(NAFB.com) – The Irrigation Association expressed its strong support for the nomination of Richard Fordyce as USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. Fordyce, a Missouri farmer and former Farm Service Agency Administrator, brings extensive experience to the role. The association says he has a “strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing American agriculture.” Irrigation Association CEO Natasha Rankin says she’s pleased to congratulate Fordyce for his nomination on behalf of the association. “We look forward to working with him to help support American farmers increase their productivity while showcasing the positive impacts of irrigation,” Rankin says. “Together, we can advance the stewardship of our nation’s water and natural resources, ensuring the vitality of agriculture, and continuing to demonstrate the benefits of adopting sustainable irrigation practices.” The Irrigation Association also emphasized Fordyce’s background as both a farmer and leader at the federal and state levels, noting his potential to champion policies promoting innovation.