congress intended: assistance through difficult times, not a way of life. “Americans are generous people who believe it is their responsibility to help their fellow citizens when they encounter a difficult stretch. Government can be a powerful force for good, but government dependency has never been the American...12-04-2019, 03:29 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces 1890 National Scholars Program Funding Opportunity| site |
(October 29, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information:
WASHINGTON, October 29, 2019 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the opening of the 2020 scholarship application cycle for the USDA/1890 National Scholars Program. The program aims to increase the number of students studying agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, and other agriculture-related disciplines. The program is available through the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE).
The USDA/1890 National Scholars Program was established in 1992 as part of the partnership between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the nineteen 1890 Land-Grant Universities . The program provides full tuition, fees, books, room and board to students pursuing degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or...11-01-2019, 12:57 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Modernizes Swine Slaughter Inspection for the First Time in Over 50 Years| site |
(September 17, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: WASHINGTON, September 17, 2019 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced a final rule to modernize swine slaughter inspection and bring it into the 21st century. For the first time in more than five decades, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is modernizing inspection at market hog slaughter establishments with a goal of protecting public health while allowing for food safety innovations. “This regulatory change allows us to ensure food safety while eliminating outdated rules and allowing for companies to innovate,” Secretary Sonny Perdue said. “The final rule is the culmination of a science-based and data-driven rule making process which builds on the food safety improvements made in 1997, when USDA intr...09-19-2019, 06:45 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Resources Available for Farmers Hurt by 2018, 2019 Disasters| site |
Signup Begins Sept. 11 for More Than $3 Billion in Aid
(September 9, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: WASHINGTON, D.C., Sept. 9, 2019 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced that agricultural producers affected by natural disasters in 2018 and 2019, including Hurricane Dorian, can apply for assistance through the Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program Plus (WHIP+). Signup for this U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program will begin Sept. 11, 2019. “U.S. agriculture has been dealt a hefty blow by extreme weather over the last several years, and 2019 is no exception,” Perdue said. “The scope of this year’s prevented planting alone is devastating, and although these disaster program benefits will not make producers whole, we hope the assistance will ease so...09-12-2019, 04:41 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on Newly Appointed Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services Leadership | site |
(August 19, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: (Washington, D.C., August 19, 2019) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue has sworn in Brandon Lipps as Deputy Under Secretary of the Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services (FNCS) and Pam Miller as the Administrator of the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Secretary Perdue issued the following statement: “I am excited to welcome Brandon Lipps and Pam Miller to these new roles within the Department and thank them for their hard work up to this point. Both Brandon and Pam have extensive experience in nutrition policy and have already been serving in FNCS leadership positions. I am confident they will hit the ground running and continue the great work the Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services d...08-22-2019, 07:20 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Using Flexibility to Assist Farmers, Ranchers in Flooded Areas| site |
(August 15, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture published the following information: WASHINGTON, D.C., August 15, 2019 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) today announced it will defer accrual of interest for all agricultural producers’ spring 2019 crop year insurance premiums to help the wide swath of farmers and ranchers affected by extreme weather in 2019. Specifically, USDA will defer the accrual of interest on spring 2019 crop year insurance premiums to the earlier of the applicable termination date or for two months, until November 30, for all policies with a premium billing date of August 15, 2019. For any premium that is not paid by one of those new deadlines, interest will accrue consistent with the terms of the policy. “USDA recognizes that farmers and ranchers have been severely affected by th...08-20-2019, 08:58 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Names Members to the National Watermelon Promotion Board
Washington, DC - - (November 14, 2018) - - Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced the appointment of sixteen members to serve on the National Watermelon Promotion Board. The appointees will serve three-year terms from Jan. 1, 2019, to Dec. 31, 2021.
Members appointed are:- Mr. Dalton Willis Borders, Edinburg, Texas
- Mr. Cody Buckley, San Antonio, Texas
- Ms. Jordan Carter, Cordele, Ga.
- Mr. Richard Chastain, Alva, Fla.
- Mr. John Gee, Temecula, Calif.
- Mr. Jose F. Gomez Ph.D., El Paso, Texas
- Mr. W. Rodney Jackson, Autryville, N.C.
