WORKING WITH USDA ON RURAL COMMUNITY ECONOMIC IMPACT

ccording to the most recent Census of Agriculture, just 1.4 percent of U.S. farmers identify as Black. Larry Holland is part of that 1.4 percent. He is also a farmer within the Land O’Lakes, Inc. cooperative system and was one of 12 people named to the newly established U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Subcommittee on Rural Community Economic Development (RCED).

Long-standing structural and institutional barriers have limited the access of Black, Indigenous and people of color to land, financial assistance and educational resources. Subcommittee members such as Larry have begun evaluating USDA programs and services and will make recommendations on how the agency can remove access barriers.

It’s a huge responsibility. I am a bit daunted but absolutely honored and committed to doing whatever it takes to make a difference. Right now, I am talking to as many people as I can in my community, as well as across the country, to inform my thinking and to understand what can be improved to help create a more inclusive ag industry.”