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Harvey Smith to Head Farm Service Agency in Vermont

Tuesday May 29, 2007

   Recently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanss appointed Harvey Smith as the State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Vermont. In this role, Mr. Smith will oversee programs designed to improve the economic stability of the agricultural industry in Vermont.

   “Harvey’s strong agricultural roots and active involvement in agricultural issues will help Vermont farmers optimize their resources with the programs available through FSA,” said Governor Douglas. “Harvey’s experience makes him a valuable asset and we welcome his insight and commitment to serve his fellow agricultural community.”

   Harvey Smith resides in New Haven, VT where he has owned a farm since 1972. Previously a dairy farmer, he now raises soybeans and forage crops. Harvey’s involvement with agricultural issues includes serving as State Representative for Addison – 5 district. He served on the House Agriculture Committee during his eight-year tenure with the legislature.

   Mr. Smith studied Animal Science at the University of New Hampshire prior to moving to Vermont.  Throughout his professional career, Harvey has been an active member in several associations. He is an executive committee member of the Associated Industries of Vermont and President of the Addison County Farm Bureau. He also serves as a member of the Addison County Regional Planning Commission, the UVM Extension Advisory Board, Agri-Mark/Cabot Cooperative, and the Center for Sustainable Agriculture.  Harvey is also a member of the Business Management Committee of the Dairy Task Force.

   Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Roger Allbee commented, “FSA provides many important services for the sustainability of agriculture in Vermont. Perhaps most importantly, FSA certifies farmers for farm programs and pays farm price supports and disaster payments. FSA is also an important provider of farm credit to Vermont farmers and agricultural lenders.”

   Each state executive director oversees FSA’s responsibilities to farmers within the state’s boundaries and contributes feedback to assist the agency with policy decisions. FSA ensures the well-being of American agriculture, the environment and the American public through efficient and equitable administration of farm commodity programs; farm ownership, operating and emergency loans; conservation and environmental programs; emergency and disaster assistance; domestic and international food assistance and international export credit programs.

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