WASHINGTON, September 8 , 2009 – The Obama Administration has selected Jack Tarburton to serve as the Delaware and Maryland State Director for Rural Development at the USDA.
“Jack will be an important advocate on behalf of rural communities throughout Delaware and Maryland and help administer the valuable programs and services provided by the USDA that can enhance their economic success,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
Jack Tarburton is currently the Owner of Tarburton Consulting, which is a liaison between Perdue Farms and State government officials in Delaware. Tarburton served as the Secretary of the Delaware Department of Agriculture from 1993 – 2001. Also, he has worked at the Defense Intelligence Agency from 1965 – 1966, before operating a potato and grain farm for 23 years. He has served with various organizations throughout Delaware including a period as President of the Delaware Farm Bureau and as President of the Delaware Association of Conservation Districts.
Rural Development administers and manages over 40 housing, business, and community infrastructure and facility programs as laid out by Congress through a network of 6,100 employees located in 500 national, state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of over $114 billion in loans and loan guarantees.
The USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture and natural resources and touches the life of every American. Reflecting President Obama’s commitment to expanding economic opportunities in rural America, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and the USDA are working to enhance availability of broadband, promote the development of renewable energy, to conserve, maintain and improve our natural resources and environment, and promote a sustainable, safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply.
