Accompanied by a member of our advisory board, Hayden Eicher, Mediator Bob Holbert met in Richmond with officials of USDA agencies in August. Holbert and Eicher met with Dr. Edwin Martinez, State Conservationist and Jackie Alexander, Assistant State Conservationist, as well as with several other officials in Virginia’s NRCS. They were able to visit with Perry Hickman, State Director and Ora Rollins, Assistant Director of the USDA’s Rural Development Offices, as well. They also were able to meet with Virginia’s FSA’s State Director, Dr. Howell. They were so pleased to become acquainted with these officials and discuss our program with them! Thank you, USDA officials, for taking the time to meet with us and exchange ideas!