By Andi Anderson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a reorganization plan that includes the creation of five regional hubs, with Indianapolis selected as one of the locations. The new approach aims to streamline the agency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery for farmers and rural communities.
Other hub cities will be Raleigh, North Carolina; Kansas City, Missouri; Fort Collins, Colorado; and Salt Lake City, Utah. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins explained that the move will relocate much of the department’s headquarters staff out of Washington, D.C., while still maintaining essential functions in the capital.
According to USDA, the reasons for the reorganization include aligning the workforce with financial resources and agricultural priorities, eliminating management layers, consolidating redundant support functions, and bringing the agency closer to its customers.
Currently, about 4,600 USDA employees work in the National Capital Region, but that number is expected to be reduced to around 2,000 once the transition is complete.
Indiana Farm Bureau President Randy Kron welcomed the announcement, noting the recognition of the state’s agricultural importance.
“We’ve always known Indiana is an epicenter of agriculture production, but it’s encouraging to see that’s being recognized at the federal level,” Kron said. He added that the Farm Bureau looks forward to USDA staff working more closely with Hoosier farmers.
The American Farm Bureau Federation also responded, saying it will monitor the process to ensure that farmers continue to receive essential services and program delivery is not disrupted.
This initiative marks the first phase of a multi-month transition. While Washington, D.C., will continue to play a role, USDA’s plan reflects a long-term effort to improve efficiency, cut bureaucracy, and make operations more farmer-focused.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Indiana, Government & Policy