- Mr. Michael J. Marks, Capron, Va.
- Mr. Rod Rosales, Kingsburg, Calif.
- Mr. James Sharp, Sims, N.C.
- Mr. Matt Solana, Louisburg, N.C.
- Mr. Carlos Vickers, Nashville, Ga.
- Mr. Darren K. Wiggins, Center, Texas
- Mr. Luke
11-14-2018, 09:33 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on Dept. of Labor Rulemaking on H-2A Visa Program
Washington, DC - - (November 8, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today praised proposed rulemaking by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), which could help farmers advertise job openings to domestic workers as required under the H-2A visa program. The DOL rulemaking would require that employers seeking to hire temporary workers post the employment opportunities online, rather than in expensive newspapers advertisements reaching a limited audience. This is an early step in H-2A regulatory reforms as promised in May in a joint statement of the Secretaries of Agriculture, Labor, State, and Homeland Security. Secretary Perdue issued the following statement: “When I travel around the country, one of the biggest concerns farmers raise is the shortage of legal farm labor. Ou...11-10-2018, 12:16 AM -
Statement of U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Regarding U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Decision on Dicamba
Washington, DC - - (November 1, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today issued the following statement regarding the decision by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to extend the registration of dicamba for two years. The extension is for “over-the-top” use to control weeds in fields for cotton and soybean plants genetically engineered to resist dicamba. Perdue’s statement is as follows: “It is important that the EPA has decided to renew the registration of over-the-top use of this important weed control technology on dicamba-resistant cotton and soybeans, because it presents farmers with options. This represents the conclusion of a very thorough scientific review, in conjunction with stakeholders, involving site visits and careful consideration of facts....11-05-2018, 04:47 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture says Assistance is Available through NRCS for Ag Land Damaged by Hurricane Michael
Gainesville, FL - - (October 26, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) says that Florida farmers and ranchers who suffered damage to working lands and livestock mortality due to Hurricane Michael are encouraged to sign up for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Agricultural producers in Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Leon, Liberty, Wakulla and Washington counties are eligible to apply for assistance. The first sign-up period ends Nov. 16, 2018. A second sign-up period will end Dec. 14, 2018. This assistance is available to individual farmers and ranchers to aid in recovery efforts on their properties and does not apply to local gover...10-27-2018, 09:55 AM -
U. S. Department of Agriculture Assistance Available to Restore Infrastructure Damaged by Hurricane Florence
Assistance Request Deadline is Dec. 5, 2018
Washington, DC - - (October 26, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in South Carolina is accepting requests for assistance to help communities implement critical emergency measures and restore eligible infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, houses, and businesses as a result of damage caused by Hurricane Florence and associated flooding.
Requests for assistance through the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program, which is designed to relieve imminent hazards to life and property caused by floods and other natural occurrences in watershed, must be submitted in writing to the NRCS State Conservationist in South Carolina by Dec. 5, 2018. “NRCS is ...10-27-2018, 02:15 AM -
U. S. Department of Agriculture Announces Receipt of 136 Expressions of Interest in Hosting Economic Research Service and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture
(Washington, D.C. - - (October 22, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has received 136 expressions of interest from parties in 35 states interested in becoming the new homes of the Economic Research Service (ERS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). In August, Perdue announced that most ERS and NIFA personnel would be moving to outside the National Capital Region by the end of 2019 and invited interested parties to submit proposals, with a deadline which had been extended to October 15, 2018. USDA intends to select the new location or locations by January 2019 and will retain a consultant with expertise in relocations. ...10-23-2018, 05:52 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Partners to Help Rural Leaders Build Strategies to Achieve ProsperityU.S. Department of Agriculture Partners to Help Rural Leaders Build Strategies to Achieve Prosperity
Rural Economic Development Initiative Provides Opportunities for Rural Communities to Plan for the Future
Sacramento, Calif. - - (October 16, 2018) - - Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has finalized four cooperative agreements to help rural communities create and implement economic development plans. “Under the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner in enhancing quality of life and building economic opportunity in rural America,” Hazlett said. “Asset-based planning is an important tool to complement and leverage existing regional resources and create a foundation for rural prosperity.” USDA is partnering with four organizations...10-19-2018, 02:00 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Replacement SNAP Benefits in 12 Hurricane-Impacted Florida Counties
Washington, DC - - (October 16, 2018) - - Households impacted by Hurricane Michael in 12 Florida counties could be eligible for mass replacement of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced. This is one of several steps USDA is taking to ensure Floridians in need have the means to purchase food. “Many Florida residents lost everything, including food they had previously purchased with their SNAP benefits,” said Acting Deputy Under Secretary Brandon Lipps, who oversees USDA’s Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services. “The replacement of SNAP benefits will help victims restock the food they need as they begin the long process of recovery,” Lipps said. Rather than require SNAP households to report food losses individuall...10-18-2018, 04:04 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Issues Farm Safety Net and Conservation Payments
Total Exceeds $4.8 Billion
Washington, DC - - (October 12, 2018) - - Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced that the United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues to invest in rural America with more than $4.8 billion in payments being made, starting this month, to agricultural producers through the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Conservation Reserve (CRP) programs. Approximately $3 billion in payments will be made under the ARC and PLC programs for the 2017 crop year, and approximately $1.8 billion in annual rental payments under CRP for 2018. “Despite a temporary lapse of Farm Bill authorities, farmers and ranchers can rest assured that USDA continues to work within the letter of the law to deliver much needed...10-13-2018, 03:05 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Launches Interactive Data Tool to Help Rural Communities Address the Opioid Crisis
New Community Assessment Tool Empowers Rural Leaders to Make Data-Driven Decisions to Build Resilient Communities
Washington, DC - - (October 4, 2018) - - Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett today announced the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched an interactive data tool to help community leaders build grassroots strategies to address the opioid epidemic. “Under the leadership of President Trump, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural America in addressing this monumental challenge,” Hazlett said. “Local leaders in small towns across our country need access to user-friendly and relevant data to help them build grassroots solutions for prevention, treatment and recovery.” The opioid mi...10-09-2018, 04:35 AM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Issues Statement on Department of Justice Filing in 9th Circuit Chlorpyrifos Ruling
Washington, DC - - (September 24, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today praised the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) decision to request a rehearing of a pesticide case before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. DOJ has asked for a panel rehearing and a rehearing en banc in a case in which the court directed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ban chlorpyrifos, a common and useful pesticide, within 60 days. Secretary Perdue issued the following statement: “USDA disagrees with the ruling ordering EPA to revoke tolerances and cancel registrations for chlorpyrifos. The decision appears to be based on a misunderstanding of both the available scientific information and EPA’s pesticide regulatory system. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) a...10-08-2018, 04:38 AM -
U. S. Department of Agriculture Announces Approval of D-SNAP for North Carolina Disaster Areas
Washington, DC - - (September 25, 2018) - - North Carolina residents recovering from Hurricane Florence could be eligible for disaster food benefits through the availability of USDA’s Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) announced today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Households that may not normally be eligible under regular SNAP rules may qualify for D-SNAP if they meet the disaster income limits and have qualifying disaster-related expenses. “Our department is committed to providing the assistance needed to our neighbors, as they pull themselves to recovery,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue said. “The D-SNAP program USDA is announcing today is an important step forward in bringing back normalcy to those impacted.” D-SNAP eligible households in the affected areas wi...10-01-2018, 09:47 AM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on Signing of New KORUS Trade Agreement
Washington, DC - - (September 24, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today issued the following statement regarding the signing of the new United States-Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS): “We are entering into a new KORUS agreement that is a better deal for the entire United States economy, including the agricultural sector. This represents an important improvement in trade relations between our two nations, building on long-standing cooperation we have enjoyed. This agreement adds to the momentum building for President Trump’s approach to trade, which is to stand strong for America’s interests and strike better deals. I am optimistic that the dominoes will continue to fall: KORUS, then a new NAFTA, and new agreements with the European Union, Japan, and, most notably, China. As a...09-25-2018, 02:47 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Partners to Improve Electric Infrastructure for More Than 347,000 Rural Americans Across 13 States
Washington, DC - - (September 19, 2018) - - Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $398.5 million to improve rural electric service in 13 states.
“Reliable and affordable electricity is undeniably a necessity in today’s world,” Hazlett said. “Under the leadership of Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner in keeping our rural communities connected to this essential infrastructure.”
