WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse today issued the following statement after the Biden Administration announced the appointment of Eric Scherer as Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director for Rhode Island:

“We commend President Biden for tapping Eric Scherer for this key post, which is critical to assisting local farmers, administering agricultural loan programs, and connecting Rhode Island’s growers and producers with federal resources.  Eric brings a wealth of experience to the job, and we are confident in his ability to serve the people of Rhode Island with integrity and distinction,” said Reed and Whitehouse.

As Rhode Island’s FSA state executive director, Eric Scherer will help guide federal farm policy and oversee agricultural operations in the state.

Eric Scherer is currently a technical consultant to the public and private sector on natural resource issues, including land use and environmental impact. As a certified USDA Technical Service Provider and USDA Certified Conservation Planner, he has also assisted agricultural producers on comprehensive nutrient management plans and grazing management plans.

Scherer served as the executive director of the Southern Rhode Island Conservation District, where he provided program leadership for Conservation District programs that assisted private landowners, municipalities, the state, conservation partners, and other stakeholders to conserve and protect natural resources. Scherer serves as an advisor to the Rhode Island State Conservation Committee and is developing the first statewide operational guide for the Committee and conservation districts. Scherer's past work experience includes 37 years of federal service that began with a tour of duty with the Peace Corps in Belize and has included working for the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in six states, including Rhode Island.