To Our Community:
On behalf of the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition Board of Directors, I am writing to share that John Roberts has stepped down from his role as Executive Director. John’s last day will be February 11.
Earlier today, President Joe Biden appointed John as USDA State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency in Vermont.
According to a press release issued by the White House, the USDA’s Farm Service Agency implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster, and farm marketing programs in each U.S. State. Its mission is to equitably serve all farmers, ranchers, and agricultural partners through the delivery of effective, efficient agricultural programs for all Americans. State Executive Directors oversee this work, ensuring the needs of local constituents are met and that USDA resources are distributed equitably and fairly.
This is an exciting opportunity for John, following a more than 40-year career in Vermont agriculture. While we are sad to see him go, we are grateful to have had someone so passionate and knowledgeable about farming leading our organization for the past 19 months.
John joined CVFC in June 2020 as our first Executive Director. During his time here, John has worked tirelessly to represent CVFC on many committees, including the Agriculture and Ecosystems Services Subcommittee of the Vermont Climate Council and the Payment for Ecosystem Services and Soil Health Working Group. He has proven to be a highly respected voice because of his deep understanding of issues that affect farming communities.
Please join me in thanking John for his service and congratulating him on his next role.
In the coming weeks, we will announce a temporary replacement for the Executive Director position. A search for the next Executive Director will begin soon.
Sincerely,
Brian Kemp
Board President
Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition
