Wes Hickman (202) 224-5972 or Kevin Bishop (864) 250-1417

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today said he was pleased with the decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to appoint Earle Joiner Bedenbaugh of Newberry County to serve on the Farm Service Agency’s state committee in South Carolina.

“I’m very pleased President Bush has decided to appoint Earle to this most important position,” said Graham.  “Earle has been a successful agri-businessman and is one of the finest individuals you will ever meet.  He understands our state’s agricultural community and will represent us well in this important position.”

FSA state committees are responsible for the general direction and supervision of state FSA programs.  Committees keep farmers informed of agency program activities while resolving appeals and complaints.  Members also maintain cooperative relationships with the agribusiness community.

Bedenbaugh has farmed for 32 years specializing in seed production, beef cattle and forestry.  As part of the farming operation, he conditioned and processed seed for wholesale and retail sales. 

Bedenbaugh was deputy administrator for state and county operations under the former Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS) in Washington, D.C.  He also was the ASCS state executive director and a member of the ASCS state committee in South Carolina.  

Bedenbaugh is very active in many agricultural, government and civic organizations.  He received his Bachelor of Science degree in animal husbandry from Clemson University in South Carolina and served in the U.S. Air Force in the Korean War.

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