Farmers, ranchers and other agricultural producers may begin nominating eligible candidates to serve on local Farm Service Agency county committees, announced Paul Digby, County Executive director of the USDA’s Farm Service Agency.

County committees play a vital role in the administration of federal farm programs and the positive effect they have on rural communities, according to Digby. They make decisions on commodity price support loans, conservation programs, disaster programs, employing county executive directors and other significant agricultural issues.

Individuals may nominate themselves or other eligible candidates. All nominees must sign nomination form FSA-669A, which includes a statement that the nominee agrees to serve if elected.

All nomination forms must be postmarked or received in the local USDA Service Center by close of business on Aug. 1, 2011. Ballots will be mailed to eligible voters by Nov. 4. Final day to return voted ballots is Dec. 5 and newly elected members take office Jan. 1.

A public meeting will be held Tuesday, July 26, at 9 a.m. at the Decatur County FSA office to discuss the county committee election process. Those interested in participating either through nomination, voting or service, especially African-Americans, Asian-Americans, American Indians, Hispanics, women and other minority farmers are especially encouraged to come and participate at this meeting.

For more information, contact the local FSA Office at (229) 246-5773.