On Thursday, September 18, Lynne Keller Forbes, President/CEO of the South Eastern Council of Governments (SECOG) and Past President of NADO, participated in a congressional hearing convened by the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development.
The hearing, titled “USDA’s Rural Development: Delivering Vital Programs and Services to Rural America,” brought together key voices from around the country to explore the challenges facing rural communities and the critical role USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) plays in addressing them.
Ms. Forbes’ testimony highlighted the essential role that NADO member organizations play in supporting rural America. She emphasized how Regional Development Organizations (RDOs) help rural communities access federal resources, implement infrastructure projects, and foster long-term economic resilience. Her remarks included recommendations for strengthening USDA Rural Development programs in the upcoming Farm Bill reauthorization—such as protecting key programs like the Community Facilities Program, Intermediary Relending Program, and Water and Waste Disposal Program; improving access and flexibility for grantees; increasing investments in technical assistance and capacity building; and fostering more intentional partnerships with RDOs, especially as USDA reduces its overall staff footprint.
“USDA RD’s programs are not just investments in infrastructure or financing tools—they are lifelines for rural communities working to build a more secure, prosperous future. Rural America has never lacked vision or determination—what it needs is sustained federal partnership to continue building strong, resilient economies that support families, attract investment, and ensure future generations can thrive in the communities they call home.”