To the editor:
The Richmond County Farm Service Agency needs your help. We are in the process of selecting advisers to our County Committee. The FSA is committed to promoting diversity on its local county committees so all producers — including minority, female and other under-represented people — have a say in how the agency’s programs are administered locally. Advisers are needed to be a voice for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.
According to the Census of Agriculture Report, there are several minority farmer groups listed. We would like to contact each group and invite them to come to our meetings as an adviser. The groups listed are Asian, black or African American, of more than one race, or of Spanish, Hispanic or Latino origin. If you are a minority farmer and are currently involved in a farming operation, please contact our office. Not only would we like to talk to you concerning being an adviser, but we may have programs you might be eligible to participate in.
Currently, Marcia Lambeth, from Ellerbe serves as advisor. She is involved and interested in agriculture. Mrs. Lambeth is a land owner, runs a produce market, is a former teacher and is involved in many civic groups and in her church.
We are looking for candidates that would be willing to serve with the COC members and who are interested and active in farming in the county or area. If you know of anyone who fits this description or if you would like to be considered as a candidate, please submit their/your name, address, and a way to contact them by Jan. 17 to: Richmond County FSA, 123 Caroline Street, Suite 400, Rockingham, NC 28379 or call 910-895-3950 ext. 2.
The nominated candidate will be brought forth to the COC at their next meeting and each will be evaluated at that time. The candidate(s) that are selected to represent their group will be notified by Feb. 3, 2017.
Thank you for your time and we look forward to working with you in the future.
Amy Hill Yaklin
Richmond Co. FSA executive director