Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the members of the Council for Native American Farming and Ranching on Thursday.

The council was created by the Keepseagle settlement over discrimination at the Department of Agriculture. Its members will advise Vilsack on ways to eliminate barriers to participation for Native American farmers and ranchers.

"The Council for Native American Farming and Ranching will help Native governments, businesses, farmers and ranchers and tribal governments partner with USDA to create jobs, drive economic growth and strengthen tribal communities," Vilsack said in a press release.

The members will serve two-year terms. Their first meeting is scheduled to take place this summer.

"CNAFR is another step USDA is taking to insure Native Americans have full opportunity to utilized programs and services to improve the quality of life on our reservations," said Ross Racine, the executive director of the Intertribal Agriculture Council.

Get the Story:
Press Release: Secretary Vilsack Names Members to the Council for Native American Farming and Ranching (USDA 5/24)
Intertribal Agriculture Council Executive Director Praises Appointment of Members to the Janie Hipp: USDA Council for Native American Farming and Ranching (USDA 5/24)

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