![](images/doug1.jpg) |
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 |