FSA seeks nominations

 Ron Pethoud wants you, especially if you’re a farmer who uses Farm Service Agency programs.And how exactly does the Chickasaw County FSA executive director “want you?”Either as a candidate for the upcoming County Committee election or as a voter.“It’s a great way for those who use FSA programs to have a say,” Pethoud said, “and we’re always looking for people to get more involved with FSA at a local level.”The nomination period for County Committee elections began on June 15 and runs through Aug. 1.Farmers elected to the committee help with the decisions necessary to administer FSA programs and help ensure that the needs of local producers are met.FSA county committees operate within federal regulations and provide local input on a variety of issues, including:• Income safety-net loans and payments, including setting county average yields for commodities.• Conservation programs.• Incentive, indemnity and disaster payments for some commodities.• Emergency programs.• Payment eligibility.The County Committee election begins on Nov. 7, when ballots are mailed to eligible voters, who have until Dec. 5 to return their ballots.New committee members will take office on Jan. 1, and farmers who use FSA programs and are from Washington, Dayton, New Hampton and Dresden townships are eligible to run for office this year.“It’s a great way to get involved and really see how and why FSA works,” Pethoud said. “And like I said, it’s a way to have some input into our programs.”Those interested in obtaining nomination forms can call Pethoud at 641-394-5929, stop by the FSA office at 420 W. Milwaukee St., in New Hampton or go online to fsa.usda.gov/elections.