By Blake Jackson
On November 13, 2024, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael S. Regan announced the appointment of 18 new members and the reappointment of six members to the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee (FRRCC). This committee offers independent policy advice to the EPA Administrator on environmental issues affecting agriculture and rural communities.
Dr. Beth Sauerhaft, from the American Farmland Trust, will continue as chair, while Michael Crowder, of Ducks Unlimited, will serve as vice-chair. They will lead the committee’s efforts along with 13 current members, whose terms extend until November 2025. The FRRCC members represent a range of perspectives from academia, agriculture, non-profits, and state, local, and tribal governments.
“EPA remains committed to ensuring agricultural and rural communities and are fully engaged as partners in our work to protect our environment and advance public health,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “The diverse perspectives of these new appointees, along with our dedicated returning members, will be instrumental in helping us navigate environmental challenges and deliver science-based, practical solutions that strengthen our nation's food and agriculture systems for generations to come.”
FRRCC Goals and Recent Work
The FRRCC aims to provide valuable guidance to the EPA. The committee has recently submitted 32 recommendations on several key topics, including:
- Expanding technical assistance for rural communities
- Increasing outreach for solar energy programs in agriculture
- Promoting public-private partnerships to advance conservation practices
These recommendations reflect the committee's work in alignment with priorities set by Administrator Regan, who anticipates issuing a response to the recommendations in the coming weeks.
Selection Process and New Members
The EPA’s selection process for new members began in July 2024, with over 80 applications received. Members were chosen to represent a wide geographic area, covering all 10 EPA regions and including 24 states, territories, and the District of Columbia.
These new appointees bring expertise in areas crucial to the EPA, such as climate change, sustainable agriculture, and conservation practices.
Newly Appointed Members Include:
- Megan Dwyer, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois
- Katherine English, English Family Farms, Florida
- Jamaica Gayle, Plant Based Products Council, Washington, D.C.
Erik Huschitt, Badger State Ethanol, Wisconsin
Returning members include Bill Couser of Couser Cattle Company in Iowa and Jeff Witte from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture.
For more information about the committee, visit the FRRCC website.
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Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy