USDA TO HOLD BRIEFINGS on AVAILABLE USDA PROGRAMS
2002 Farm Bill Will be Highlighted by USDA Officials at Itta Bena, Miss.

WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2002 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture will hold the second in its series of informational briefings Dec. 12 in Itta Bena, Miss., to acquaint farmers, ranchers and other constituents with a wide array of agency services and to highlight changes and new provisions in the 2002 Farm Bill.

"These meetings are an important part of our ongoing implementation of the 2002 Farm Bill and commitment to reach as many people as possible about USDA programs," said Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman. "Stakeholders will have the opportunity to hear from USDA experts on the many programs available to them."

The briefing will be held Dec. 12 at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Miss. from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The session, organized by the USDA Office of Outreach, will feature presentations on a broad array of topics including conservation programs, insurance and drought relief programs, food and nutrition programs and rural utilities, rural business and rural housing programs.

"We are committed to reaching out to the full spectrum of USDA customers, including under-served customers, minorities and women, to ensure they benefit from USDA programs and services," said Assistant Secretary for Administration Lou Gallegos.

Follow-up sessions are planned for Jan. 15 in Victoria, Tex., and on Feb. 19 in Fort Valley, Georgia.

For information about the briefings, please visit USDA's Farm Bill website at http://www.usda.gov , or call 202-720-6350 or toll free 1-800-880-4183.

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