Secretary Ann M. Veneman gave a stirring pep talk to employees charged with implementing the new farm law at USDA headquarters on May 15, just two days after the bill became law.

In remarks broadcast via satellite to Farm Service Agency offices throughout the country, Veneman acknowledged both the contribution employees made during farm bill development and the long hours still to come.

"Now the hard work begins, and that is implementing this new farm bill. It is an enormous challenge, but I am confident, from talking to so many of you over the past few months, that we are up to it," she said.

The new law will touch every mission area in the department.

"Career employees play such an integral role in the process and have the institutional knowledge that is so important to implementation of all of these programs," Veneman said.

Veneman, whose comments were web-streamed live on the USDA website, drawing more than 580 viewers during the 23-minute talk, also announced the formation of a Farm Bill Working Group consisting of key career staff including budget director Steve Dewhurst and chief economist Keith Collins as well as the entire sub-cabinet.

A day earlier, Veneman announced the creation of a farm bill gateway on the USDA website. Look for the 2002 farm bill logo. The site is chock full of information provided by employees for farmers and ranchers seeking answers to questions about the new law.

As Veneman said, "You’ve delivered in the past, and you are the experts, the career force that continues to raise the bar and achieve great things. You are truly appreciated.” •