By Dana Rogge, Farm Service Agency
Let us fill you in on a little secret. We love our customers! We value local input from farmers, ranchers, and foresters, like you. One way we facilitate the connection between the producers we serve and the programs we administer is through the USDA Farm Service Agency locally-elected county committees.
“It is so important to have farmers willing to serve on their county committees to share their experiences and offer different perspectives so committees can make informed decisions,” said Terri Wilfert, a member of the Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, Farm Service Agency County Committee.
Terri was elected to her committee in 2010 and currently serves as chairperson.
Get Your Vote On
For many farmers, it’s now time to make your selection. Each year, the Farm Service Agency accepts nominations for a certain local administrative area. This area rotates each year, so not every producer will receive a ballot. If your area happens to be up for election this year, then you will receive a ballot.
The week of November 5, all eligible voters were mailed a ballot for their local county committee. If you were expecting to receive a ballot, and did not, don’t fret! Contact your local Farm Service Agency and we’ll ensure you get a replacement ballot if necessary.
You must participate or cooperate in a Farm Service Agency program to be eligible to vote. If you are not of legal voting age but supervise and conduct the farming operation of an entire farm, you may also be eligible to vote. View our factsheet on voter eligibility.
“County committees are important because they help get information out to their peers about what is going on,” said Willie Scott Smith, a member of the Alabama’s Greene County Farm Service Agency Committee.
Final Countdown
Time is counting down for you to cast your ballots! Ballots must be dropped off at your local Farm Service Agency office or postmarked by Dec. 3, 2018.
We’re counting on you! Vote today for the candidate you’d like to see represent your area on your local Farm Service Agency county committee.
“County committee members assist the Farm Service Agency county office with important program decisions that affect the farmers,” said Vincent Confreda, member of the Kent County, Rhode Island, Farm Service Agency Committee.
Your Turn to Serve
Don’t forget next summer we’ll be looking for more candidates to serve on our committees. Read what these current county committee members had to say about their experiences. Learn more.
