United States Secretary of Agriculture

Hon. Isaac Newton, Pa - NARA - 529257 (cropped)

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Horace Capron

Frederick Watts

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William G. LeDuc

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George B. Loring - Brady-Handy

NJColman

United States Secretary of Agriculture is a Cabinet-level position in the United States government. The Secretary of Agriculture is the head of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and is responsible for overseeing the various aspects of the nation's agriculture, forestry, and food. This includes the administration of policies for farming, food safety, and natural resource conservation. The position plays a crucial role in shaping national agriculture policies, supporting farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture, and ensuring food security for the country.

History

The position of Secretary of Agriculture was established in 1889 when the Department of Agriculture was elevated to a Cabinet-level department. Prior to this, the head of the department was known as the Commissioner of Agriculture. The change reflected the growing importance of agriculture in the American economy and the need for more direct representation in the President's Cabinet.

Responsibilities

The Secretary of Agriculture's responsibilities are broad and encompass various areas critical to the nation's welfare. These include:

• Developing and executing federal laws related to farming, agriculture, forestry, and food.
• Administering programs designed to support the agricultural economy and enhance the quality of life for the American people.
• Overseeing agencies within the USDA, such as the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), among others.
• Promoting agricultural trade and production to ensure food security and foster economic growth.
• Working with state and local governments, as well as international organizations, to enhance and sustain the agriculture and food sectors.

Appointment

The Secretary of Agriculture is appointed by the President of the United States, subject to confirmation by the United States Senate. The Secretary is a member of the President's Cabinet and advises the President on agriculture policy.

List of Secretaries

Over the years, many distinguished individuals have served as Secretary of Agriculture, contributing to the development and implementation of policies that have shaped the nation's agriculture and food landscape. Some notable Secretaries include:

• Norman J. Coleman - The first Secretary of Agriculture.
• Henry A. Wallace - Served during the Great Depression and was instrumental in implementing New Deal policies related to agriculture.
• Earl Butz - Known for his policies that encouraged farmers to "plant fence row to fence row" in the 1970s.
• Tom Vilsack - Served under President Barack Obama and was reappointed by President Joe Biden, focusing on issues such as climate change and sustainability in agriculture.

Challenges and Future Directions

The Secretary of Agriculture faces numerous challenges, including addressing climate change, ensuring food security, managing water resources, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Future directions may involve leveraging technology to enhance agricultural productivity, developing policies to support rural economies, and ensuring the equitable distribution of resources to all segments of the agricultural community.

See Also

• Agriculture in the United States
• Farm Bill
• Food policy of the United States