USDA Heading to the Heartland
Press Contact: Jim.Joice@mail.house.gov
For Immediate Release:
June 13, 2019
USDA Heading to the Heartland
Washington, D.C. – Today, the Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Purdue announced that the United States Department of Agriculture has chosen the Greater Kansas City area as the final relocation site for two of its research arms, the Economic Research Service (ERS) and National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The final decision was based on three criteria: capital and operating costs, a capable workforce, and quality of life for the USDA employees. The relocation, which will take place before the end of the year, moves two essential USDA research divisions within closer proximity to the farms and ranches it seeks to help, while also opening many new jobs in the area. Congressman Steve Watkins issued the following statement:
“This is great news. I’ve spoken with the USDA and I’m glad they agree the heartland is a great fit. This is great news for the Kansas agriculture community and strengthens our animal corridor.”
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