Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack visited the Redlands Community Colleged and held a forum yesterday, September 16, 2009, to discuss the Obama Administration's efforts to revitalize rural America and head from citizens on solutions to issues in their communities. Vilsack stated,To overcome challenges and be successful in a new, 21st century economy, President Obama has asked that we reach out to people in rural communities across the country to listen, learn and facilitate problem-solving. It is critically important to hear the thoughts, concerns and stories about Oklahoma's vision for its future and to collect ideas about how USDA can better serve these communities.
Vilsack also highlighted the USDA's efforts under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which include:
- USDA's Rural Development has helped guarantee 1,604 loans worth more than $165 million in the state of Oklahoma through the Single Family Housing Loan program. These loans help residents and producers to have access to the capital they need to keep rural communities strong.
- USDA's Farm Service Agency is providing $5.21 million through 111 Direct Operating Farm Loans. These loans help farms purchase items such as livestock, farm equipment, feed, seed, fuel, farm chemicals, insurance, and other operating expenses.
- USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service announced more than $14 million for 7 watershed rehabilitation projects and over $3.1 million for 11 watershed operation projects. In addition, the USDA will be investing $2.8 million for 4 floodplain easement projects.
- Through USDA's Rural Development, $1.35 million will be made available for 14 community facilities projects. Community Facility Grants will allow towns across Oklahoma to purchase critical emergency service vehicles and equipment, build Emergency Operations Centers and community centers.
Posted: 09/17/09
