Richard Fordyce, a former director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture, has been selected as administrator of USDA’s Farm Service Agency.
In that role, Fordyce will oversee the agency’s effort to support agricultural production across the country through a network of 2,100 county and 50 state offices.
“As a fourth-generation farmer, Richard brings firsthand knowledge and experience to this role,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said. “I am confident that he will continue to help USDA become the most efficient, effective, customer-focused agency in the federal government as he leads this customer-focused mission area.”
FSA Administrator pick Richard Fordyce
Fordyce most recently was state executive director for FSA in Missouri. Prior to his appointment by the Trump administration, he ran the Missouri Department of Agriculture from 2013 to 2017. In 2015, Fordyce was awarded the Missouri Farm Bureau Distinguished Service Award and the Agricultural Leaders of Tomorrow Alumnus of the Year.
He has served in roles for the National Biodiesel Board and the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council. He was also appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to serve as one of the Missouri directors on the United Soybean Board and served in that capacity for 11 years.
He and his wife, Renee, have two children and grow soybeans and corn and raise beef cattle on their family farm.
