Farm Progress America, September 23, 2025

Congress confirmed three new undersecretaries to the USDA last week and farm groups celebrated the announcement. Mike Pearson gives us a look at the people behind the confirmations.

The first is Richard Fordyce who will serve as undersecretary for farm production and conservation. He is a fourth-generation farmer from Bethany, Missouri. He riases corn, soybeans and cattle and has served in the state and federal department of agriculture. He will oversee the Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency in addition to the Natural Resource Conservation Service.

The second confirmation is Dudley Hoskins who will serve as the undersecretary for Marketing and Regulator Programs. He has years of experience in agriculture policy and regulatory policy. He will service the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and other agencies that look over crops and livestock. One of his main responsibilities will be to set grading scales for crops and markets open for U.S. farm goods.

The third confirmation is Dr. Scott Hutchins, undersecretary for Research, Education and Ecobomics. He spent his career in agriuclture research and education. He oversees the ag research and the economic rsearch service. Plus, the National Institute for Ag and National Agriculture Statistical Service.

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These agencies work to provide science extension data and statistics that farmers and ranchers need in their operation.

Even with these confirmations, the USDA is still not op to full strength with two empty undersecretary seats. One is for natural resources and environment. The other has a candidate but is not yet confirmed, Glen Smith who will handle Rural Development.

Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Mike Pearson, farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness .