Ag nominee Richard Fordyce is expected for a second stint at USDA

Richard Fordyce is also waiting for his time before lawmakers. He has been picked for Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. It would be his second go-around with USDA, an opportunity he says he is excited about.

“You know, it’s been four years since I’ve been at USDA as the administrator, so you know, I think it’s going to take some time to get in and see how things are different today, and so I don’t really have any planned things on a bucket list other than to do our very best to represent American agriculture, and specifically, farmers and ranchers across the country.”

Farming is in Fordyce’s blood, saying it makes him uniquely qualified for the role.

“I’m a farmer from Northwest Missouri. You know, that’s all I’ve ever wanted to be when I was growing up and wanted to be like my dad and, you know when I went to work last time at USDA. I mean, what a thrill. You know, what a thrill to be a part of some of the programs that we did then. We implemented the 2018 Farm Bill, which, man, that was an insight into an activity that I would have never guessed I would have had the opportunity to do.”

Fordyce will have to be confirmed by the Senate before taking office. So far, his hearing has not been scheduled.

Related Stories
Groundbreaking Marks Next Major Milestone in Strengthening U.S. New World Screwworm Preparedness
Strong crush margins — now at multi-year highs — are encouraging processors to expand production.
Crop insurance remains essential as risks and costs rise.
Sen. Roger Marshall joined us to discuss rising input costs, farm support efforts, and legislation aimed at strengthening domestic fertilizer supply.
David Fisher with the American Lamb Board joined us to discuss a new sustainability program designed to boost producer profitability while supporting stewardship practices.
David Gruchot with USDA APHIS joined us to discuss the growing threat of invasive pests and the steps individuals can take to help protect U.S. agriculture.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss rural mental health awareness, the importance of reducing stigma in agriculture, and resources available to farmers, ranchers, and rural families seeking support.
Utah Senator John Curtis joins us for “Champions of Rural America” to discuss new legislation to improve forest management and wildfire prevention and its broader implications for rural communities and infrastructure.
NRECA CEO Jim Matheson joins us to discuss rural electric co-ops’ push for expanded USDA loan programs, rising energy demand from data center expansion, wildfire mitigation and other policy priorities impacting rural power infrastructure.
With the Farm Bill now in the Senate’s hands, industry groups say the stakes are high—and timely action could be critical for producers navigating a difficult economic environment.