Department of Agriculture July 6, 2016 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is announcing the re- establishment of the advisory Council for Native American Farming and Ranching (Council). The purpose of this advisory council is to provide recommendations to the Secretary on how to eliminate barriers to Native American participation in USDA programs. The Council will discuss issues related to the participation of Native American farmers and ranchers in USDA programs and transmit recommendations concerning any changes to regulations or internal guidance or other measures. The Council is necessary and in the public interest. The USDA is seeking nominations for individuals to be considered Council members. Candidates who wish to be considered for membership on the Council for Native American Farmers and Ranchers should submit an AD-755 application form and resume to the Secretary of Agriculture. Cover letters should be addressed to the Secretary of Agriculture. The application form can be found at: https://www.usda.gov/documents/ OCIO_AD_755_Master_2012.pdf.

The Rural Housing Service (RHS) has amended the Community Facility Direct Loan regulations to enable the Agency to make loans to qualified Re-lenders who will loan those funds to Applicants primarily for projects in or serving persistent poverty counties or high poverty areas that are eligible under the Community Facility Loan Program.