WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is reorganizing the Foreign Agricultural Service, saying the move will place more trade-support work closer to the farmers, ranchers, and rural communities the agency serves.
The department says the plan will create an operational support hub in Kansas City, Missouri. Much of the agency’s Washington-based workforce will move in phases to Kansas City or the USDA’s George Washington Carver Center in Beltsville, Maryland.
USDA says the change does not include a reduction in force. Overseas staff and diplomatic posts are not affected, and trade policy, market access negotiations, co-operator programs, congressional work, and inter-agency coordination will remain in Washington.
The Foreign Agricultural Service helps expand market access, support export promotion, and connect U.S. agriculture with global buyers. Moving support functions could affect how programs are staffed and delivered.
USDA says the transition will be phased in over time, with support for affected employees.
