WASHINGTON–Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in cooperation with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), is renewing the charters and accepting nominations for new members to serve on its agricultural trade advisory committees.
“USDA and USTR rely on the individuals who serve on these committees to provide their expert advice on U.S. trade policy and priorities,” said Vilsack. “They are an invaluable asset as we work to enact trade agreements and trade policies that deliver the greatest economic benefit to America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities.”
Members of the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee (APAC) advise USDA and USTR on the operation of existing U.S. trade agreements, on negotiating objectives for new agreements, and on other trade policy matters. Members of the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees (ATACs) represent specific commodity sectors and provide technical advice and guidance on trade issues that affect both domestic and foreign production. The six ATACs focus on trade in:
* Animals and animal products;
* Fruits and vegetables;
* Grains, feed, oilseeds and planting seeds;
* Processed foods;
* Sweeteners and sweetener products; and
* Tobacco, cotton and peanuts.
Committee members represent a cross-section of the U.S. food and agricultural industry and must have knowledge of agriculture and trade matters. Committee members, who serve four-year terms, must be U.S. citizens, qualify for a security clearance, and serve without compensation for time, travel or expenses. The committees generally meet in Washington, D.C. at least twice a year.
Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on April 30, 2015. Nominations received after that will be considered for future appointments. All nomination materials should be mailed in a single, complete package to: Thomas Vilsack, Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-1001, Attn: APAC/ATACs.
For additional information, including application instructions and forms, visit www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-policy/trade-advisory-committees, e-mail ATACs@fas.usda.gov or call (202) 720-4934.