USDA will have inputs in federal efforts that affect agricultural producers.

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"When you're talking about issues like Waters Of The US [WOTUS] we want to make sure at all times when decisions are made by partnering agencies that could adversely affect our farmers and ranchers that we want to be at the table and we are always at the table," Deputy Agriculture Secretary Jewel Bronaugh referring to the rule that is being handled by the EPA. "I read about the article of course this morning and there's a lot to discuss around waters of the US as we go forward."

She added that she has regular meetings with her counterparts in other agencies.

"One thing that Secretary Vilsack has said to me is do not be afraid to speak up. So I see it in my role that when decisions are made that adversely affects American agriculture, it is my job to speak up."

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