USDA Rural Development has seen many changes since I arrived in March 2001. Every day my admiration grows for this agency and especially for the people of Rural Development.

Our productivity speaks for itself as you will read in this year’s report, but it’s the people whose lives we affect that is the real story. Many have heard me say, “Rural Development is here to help improve the health, safety and economic well-being of people in rural Illinois,” and we prove that every day. As awareness of Rural Development has risen, so has our impact through higher funding levels which in turn create a healthier rural economy in Illinois.

USDA Rural Development was once seen as a small part of USDA, but with investments in rural Illinois of over $2 billion in the last few years, we have shown that we are a cornerstone for growth.

My thanks to the men and women in our offices around the state who lead these efforts, and my best wishes to all whose lives are impacted by our work. 2007 was a great year and I look forward to 2008.


Douglas Wilson
Illinois Director