The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is calling on tribal producers and agricultural landowners to take an active role in shaping federal agriculture programs by participating in FSA County Committee elections. With more than 7,700 members serving on local committees across the U.S., these elections ensure that farmers and ranchers have a direct voice in how programs are implemented at the local level — from disaster relief to conservation efforts.

 

FSA committees influence how USDA programs are delivered in rural communities, including employment, funding access, and outreach priorities. For American Indian and Alaska Native producers, participating in these elections is a meaningful opportunity to guide decisions that affect tribal agricultural operations and lands.

 

* Nomination Period: June 16 – August 1, 2025

* Ballots Mailed: November 3, 2025

* Deadline to Return Ballots: December 1, 2025

* New Members Take Office: January 1, 2026

 

Federally recognized tribal members who are 18+ and own or co-manage agricultural land (including land held in trust by the U.S.) are eligible to vote — even if they are not currently farming or ranching the land. Producers can nominate themselves or others, and tribes or organizations may also submit nominations.

 

Contact your local USDA Service Center to register, update your contact information, and learn how to submit or support a nomination.

 

Learn more and view nomination materials here.