Also, Alan Kemper, a Lafayette farmer who is president of the American Soybean Association, has been named to the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee.

"With U.S. agricultural exports reaching record highs as our farmers and ranchers bring the American brand to more of the world consumers, agricultural trade is demonstrating once again its vital role in the health of our nation's economy," said Vilsack. "Members of these seven committees understand the importance of open markets to the U.S. economy. By serving on these committees, they have the opportunity to provide their expertise and knowledge to deliberations that influence U.S. trade policy, ultimately helping to grow, innovate and out-compete the rest of the world."

"These appointments are an important step in the Obama Administration's ongoing efforts to expand trade and bring new opportunities to America's farmers and ranchers, as well as the businesses and workers they support," said Ambassador Kirk. "Agricultural exports are a critical component of America's economy, and the input and advice these individuals will provide in the coming years will be indispensible in helping to identify and capitalize on new and emerging trade opportunities."

Congress established the advisory committee system in 1974 to ensure a private-sector voice in establishing U.S. agricultural trade policy objectives to reflect U.S. commercial and economic interests. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative jointly manage the committees.

The APAC provides advice and information to the Secretary of Agriculture and the U.S. Trade Representative on negotiating objectives, positions and other matters related to the development, implementation and administration of U.S. agricultural trade policy. The ATACs offer technical advice and information on specific commodities.

The six ATACs are:

• Animals and Animal Products
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Grains, Feed, Oilseeds and Planting Seeds
• Processed Foods
• Sweeteners and Sweetener Products
• Tobacco, Cotton and Peanuts

This initial group of committee members will serve until June 9, 2015. They will be supplemented by additional appointments over the next four years.