USDA is making the investments through the Electric Infrastructure Loan Program. Below are a few examples of the projects USDA is funding:- In Virginia, Southside Electric Cooperative will use a $47.7 million loan to add
09-24-2018, 01:42 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Provides Hurricane Florence Victims Needed Relief and Recovery Aid
Editor's note: On September 21, 2018 the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the following information: Washington, DC - - (September 21, 2018) - - As Hurricane Florence approached, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue directed the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to use all available authorities to ensure the security and safety of those in the path of the storm, and to aid victims in their recovery efforts. USDA staff in the regional, state and county offices are actively responding, providing emergency response staffing and a variety of program flexibilities and other assistance to residents, agricultural producers, and impacted communities at large. “USDA is unwavering in its commitment to work on behalf of every community hit and ensure life-sustainin...09-22-2018, 12:55 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Approves North Carolina WIC Flexibilities in Wake of Hurricane Florence
Washington, DC - - (September 21, 2018) - - The state of North Carolina will be able to better serve participants through the USDA’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) in the wake of Hurricane Florence, thanks to operational flexibilities approved for their use by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The State will be able to issue benefits remotely and waive some nutrition education requirements in places where offices are closed, as well as replace September food benefits that were damaged or stolen during the hurricane. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue said USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) approved the request from the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services to use these flexibilities because of ...09-21-2018, 10:37 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Provides Additional Food Options to SNAP Participants Impacted by Hurricane Florence
SNAP participants may use benefits to purchase hot and prepared foods and receive additional time to report food losses
Washington, DC - - (September 17, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) yesterday approved a waiver that will allow participants in the USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in North Carolina to buy hot foods with their benefits through October 31, 2018. USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue emphasized the importance of the waiver, noting that many North Carolina residents evacuated to shelters cannot store food and are lacking access to cooking facilities as a result. “As the state of North Carolina works to recover from this storm, USDA stands ready to provide common-sense flexibilities to help them meet t...09-17-2018, 10:58 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Prepared to Respond to Hurricane Florence
Washington, DC - - (September 12, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds rural communities, farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses potentially impacted by Hurricane Florence of programs to provide assistance in the wake of disasters. USDA staff in the regional, State and county offices stand ready and eager to help. Additionally, USDA’s Operations Center will function around the clock. “Our farmers and ranchers take financial risks every year to help feed and clothe the U.S. and the world, and a hurricane makes their situations even more perilous,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue said. “At USDA, it’s our job to be there for them when they need help. All of our relevant agencies are ready to assist when natural disasters strike.” USDA has important roles in both...09-14-2018, 05:19 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Announces New Strategy for Improving Forest ConditionsU.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Announces New Strategy for Improving Forest Conditions
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue promoting a new forest management strategy
Washington, DC - - (August 16, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (USFS) announced today a new strategy for managing catastrophic wildfires and the impacts of invasive species, drought, and insect and disease epidemics.
