The USDA is accepting applications for the newly created National Board on Rural America. Responsibilities of the board include developing a national strategic investment plan for rural America and overseeing the delivery of planning and innovation grants to regional boards.

The National Board, which consists of 14 members , was created with the recent passage of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002. The Board will oversee the Rural Strategic Investment Program, which includes $95 million of planning and community development grants.

Among those considered for Board positions will be representatives of: nationally recognized entrepreneurship organizations, regional planning and development organizations, community-based organizations, elected members of county governments, elected members of State legislatures, the rural philanthropic community, and Indian tribes.

Recommendations by elected members of federal, state, or county governments, and nominations from organizations will be accepted. Nominations from individuals will not be considered. Nominations should be written on the organization‚s letterhead. An AD Form 755, Nominee Background Information, is required for each nominee and is available on the USDA Rural Development web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/farmbill2002.html.

Completed applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on July 19, 2002. Applications should be submitted to the Office of the Under Secretary, Rural Development, ATTN: Duane Ischer, 1400, Independence Avenue, S.W., Room 206-W, STOP 0107, Washington, D.C. 20250-0107. Applications may be faxed to (202) 720-2080.