USDA Appoints Seasoned Agricultural Experts to Key Positions, Streamlining Support for America’s Farmers and Ranchers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled a series of new appointments to strengthen its Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area, marking a pivotal step to ensure farmers and ranchers across the nation receive direct and timely support.

Announced on March 21, 2025, in Washington, D.C., these leadership changes come in response to the continuing need for efficient, on-the-ground assistance for agricultural producers.

With a focus on delivering disaster relief, risk management, and other critical programs, the USDA aims to enhance service delivery and uphold the Trump Administration’s commitment to those who “feed, fuel, and clothe America.”

By selecting professionals with deep agricultural and policy expertise, the USDA seeks to advance President Trump’s America First agenda and sustain American farmers’ vital role in the nation’s economic and food security.

These appointments will guide agencies within FPAC specifically the Farm Service Agency (FSA), the Risk Management Agency (RMA), and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) which collectively provide essential resources every day for growers of all backgrounds.

“FPAC is the most farmer-facing mission area at USDA, housing the Farm Service Agency, the Risk Management Agency, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service agencies producers rely on every day. Following this week’s $10 billion economic assistance announcement, these appointees will help ensure that support gets to farmers and ranchers without bureaucratic delays. Strong leadership in FPAC means real results, less red tape, and a USDA that works for those who feed, fuel, and clothe America. I’m proud to welcome these new leaders who will champion our farmers and rural communities.”

Brooke Rollins, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

Among the newly named officials is Aubrey Bettencourt, who will serve as Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Bettencourt has built her reputation as a strong advocate for sustainable water management and agricultural practices, having previously served as the Global Director of Government Relations and External Affairs for Netafim, an Orbia Company.

She also held the position of President and CEO of the Almond Alliance and worked as Deputy Assistant Secretary for the U.S. Department of the Interior in the first Trump Administration.

Originally from Kings County, California, Bettencourt draws on her family’s long-standing farming heritage to promote stewardship of natural resources, while working collaboratively with producers nationwide.

Bill Beam steps into the role of Administrator for the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

A resident of Elverson, Pennsylvania, he owns and operates Beam Farms Inc., which produces corn, soybeans, wheat, and hay, in addition to managing a sawdust and wood shavings enterprise.

With a history of service that includes the Pennsylvania Soybean Board, United Soybean Board, and various other agricultural committees, Beam brings significant industry experience to his new position.

He previously served as Deputy Administrator of Farm Programs for FSA during the first Trump Administration, familiarizing himself with federal agricultural policy and the bureaucracy of delivering assistance to rural communities.

In another key post, Andrew Fisher has been named Chief of Staff for Farm Production and Conservation.

Fisher’s background includes legislative roles in the offices of U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO).

Raised on a farrow-to-wean hog operation, he gained firsthand knowledge of livestock management and the challenges of rural life.

Fisher’s academic background in Agriculture Economics from the University of Missouri complements his experiences on Capitol Hill, aligning him with efforts to streamline federal support for farmers and ranchers.

Brooke Appleton will serve as the Deputy Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, drawing on her recent leadership experience as Vice President of Public Policy for the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).

In that role, she directed NCGA’s advocacy on issues such as farm policy, sustainability, and trade.

Appleton’s past work also includes serving as the Chief of Staff to the Deputy Secretary at USDA during the first Trump Administration.

Coming from a row crop and cattle farm in Stanberry, Missouri, she combines practical knowledge of farming with strategic policymaking capabilities.

Pat Swanson, now Administrator for the Risk Management Agency (RMA), has spent years helping producers navigate the complexities of crop and livestock insurance.

Running her own agency in southeastern Iowa, Swanson has advised farmers on managing risk through multiple insurance options, including coverage for forage and pastureland.

Beyond her role as a director for the American Soybean Association, she has worked closely with the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Board.

Her seventh-generation farm background, coupled with a degree from Iowa State University, enhances her insight into balancing tradition with modern agricultural risk strategies.

Rounding out these appointments is Colton Buckley, who assumes the position of Chief of Staff for the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Raised on his grandparents’ cattle ranch in Gatesville, Texas, Buckley has a record of public service that includes appointments to the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents by Governor Rick Perry, membership on the Texas Commissioner of Agriculture’s Advisory Council, and work in rural economic development.

With educational credentials from Tarleton State University and Liberty University, Buckley merges an agricultural upbringing with professional expertise in policy and resource conservation.

These appointments reflect the USDA’s renewed emphasis on swiftly delivering support to the agricultural community.

By drawing on backgrounds that blend hands-on farming, advocacy, and policy development, these leaders are positioned to address the evolving needs of the nation’s growers.

As they take on their roles, they will strive to continue the Administration’s goals: reinforce the backbone of rural America, ensure financial stability for producers, and safeguard the land for future generations.