Specifically, a new report titled Toward Shared Stewardship across Landscapes: An Outcome-based investment Strategy outlines the USFS’s plans to work more closely with states to identify landscape-scale priorities for targeted treatments in areas with the highest payoffs. “On my trip to California this week, I saw the devastation that these unprecedented wildfires are having on o...08-23-2018, 02:11 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Assists Farmers Impacted by Unjustified Retaliation
Washington, DC - - (July 24, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will take several actions to assist farmers in response to trade damage from unjustified retaliation. President Trump directed Secretary Perdue to craft a short-term relief strategy to protect agricultural producers while the Administration works on free, fair, and reciprocal trade deals to open more markets in the long run to help American farmers compete globally. Specifically, USDA will authorize up to $12 billion in programs, which is in line with the estimated $11 billion impact of the unjustified retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural goods. These programs will assist agricultural producers to meet the costs of disrupted markets. “This is a short-...08-02-2018, 11:56 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Kickoff of Feds Feed Families Campaign
Washington, DC - - (July 16, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today kicked off the annual government-wide Feds Feed Families campaign. The food drive is an annual event in which Federal employees in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area and throughout the country collect food for distribution to food banks, food pantries, and shelters. The 2018 food drive will run through October 18. “USDA has a great opportunity through Feds Feed Families to help those less fortunate,” said Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue. “It really holds true to our motto, ‘do right and feed everyone.’ I am confident we’ll make this another successful year and leverage the spirit of service that’s shared by every Federal employee to help our local food banks assist their communities.” Feds Feed Fam...07-24-2018, 02:20 AM -
Secretary Perdue Announces New Budget Director at U.S. Department of Agriculture
Washington, DC - - (June 19, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the selection of Erica Navarro to serve as Director of the Office of Budget and Program Analysis (OBPA) for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). OBPA administers the Department's budgetary functions and also develops and presents budget-related matters. The Director is responsible for providing leadership in carrying out Department-wide responsibilities in policy analysis, program review, budget, legislative, and regulatory functions. Secretary Perdue issued the following statement: “A top priority at USDA is to be the most effective, most efficient, and best-managed department in the entire federal government, and highly qualified officials like Erica will help us achieve that goal. Erica has a sterling tr...06-22-2018, 03:56 AM -
USDA’s Farmers.gov Receives $10 Million in Funding for Development
Washington, DC - - (June 7, 2018) - - Today, the Technology Modernization Fund Board (Board) awarded funding to support the development of USDA’s Farmers.gov customer experience portal, which helps better connect America’s farmers, ranchers, conservationists, and private foresters with vital USDA resources and programs. The Board is chaired by the Federal Chief Information Officer for the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Following the funding announcement from OMB, USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Bill Northey said, “Farmers.gov will provide a user-friendly portal for connecting agricultural producers to the USDA services and programs they need. This new resource also will reduce the time farmers need to take away from their fields today to fill out paperwork. We are very...06-16-2018, 02:24 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Pilot Program to Increase Homeownership Opportunities on Native Lands
Department is Partnering with Native Community Development Financial Institutions
Washington, DC - - (May 31, 2018) - - Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is launching a pilot program to increase homeownership opportunities on Tribal lands. “To thrive, rural America needs a creative and forward-thinking partner in USDA,” Hazlett said. “Under Secretary Perdue’s leadership, USDA is harnessing innovation so we can be a better, more effective partner to Tribal communities in building their futures.” USDA is partnering with two Native Community Development Financial Institutions (NCDFIs) that have extensive experience working in Native American communities. T...06-04-2018, 11:44 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Applauds Red Tape Reduction for Farmers
Washington, DC - - (May 17, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today applauded the removal of a burdensome regulation that has long plagued family farms. The rule requiring producers to obtain Data Universal Number System (DUNS) and System for Award Management (SAM) numbers to participate in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs has been eliminated. Congress included this repeal in the FY 2018 Omnibus spending package, USDA’s official regulatory change will be published in the Federal Register tomorrow. “I’m pleased Congress helped us to achieve one of our regulatory goals of cutting red tape for producers utilizing conservation programs by exempting them from SAM and DUNS requirements,” Secretary Perdue said. “These numbers wer...05-25-2018, 05:38 AM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Appoints New Members to National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods
Washington, DC - - (May 14, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the appointment of 18 new members and 12 returning members to the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF). “Food safety and ensuring public health continue to be at the forefront of USDA’s mission,” said Perdue. “The committee members represent a diverse group from academia, consumers, the food industry, laboratories, consultants, and government agencies all of which play an important role in providing scientific advice and expertise to USDA on food safety and wholesomeness.” NACMCF was established in 1988 by the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (Food and Drug...05-18-2018, 06:30 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on President Trump’s Faith and Opportunity Initiative Executive Order
Washington, DC - - (May 3, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today praised President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order establishing the White House Faith and Opportunity Initiative within the Office of the President. The Executive Order, which coincided with the National Day of Prayer, requires consultation with faith and community leaders to address such issues as poverty alleviation, religious liberty, strengthening marriage and family, education, solutions for substance abuse and addiction, crime prevention and reduction, prisoner reentry, and health and humanitarian services. It recognizes the tremendous ability of these organizations to serve individuals, families, and communities. Secretary Perdue issued the following statement: “On this Na...05-04-2018, 06:53 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Seeks Comments on Proposed Rule for National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard
Washington, DC - - (May 3, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today invited public comment on the proposed rule to establish the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard mandated by Congress in 2016. The standard will provide a uniform way to offer meaningful disclosure for consumers who want more information about their food and avoid a patchwork system of state or private labels that could be confusing for consumers and would likely drive up food costs. “This rulemaking presents several possible ways to determine what foods will be covered by the final rule and what the disclosure will include and look like,” said Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue. “We are looking for public input on a number of these key decisions before a final rul...05-03-2018, 05:12 PM -
Secretary Sonny Perdue Commemorates First Year at U.S. Department of Agriculture
Washington, DC - - (April 25, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue commemorated his first year at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today by releasing a new interactive website and USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue: Year One video . In his first year, Secretary Perdue and the USDA team made breakthroughs in agricultural trade, moved to reduce burdensome regulations, responded to natural disasters, and battled through the worst fire season on record, among other notable achievements. The website and video capture some of those achievements and more. To explore the website, you may view the U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue: Year One page or on the image below.
