June 7, 2012

Contact:

Shelly Bilderback

405-742-1041

shelly.bilderback@ok.usda.gov

STILLWATER, Okla., June 7, 2012 – Francie Tolle, Executive Director for the Oklahoma Farm Service Agency (FSA), announced that the nomination period for this year’s County Committee election will begin on June 15, 2012. The nomination period continues through August 1, 2012, with elections taking place this fall.

“FSA sees the role of our county committees as one that is vital,” said Tolle. “County Committees operate under official regulations for federal farm programs. Committee members apply their judgment, experience, and knowledge when making local decisions.”

Individuals that serve on local FSA County Committee make decisions regarding producer’s appeals; commodity price support loans and payments; conservation programs; employing county executive directors; incentive, indemnity, and disaster payments for commodities; as well as for other farm disaster assistance. Members serve three-year terms. Nationally, there are more than 7,800 farmers and ranchers serving on FSA county committees. Committees consist of three to five members who are elected by eligible local producers.

“The committee election process is designed to give all producers a better chance of having their opinions and ideas expressed in the community, throughout FSA and the nation. Therefore, it is vital that we have a diverse committee, not only in the physical make up of the committee, but making sure we have representative from all forms of agriculture,” added Tolle.

USDA is committed to increasing the participation of all farmers on the FSA County Committees, with an emphasis on women and minority farmers. Beginning farmers are also highly encouraged to become involved.

To be eligible to serve on an FSA county committee, a person must:

Individuals may nominate themselves or others as candidates. Additionally, organizations representing minorities and women may nominate candidates. To become a nominee, all eligible individuals must sign form FSA-669, which includes a statement that the nominee agrees to serve if elected. Form FSA-669A and other valuable information about the FSA county committee election is available at the local FSA office and online at: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/elections.

All nomination forms for the 2012 election must be postmarked or received in the local FSA office by close of business on August 1, 2012.

Following the nomination process, FSA will mail ballots to producers beginning November 5, 2012. The completed ballots are due back to the local county office via mail or in person by December 3, 2012.

Newly elected committee members and alternates take office January 1, 2013.

To learn more about the County Committee elections and other programs administered by FSA, contact your local FSA office or visit us online at www.fsa.usda.gov/ok

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.