New Farm Service Agency executive director, Arkansas Rural Development director named

President Donald Trump has appointed David Branscum to serve as Arkansas Rural Development Director and David Curtis as Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director. U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., applauded both appointments.

“These Arkansans both have a strong commitment to agriculture. Their knowledge, experience and background in the industry make them valuable leaders for producers and citizens in rural parts of our state. I congratulate them on their appointments and look forward to working with them to strengthen Arkansas agriculture and our rural communities,” Boozman said.

Branscum, of Marshall, is a third-generation cattle rancher, famer and small business owner. He earned a degree in agricultural economics from the University of Arkansas and volunteers his time on a number of community organizations including the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association, Delta Regional Authority and the Searcy County Chamber of Commerce. He serves as the District 83 representative in the Arkansas House of Representatives.

As Arkansas Rural Development Director, Branscum will be responsible for overseeing United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) investments, programs and personnel working to aid the lives of rural Arkansans.

Curtis, of Salem, was raised on a cattle farm and continues that tradition as a cattle rancher and small business owner. He studied agriculture at North Arkansas College and is a member of the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association. He serves as FSA County Executive Director for Stone, Izard and Cleburne Counties. As Arkansas FSA Director, Curtis will be responsible for communicating the administration’s position on agriculture issues and administering FSA programs across the state.