The website also features an interview with Secretary Perdue...04-27-2018, 09:31 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement Regarding Chinese Duties on U.S. Sorghum
Washington, DC - - (April 18, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today issued the following statement regarding China’s announcement of duties of almost 179 percent on U.S. sorghum imports: “The international grain market is about the freest market there is, and it is ludicrous to even mention ‘dumping,’ because China can buy product from anywhere they choose. This is clearly a political decision by the Chinese and we reject their premise. Our sorghum producers are the most competitive in the world and we do not believe there is any basis in fact for these actions. As we explore options, we are in communication with the American sorghum industry and stand united with them. The fact remains that China has engaged in unfair trade practices over decades and President Trump is correct ...04-23-2018, 05:09 AM -
Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on Release of 2018 Farm Bill
Washington, DC - - (April 12, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today issued the following statement on the release of the 2018 Farm Bill: “I applaud Chairman Conaway and the House Agriculture Committee for their diligence and hard work in crafting the 2018 Farm Bill. The trend of low commodity prices over recent years and headlines about trade disputes have caused anxiety among agricultural producers these days, so this legislation is critically important to give them some much-needed reassurance. In my travels across the country, I have found that farmers have confidence in President Trump’s ability to negotiate strong trade deals with other nations, but they also want a strong, bipartisan Farm Bill that puts their needs above Washington, D.C. politics. While there is still much work t...04-13-2018, 08:20 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Perdue issues Statement on President Trump’s Executive Order on Reducing Poverty Promotes Economic Independence
Washington, DC - - (April 10, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today applauded President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order (EO), titled “Reducing Poverty in America by Promoting Opportunity and Economic Mobility,” which calls for lifting American citizens from welfare to work, from dependence to independence, and from poverty to prosperity.
Perdue issued the following statement: “I commend President Trump today for his leadership on moving Americans back to work. At the Department of Agriculture, we are responsible for administering programs which help people access nutritious food for themselves and their families, but we also know that long-term government dependency has never been a part of the...04-12-2018, 02:09 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Small Business Administration Join Forces to Help Businesses in Rural America
Washington, DC - - (April 4, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and Administrator Linda McMahon, the head of the Small Business Administration (SBA), today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the SBA to promote stronger businesses and agricultural economies in rural America. The two signed the MOU in Lima, Ohio, where Secretary Perdue was joined by Administrator McMahon for a portion of Perdue’s third “Back to Our Roots” RV tour.
Under the newly-signed MOU, USDA and SBA will enhance collaboration and coordination in areas of mutual interest. Specifically, such collaboration is intended to improve investment opportunities...04-09-2018, 06:47 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Expands Focus on Program Integrity Across All Nutrition Programs
April 4, 2018
Washington, DC - - (March 29, 2018) - - As part of Agriculture Secretary Perdue’s strategic goal of ensuring that our programs are delivered efficiently, effectively and with integrity, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) announced an enhanced focus on program integrity today, that will include renewed attention on transparency, payment accuracy, fraud and waste prevention, and improved quality control. “Where protection of taxpayer dollars is concerned – the job is never done,” said Acting Deputy Under Secretary for USDA Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services, Brandon Lipps. “Today we are renewing our commitment to ensuring that our nutrition programs are run as effectively and efficiently as possible; increasing program int...04-04-2018, 08:42 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Seeks Applications for Funding to Increase Access to E-Connectivity/Broadband in Unserved Rural Areas
March 21, 2018
Washington, DC - - (March 20, 2018) - - Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett today announced that USDA is accepting applications for grants to fund broadband infrastructure projects in unserved rural communities.
