USDA pledges to listen to Idaho concerns

There´s just one way for Idahoans to have a say on agriculture, national forests, rural development and other Western issues handled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the agency´s No. 2 man said Monday.

The Idaho Statesman

"Talk to us," said Jim Moseley, USDA deputy secretary.

Moseley, in Boise to talk about issues at an Idaho Rural Partnership round table, said the onus is on his department to hear what states and their residents are saying.

"The way to respond is to listen," he said. "But it´s more than listening. Listening is important; it´s the first step. But it really comes down to this: You listen to understand. You want to appreciate what´s going on.

"If you listen and understand, you end up with change," Moseley said.

He even gave out his own e-mail address, , for people with concerns and questions.

Rural Partnership Co-Chairman Trent Clark said changes are coming fast to rural Idaho, which is "confronted daily by a new economic playing field."

He and several Idahoans involved with agriculture, rural development and education gave Moseley an overview of what they think are the most pressing issues.

To offer story ideas or comments, contact reporter Gregory Hahn at 377-6425 or ghahn@idahostatesman. com.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/story.asp?ID=49772