Trump administration appoints Iowa Farm Service Agency director

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has appointed Starlyn Perdue state executive director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency in Iowa, the agency announced Monday.

Perdue, a member of a fifth-generation Century Farm family in southwest Iowa, will oversee the delivery of FSA programs to agricultural producers across the state. The programs include commodity, conservation, credit and disaster assistance initiatives.

"When America's farming communities prosper, the entire nation thrives," Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said in a statement. "This new group of USDA appointees will ensure President Trump's America First agenda is a reality in rural areas across the country."

Perdue brings experience in economic development, agricultural advocacy and program administration to the role. She and her husband raise their two sons on their family farm in southwest Iowa, where she has remained active in the state's agricultural community.

FSA Administrator Bill Beam said state executive directors play a critical role in carrying out the USDA's mission at the state level.

"Rural communities need our support now more than ever," Beam said. "Our newly appointed state leaders bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their position as SED, and they will play an integral role in shaping the future of agriculture in their state."

As state executive director, Perdue will focus on strengthening Iowa's rural economy through workforce training and business development while advocating for policies that support farmers.

The Farm Service Agency implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery and marketing programs through a network of state and county offices. The programs help ensure a safe, affordable and abundant food, fiber and fuel supply, according to the agency.

Perdue is part of a broader group of recent FSA and Rural Development appointees announced by the USDA.