“E-connectivity is essential to the economic vitality and quality of life in rural communities,” Hazlett said. “Investing in broadband can strengthen rural economic growth and improve critical access to jobs, education, health care and social services.”
USDA is accepting applications through May 14 in the Community Connect program. Grants from $100,000 to $3 million are available to state and local governments, federally-recognized tribes, nonprofits and...03-21-2018, 01:11 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Offers Renewal Options for Expiring Conservation Stewardship Program Contracts
USDA’s Largest Conservation Program Helps Producers Improve Health, Productivity of Working Lands
Washington, DC - - (March 30, 2017) - - Acting Deputy Agriculture Secretary Michael Young today announced that a contract renewal sign-up is underway for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), USDA’s largest working lands conservation program with more than 80 million acres enrolled. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) made several updates to the popular program last fall. These changes help producers better evaluate conservation options that benefit their operations while improving the health and productivity of private and Tribal working lands.
“The changes made to CSP are providing even greater opportunities for stewardship-minded producers across the country to participate and bring their...04-10-2017, 11:09 PM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture on Tainted Brazilian Meat: None Has Entered U.S., 100 Percent Re-Inspection Instituted
Washington, DC - - (March 22, 2017) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced additional steps to keep the food supply safe for American families in light of the recent investigations of Brazil’s meat industry. While none of the slaughter or processing facilities implicated in the Brazilian scandal have shipped meat products to the United States, FSIS immediately instituted additional pathogen testing of all shipments of raw beef and ready-to-eat products from Brazil upon hearing reports of the Brazilian investigation. FSIS has also increased its examination of all these products at ports-of-entry across the country. The agency will indefinitely maintain its 100% re-inspection and pathogen testing of all lots of FSIS-regulated products imported from Brazil. "Keeping food...03-30-2017, 08:49 PM -
Statement from Agriculture Acting Deputy Secretary Michael L. Young on National Agriculture Day
Washington, DC - - (March 21, 2017) - - Acting Agriculture Deputy Secretary Michael L. Young today released the following statement: "Today is National Agriculture Day, set aside to pay tribute to the farmers and ranchers of our nation. The work of American producers and growers ensures consumers in our country have plenty of safe food and a wide variety at a cost lower than much of the world. “Through their efficiency, they are able to produce more food and fiber than is demanded in our country, generating a trade surplus in agricultural products for the United States. As President Trump noted in the Presidential Proclamation declaring today National Agriculture Day, ‘American agriculture is the largest positive contributor to our Nation’s net trade balance, providing 10 percent of our exports and millions of jobs.’ “Farmers and ranchers also...03-27-2017, 02:47 AM -
U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available in North Carolina Following Secretary of Agriculture Disaster Declaration for Drought
Counties: Buncombe, Burke, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, Mecklenburg, Rutherford, Transylvania, Swain and Yancey
Atlanta, GA - - (March 3, 2017) - - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today that federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and private nonprofit organizations located in North Carolina as a result of the drought that began on Nov. 1, 2016.
The SBA’s disaster declaration includes the following counties: Buncombe, Burke, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, Me...03-10-2017, 11:30 AM -
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Funding to Improve Rural Electric Infrastructure in Nine States
Projects are being financed in Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas
Washington, DC - - (February 28, 2017) - - Rural Development Acting Deputy Under Secretary Roger Glendenning today announced that USDA is making loans to electric cooperatives that will help continue to deliver safe, reliable and affordable electricity to rural residents, business and institutions in nine states.
"USDA continues to be a partner with cooperatives and utilities to expand and modernize the rural electric grid," Glendenning said. "These loans represent the latest efforts to create jobs, help grow the rural economy, and support new technology."
USDA is making $202 million in loans to upgrade rural electric service in Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri,...02-28-2017, 10:37 PM