Sec. Vilsack Kicks Off USDA's 150th Anniversary Celebration At 2012 Agricultural Outlook Forum

Department releases new video: "Secretaries of Agriculture--30 Leaders, 150 Years"
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today launched USDA's 150th anniversary celebration during the 2012 Agricultural Outlook Forum in Arlington, VA. As part of the year of festivities, the Department has released a new video, "Secretaries of Agriculture--30 Leaders, 150 Years." It features comments from Vilsack and the eight most recent Secretaries as it covers the policy and programs that have been enacted since President Abraham Lincoln first created "The People's Department" in May of 1862. (Above: Vilsack addressing the Forum)

During the Forum, Vilsack was joined by his predecessors for a panel discussion about where US agriculture has been, and where it's headed in the future. There was also special appearance by "Abraham Lincoln," who addressed the crowd.

"Nine Secretaries of Agriculture, representing 35 years of service, in one place at the same time was an incredible opportunity to learn about USDA's contributions to the strength and health of this nation with an eye for the impact the department can have in the future," Vilsack said. "As we reflect on the department's 150 years, this historic gathering will help us guide how we transform USDA into a more modern and efficient service provider."

The former Secretaries include Ed Schafer (2008-200); Mike Johanns (2005-2008); Ann Veneman (2001-2005); Dan Glickman (1995-2001); Mike Espy (1993-1994); Clayton Yeutter (1989-1991); John Block (1981-1986); and Robert Bergland (1977-1981).



Last November, Vilsack traveled to Springfield, Illinois, Lincoln's hometown, to preview this year's anniversary events.

On the USDA website, there is a special section devoted to the anniversary celebration: Visit http://www.usda.gov/USDA150 to sign-up for daily email alerts and fun facts about USDA's history. There are also photos from the USDA gallery and the National Archives and Records Administration that represent USDA's 150 years of service. Follow @USDA on Twitter and use the hashtag #USDA150 to keep up to date on events.

*USDA photo by Lance Cheung