Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Holds 'Rural Tour' Community Forum in NH

Discussed Administration Efforts, Collects Ideas on Strengthening Rural America

NRCS State Conservationist George Cleek talks with Secretary Vilsack

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack visited New Hampshire on July 6th and held a rural community forum to discuss efforts by the Obama Administration to rebuild and revitalize rural America, to listen to local residents talk about how USDA can assist them, and to discuss solutions to challenges facing their communities.  This event follows the launch of the Obama Administration's 'Rural Tour' last week, and is the eighth similar forum Vilsack has led since being sworn in as Secretary.

"To rebuild and revitalize our country, President Obama and I want those affected by decisions made in Washington to participate in the process of developing innovative solutions and charting a path for rural America," said Vilsack. "It is critically important to hear the thoughts, concerns and stories about each community's vision for its future and to collect ideas about how USDA can better serve these communities."

At the NH rural community forum, Vilsack discussed how the USDA is working to promote a sustainable, safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply, ensure that America leads the global fight against climate change, and revitalize rural communities by expanding economic opportunities.  Vilsack highlighted the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act efforts that are underway in New Hampshire and across the country.

USDA announced $569,403 in Recovery Act funding for 2 floodplain easement projects in New Hampshire. This Natural Resources Conservation Services funding will reduce the impact of flooding and enhance water quality in the Connecticut River and Great Bay Watersheds.

Last week, President Obama announced that Secretary Vilsack will lead the Administration's Rural Tour to visit rural communities in states throughout the country. Vice President Joe Biden and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack kicked off the Rural Tour on Wednesday in Wattsburg, Pa., at an event announcing Recovery Act funds to expand broadband service in rural America.

USDA is encouraging all Americans to follow the Rural Tour's progress on a new website, www.RuralTour.gov or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/RuralTour.

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