For Sal Parra, the best part about serving on an FSA county committee is helping others.
By Molly Rose, USDA
The nomination period for the USDA Farm Service Agency’s annual county committee election runs through Aug. 1, 2019. Throughout the nomination period, we’ll introduce you to county committee members across the nation. This week meet Salvador (Sal) Parra of Fresno, California.
Sal’s passion for farming was sparked at a young age. Growing up around the farm his father managed for 40 years, Sal has fond memories of riding around on tractors, growing and harvesting crops, and tending to livestock.
Today, Sal and his two brothers manage the family farm where they grow mostly cotton, tomatoes, and other vegetables. “I really enjoy being able to put something in the ground, tend to it, watch it grow, and see the effects,” said Sal. “It awakens the soul.”
Becoming Involved
Sal decided to become involved in his local FSA county committee in 2015, when a neighboring farmer recommended him. “He saw my potential and encouraged me to become involved,” said Sal. It was the first board that he was ever elected to and served on. Over the last four years, he has served as a member, vice-chair, and chair of the county committee.
Sal became involved in his local FSA county committee in 2015, when a neighboring farmer recommended him.
For Sal, the best part about serving on the county committee is helping others. “Being able to assist growers and ranchers affected by natural disasters and helping them get back on their feet is very gratifying,” he said. “I feel like I’m doing something good.”
He advises others to also consider becoming involved and share their experiences and knowledge. “Farming is a livelihood. You can play an important role and make a difference,” said Sal.
More Information
For more information on FSA county committee elections, contact your local FSA office or visit fsa.usda.gov/elections.
