WASHINGTON, March 14, 2013 – Agriculture Secretary Vilsack today made the following statement on the departure of Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan:
"USDA Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan has helped USDA achieve record results over the past four years. She has played a vital role in the Department-wide focus on the Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food initiative, as well as our efforts to achieve budget efficiencies and savings during an uncertain budget time. Deputy Secretary Merrigan has led USDA's efforts to implement important regulations, and she has been an important advocate for a strong National Organic Program.
I deeply appreciate her service, and I wish her all the best in her future endeavors."
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