Benson Farmer To Chair USDA Farm Service Agency State Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C.. — A Johnston County farmer and agricultural leader is stepping into a key statewide role supporting North Carolina’s farming community.

Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC-07) announced that Jeffrey Claybourne Lee of Benson has been appointed Chair of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Committee for North Carolina, alongside four other leaders from across the state’s agriculture sector.

Lee, who owns and operates his farm, manages tobacco, sweetpotato, and cotton production and is recognized for incorporating conservation tillage, precision guidance, and nutrient banding practices to enhance both crop quality and land stewardship. His appointment places a local voice at the forefront of overseeing USDA farm programs statewide.

“I commend Secretary Rollins, FSA Administrator Bill Beam, and State FSA Director Ron Garrett for appointing these great individuals to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s North Carolina Farm Service Agency State Committee,” said Congressman Rouzer. “I know each of these members, and they are all great leaders with the experience, knowledge base, and skillset to do the job well. I look forward to working with them to support North Carolina’s farmers and rural communities.”

U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) also praised the appointments, noting the practical expertise the committee members bring to the table.

“North Carolina’s farmers and producers deserve leaders who understand agriculture from the ground up, and these appointees bring decades of real-world experience to the board,” said Senator Tillis. “I was proud to nominate these outstanding agricultural leaders and appreciate Secretary Rollins appointing them to help ensure USDA programs are delivered fairly and efficiently while supporting rural communities and strengthening North Carolina’s agricultural economy.”

Joining Lee on the committee are Steve Leggett Griffin of Washington, Joseph Brent Leggett of Nashville, Richard Paul Renegar of Harmony, and Faylene Whitehead Whitaker of Climax. Each brings experience in diversified farming operations, agribusiness, and agricultural advocacy.

Members of the FSA State Committee are appointed by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and play a critical role in administering federal farm programs, resolving appeals, overseeing county committee operations, and maintaining strong relationships with agricultural stakeholders. Committees typically consist of three to five members, including a designated chair.