Senator Bennet advocates relocating USDA offices to Fort Collins for better collaboration
July 30, 2025 | Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: Senate Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry convened on July 30, 2025, to discuss the USDA's reorganization proposal, which aims to enhance operational efficiency and improve service delivery to farmers and producers. A key highlight of the meeting was the announcement of Fort Collins, Colorado, as one of the new USDA hubs, a decision that reflects a strategic move to decentralize operations from Washington, D.C., and bring the agency closer to the communities it serves.
Senator Michael Bennet expressed strong support for the relocation initiative, emphasizing the importance of having USDA personnel situated near the agricultural producers they assist. He noted that Fort Collins is already home to many Forest Service employees and highlighted the potential for collaboration with Colorado State University to leverage local research capabilities. The intention is to create a more integrated approach to managing forest resources and wildfire response, particularly as the West faces increasing fire risks each summer.
Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke, confirmed that the reorganization will prioritize consultations with employees and local communities to ensure a smooth transition and effective implementation. The discussions also touched on the need for comprehensive fire management strategies that encompass prevention, restoration, and response efforts, rather than focusing solely on firefighting.
Senator Ed Smith voiced his support for the reorganization, acknowledging the necessity of making the USDA more responsive and efficient. He pointed out that while the proposal is still in development, it is crucial to address outstanding questions regarding its specifics, particularly the planned elimination of area offices by the Agricultural Research Service.
The committee's discussions underscored a collective commitment to enhancing the USDA's operational framework, with a clear focus on improving service delivery and addressing the pressing challenges faced by agricultural communities. As the reorganization moves forward, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its implementation and the tangible benefits it promises for farmers and producers across the nation.
Senator Michael Bennet expressed strong support for the relocation initiative, emphasizing the importance of having USDA personnel situated near the agricultural producers they assist. He noted that Fort Collins is already home to many Forest Service employees and highlighted the potential for collaboration with Colorado State University to leverage local research capabilities. The intention is to create a more integrated approach to managing forest resources and wildfire response, particularly as the West faces increasing fire risks each summer.
Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke, confirmed that the reorganization will prioritize consultations with employees and local communities to ensure a smooth transition and effective implementation. The discussions also touched on the need for comprehensive fire management strategies that encompass prevention, restoration, and response efforts, rather than focusing solely on firefighting.
Senator Ed Smith voiced his support for the reorganization, acknowledging the necessity of making the USDA more responsive and efficient. He pointed out that while the proposal is still in development, it is crucial to address outstanding questions regarding its specifics, particularly the planned elimination of area offices by the Agricultural Research Service.
The committee's discussions underscored a collective commitment to enhancing the USDA's operational framework, with a clear focus on improving service delivery and addressing the pressing challenges faced by agricultural communities. As the reorganization moves forward, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its implementation and the tangible benefits it promises for farmers and producers across the nation.
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