EPA, USDA officials host roundtable with underserved producers

FORT VALLEY — In recognition of Black History Month, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 4 Administrator Daniel Blackman and USDA Farm Service Agency Georgia State Executive Director Arthur Tripp co-hosted a roundtable discussion at Fort Valley State University directly engaging with underserved and/or underrepresented agricultural producers to learn about challenges, concerns and opportunities where the EPA and USDA FSA can provide support.

“The responsibility of feeding, clothing and fueling America is such a tremendous challenge farmers face every day,” Blackman said. “Additionally, dealing with variables like weather, pests, labor, cost of inputs, and regulatory compliance, underrepresented and underserved farmers face supplemental challenges like disparate access to resources and education. That is why it is so important for us to hear and directly engage with these producers to better understand how we can help and provide support.”

“Farming is inherently risky. It is incredibly important that our producers are aware of all of the resources that the USDA provides,” USDA Farm Service Agency Georgia State Executive Director Arthur Tripp added. “From access to capital options, to federal disaster programs, we are proud to support our agricultural producers.”

The event was an opportunity to hear from underrepresented stakeholders about challenges and concerns faced, provide information on federal roles and resources, and discuss opportunities where the EPA and USDA FSA can provide assistance and support. In addition to the roundtable, EPA Region 4 signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Fort Valley State to demonstrate both parties’ commitment to partnership, and the principals met with the university’s students to discuss federal career opportunities. Finally, Blackman and Tripp toured a farming operation in Hawkinsville.

Special Photo: USDA