USDA county committee election ballots have been mailed to eligible farmers and agricultural landowners across the country, including those in South Dakota.

The Farm Service Agency says completed ballots must be returned to a local F-S-A county office by the close of business December 7th, or mailed and postmarked by that date.

Anyone who is eligible to vote but did not receive a ballot can request one from their local F-S-A office.

County committee members help make decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally, including disaster assistance, conservation programs, commodity support and other agricultural issues.

To vote, producers must participate in or cooperate with a USDA program and live in the local administrative area holding an election.

Newly elected committee members will begin serving three-year terms on January 1st, 2027.