This week, the American Sheep Industry Association joined the Idaho Wool Growers Association in support of Layne Bangerter's appointment to the position of USDA Under Secretary for Environment and Natural Resources. ASI sent the following letter to Idaho Senators Crapo and Risch and USDA Secretary Nominee, Gov. Sonny Perdue in support of the:
I am pleased to write this letter on behalf of the American Sheep Industry Association, which represents the nation's 88,000 farm and ranch families who produce America's lamb and wool, supporting the appointment of Mr. Layne Bangerter to the post of U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Environment and Natural Resources.
Mr. Bangerter's work with ranchers across the State of Idaho has won him the support of ASI and our affiliate, the Idaho Wool Growers Association. Working in the Senate gave him direct experience with how Federal policies affect land, water and people. Moreover, his 32 years of federal service and his background as a wildlife biologist give him a unique understanding of land use issues and species management that are critical for our industry.
His efforts leading the Trump administration's campaign in Idaho and subsequent work on the "beachhead" team landing at the Environmental Protection Agency demonstrate the administration's recognition of his skills and background. Further, as a livestock producer himself, Mr. Bangerter understands the challenges and rewards of our industry and how hard America's producers work to ensure the American people have access to domestic food and fiber.
As the administration looks to fill vacancies within the federal government, we must ensure that offices like this, which affect the day-to-day lives of our nation's sheep producers, are carefully considered. America's sheep producers firmly believe that Mr. Bangerter's background, and his dedication to family, agriculture and private property rights make him the right choice for this position.
ASI proudly supports the appointment of Mr. Bangerter to USDA Under Secretary for Environment and Natural Resources. Thank you for your consideration of his appointment to this critical post.
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