By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has appointed Tootie Smith as the new State Executive Director (SED) for Oregon’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). She began her role on August 25, 2025, taking on responsibility for managing FSA programs across the state.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said the appointments of state directors reflect the administration’s commitment to rural America and the “Farmers First” agenda. FSA Administrator Bill Beam praised the leadership of the new appointees, highlighting their role in ensuring farmers and ranchers receive essential support.
Smith is well known in Oregon for her deep ties to agriculture and public service. A fourth-generation farmer, she and her husband run a family-owned hazelnut orchard. Beyond farming, she has also worked in business as a real estate developer, hospitality center owner, and logging industry manager.
Her leadership background includes 12 years in the Oregon House of Representatives and service as Chair of the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners. This combination of farming knowledge and political experience positions her to effectively represent and support Oregon’s agricultural community.
As SED, Smith will manage vital USDA programs for the state’s farmers. These include commodity support, conservation, disaster assistance, and farm credit programs, all of which play a role in ensuring food, fiber, and fuel supplies for the country.
“FSA State Executive Directors serve in a critical role carrying out USDA’s mission at the state level — ensuring that our focus is on meeting the needs of local agricultural producers by putting farmers and ranchers first,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “Rural communities need our support now more than ever. Our newly appointed state leaders bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their position as SED, and they will play an integral role in shaping the future of agriculture in their state.”
With this appointment, Oregon’s farming community will benefit from strong leadership focused on keeping agriculture resilient and sustainable for future generations.
Photo Credit:usda
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