Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman announced several projects to mark the U.S. Department of Agriculture's "Celebration of America's First Farmers."
"USDA is working with tribal leaders across America to support their efforts to bring economic opportunity and an enhanced quality of life to tribal members," said Veneman. "We are pleased to announce several projects designed to assist America's First Farmers."
The "Celebration of America's First Farmers" honors the relationship between USDA and American Indians. According to the 2002 Agricultural Census, there are more than 24,000 American Indian and Alaska Native farm operators. Deputy Secretary Jim Moseley represented USDA at an event to mark the celebration, which included members of the Federally-Recognized Indian Tribes, Tribal College Presidents, State Foresters, Indian Organizations and State Indian Commissions. On Sept. 21, the Smithsonian will open its National Museum of the American Indian, located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
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