WASHINGTON, June 29, 2008- The Obama Administration today announced that Bill Wehry will serve as Pennsylvania State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency at the USDA.
"Bill Wehry has a solid understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our rural communities and will help build on the Obama Administration's efforts to rebuild and revitalize rural America," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
Wehry is the Deputy Secretary for Agriculture and Consumer Protection for the State of Pennsylvania's Department of Agriculture. He oversees 470 employees and a $120 million operating budget. Previously, Wehry ran Meadow Creek Farms from 1977-2003, where he managed 500 acres of cropland and 250 sow. He is an experienced agricultural producer and agribusiness manager who has worked to create a healthy environment for farms, protect consumer health and preserve the environment. Throughout his career, Wehry has earned numerous conservation awards.
The Farm Services Agency works to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural Americans. Some of the agency's efforts include providing direct operating loans for farm equipment, seed and fertilizer, as well as rural housing loans to help rural people buy, build or rent housing. FSA also procures various commodities to benefit low-income families through domestic food assistance programs. At the same time, the agency creates jobs by funding the growth and creation of rural businesses and cooperatives.
The USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture and natural resources and touches the life of every American. Reflecting President Obama's commitment to expanding economic opportunities in rural America, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and the USDA are working to enhance availability of broadband, promote the development of renewable energy, to conserve, maintain and improve our natural resources and environment, and promote a sustainable, safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply.
