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Fordyce: USDA evaluating temporary service reductions at Missouri FSA offices

The USDA’s Under Secretary of Farm Production and Conservation confirms temporary service reductions are being considered at some Missouri Farm Service Agency offices as the agency evaluates staffing.

Richard Fordyce tells Brownfield he’s not sure which locations are impacted, but the decisions being made are being done to provide the best service with existing funds.

“We know that we have some counties that are not fully staffed and we may not have the right expertise in that county. And so, I think they’re taking a very critical look at, you know, how our county staff, who’s in those offices and looking at opportunities to provide better service.”

He says that means “There might be some reduced service in some counties, but enhanced service in other countries.”

Fordyce says the work happening at USDA county offices is critical because that’s where farm programs are delivered.

This week, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri sent a letter to the USDA saying he’s concerned about the timing of a pending reduction of services at the Ralls County FSA Office, and asked several questions.