USDA accepting nominations for local representatives beginning June 15

By Community Member | May 30, 2017 7:15 pm

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) will receive nominations and hold its election in LAA 3, which is in Charles City.

The nomination process begins on Thursday, June 15, and allows farmers and ranchers to make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally to suit their needs.

“We strongly encourage all eligible producers to visit their local FSA office to find out how to get involved in their county’s election,” said acting FSA Administrator Chris Beyerhelm in a press release. “There’s an increasing need for representation from underserved producers, which includes beginning, women, and other minority farmers and ranchers.”

County committees are made up of farmers and ranchers elected by other producers in their communities. Committees consist of three to 11 members, meet once a month and serve three-year terms.
Farmers and ranchers may nominate themselves or others. Organizations may also nominate candidates to better serve their community.

To become a candidate, an eligible individual must sign an FSA-669A nomination for. Forms are available at www.fsa.usda.gov/elections and must be postmarked by Aug. 1. For more information, locate your local office at https://offices.usda.gov.