Montanan Named to USDA Beginning Farmer Advisory Committee

The U.S. Department of Agriculture this week announced the appointment of 20 new members to the Advisory Committee on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers, including Alexandria Moxley from Montana. This committee is part of USDA’s support for equitable access to USDA’s services and programs and creating more market opportunities for local and regional production.

Moxley is a Montana Farmers Union member who participated in the Farmers Union Enterprises Leadership program, as well as founder and owner of A.Moxley Consulting where she focuses on helping producers access funding.

“The USDA Advisory Committee on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers will benefit greatly from Ali’s passion for helping producers access the resources they need to be successful,” Montana Farmers Union President Walter Schweitzer said.

“The next generation of farmers, whether continuing a multi-generational operation or starting anew, deserve the very best opportunities,” said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small. “The Biden-Harris administration is convening this committee so young farmers have a voice in policies to level the playing field for small and mid-sized producers, strengthen rural economies, and enhance food security and safety.”

Committee members represent ranching and farming producers, related state and Tribal agricultural entities, academic institutions, commercial banking entities, trade associations, and related nonprofit enterprises. All committee members have previously demonstrated the ability to serve on behalf of new and beginning farmers, minorities, women, and persons with disabilities and to represent small establishments and geographic diversity. Committee members work in academia, industry, government, public health organizations, and industry and consumer organizations. 

First established in 1992, the Advisory Committee on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers advises the Secretary of Agriculture on strategies, policies, and programs that enhance opportunities for new farmers and ranchers.

For more information, visit the Advisory Committee on Beginner Farmers and Ranchers website.