Micheal Clements, NAFB News Service

The Department of Agriculture seeks members for a new advisory committee on urban agriculture. The committee is part of a broader effort to focus on the needs of urban farmers. The 12-person committee will advise the Secretary of Agriculture on the development of policies and outreach relating to urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural production practices and identify any barriers to urban agriculture. USDA Undersecretary Bill Northey says, “This group will underscore USDA’s commitment to all segments of agriculture.” USDA seeks four agricultural producers for the committee, two in urban areas and two who use innovative technology. The committee will also feature two representatives from higher education or extension programs and a member from a nonprofit organization. USDA also seeks a committee member with supply chain experience, one from a financing entity and two with experience in urban agriculture production. The nomination deadline is March 5, 2021. Find more information about the nomination process at fsa.usda.gov.