By Scout Nelson
John Hoeven said he is working to help secure strong funding for Farm Service Agency offices. He shared the message while speaking to members of the North Dakota Association of County Office Employees of FSA in Mandan.
Hoeven told the group that funding for FSA offices remain an important priority this year. He praised employees for the work they do across rural communities and for the support they provide to agriculture producers.
"We'll be very careful this year to make sure we do everything we can to make sure there is adequate funding for our FSA offices," Hoeven told the meeting. "And for all our great folks - you, that are out there, working for our farmers and ranchers. Know that you are absolutely the top, top, top priority."
Kristen Jasper, a county executive director in Kidder County, also spoke about staffing needs. She said recent raises for current employees have helped, but wage gaps still create challenges when hiring and keeping workers.
"If you come out of college with a four-year degree, you will start around $50,000 to $52,000 (at FSA), compared to the private sector, where a lot of those same positions are starting around $72,000," said Jasper. She's hoping Congress will increase funding for the FSA.
Jasper said stronger pay levels are needed to attract skilled workers and keep experienced staff members in place.
"A lot of us at FSA are very passionate about what we do, and about our farmers and ranchers," Jasper said. "In order to retain these quality employees, and bring in the right qualified people to work with our farmers and ranchers, we need to keep up with the pay scale."
She added that a hiring freeze has ended. She said there are 18 manager openings statewide, while five people are currently in training. Leaders hope added support will strengthen service for producers across North Dakota.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-creischl
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy