202-720-6350
1-800-880-4183

WASHINGTON, February 6, 2003 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture will hold the sixth in its series of informational briefings Feb. 24 in Pasco, Wash., 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 Feb. 24 at Trade, Recreation, Agricultural Center (TRAC) facilities, 6600 Burden Boulevard, Pasco, Washington from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (registration and continental breakfast begins at 7:00 a.m.) The session, organized by the USDA Office of Outreach and hosted by Risk Management Agency, will provide 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.

Feature presenters include Assistant Secretary for Administration, Lou Gallegos and Bert Farrish, Commodity Credit Corporation's Deputy Administrator for Commodity Operations.

"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.

Additional sessions scheduled throughout the U.S., include Feb. 22 in Lincoln, Nebraska and Feb. 26 in Fresno, California.

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.