WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2004 - Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman today announced that USDA has begun the process for identifying and selecting members for the National Rural Development Coordinating Committee (NRDCC) that will incorporate the goals and vision of state, local, federal, non-profit and private for-profit sectors into one overarching national rural strategy. The Bush Administration is working to ensure that rural communities are given the opportunity to have their voices heard in the creation of rural policies.

"President Bush's leadership in establishing this committee underscores his commitment to the future of rural communities," said Veneman. "In addition to the $50 billion the Bush Administration has invested in rural areas, the establishing of this committee supports the development of rural policies with the assurance that the voice of rural America will be heard."

In a letter today to 15 federal agencies, Veneman requested their assistance by nominating federal representatives to serve on the Committee (NRDCC). Veneman will also seek in the near future, private and public sector members to serve on the Committee through public solicitation in the Federal Register. The NRDCC will provide input on the formation of national rural strategy, incorporating the goals and vision of State, local, federal, non-profit, and private for-profit sectors into one overarching national rural strategy, and providing overall leadership on policies affecting rural America.

The NRDCC was authorized by the 2002 Farm Bill and signed into law by President Bush. Veneman has been tapped to chair the Committee due to the Department of Agriculture's extensive role in supporting rural businesses, families and communities.