SHAHEEN CONGRATULATES APPOINTEES TO USDA’S FARM SERVICE AGENCY STATE COMMITTEE IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

(Washington, D.C.)-U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen today congratulated James Taylor, Bruce Clement, and Josh Jennings on their appointment to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) New Hampshire Farm Service Agency State Committee. The State Committee members, who were appointed by the Obama administration, will oversee the activities of the agency which include carrying out the state agricultural conservation programs, resolving appeals from the agriculture community, and helping to keep producers informed about Farm Service Agency programs. Earlier this year, Shaheen submitted all three names to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack for consideration.

"Agriculture is an important sector of New Hampshire's economy, and we must help local farmers get the support they need so they can keep their farms running," said Shaheen. "The new members of the New Hampshire Farm Service Agency State Committee have extensive experience that will surely prove to be a valuable resource for farmers across the state." 

The individuals appointed to serve on the State Committee are:

James Taylor (Chairman): Taylor owns an 80 cow dairy farm and 5,200 tap maple sugaring operation called Taylor Farm in Meriden.  He also works as the Director of Community Development in Enfield and is a member of the Sullivan-Cheshire Farm Service Agency.

Bruce Clement: Clement owns a grass-based farm in Westmoreland that produces lamb and wool products.  In addition to farming, Clement serves as the Director of the Northeast Association of County Extension Agents and is a member of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.

Josh Jennings: Jennings manages nine acres of organic horticultural crops on his farm, Meadow's Mirth Farm, in Stratham.  Jennings also sits on the Board of Directors of the Seacoast Growers' Association.

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USDA's Farm Services Agency works to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural Americans. Some of the agency's efforts include facilitating income support, disaster assistance and conservation programs, providing operating loans for the procurement of farm equipment, seed and fertilizer, as well as offering ownership loans to help new and veteran producers purchase a farm. The Farm Service Agency also works to procure various commodities to benefit low-income families through domestic food assistance programs.