Posted: 01.11.2012

U.S. Ag Secretary, Tom Vilsack has announced that more then 250 USDA field offices across the nation, and seven foreign offices will be closed under his new "Blueprint for Stronger Service" plan unveiled this week.

In a conference call with farm broadcasters, Vilsack stressed that it's part of being responsible to the nation's budget deficit - yet maintaining the services consumers depend on from USDA.  Vilsack stressed that food safety and inspection is not at risk.  He said most offices that are being closed will continue to perform the duties that they were responsible for - but in different locations.

In Wisconsin, the planned closures include shuttering for good the Farm Service Agency office in Marinette county - and closing the Madison office of Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Listen to Vilsack explain his plan with farm broadcasters here.

« back to news articles