Agriculture Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden attended her first National FFA Convention and took the stage to address FFA members during the third general session of the 88th annual event. She said she doesn’t use prepared notes but her message was clear. She believes in the future of agriculture and doesn’t just think FFA members will make a difference. She believes wholeheartedly that they are the difference.
Before she took the stage, Deputy Secretary Harden spent time with the media to not only address the future of agriculture, but USDA’s programs and services that serve new and beginning farmers and ranchers. Yesterday USDA also announced a tailored web tool designed to connect farm entrepreneurs with programs and resources available to help them get started.
“This announcement is symbolic of the evolution of USDA’s efforts to better serve the next generation of farmers and ranchers. What began seven years ago with the recognition that the rapid aging of the American farmer was an emerging challenge, has transformed into a robust, transparent, tech-based strategy to recruit the farmers of the future,” said Harden. “No matter where you’re from, no matter what you look like, no matter your background, we want USDA to be the first stop for anyone who is looking to be a part of the story and legacy of American agriculture.”
Listen to Deputy Secretary Harden’s remarks here: Ag Deputy Secretary Harden Presser
Find photos from the event here: 2015 National FFA Convention Photo Album
