Pryor expresses disappointment with FSA closures

U.S. Senator Mark Pryor resently said he was disappointed the USDA is moving forward with its plan to close several Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices in Arkansas. Earlier this year, he grilled Secretary Vilsack about the process, community input and calculations used to determine closures.

USDA must be part of government-wide efforts to reduce spending, but it should do so in a smart, consistent and objective manner. USDA failed this test when deciding which FSA offices to close. So while I’m pleased farmers in Lafayette County will continue to enjoy easy access to FSA services, several other FSA offices in our state will be closed as a result of USDA’s inconsistent or faulty calculations. I will continue to seek out alternatives to ensure all of our farmers receive the services they need to operate efficiently.